GloucesterPost
GLOUCESTER GOES RETRO
ROLL up your trousers and pop a knotted hanky on your head — this year’s Gloucester Goes Retro is heading to the seaside!
Expect giant seagulls, sand sculpting, and striped deckchairs as the UK’s premier vintage festival returns with a seaside theme.
Taking place on Saturday, August 23, the event transforms Gloucester city centre into a vibrant celebration of days gone by.
Now in its 10th year, the festival that brings thousands to the city will see visitors invited to Kings Square where they can pull up a deck chair to enjoy the free entertainment.
There’ll be street performers dressed as giant seagulls, freewheeling pedalos and classic seaside amusements like face-in-the-hole photo boards.
Organised and funded by Gloucester City Council in partnership with the Gloucester Business Improvement District, the festival is a standout event on the city’s annual calendar.
Gloucestershire Museum, this year there'll be a World War II Buick Hellcat tank — a mustsee for history and military enthusiasts.
Councillor Caroline Courtney, Cabinet member for Culture and Leisure at Gloucester City Council, said: “Gloucester Goes Retro is where residents and visitors come together to celebrate the city. It’s a fantastic atmosphere and really shows what a unique and vibrant place we are. Everyone is here to enjoy themselves and it’s also a great chance to support local businesses and enjoy all that Gloucester has to offer.”
The event starts at 10am and is free to attend.
And at the Military Village, next to the Soldiers of
Across Gloucester’s Gate Streets, hundreds of vintage vehicles will be on display — from early 1900s models to cars from the 2000s. Or visitors can head to Gloucester Docks for more fantastic cars, tasty food and live music on the Mariners Square Stage.
More information at www.gloucestergoesretro.uk and follow the Facebook Page is available at www.facebook.com/gloucesterg oesretro.
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AROUND THE COUNTY news from Gloucestershire
MEN ARRESTED IN DRUGS BUST
THREE men from Cheltenham have been arrested after officers executed simultaneous drugs warrants.
Four warrants, which took place in St Paul's and Hatherley, were executed by officers from the Cheltenham and Tewkesbury Local Policing area with support from the Dogs Unit.
The arrests were made after a large quantity of Class A drugs were discovered within the properties as well as approximately £40,000 in cash and suspected stolen items. One man in his 30s was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs after a large quantity of cocaine was found.
A second man, also in his 30s, was arrested on suspicion of money laundering after thousands of pounds of cash was discovered.
A man in his 40s was arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods, possession of an offensive weapon and breaching his license after cash, weapons and suspected stolen items were found at his address.
All three men remain were taken into police custody.
Police are asking anyone who suspects drug dealing or suspicious activity taking place in their neighbourhood to make contact.
Anyone who has concerns or intelligence about drug dealing
Man dies following collision in the Forest of Dean
You can pick up your copy of the Gloucester Post in many shops and leisure places throughout the town. We also have stands at your local supermarkets listed below;
ASDA SUPERSTORE, Bruton Way
WM MORRISON, Metz Way, Triangle Way
TESCO SUPERSTORE, St Oswolds Way
CO-OP SUPERMARKET, 129 Cheltenham Road
ASDA SUPERMARKET, Naas Lane Link Road
TESCO SUPERSTORE, Cheltenham Road East
TESCO SUPERSTORE, Gloucester Business Park
SAINSBURYS STORE, Barnett Way
We are also at selected other Co-Op stores as well as many 1000s delivered door-to-door on a rotation basis every two weeks.
A MAN has died following a collision in the Forest of Dean on Friday 25 July.
Shortly before 11pm, police were made aware of a serious collision involving the driver of a car and a pedestrian on the A4136 near Staunton.
Officers attended the incident along with the ambulance service and the pedestrian, a man aged in his 50s, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the vehicle was taken to hospital to be checked over and has since been discharged.
A man, aged in his 20s, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has been released on bail pending further enquiries.
Road closures were in place while collision investigators examined the scene.
Investigating officers are now appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or has any relevant dashcam footage to get in touch.
They are also asking anyone who may have seen a person in the road in the area between 9.30pm and 11pm to contact police if they haven't already done so.
Information can be submitted by completing the following online form and quoting incident 531 of 25 July: www.gloucestershire.police.uk /tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-usabout-existing-case-report/
can report this to police via the following link www.gloucestershire.police.uk/ tua/tell-us-about/soh/seen-orheard/. Alternatively you can report information anonymously
through the independent crimefighting charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting their website: www.crimestoppersuk.org/give-information/forms/ give-information-anonymously
Warning to golf and bowls clubs following recent burglaries
GLOUCESTERSHIRE Police are asking bowls and golf club members to be vigilant following a recent series of burglaries at sites across Gloucestershire.
Over recent months offenders have broken into clubhouses before smashing the glass fronts of trophy cabinets and stealing trophies from inside.
One incident took place in Cheltenham overnight on Monday 30 June into Tuesday 1 July and saw offenders smash a glass door and steal trophies from a display cabinet. Another incident took place in Coleford on Saturday 28 June and saw offenders break into a shop at a sports club before stealing the cash tray from the till and a set of buggy keys. The individual then drove away on a buggy before abandoning it.
A further incident took place in Broadway on Monday 14 April and saw offenders force entry to the
building before stealing trophies. Enquiries into the incidents are ongoing and officers are keen to hear from anyone who has not already spoken to police and who may have CCTV or dashcam footage which could assist the ongoing investigations. Anyone with footage or information can provide this to police online by completing the following form and quoting the relevant incident number from the list below: www.gloucestershire.police.uk/tua/te ll-us-about/cor/tell-us-aboutexisting-case-report/
• Cheltenham- incident 119 of 1 July
• Coleford- incident 72 of 28 June
• Broadway- incident 543 of 15 April
Call 999 if a crime is happening at the time, a suspect is nearby, if someone is in immediate danger or there is a risk of serious damage to a property.
Drug dealer jailed after taking advantage of vulnerable man
A DRUG dealer who took advantage of a vulnerable man in Gloucester, convincing him to transfer his home over for no money to use as a base to sell crack cocaine, has been jailed.
Victor Asamoah, aged 34 and from Old Fallings Crescent, Wolverhampton, was sentenced by Gloucester Crown Court, sitting at Cirencester Courthouse, on Friday 4th July.
Following a trial which had finished earlier that day, he was found guilty of one count of being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs, namely crack cocaine, and one count of fraud by false representation.
Asamoah was arrested last June (2024) following a warrant by Gloucestershire Constabulary as part of a regional operation by police forces across the South West, aimed at tackling drug supply networks in the region.
The court heard that Asamoah had initially befriended the victim in 2018 and became his registered carer at the victim's home in Kingsholm, while doing work to make improvements to the property.
However, Asamoah was actually using the address as a base to sell crack cocaine, while feeding the victim's drug habit.
After some time, the court heard, Asamoah felt that he could exploit the victim further, and influenced him to leave the entirety of his estate – including the house, valued at £320,000 – to him.
He moved the victim, who is now aged 65, into shared accommodation elsewhere and then began to approach solicitors, claiming to be his son and asking them to transfer the house into his name.
Sentencing Asamoah, recorder John Ryder KC said: "I am sure of this that it would be plain to anyone –and was plain to you – that [the victim] was extremely vulnerable.
“He suffers learning difficulties, and can only read and write to a minimum standard.
“You promoted yourself as his carer, but you had no interest in caring for him at all. From the first, you were concerned only with exploiting him for your own advantage.
“You were selling crack cocaine from his house; while you used [the address] as your premises, you lived elsewhere.
“At some stage, it became plain to you that the scope of your exploitation of [the victim] was greater than just using his premises to supply drugs.
“You recognised he was suggestible. You influenced him to make a will leaving the entirety of his estate to you.
“I am satisfied that he did not begin to understand the full implications of what he was doing. On his death, you would inherit the house. It was all he had and it was valued at £320,000.
“You convinced him that if he made a gift of the house to you, he would receive money, drugs, care and support. He agreed to transfer the house to you.
“I have already observed that there was a childlike innocence about [the victim], as far as his understanding of everyday life was concerned.
“He agreed to transfer the house to you, once again not understanding by any means the full implications of what he was doing.
“In reality, you intended to spend nothing and to provide nothing, save that which was unavoidable to transfer the house to you and in moving him out of it.”
In mitigation, the court heard Asamoah had been active in his local church and had volunteered with a charity in Birmingham, supporting people who were homeless or who suffered from cancer.
He had also played semiprofessional football with Gloucester Athletic in his efforts to live a life away from crime.
However, Recorder Ryder rejected this, saying: "Your faith and activities in which you were involved through
the church or charities did not for a moment restrain you from exploiting [the victim].
“You gave evidence to the jury where you lied remorselessly and relentlessly from start to finish. You exploited everyone and everything to your own advantage.”
Asamoah was sentenced to five years in prison for the supply of crack cocaine and a further four years, to be served consecutively, for the fraud by false representation. He will be eligible for release on licence after serving 40 percent of his sentence.
Recorder Ryder commended police for their efforts in investigating the case and ensuring that the victim received the support he needed.
Detective Sergeant Sarah Griffiths, who led the investigation, said: “This is an offence that could easily have been missed. There was no complaint by the victim of this case, given their vulnerabilities, and it was only through the diligence of all involved in identifying and pursuing the truth that this case was able to come to court.
“The support and work from all agencies throughout the investigation has assisted in supporting the victim and this support will continue to remove any future exploitation.
“A timetable has been set where it is hoped that police will be able to return the proceeds of the victim’s property back to them to help with their on-going support.”
PC Andy Plant, Safeguarding Officer from the Gloucester Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “This was a despicable case where the offender has preyed on a vulnerable victim and taken everything in the world that he had including his home.
“The victim had been coerced not to say anything to anyone, so it was difficult for the police to gain his trust initially. However over time we were able to find out the full extent of Asamoah's
deceit and obtain the right outcome for the victim."
If you suspect illegal drug activity is happening or criminals are exploiting someone, report it to the police.
Call 101 or report online at www.gloucestershire.police.u k/ If anyone is in immediate danger call 999. If you wish to remain completely anonymous you can use Crimestoppers, an independent charity, by reporting online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/ or by calling 0800 555 111.
The following cases have all been heard recently at
Cheltenham Magistrates Court:
Ian Alan Brisland, 38, of Whaddon Road, Cheltenham, was made subject to a warrant for arrest without bail for failing to comply with the requirements of a community order imposed by Cheltenham Magistrates on 16th May 2025. Brisland failed to attend initial probation appointments in May and June of this year.
Gary Brisland, 20, of Pitman Road, Cheltenham, was made subject to a warrant for arrest without bail for failing to comply with the requirements of a community order imposed by Cheltenham Magistrates on 16th May 2025. Brisland failed to attend probation appointments in May and June of this year.
Thomas Christopher Townsend, 37, of Pennsylvania Avenue, Cheltenham, denied failing to notify probation services of his address, and failing to attend unpaid work sessions on 19th and 27 May 2025 without providing reasonable explanations for his absences, in contraventiuon of the requirements of a suspended sentence order made by Cheltenham Magistrates on 31st March 2025. He was remanded on unconditional bail until 10th September 2025 pending trial.
Martin Jones, 42, of Foxes Bridge Road, Cinderford, was made subject to an enforcement warrant issued without bail for non-payment of a fine of £370.84 imposed by Cheltenham Magistrates on 27th September 2024.
Laurentiu Udila, 26, of St Pauls Lane, St Pauls, Cheltenham, was made subject to an enforcement warrant issued without bail for non-payment of a fine of £785 imposed by Cheltenham Magistrates on 23rd February 2024.
Ryley Cottle, 21, of Whaddon Road, Cheltenham, admitted breaching the terms of a community order made by Cheltenham Magistrates on 20th June 2023, by failing to attend unpaid work sessions in September 2024 and June 2025. Magistrates issued new requirements that Cottle must complete 15 hours of unpaid work in the next 12 months.
Simon McDonaugh, 40, of HMP Hewell, was found guilty of breaching the requirements of a community order by failing to attend unpaid work sessions in September and October 2023. He was dealt with for the original offence, that on 24th October 2022 in Cheltenham he jointly with Owen McDonaugh and Charles McDonaugh stole 8 bus batteries worth £400 belonging to Stagecoach. He was committed to prison for 6 weeks, to run concurrently with another sentence for an overall length of 24 weeks.
Magistrates determined the offence warranted imprisonment because it was aggravated by being committed whilst subject to a previous community sentence.
Lewis Carroll, 39, c/o Severn Road, Cheltenham, admitted breaching the terms of his post sentence supervision order, by not
residing permanently at an address approved by his supervisor, and failing to obtain prior permission to reside at a different address. Carroll had not resided at the approved address since 3rd March 2025. He was fined £40, and given time to pay at a rate of £20 per month.
Daniel Downing, 38, of Hillfield, Cheltenham, was made subject to an interim Stalking Protection Order for 112 days, pending a full hearing at Cheltenham Magistrates Court on 10th November 2025. Downing must not contact the named victim either directly or indirectly in any way, and is prohibited from attending a specific location in The Brewery Quarter, Cheltenham. He must also not make reference to the victim or her business on social media either directly or indirectly, and he must not engage in any form of surveillance of the victim.
Ben Davies, 26, of Devonshire Street, Lansdown, Cheltenham, was granted further time to pay a fine of £1920 imposed by Magistrates on 27th February 2025. Davies was ordered to pay the fine at a rate of £20 per month from 1st August 2025.
Yevhenni Roiko, 28, of Church Street, Tewkesbury, was committed for trial at Gloucester Crown Court on 20th August 2025 on a charge of knowingly submitting a false Polish driving licence to the DVLA in an attempt to exchange it for a legitimate UK driving licence.
Jason Smart, 39, of Imperial Gate, Cheltenham,
was made subject to an interim stalking protection order for 68 days, pending a case management hearing on 29th September 2025 at Cheltenham Magistrates Court. He must not attend a number of specified addresses in Worcester and Bransford, Birmingham Women’s Hospital and two other named medical practices in Birmingham, and he must not contact a named alleged victim either directly or indirectly, or engage in any form of surveillance of said victim.
Justyna Kaminska, 52, of Detmore Close, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham, admitted causing his Ford Focus to stop within the limits of a pelican crossing at High Street, Cheltenham, on 31st May 2024. He was fined £72, ordered to pay a victim services surcharge of £28, and his driving record was endorsed with 3 penalty points.
Samuel Stevens, 34, of Baylis Road, Winchcombe, Cheltenham, was found guilty of driving a Vauxhall Astra on Two Hedges Road, Bishop’s Cleeve, on 5th March 2024 without insurance. He was fined £660, ordered to pay costs of £110 and a Victim Services Surcharge of £264, and his licence was endorsed with 6 penalty points.
Liam Ellis, 40, of Danby Close, Cinderford, had a charge of breaching a community order made by Cheltenham Magistrates on 15th May, 2025 by failing to attend a drug rehabilitation appointment withdrawn, as the court was told he had re-engaged with the probation service.
PCC’s plea to Home Secretary for 3.8% pay rise for police
POLICE and Crime Commissioner Chris Nelson is one of 13 PCCs who are asking the Home Secretary for extra funding for a proposed police pay rise.
Officers are in line for a 3.8% increase from 1 September and the PCCs want to know where the money will come from.
The increase was recommended by the National Police Chiefs’ Council, the national body that represents the country’s chief police officers, on the basis the additional funding would come from the Home Office.
However, no announcement had been made to the House of Commons by the time MPs broke for their summer holidays last week.
And with many police budgets coming under severe pressure, including Gloucestershire’s, the PCCs say they need to know to help them plan their finances.
Mr. Nelson is one of 13 PCCs who signed a letter to Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, seeking urgent clarification.
“If the award is going to be above the agreed amount budgeted by forces, we need time to prepare and assess the potential financial impacts of this ahead of the police grant settlement in December,” he said.
“The NPCC proposed a 3.8%
settlement this year, on the basis that the additional funding would be required from the Home Office – a position supported by the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners.
“Other sectors have already had their pay offers, so at a time when Police demand is particularly stretched, an early resolution would be most welcome.
“We hope that the Home Secretary is able to provide this update imminently and provide Police Officers with the support that they deserve.” Other PCCs who signed the letter were: Matthew Scott, Kent PCC; Matthew Barber, Thames Valley; Jonathan AshEdwards, Hertfordshire; Alison Hernandez, Devon, Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly; John Campion, West Mercia; Lisa Townsend, Surrey; Jonathan Evison, Humberside; Donna Jones, Hampshire & Isle of Wight; Ben Adams, Staffordshire Commissioner; Philip Seccombe, Warwickshire; Rupert Matthews, Leicestershire & Rutland; Darryl Preston, Cambridgeshire and Roger Hirst Police, Fire & Crime Commissioner for Essex.
The House of Commons rose on Tuesday 22 July and is scheduled to return on Monday 1 September.
Early success for Safer Street Summer initiative
SUSPECTED shoplifters are among those who have been arrested by officers from Gloucestershire Constabulary during the first month of the national Safer Streets Summer Initiative.
The initiative, which runs from 30 June to the end of September, is focused on making town and city centres safer by tackling issues such as shoplifting, street crime and anti-social behaviour.
As part of efforts to reduce offending, officers from the Neighbourhood Policing Teams have been taking part in activity throughout the month. Results to date include:
29 arrests including for offences such as robbery, theft, vandalism and assaults;
27 people were given antisocial behaviour related outof-court disposals; Seven people were given retail crime related out-of-
court disposals; 10 illegal e-bikes or escooters have been seized; One person was given a street crime related out-ofcourt disposal. Out of court disposals are when matters are not taken to court and can include outcomes such as cautions, conditional cautions, penalty notices and community resolutions.
Seven e-bikes were seized by the Cheltenham Neighbourhood Policing Team on 1 July following an operation targeting the illegal use of e-bikes. One of the bikes was able to reach speeds in excess of 25 mph. The team have also been educating riders and making them aware of legislation.
A man was arrested after officers were informed of a burglary at Five Valleys Shopping Centre on 3 July where £6,000 worth of phones had been stolen. A report was also received that a man was breaching his
bail and enquiries by officers found the man at his home address along with 10 phones and an iPad. The 37year-old was subsequently arrested and later released on bail with conditions not to enter the shopping centre.
Officers from the Cheltenham Neighbourhood Policing Team took part in a plain clothed patrol on 2 July during which time a man was seen to steal from a shop. He was located in possession of items suspected to have been stolen from the shop so was arrested.
A 47-year-old of no fixed abode was charged with theft from a shop and remanded to appear at court. He pleaded guilty at Cheltenham Magistrates' Court the following day and was ordered to pay compensation.
Following a report of two men shoplifting from the Tesco store in Cinderford on 3 July, a 29-year-old from
the town was arrested on suspicion of theft and resisting arrest, while a 25year-old from Cinderford was arrested on suspicion of theft, assaulting an emergency worker and escape from lawful custody. They were both given community resolution orders.
On 12 July the Special Constabulary and Gloucester Neighbourhood Policing Team seized an Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle, also known as an ebike, and four e-scooters which were being ridden illegally. It was found that the e-bike could reach speeds of 30mph and the escooters were not insured for use on the roads.
A report was made on 4 July that a man appeared to be drunk and was behaving threateningly to people on Union Street in Stroud. A 38-year-old man of no fixed address was subsequently charged with being drunk
and disorderly and assaulting an emergency worker. He was due to appear before Cheltenham Magistrates’ Court on 31 July.
Several Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) have been implemented in Cheltenham and Gloucester after patrols identified street drinking.
The orders prohibit anyone from having open containers of alcohol in a public place. Anyone who is caught will be asked to dispose of it or risk being issued a Fixed Penalty Notice. Sealed alcohol containers can also be seized under the PSPO if it is believed that the owner is likely to commit anti-social behaviour.
Combined efforts from teams across the county resulted in 977 hours being spent patrolling the streets of Gloucestershire.
Chief Inspector Marcus Forbes-George said: “The
Safer Street Summer Initiative is an ideal opportunity for us to make a real difference in all our communities across the county.
“These types of crime, such as shoplifting and antisocial behaviour, typically increase during the summer months and can have a serious impact on people's lives.
“While officers are carrying out the same activities as they do day in, day out 365 days a year, this initiative allows us to focus on these areas over our peak demand period.
“I am pleased that so much good work has taken place during this first month and hope this continues over the coming months.
“I would like to thank every officer, PCSO and member of staff who has so far played a part in our efforts to make the streets of Gloucestershire as safe as possible this summer.”
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New company set to take Airport to new heights
HORIZON Aero Group has been named as the company set to buy Gloucestershire Airport, and lead it into an exciting new chapter, unlocking opportunities for growth and investment. The company is a joint venture between Vayu Aviation Services Ltd (UK) and Vensa Infrastructure Ltd (India).
Horizon, which boasts decades of combined experience in international aviation operations and infrastructure development describes itself as being committed to revitalising regional airports through innovation, sustainability, and community-led growth. It says its key aims as the new owner would include, driving job creation and upskilling the local workforce, enhancing the airport’s role as a community and economic asset, modernising
infrastructure with a focus on safety, efficiency, and digital innovation and aligning with the UK’s Net Zero targets.
Horizon impressed current owners, Cheltenham Borough Council and Gloucester City Council, with its ambitious plans to both modernise the airport and boost the local economy by expanding the site’s business parks. The airport which sits on a 375acre site, has two thriving business parks and planning consent for an additional 30,000 square metres of business space.
Gloucester city councillors gave the go ahead to sell the airport to new buyers at a full council meeting on June 26.
Both councils decided to sell the airport to secure its future as it needs a large investment to be able to continue to operate and to drive its expansion.
Councillor Rowena Hay, leader of Cheltenham Borough Council, said: “The airport is a strategic asset for Gloucestershire. We’re encouraged by Horizon’s community-first and sustainability-focused approach. We want to reassure the public that any final deal will uphold the long-term aviation future of the airport and deliver clear benefits to the wider region.”
Leader of Gloucester City Council, Councillor Jeremy Hilton, said: “We were impressed by Horizon’s enthusiasm for the airport and their clear recognition of its potential to play an important role in the economic growth of the region. They share our vision of modernisation and building on it as a place to do business, in turn bringing huge benefits to the area.”
Jason Ivey, managing
director of Gloucestershire Airport, said: “I have been really impressed with my interactions with the Horizon Aero Group during the sale process, as this is clearly a company that has the energy and a focussed vision for the future of Gloucestershire Airport. My team and I are excited to work alongside Horizon during the due diligence phase to assist the airport in transitioning to new
ownership.”
Ramdev Polkampalli, chairman, Horizon Aero Group Ltd, said: “We are honoured to be selected as the preferred bidder. Gloucestershire Airport holds enormous promise, and we are committed to preserving its heritage while investing in its future. We look forward to working collaboratively with both councils, airport staff, and local stakeholders to ensure a
smooth and transparent journey toward completion.”
Soma Pemmireddy, CEO, Horizon Aero Group Ltd, added: “Our priority is to build strong local relationships, maintain seamless operations, and begin laying the groundwork for future investment. We are excited to help unlock the airport’s full potential while aligning with the goals of the community and region.”
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Notting Hill Carnival
Friday 22nd August 2025
3pm - 4.30pm Join us for an afternoon of carnival vibes in our garden. Enjoy garden games and live entertainment by singer D’Artagnan, performing music from the era’s. Tuck into refreshments including fruit punch prepared by our Head Chef.
City sees visitor numbers rise as regeneration continues transformation
FOOTFALL in Gloucester city centre has increased over the past year outstripping other towns and cities in the region.
The number of people visiting the city increased by more than 127,000 in the first five months of 2025, compared with the same period last year.
The data, which is collected on behalf of the council, confirms that this is a larger percentage increase of any town or city in the Southwest of England.
The City Council’s regeneration plans continue to gather pace, with the multimillion-pound Forum development welcoming its first tenants, internet service provider, Fasthosts, in January.
When complete, the project will boast a boutique hotel complete with restaurant, conference facilities and rooftop
cocktail bar, together with 135,000 sq ft of office space and a multi-storey car park.
Elsewhere in the city, Gloucester Food Dock, supported by the City Council, saw the opening of several new eateries over the past year and now boasts 12 independent food businesses.
And the University of Gloucestershire’s city centre campus will open in the autumn, offering a new home for its Education, Psychology and Social Work programmes.
Figures published earlier this year show that tourism alone contributes over £300 million to Gloucester’s local economy.
It shows that tourists spent around £246 million in Gloucester in 2023 and in total the overall economic impact was £310 million, benefitting businesses across the city.
Gloucester is also currently
Bishop’s Cleeve Care Home
second in the county for attracting day trippers and ranks third for staycations. This is expected to rise following the opening of Hotel Indigo at the Forum.
Councillor Jeremy Hilton, Leader of Gloucester City Council, said: “This is great news for Gloucester. There is a huge amount of work taking place to transform the city and it is an exciting time to be living and working here. The Forum development is making excellent progress and along with the new University City Centre campus, we expect this to be a further boost to visitor numbers. And there are a many other projects taking shape, particularly the Greyfriars project, which will create a vibrant new garden quarter with space for community activities, a new market and food hall, as well as a park and gardens.”
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Does bigger mean better when it comes to police forces?
THE Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, Sir Mark Rowley, the country’s most senior police officer, recently argued for fewer, larger police forces. A long-standing idea motivated by the need for financial savings and improved performance. He suggests cutting overheads, which should be possible, but to a lesser extent than perhaps hoped, as the upfront costs of reorganisation would be substantial and take a considerable time to realise.
There would certainly be benefits and efficiencies from centralising IT right across policing, with one set of agreed systems, rather than 43 individual solutions to the same problem. But, this could be done now if ministers had the appetite, and wouldn’t require a distraction from the day job of fighting crime that a wholescale reorganisation would create.
However, and more importantly, the assumption that larger forces inherently perform better is flawed with little evidence to support this
By Chris Nelson
Police & Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire
notion. Large and small forces alike have been in ‘special measures’, showing that size doesn’t protect against poor performance. Extra resources may indeed offer short-term improvement, but real, lasting progress comes from good leadership at every level. In the military, I spent almost a third of my time undertaking education and professional development. Police officers, by contrast, receive relatively little leadership and management training, often being promoted without proper preparation or support. They’re expected to learn on the job or by osmosis; an unreliable method.
Another challenge with larger forces is Council Tax. In Gloucestershire, nearly 50% of our funding comes from this source. Other forces get more government funding, meaning less burden on local taxpayers.
Merging forces with different funding models would be divisive, with wealthier areas bailing out poorer ones. This issue has hindered past merger attempts, like those involving Devon & Cornwall and Dorset. Smaller forces may struggle with sudden crime waves but generally have lower crime rates, stronger identities, and deeper understanding of community needs. Larger forces often prioritise urban crime, leaving rural areas under-served. Rather than sweeping reorganisation, the Government should modernise the outdated funding formula, which unfairly penalises rural communities, expecting them to pay more for fewer resources. Funding should reward good leadership and crime prevention — the smartest route to affordable reform.
Unlocking the benefits of establishing a trust for your residential property
IN today's complex landscape of property ownership in the UK, setting up a trust for your residential property can be a smart move.
With growing concerns about protecting your assets, managing inheritance tax, and dealing with care fees, trusts can be a valuable solution for safeguarding your wealth and ensuring a smooth transition of your assets.
Protecting Your Assets and Planning for the Future
One of the main reasons to place your residential property into a trust is the protection it offers against creditors and other claims. When your property is held in a trust, it’s shielded from potential claims, ensuring that it remains intact for future generations. This is especially important if
you’re a business owner who might face higher litigation risks.
Using a trust can also simplify your estate planning. It allows you to bypass the often-lengthy probate process when you pass away, meaning your beneficiaries can access the property more quickly and with fewer disputes. This ability to avoid probate is a significant benefit; it speeds up the transfer of assets and keeps your affairs private since trusts don’t become public records like wills. Additionally, trusts can protect your beneficiaries from external factors such as divorce or financial mismanagement. By putting your assets in a trust, you can ensure they are preserved for your intended heirs and not subject to claims by ex-spouses or creditors.
Tax Efficiency and Care Fees
Setting up a trust can help you minimise tax liabilities. Some types of trusts can reduce inheritance tax, potentially allowing you to avoid this tax altogether. Furthermore, assets in a trust may not be counted when assessing eligibility for care funding, which can help you avoid significant care fees later in life.
Control and Flexibility
Trusts give you greater control over how and when your assets are distributed. This is particularly useful if you have minor children or beneficiaries who may not be financially responsible. Trusts also offer flexibility, allowing you to make adjustments based on your changing circumstances.
Conclusion: A Smart Investment
Creating a trust for your residential property has many advantages, from protecting your assets to ensuring smoother transitions for your loved ones. It’s essential to seek professional advice to make sure your trust aligns with your long-term goals.
Call to Action: Don’t leave your family’s future to chance.
Reach out to a trusted legal professional today for a complete review of your estate planning options, including how establishing a trust can help you avoid probate and protect your beneficiaries.
For more information and advice call the Unity Legal on 0333 335 5875
Gardening Q&A
QMy daffodil bulbs were disappointing last spring. They’ve been in the garden years. Do I feed them or put new bulbs in so I get better flowers next spring?
AAfter a few years
Daffodils can get overcrowded which will stop them producing flowers. You can lift, divide and replant but this is unlikely to make much difference, the best thing to do is to remove the old and replace with new. If your old bulbs have been in the ground for a few years then you’ve had your money’s worth so, as the bulbs are inexpensive, for best results, replace.
Q
My lavender plants rarely last past one summer. How can I stop them deteriorating over winter ?
A
Not all lavender plants are hardy, when choosing plants for general planting check the labels for hardy winter varieties. Add grit to your soil and when the flowers fade, cut back to the bottom of the flower stalk.
Q
Slugs and snails, how do I control them?
AWe all hate slugs and snails, they are very persistent and annoying. There are many old wives’ tales about how to deal with them, so what’s the best way? Nature friendly slug pellets at the plant’s base will make it difficult for slugs to cross, beer traps attracts them then they drown, you can put wheat bran down and your slugs will over eat and die. You can use a low frequency
electric charge in the form of copper tape around your pots. Diatomaceous earth with its sharp edges will deter, eggshells, coffee grounds or garlic can work. Clear away debris around the base, improve drainage and encourage natural predators like frogs, toads and birds if you can. You may have lots of snails, these are best collected then released along hedgerows where birds might find them.
QI had lots of tulips in pots and troughs, and they looked great, I’ve kept them in the same containers and stored them after they died back. Will they bloom again, or do I need to re-pot?
AIt’s generally not a good idea to leave tulips in pots after the first year, it’s far better to use new bulbs. Your older bulbs can be moved to the ground in borders and once
established will produce flowers.
Q What can I put in my compost heap?
ACompost systems vary from a simple small pile to an enclosed store-bought bin, the key is to vary the material. There’s no one recipe so just use common sense. Green and brown equals black, layers of green (nitrogen-rich) with layers of brown (carbon-rich) in equal measure will give best results. Be sure to turn the mix from time to time to add air and keep the pile moist but not wet, throw in the odd layer of soil to help things along. Local farm animal
manure not garden centre manure is a great addition. A good compost heap needs to to be in the sun at least part of the day to create the heat needed to thoroughly rot any seeds that may be in the heap. A thermometer will eliminate any guesswork.
Q Do dahlias need pinching ?
ASimple answer is yes. Pinching will promote a bushier plant with lots more blooms. Most plants at 15-18in tall will have three sets of leaves, pinch out the tip of the top set leaving the others intact. Do you have any gardening questions? Email mark@cheltenhampost.co.uk
Gardening jobs for August
AUGUST is usually one of the hottest months of the year and officially the last month of summer so it’s the perfect time to sit back and enjoy your garden while still at its best.
Be sure to keep on top of watering as these sultry summer days make watering essential. It’s also holiday season for many with the kids on summer holidays from school, so be sure to enlist friends and family to keep an eye on things while away.
August essentials in the flower garden
Continue to deadhead to promote flowering into autumn and top-heavy Dalia’s and Lilies will need staking to protect from wind and rain. Keep on top of feeding especially containers and patio pots. Top up your bird baths, water features and ponds. Tidy up your borders by cutting back your faded perennials and weeding, prune back your climbers once their flowers have dropped, herbs will need cutting back to encourage tasty new growth and lavender will need a trim to keep compact. It’s a good time to collect seeds and take cuttings to store and propagate for next year. Keep an eye on any infected plants and leaves and cut out the discoloured areas.
By Mark Hopkins
Fruits and vegetables
This is the best time of year for our fruits and veg, there’s plenty to harvest and enjoy but it’s not all reward as there are still jobs to do. Feed is essential for the best results. A high pot ash is great for container and pot grown plants especially when first fruit appears. Pinch out the top of tomato plants to concentrate growth to the fruit - the same applies to your bean plants. Potatoes, carrots and sweetcorn are ready to lift. Any yellowing and floppy foliage on onions, shallots and garlic - lift and dry then store. Don’t let some of the veg get too big. Keep an eye on pests and clear any deceased leaves to prevent spread. Citrus trees will need a citrus feed. Birds and squirrels will be looking for a food source so netting or a bird deterrent like hanging an old CD will help and maybe try a little pepper in your flowering buds to deter squirrels.
In the greenhouse
Check for dry soil and water
when necessary, increased humidity by adding moisture will deter pests, ventilate on warm days, tidy up to prevent disease.
Look after your lawn
It’s doesn’t matter if your lawn looks a little brown, it’s getting full use this time of year with the kids at home, and it will bounce back a few days after it starts raining again. Don’t feed with fertiliser this time of year as it will cause damage, lawns grow slowly in the summer so raise the level of your mower to help promote new growth. Re-edging your lawn
will reduce maintenance in the future. You may find a few ant infestations; if so then brush out on dry days and always before you mow.
Other jobs to do in August
Trim your hedges ready for autumn, turn you compost regularly to speed up decomposition and clean up ponds. Keep an eye on mildew and spray affected area with Fungicide. Aphids will hide under leaves so be diligent when hunting, brush off and spray to prevent multiplying. Vine weevils, scarlet beetles and slugs love
this time of year so if found treat with nematodes or slug control pellets. Oh and don’t forget those hanging baskets, they will need plenty of attention especially in dry weather.
Once done sit back and enjoy your garden. Take a few photos so you can plan next year's display, think about what worked and what didn’t; what can you change, what do you want to change?
Rough sketches can also help in planning. Think about your spring bulbs for borders, beds, pots and containers then get ordering. Remember your garden is your masterpiece!
Animal Shelter
Understanding your dog
FOR over 12,000 years, dogs have walked beside us as hunters, protectors, workers, and loyal companions.
Descended from the grey wolf, they’ve evolved into more than 400 recognised breeds, each with unique traits from coat texture to body shape all down to centuries of selective breeding by humans. But while their appearances have changed, dogs still carry a deep-rooted evolutionary instinct: the drive to hunt.
This natural drive is known as Predatory Motor Patterns (PMPs). This a sequence of behaviours originally used by wild dogs to track and catch prey. It’s something all dogs retain to some degree, regardless of breed.
The full PMP sequence includes:
1. Orient – The dog notices and directs its attention toward a potential target (e.g., movement, scent, or sound).
2. Eye/Point – The dog locks its gaze on the target and may
By Debbie Morgan
freeze or adopt a pointing stance, showing intense focus.
3. Stalk – The dog begins to move slowly and carefully toward the target, trying not to be seen or heard.
4. Chase – The dog runs after the moving target, often triggered by fast motion.
5. Grab Bite – The dog attempts to catch and hold the target with its mouth.
6. Kill Bite – The dog delivers a bite intended to kill the target, often used by wild canines.
7. Dissect – The dog begins to tear apart the prey, typically seen in more wild or feral behaviours.
8. Consume – The dog eats the prey, completing the predatory sequence.
This sequence is instinctual and varies in intensity between breeds, with some dogs bred to emphasize or suppress certain stages (e.g., herding breeds often emphasize "eye" and
"stalk" but not "kill").
Over time, humans selectively enhanced certain stages of this pattern in dogs to help with specific jobs. For example, gundogs like Labradors and Spaniels were bred for their keen noses and gentle mouths ideal for finding and retrieving game without harming it.
In contrast, herding breeds
like Border Collies were developed to “eye,” stalk and chase sheep, but without progressing to bite or kill, making them perfect for managing livestock.
So why does this matter for modern dog owners?
Understanding your dog’s breed traits and predatory instincts can be the key to managing so-called “problem”
behaviours and most importantly, to ensuring your dog is truly content.
Suppressing these behaviours can lead to frustration, stress, and unwanted actions like chasing cars, herding children, or chewing household items. This is often described as a dog going “self-employed” in their quest for stimulation.
Take the family Collie, for instance. If their herding instinct isn’t channelled, they may start chasing anything that moves. But providing structured activities that mimic those instincts such as puzzle toys, scent games, or controlled fetch gives them a productive outlet and helps reduce the desire to misbehave.
How you can support your dog’s instincts
Here are some simple ways to satisfy your dog’s Predatory Motor Pattern:
• Scent/Track – Try hide-andseek games with treats or use a snuffle mat.
• Eye/Stalk/Chase – Safe ball games or flirt poles (a pole with a tug toy that entices the dog to chase a fast-moving lure) can simulate this instinct.
• Grab Bite/Shake – Tough tug toys allow for playful biting in a controlled way.
• Dissect/Eat – Food puzzles, stuffed KONGs, or chew items can fulfil this need.
It’s important to note that not all dogs follow the full PMP sequence, and their individual breed mix will influence which stages are most prominent. If you’re unsure of your dog’s heritage, simply observe what they enjoy; every dog tells their story through behaviour. While enriching activities can make a world of difference, they’re not a fix-all. For more serious behavioural issues, always consult a qualified behaviourist.
At Cheltenham Animal Shelter, our Behaviour Team is here to support both you and your dog. If you’d like advice tailored to your dog’s needs, email us at behaviour@gawa.org.uk.
Money talks Fanny Snaith
How to make confident money decisions without second-guessing yourself
YOU’VE paused, You’ve breathed, you didn’t throw your phone across the room when your bank balance looked grim. Victory.
In my last piece, “Money & Emotion: How to Keep Your Cool When Your Bank Balance Doesn’t,” I explored the neuroscience of emotional hijack - how, according to Dr Jill Bolte Taylor, the chemical surge of an emotion (like panic or shame) lasts about 90 seconds. After that, it’s not biology keeping the feeling going - it’s your thoughts.
We talked about the power of pausing in that moment, letting the emotion rise and fall, and choosing not to act from fear. That 90-second window, I argued, is where your power lives. And many of you told me it made a real difference. But now you’ve paused… what comes next?
You’re standing in front of a financial decision - a purchase, a payment, a conversation, an investment - and the emotional heat has cooled. But the uncertainty remains. What do I do? Can I trust myself with this choice? What if I get it wrong?
This, my friend, is the next level of financial selfleadership: learning how to make confident, values-aligned decisions - without spiralling into second-guessing, regret, or avoidance.
In a moment I will introduce your next tool: your Financial Compass - the 7 Cs to Financial Freedom, I use this with all my clients, and it really helps them to increase their feeling of financial wellbeing.
Why Most People Feel Lost Around Money
Let’s be honest — most of us were never taught how to make empowered financial decisions. We were taught how to follow, fear, or ignore money. Our early money education often came through the lens of survival, guilt, or silence.
We watched our parents avoid bills, argue over spending, or model scarcity and control. We absorbed cultural messages like “Money doesn’t grow on trees,” “You have to work hard for every penny,” or “Rich people are greedy.”
And now here we are - adults with jobs, responsibilities, and bank accounts - trying to make sound financial choices without ever having learned how.
So we guess. We Google. We delay. Or we do what someone else told us was 'right’ and feel miserable afterwards. What we need isn’t more information. We need a way to navigate. That’s where your compass comes in.
Introducing Your Financial Compass
Think of your financial compass as a short set of inner questions that bring you back to yourself in the moment of decision. They’re designed to cut through the noise, reconnect you to your values, and help you move from reaction to intention.
The 7 Cs to Financial Freedom Compass
This isn’t a budgeting spreadsheet. It’s your inner map.
Curiosity: What’s really going on here? What’s the story I’m telling myself?
Courage: Am I willing to face the discomfort this brings up?
(Self) Compassion: Can I respond to myself kindly, without judgement?
Commitment: What am I truly committed to - short-term relief or long-term wellbeing?
Consistency: Am I acting in alignment with my values and past intentions?
Confidence: What do I already know to be true and trustworthy about myself?
Clarity: What decision feels most clear, calm, and true right now?
The 7 Cs compass isn’t about perfect answers. It’s about learning to trust your internal wisdom. And when you use it regularly, something shifts: the second-guessing softens, and your financial confidence grows.
Try It Out: Compass Moments in Real Life
Here’s how to apply your 7 Cs Compass to everyday dilemmas:
Dilemma: Should I buy this unplanned item?
Curiosity: Why do I want this? Is this emotional or practical?
Courage: Can I sit with the discomfort of saying no if needed?
Compassion: If I choose not
to buy it, can I soothe the FOMO gently?
Commitment: Does this support my long-term goal?
Consistency: Is this in line with the spending habits I’m building?
Confidence: Have I made good spending choices recently?
Clarity: After all that, does this still feel like a good idea?
Dilemma: Should I lend money to someone I love?
Curiosity: What’s my true motivation here? Guilt, fear, love, obligation?
Courage: Can I be honest if the answer is no?
Compassion: How can I care for both of us without compromising myself?
Commitment: Am I committed to supporting them, or to protecting my own stability?
Consistency: What have I done in similar situations?
Confidence: Do I trust myself to set boundaries lovingly?
Clarity: What’s the clearest, kindest way forward?
Dilemma: Should I invest some of my savings?
Curiosity: What draws me to this? Fear of missing out?
Desire for growth?
Courage: Am I willing to learn and grow into this space?
Compassion: Can I go easy on myself if I don’t get it 100% right?
Commitment: Does this reflect my commitment to future me?
Consistency: Am I following a plan or acting on impulse?
Confidence: What knowledge or advice do I already have?
Clarity: What next step feels right-sized and aligned?
Confidence Isn’t Perfectionit’s Self-Trust
Let me say this loud and clear: confidence doesn’t come from always making the ‘right’ money decision. It comes from learning how to stand behind your choices, learn from them, and adjust without shame. That’s what the 7 Cs Compass is about. Not control. Not certainty. But grounded, values-led direction.
Final Thought: The Answers Are Already Within You
You don’t need to crowdsource your financial decisions. You have a compass inside you that’s been waiting to be used. And when you use it, you start to walk a path not based on fear, urgency, or approvalseeking, but on self-leadership. Pause. Breathe. Check your compass. You’ll find the next step. Fanny
Snaith
TEST YOUR BRAINPOWERPuzzles
Quiz Challenge
1.
2.
3. Which scale of
after the 19th century Irish physicist who first developed it?
is
4. Which is the world’s largest species of edible flatfish?
5. The British high tide tables use which landmark as their reference point?
6. Since its revival in 2021, who has hosted the TV series The Weakest Link?
7. The drug atropine is derived from which poisonous plant?
8. Marco Silva is the manager of which Premier League football club?
9. Birdsong, Charlotte Gray and The Girl at the Lion d’Or are historical novels by which British writer?
10. According to the title of the 2025 West End musical, The Devil Wears... what?
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
1. Look forward to spicy food (6)
4. Naughty child has skill to communicate (6)
9. Pigeon connoisseur is more whimsical (7)
10. Repair cut in jacket (5)
11. Somehow rid Vernon of person who cannot take the wheel (3-6)
12. Girl has most of the condiment (3)
13. Broody female is particularly vulnerable (7,4)
18. I’m following one in goal (3)
19. Seamen from Irish port are good at opening bottles (9)
21. Note that is designed to banish ill-feeling (5)
22. I am going to bribe problem drinker (7)
23. Engine fails to work on eastern line (6)
QUICK CROSSWORD
Place the four signs (add, subtract, multiply, divide) one in each circle so that the total of each across and down line is the same. Perform the first calculation in each line first and ignore the mathematical law which says you should always perform division and multiplication before addition and subtraction.
Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box. Here are two miniature five-square crosswords using the same grid –but the letters have been mixed up. You have to work out which letters belong to which crossword.
24. Where such dealers may end up? (6)
1. Get money back from arbiter and German (6)
2. Len in trouble with the cloth (5)
3. Striker removed from plant (7)
5. Test for car or what is driving it (5)
6. Cinema’s production for a forgetful person (7)
7. Equipment made by rugby players (6)
8. Bad weather on the road? (7,4)
14. Enormous blokes living in rebuilt semi (7)
15. Refuse to go into it (7)
16. Rugged? Just in a tangle (6)
17. Turn aside to compose verse about a point (6)
19. Hoard of money, one hears (5)
20. Priest has tailless animal (5)
NONAGRAM
Each number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off. Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares. As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.
SUDOKU
1. Guarantee (8) 5. Amongst (4)
How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found.
Guidelines:
Any word found in the Concise Oxford Dictionary (Tenth Edition) is eligible with the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible).
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Warranty; 5 Amid; 9 All told; 10 Shrug; 11 Scrag; 13 Malice; 15 Kraal; 17 Yolk; 19 Inn; 20 Mere; 21 Inter; 23 Toward; 24 Souse; 28 Crown; 29 Ebbtide; 30 Lynx; 31 Nameless. Down – 1 Wrap; 2 Relic; 3 Anorak;
Fulham; 9 Sebastian Faulks; 10 Prada. ague; argue; arguer; argute; auger; auto; euro; gaur; glue; glut; gout; grout; grouter; gruel; guar; gular; gulet; lour; lout; luge; lure; lute; outage; outer; outrage; outré; ragout; regular; REGULATOR; regulo; rogue; roué; rouge; rout; route; router; rule; ruler; rural; tolu; torula; tour; tourer; true; truer; trug; tule; turgor; ultra; urate; urea; urge; urger.
EQUALISER:
Recipes Steph Williams
Follow Steph’s blogThis Plate Is Pretty stephnicw.wixsite.com /thisplateispretty
Salmon Fillet with Burnt Leek Puree
Joyce Brooks Lingerie Boutique
The best way to serve a juicy fillet of Salmon is with a salted crispy skin obviously! It's one of those couldn't-be-easier, how-to-impresswithout-doing-much Salmon recipes. This dish should take around 20-25 minutes to create and contains 13g of net carbs.
Ingredients
Serves 2
• 2 Salmon Fillets
• Knob of Butter
• 300ml Vegetable Stock
• 250g Leeks
• 1.5 teaspoons Dijon Mustard
• Salt & Pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
• 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
• 6 teaspoons Double Cream
• Watercress, Dill, Chive to garnish
Instructions
l Chop the Leeks into 2-inchthick chunks and add to a frying pan with 1 tablespoon of the Olive oil, apply a medium/high heat and fry on each side until browned but not black or burned.
l Add the Leeks to a saucepan with the Stock and reduce until they are tender enough to blend fully.
l Blitz in a blender or food processor until completely smooth, with the Black Pepper, Cream and Dijon and set aside.
l Pour your Olive Oil into the pan on a medium to high heat and place your salmon fillets skin side up and salt them.
l After a few minutes, turn the Salmon fillets so they are skin side down and pan fry until the skin crisps up. This can take around 7-8 minutes depending on the size of the fillets. Sprinkle some salt and pepper on the top side of the fish to season too.
l Once all is cooked, carefully spoon your Puree on
Chicken Liver Pâté
your plate and place the fillet of Salmon on top. Garnish with Watercress, Dill or Chive to add some colour.
Recipe notes
WARNING! - Do not add Salt to the Puree. It will be too overbearing with the Stock in there also.
Another tip is to be generous with the Black Pepper in the Puree to really bring out the flavours.
This is a versatile sauce that can also accompany Chicken, Pork, Turkey, White Fish and Veggies.
Pan fry if you want crispy skin, however air frying or oven baking the Fish are also perfectly good ways to cook it.
Here’s an easy chicken liver pâté recipe with shallots, garlic, brandy, capers and thyme, blended smooth to spread on bread or crackers. Chicken liver pâté... looks atrocious, tastes great! In fact, this is one of those instances where you pity the fool who refuses to eat something because it doesn't look appetizing, and then you're secretly happy because that means there's more for you. The recipe will take 4.5+ hours and each serving contains only 3.5g of carbs.
Ingredients
4 servings
● 400g Chicken Livers
● 3 tablespoons Water
● 1/2 teaspoon Thyme
● 2 tablespoons Brandy
● 200g Butter
● 1 Large Shallot
● 1 tablespoon Parsley
● Pinch of Salt & Pepper
● 3 Cloves of Garlic
Instructions
l Trim the Livers and remove any tough tissue.
l Finely chop the Shallot and Garlic and add to a pan with 1 tablespoon Butter and cook on a medium-high heat for 2 minutes.
l Add in the Livers and Thyme and cook though for about 6 minutes, adding in the Parsley at the end.
l Cool enough to put in a food processor.
l Semi-melt the rest of the Butter then add it into the food processor with all of the other ingredients. Puree until smooth.
l Spoon in to ramekins or a
small dish and chill for 4+ hours.
Recipe notes If you are not a fan of the “organy” taste, soak the Chicken Livers in milk beforehand as this will make them milder in taste. Take out of the fridge 30 minutes before serving to ensure the pâté is not too solid.
School’s Out – Now What? Managing the emotional overwhelm when routine disappears
THE end of the school year brings more than just packed-up lunchboxes put away in the cupboard, forgotten PE kits and numerous art projects that you must find wall space for. It brings chaos. If you’re feeling that you’re teetering on the edge as the summer holidays begin, you’re not alone.
The pleasant pictures of sunshine, sea and sand along with the hope of relaxation prove to be illusions because reality is a challenge, instead of tranquil scenes from travel brochures. Suddenly, you’re juggling sibling squabbles, snack time, screen access, moods (theirs and yours), and the never-ending question: What are we doing today?
Jennie Sutton DIVORCE COACH & MCKENZIE FRIEND
Helping you find the end to make a new beginning 07799741765 talk@untyingtheknot.me
all need to feel okay today?”
Maybe you and your family members require a smorgasbord of options, solitude, exercise, social engagement, or space at any time during the day. The practice of prioritising emotional requirements instead of creating a never ending activity list will release any tension and manage expectations.
2. Rhythm of the week
4. Daily ‘me moments’
Each day through summer could include a ‘Me Moment’ which involves listening to music, moving your body or spending time in nature by yourself. 10 minutes in the morning to take yourself off into the garden alone or while the children play in the park, you can focus on your wellbeing for a few minutes. Use your senses as much as possible. For example: bathe in the natural light, listen to
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Come and see our stylish collection of apartments in a welcoming community, set within the heart of Cheltenham. Meet our moving experts, Aprico, and learn how to ‘right-size’ without having to sacrifice on space.
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Phillips’ maiden century helps Gloucestershire draw with Middlesex
GLOUCESTERSHIRE’S
Joe Phillips hit his maiden first-class century as the rain-ruined Rothesay County Championship
Division Two match with Middlesex ended in an inevitable draw.
After the third day washout, a still wet outfield prevented any play until 1.25pm, with a minimum of 68 overs left in the game.
Resuming their first innings on 54 for one, a deficit of 391, Gloucestershire extended it to 400 for nine by stumps, 21-year-old Cornishman Phillips making 136 from 182 balls, with 19 fours.
Miles Hammond contributed an attractive 71 and Cameron Bancroft 58. But there had been too little time on a placid pitch for the
teams to conjure a decisive outcome and both had to settle for 15 points.
Following an early lunch at 12.45pm, Phillips and skipper Bancroft played confidently on a pitch still proving surprisingly straightforward to bat on considering it was shaved at both ends.
Unbeaten on 11 at the start, Phillips had a scare on 34 when advancing down the pitch to off-spinner Josh De Caires and edging between wicketkeeper and first slip for four. It was a rare moment of anxiety for Gloucestershire as Bancroft was first to his half-century, off 104 balls, with 9 fours.
The experienced Aussie was looking in prime form and it was a surprise when, with the total advanced to
126, he was bowled off a bottom edge aiming to pull a boundary off left-arm seamer Noah Cornwell.
By then Phillips was treating the sparse crowd to a range of sweetly-timed strokes off front and back foot, a single to deep cover off Luke Hollman’s leg-spin taking him to fifty off 92 deliveries, with 5 fours. Two more boundaries followed from fierce pull shots in the same Cornwell over.
Ollie Price was soon looking equally at home on the two-tone coloured surface. A glorious square drive for four off Ryan Higgins took Truro-born Phillips past his previous best first class score of 80, made on the same ground against Worcestershire in 2023.
By tea, he had moved to 96
and, with Price unbeaten on 33, Gloucestershire were 209 for two, still trailing by 236. A looping full toss from Sam Robson gave Phillips the chance to strike the boundary that brought up his century off 145 balls. It was his 15th four and he raised a clenched fist in the air to celebrate.
Price departed soon afterwards for 34, caught behind top-edging a sweep off Robson’s leg-breaks. The dismissal meant a first bowling point for Middlesex on a day their promotion hopes suffered a damaging blow with Glamorgan’s victory over Lancashire.
Phillips and Hammond took Gloucestershire to 250 and a batting point. With more bonus points up for grabs, neither team wanted to shake hands on the draw.
Using his feet well to attack the spinners, Phillips continued on his merry way, while Hammond also went on the attack at every opportunity. Their entertaining stand of 66 in 12.1 overs ended when Phillips holed out to long-on off Higgins.
Cheltenham-born Hammond, who often flourishes at the Festival, advanced to smack a straight six off Des Caires as Gloucestershire progressed to a second batting point, losing James Bracey cheaply, caught at mid-on off Des Caires with the total on 299.
Hollman earned Middlesex a second bowling point when having Graeme van Buuren caught at slip. But Hammond moved to a fluent halfcentury off 63 balls before
Zaman Akhter was seventh man out, caught at backward square leg sweeping a ball from Hollman with eight overs remaining.
A Hammond six off Hollman took Gloucestershire to a third batting point before he fell aiming to clear long-on off Higgins. With three overs remaining, Middlesex took the second new ball and Cornwell had Matt Taylor caught behind to give his side maximum bowling points. There was still time for a Josh Shaw six off Higgins as he and Todd Murphy helped the hosts reach 400 in the very last over. Both teams could feel happy at the end of a thoroughly entertaining final hour.
Gloucestershire 400-9 drew with Middlesex 445
Metro Bank One Day victory for Gloucestershire Cricket
OLLIE Price illuminated the final day of the Towergate Cheltenham Festival, scoring a superb hundred as Gloucestershire beat Derbyshire Falcons by 59 runs to make a winning start to their Metro Bank One Day Cup campaign.
The Oxford-born batsman posted 103 from 115 balls and staged stands of 141 with James Bracey and 97 with Ben Charlesworth for the second and third wickets respectively as the home side ran up an imposing 341-8 at the famous College Ground. Promoted to open the innings, Bracey contributed an enterprising 83, while Charlesworth and skipper Jack Taylor weighed in with half centuries.
Brooke Guest raised a brilliant 86 from 88 balls and shared stands of 64 with Matt Montgomery and 76 with Amrit Basra, who scored 42 and 40 respectively, as the Falcons made a decent fist of chasing. But paceman Zaman Akhter returned figures of 447, including a decisive spell of three wickets in six balls, to swing the contest back in Gloucestershire's favour and ensure Derbyshire were dismissed for 282 in 45.5 overs.
Derbyshire won the toss, elected to field and saw debutant Rory Haydon remove Australian Test batsman Cameron Bancroft lbw in a tidy new-ball spell of 1-16 from six overs with one maiden. Driving and cutting fluently, Bracey and Price found runs easier to come by against Ben
Aitchison from the Chapel End. these two matching one another blow for blow as boundaries began to flow. When Nick Potts replaced Aitchison, Bracey hoisted him high over mid-wicket for six to bring up the half century stand, twice repeating the feat with further effortless pick-ups a few overs later to afford the innings added impetus.
Bracey went to 50 via 40 balls with 4 fours and 3 sixes and then smashed Potts for another six over mid-wicket as the innings assumed three figures. Potts was withdrawn after conceding 42 from three overs, but there was no reduction in the rate of scoring from the Chapel End, Price reverse sweeping Montgomery's off spin for
four to raise the hundred partnership in just 15 overs. He brought up his 50 via 59 balls soon afterwards.
Derbyshire desperately required a breakthrough and Montgomery obliged, bowling Bracey via an inside edge with the score 148-2 in the 23rd. Bracey had dominated a stand of 141, his aggressive knock spanning 66 balls, including 8 fours and 4 sixes and affording his side an excellent platform. Price and Charlesworth consolidated thereafter, adding 50 for the third wicket in 63 balls in the face of accurate bowling from Joe Hawkins and Basra.
A bumper Festival audience rose to acknowledge Price's fourth List-A hundred, the 24-year-old reaching the
landmark in 111 balls with a swept single behind square off Montgomery. Having hit 10 fours and a six, he was then bowled by Andersson. But there was no respite for the visitors, Charlesworth moving seamlessly to a runa-ball half century with 4 fours and a six.
Aitchison had Charlesworth held at long-on for a 59-ball 60 and Graeme van Buuren caught at the wicket for eight as Derbyshire briefly applied the brakes, only for the experienced Jack Taylor to combine power and deft placement in raising a quickfire 67 from 37 balls with 10 fours and a six to carry Gloucestershire out of sight.
Forced to score briskly from the outset, Derbyshire
lost Harry Came to scoreboard pressure in the seventh, the opener driving a length ball from Matt Taylor straight to mid-on with 24 on the board. But Caleb Jewell and Montgomery made amends, finding the boundary with sufficient regularity to advance the score to 53 at the end of 10 overs.
Returning to Gloucestershire on loan seven years after leaving to join Warwickshire, Craig Miles struck an important blow when persuading Australian Jewell to cut to Charlesworth at backward point for 35 with the score 61-2. But the visitors continued to make a fight of it, Montgomery and Guest bringing up 100 inside 18 overs to keep the required
rate at around 7.5 an over. The 50 partnership occupied 55 balls, the third wicket pair establishing themselves in a manner which suggested Gloucestershire might not have things all their own way.
Having accrued a six and 5 fours in raising a 39-ball 42, Montgomery blotted his copybook, playing back to van Buuren's slow left arm and chopping on to terminate a partnership of 64 in 11.3 overs as Falcons slipped to 125-3. Akhter and van Buuren applied the squeeze during the middle overs and Jack Taylor benefited, having Martin Andersson held at extra cover with the score 152-4.
Derbyshire were still in with a chance while Guest remained at large, the captain going to 50 from 61 balls, while debutant Basra demonstrated clever improvisation to hit the ground running, plundering sixes at the expense of Jack Taylor, Josh Shaw and Miles to keep the reply on track. Gloucestershire needed a wicket and Akhter responded by taking three in the space of six balls. He bowled the combative Basra for a 31-ball 40, had Guest held at long-on in his next over and then removed Ross Whitely cheaply to reduce the Falcons to 234-7 and relieve pressure on his team. Requiring a further 107 from 11.1 overs, Derbyshire were never really in the hunt thereafter, Aitchison succumbing to Matt Taylor for 19 as the chase ran out of steam.
Gloucester City FC pre-season ends with an away 2-0 defeat in Banbury
THE game started quickly with both teams having their share of the ball, however the first chance fell to Sopuruchukwu Obieri. The forward shrugged off two Banbury defenders and struck the ball goalwards, however his effort was steered just wide.
The hosts had a few chances of their own early on , the main one being a
head at goal from captain Yaw Ofosu, which should have been a warning sign for the Tigers. Joe Hanks had arguably the best chance of the game, timing his run to perfection leaving him one-on-one with the Banbury keeper, however his lofted effort didn't quite drop far enough, to get underneath the crossbar.
The Puritans piled on the pressure all the way until half-time, which resulted in a goal just before the whistle blew, Captain Ofosu heading the ball into the goal whilst unmarked at the back post. It was a tight affair in the early stages of the secondhalf, with both sides battling hard. On the 75th minute, trialist A took advantage after Ben
Morgan's mistake, putting Banbury in good stead, two goals ahead going into the final stages.
The Tigers pushed and pushed with substitutes Kieran Phillips and Sion Spence making an impact, however the efforts were not enough and the referees whistle blew to put an end to the afternoons play in Oxfordshire.
