Cheltenham Standard 30th April 2015 by Cotswold Style Ltd

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CHANCELLOR IN CHELTENHAM

IN a week where the main parties are turning up the political ‘wick’ and amid a flurry of media activity the Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne made a whistlestop tour of Cheltenham on Monday to offer his support to Conservative hopeful Alex Chalk. George Osborne delivered a blunt warning to voters in Cheltenham on Monday as he pressed them not to risk undermining all of the coalition government's achievements by backing Labour next Thursday 7th May. In the short time that he was here the Chancellor managed to squeeze in a visit to local family building firm Bences in Fairview where he met both the Directors and staff in a mini tour of the business. He visited Bence's after the managing director, Paul Bence had signed a letter along with thou-

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Council to pay £millions above market price for new oﬃces CHELTENHAM Borough Council has agreed to pay £millions over the fair market price for an office block in Cheltenham town centre. In a meeting which was largely closed to the public, the Liberal Democrat group on the council pushed through a decision to purchase the office block despite their own independent valuation showing the building was actually worth £millions less than the price they are going to pay. Opposition councillors fought against the plans which would see taxpayer money used to make up the shortfall in the overvalued office purchase. Conservative and PAB voiced serious reservations about the expensive purchase and voted unanimously against, but the controlling Liberal Democrat group voted as a bloc to force the contentious move through. Despite the high level of public interest in the purchase, because the deal is considered “commercially sensitive”, the location, name of the seller and most importantly, the price, will not be disclosed until the deal is signed. This is not likely to happen for around a month, delaying publication of the details until after the General Election.

Cllr Tim Harman, Conservative Group Leader, said: “This is a bad deal for Cheltenham and shows a huge disregard for taxpayer money. It is incredible to think the council is knowingly paying £millions above fair market price for a building that simply isn't worth it.

“The Lib Dems are raiding the proceeds from the North Place car park sale to plug the financial shortfall in this misguided property deal. This is money that should be going toward boosting public assets and services in Cheltenham. “The sums involved are stag-

gering. This mistake could easily end up costing the council more than the Christine Laird scandal or the major cost overruns at the Wilson Art Gallery. “It is a rushed decision that could haunt Cheltenham for years.”

Osborne on the campaign trail >> CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

sands of other small business leaders backing the Conservatives. Mr Osborne went on to add that, “Cheltenham is really important”. And continued to say that, “It is one of the 23 seats that we need to win in this country to have a stable majority government together with economic stability and jobs being created for families’’. He also simply stated that, “The alternative is the political instability and the economic chaos that would

come from an Ed Miliband government: A weak prime minister propped up by, and held hostage by, Scottish nationalists. “I don't think Cheltenham would do well under that plan.” On being questioned by The Standard about the town centre’s businesses, some of whom are struggling under the weight of high business rates, Mr Osborne said that it was only Alex Chalk and the Conservatives that would be able to address this issue in the future taking the Lib Dem controlled council to task.

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30 APRIL 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

Cheltenham drugs granny Sandiford could be for the chop THE EXECUTION of two convicted Australian drug smugglers on Tuesday (28th) evening of this week could spell the end of Cheltenham grandmother Lindsay Sandiford's own attempt to avoid her own execution by firing squad. The 58-year-old, from Warden Hill, is on death row after she was convicted of smuggling 4.8kg of cocaine into Bali back in May of 2012. Australians Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran were executed at around midnight on the Indonesian island of Nusakambangan 5pm UK time, Tuesday (28th). Chan, a friend of Sandiford's, and Sukumaran, are part of the Bali Nine who were convicted in 2005 over a plot to smuggle around 18.2lbs of heroin from In-

donesia to Australia. Families of both of the men visited them on Monday and were told they will have to say their final goodbyes. Indonesia has said it will execute all foreign drug convicts by the end of the year with President Joko Widodo refusing any clemency for drug dealers. The convicted Australian men were led from their isolated cells in Batu prison and through tropical forest, on the Javan island. The date set for the executions, April 28th, became official when a local funeral director was instructed to inscribe the names of those to be shot by firing squad and the date of their deaths. With the executions having gone ahead, it could spell the end of Sandiford's struggle to escape

death by firing squad. The Mail quoted her telling a friend: "If they kill someone as good as Andrew, what hope is there for me? I

just want to get it over with. I feel like just giving up." Sandiford claims to have been coerced by a syndicate who threatened the lives

Road traﬃc collision on Old Gloucester Road POLICE are seeking information or witnesses in connection with a single vehicle road traffic collision at about 5 a.m. last Friday 24th April on Old Gloucester Road Cheltenham, in which a black Corsa was in collision with a tree. Fire and ambulance attended and freed the driver, who is stable but has been taken to hospital in Bristol with a life threatening injury. The driver was the sole occupant. The road has been closed between the junctions of Withybridge Lane and Hayden Road. Anyone with information about the collision is asked to contact police on 101, quoting Incident number 30 of 24th April.

of her children. The British government has refused all requests to pay Sandiford's legal fees for her appeal.

Horwood has a pop at Tory potholes THE Lib Dem parliamentary candidate for Cheltenham, Martin Horwood, has voiced his exasperation at the state of Cheltenham’s roads and laid the blame squarely at the door of the Conservative-led county council. Gloucestershire County Council, led by Conservative Mark Hawthorne, took over responsibility for maintaining Cheltenham’s roads from the town’s borough council in 2007. “During the election campaign I have been criss-crossing Cheltenham even more than usual “ said Martin. “It has really brought home to me what an absolutely shocking state our roads are in. There are potholes everywhere, big enough to damage cars, injure pedestrians crossing the road and risk the lives of cyclists. With the summer festival season upon us, it presents a terrible image of Cheltenham.” He added: “The Conservative leadership at Shire Hall made a political decision to take over road maintenance. So now they have to accept political responsibility for the

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Popular market brings international flavours to Cheltenham CHELTENHAM’S International Street Market returns to the town for the 14th time on Thursday 14th May for four days. The market will have a continental feel, which will offer more variety, new flavours and different crafting techniques.

With dozens of stalls on the Promenade, it will feel like a trip around the world with Eastern sweets including Turkish delight to French baked goods. There will also be stalls selling a range of crêpes, paella, curry, noodles, Polish cuisine, cheeses and olives.

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Warning to dog owners after horseworrying incident DOG owners are being reminded to keep their animals under control after a horse rider reported being chased and attacked on Cleeve Hill near Cheltenham. The incident happened on a bridle path between Cleeve Hill Golf Club and Postlip Hall at about 9.20am on Thursday 16th April. A woman was walking with two dogs on the hill when one of them raced towards the rider and kept snapping at the horse's hoofs. Although the owner was said to be very apologetic, the rider has told police he felt the dog was out of control and that it was just one of many incidents of its kind on Cleeve Hill. Police are warning that an owner of any dog which worries livestock, including horses, may be committing a criminal offence.

Jazz FeSTival SeT To be beST yeT JAZZ sensation Kizzy Crawford performed a secret set whilst travelling on a CrossCountry train this Wednesday giving customers a surprise treat on board the 11.17am service from Birmingham New Street to Cheltenham Spa, to mark the start of the Cheltenham Jazz Festival. Welsh born Kizzy, 18, exploded onto the Jazz scene just two years ago and the talented singer, songwriter and musician will be performing at the Cheltenham Jazz Festival this Saturday (2 May), gracing the same stage as the likes of Jamie Cullum and Van Morrison. As the Festival's Official Rail Partner, CrossCountry was granted exclusive access to the young star and wanted to surprise its customers with a journey they would never forget. “Watching the passengers turn around with smiles on their faces to watch my performance

Kizzy Crawford boarding the CrossCountry train at Birmingham New Street to mark the launch of Cheltenham Jazz Festival

was surreal.” said Kizzy. “It was definitely a first for me to perform on a train and I also got to sit back and enjoy the journey whilst chatting to other passengers and the crew inbetween songs." Clare Shufflebotham, Head of Marketing at CrossCountry said: “We are delighted to be the Official Rail Partner for the Cheltenham Jazz Festival

again this year. To have Kizzy on-board one of our trains was a real treat for both customers and the crew. “Listening to music is a great way to spend time when travelling by train, so why not enjoy the same experience but by listening to a live performance – it’s the ultimate intimate gig and we're so grateful to Kizzy for her support.”

Ian George, Director of Cheltenham Jazz Festival said: “We were delighted to be able to surprise commuters on this CrossCountry train with a brilliant pop up gig from the incredible Kizzy Crawford. Hopefully it got everyone in the mood for Jazz and will encourage them to join us at the Festival over the Bank Holiday weekend.”

Thursday 14th to Sunday 17th May - The Promenade

The market will open from 10am until 6pm daily and 11 – 5pm on Sunday. Kevan Blackadder, manager of Cheltenham Business Partnership, said: “We’re delighted to be welcoming the international market back to Cheltenham. The market always brings something different to the town but works very well alongside our cafes, restaurants and shops.” The market has been coordinated by Geraud Markets, which also puts on Cheltenham’s Christmas market. During the same week, Saturday (16th May) will see the monthly Cheltenham Arts and Crafts Market return and this will operate from the Long Gardens on the Promenade.

Traﬃc smash on M5 GLOUCESTERSHIRE Police are appealing for information following a road traffic collision on the M5 last Sunday 26th April. At approximately 2.45pm emergency services were called following a two vehicle collision half a mile north of Junction 11A of the motorway. A Toyota Hilux, driven by a 33-year-old woman from Wakefield, Yorkshire was in collision with a Mercedes driven by a 57year-old woman from Cheltenham. The driver and passenger of the Mercedes were taken to Gloucester Royal Hospital for checks on possible neck injuries. There were no reports of injuries to the driver of the Toyota. Lane one of the M5 was closed for a while and the motorway was fully reopened by 5.30pm. Police would like to hear from any witnesses who have not already come forward and given their details. Please call 101 quoting incident number 220 of 26th April.

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 30 APRIL 2015

First and Second World War memories to be digitally archived TO mark the centenary of the First World War, and the 70th anniversary of VE Day, Cheltenham Borough Council is working with the University of Gloucestershire to record local history from within the community. To help with the project, they are looking for people who were living in Cheltenham, or in service during the Second World War. They are also keen to have stories of life in Cheltenham, or of family members involved in the First World War. Anyone wishing to share their experiences and stories will have the opportunity to have them digitally archived. Many people have been sharing their stories on the

website www.ww1cheltenham.org since it was launched by Cheltenham Borough Council last summer. Hannah Wright, community engagement assistant said: “People have been coming into the Municipal Offices with some fascinating stories of relatives involved in World War One, and bringing old photographs, medals and artefacts to show us. As the 70th anniversary of VE Day is near, it seemed appropriate that we also extend to people involved in the Second World War. Both wars are currently fairly prominent in our minds and in the media, and this is an opportune time to capture some of

these stories and what they mean to the people telling them.” The sessions are by appointment only, and participants can be individuals or families. The format will be an informal conversation with an interviewer from the Cheltenham Remembers project, recorded either on video or audio and used in the project and its exhibitions. Sessions will take place at the Park Campus in Cheltenham, between 10am and 3pm on Tuesday 26th and Thursday 28th May. For more information, email Hannah.wright@cheltenham.gov.uk or telephone 01242 775156.

CornerStone raiSeS muCh needed CaSh OVER 80 people attended a fundraising event at the Cornerstone Community Centre in Whaddon last Tuesday evening. The Cornerstone team are raising money to improve their kitchen facilities so

they can offer affordable hot meals as well as their everpopular soup lunches and to develop their Care and Share shop so it can be open to the community six days a week. There was an auction of promises, cake sale, raffle

and sale of artwork. Alex Chalk the local Conservative hopeful was the special guest and Tony Solomon, a Trustee said, “Alex is a good friend and supporter of Cornerstone and the evening was originally his idea. We are

delighted that he was able to attend the response has been fantastic and Cornerstone has made lots of new friends as well as raising over £1700.00.’’

Boy with learning disability threatened POLICE are appealing for information after a 16year-old boy with a learning disability was pushed off his bike and threatened with harm by three youths. The teenager was riding along the Honeybourne Line cycle path at about 4.30pm last Sunday afternoon (26th April) when he was approached by the three boys. They pushed him off his bike and said they would hurt him with a knife, al-

though no knife was seen. The only other information the victim has been able to give is that the offenders are aged 16 to 19 and that the incident happened near to the children's play area. Police are appealing for witnesses and would also like to trace the couple who helped the victim. Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting incident 170 of 27th April 2015.

‘Fat Slag’ curfew breaching local man jailed A CHELTENHAM man has been jailed for breaching a curfew handed to him after he called his pregnant girlfriend a 'fat slag' and said he hoped her baby would die. Daniel Walsh, 22, of the YMCA in Victoria Walk, Cheltenham, had received a four month curfew and a restraining order when he pleaded guilty at Gloucester crown court in February to using threatening behaviour towards his girlfriend.

But on Wednesday of this week he was back before the court for breaching his curfew - and the court was told that only yesterday he had been sentenced to 12 weeks jail by Cheltenham Magistrates for a new offence of using threatening behaviour to another woman. Judge Jamie Tabor QC lifted the curfew order and sentenced Walsh to one week's additional imprisonment for the breach.

30 APRIL 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

GREEN MEP, Molly Scott Cato, launched a report on St George’s day that concluded the South West can produce 100% of its energy needs from renewables – and have some left over to export. The study shows that a renewable energy revolution could create 122,000 jobs across the region and add over £4bn a year to the South West economy. Nuclear and fossil fuels are a distraction says the report. Adam Van Coevorden, Green Party parliamentary candidate for Cheltenham, said: "This report backs up what we have been saying in Cheltenham throughout our campaign. By investing heavily in the renewable

Adam Van Coevorden

energy sector we will rebuild and future proof our economy and energy supply, creating 112,000 green jobs at the same time. The Green Party has also pledged to roll out a house insulation programme that will dramatically reduce people’s bills, create warm homes, and help combat climate change. “It seems

to me that the only reason to invest in fossil fuels and the nuclear industry at this point is to line the pockets of investors.” The report says that political will is the single most constraining barrier to a renewable energy revolution in the South West along with a desperate need to upgrade the grid.

Lord nigel Jones launches Pitman training Cheltenham’s ComptIA approved Diplomas IN launching the CompTIA approved Diplomas on Wednesday Lord Nigel Jones commented “I had a wonderful career in IT before becoming an MP, and I can recommend it to anyone.” He continued “There is a great shortage of skilled technicians and these courses offered by Pitman Cheltenham in partnership with CompTIA have worldwide recognition. Do the course and get a well-paid job.”

“Lord Jones is right to point out that these NEW Diplomas will help people to acquire the highly valued skills that are always in demand in the IT world. Our Diplomas will prepare them for the highly respected CompTIA exams.” commented Kevin Daws, Training Manager “We can also offer a wide range of courses that can be accredited by CompTIA as well as these fantastic Diplomas. If you are think-

ing about a career in IT you should come and talk to us.” Hannah McIndeor of CompTIA confirmed that there is a skills shortage when she said “As we are all more than aware there is a large skills gap within the IT industry. Employers are on the lookout for individuals with validated, industry recognised skills and that is where CompTIA certifications fit in.”

Appeal launched to raise money for a new set of twelve bells for a Cheltenham church ON 20th April Councillor Tim Harman hosted his second charity dinner here in the past six months. 60 guests enjoyed a delicious meal and raised just under £1,400. This was shared between the St. Phillip and St. James Church Roof Appeal - launched last April and they are looking for £160,000 – and the Kambia Hospital Appeal in Sierra Leone. It was a great occasion, with an entertaining talk from Maurice Gran, which mixed his Cheltenham memories, political indiscretions and witty asides. Richard Kerr-Wilson spoke about The Kambia

CYCLISTS joined TV celebrity Dr Dawn Harper and Paralympian James Brown as they tackled the Cotswold hills in aid of National Star. More than 100 cyclists set off on the 100km and 50km routes from the college’s Ullenwood site. Double gold-medal winning Paralympian cyclist James Brown, who is partially sighted, rode with pilot Neil Rutter, using the 100km challenge as a practice session. James is aiming to be the first partially-sighted cyclist to compete in a championship event on a solo bike without a sighted tandem copilot. The Star Cycling Challenge will raise more than £10,000 for the charity, which supports young people with disabilities. “This is such a great event that goes from strength to strength,” said Dr Dawn Harper. “National Star is amazing for what they do with young people. Now its fundraising team has turned this challenge into a high-

PHOTO: THOUSAND WORD MEDIA

Green PArty GeAr uP On yer bike for National Star

profile cycling event.” Four members of the same family headed up their company’s team. Alan Smith, company director of Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd, provided support for their team of 16 while daughters Rebecca, 24, Lisa, 21, and son Paul, 26, got on their bikes. National Star, which supports young people with complex disabilities and acquired brain injuries, became Smiths’ chosen charity in 2012. Rebecca, personal assistant to her father, said: “We are all so busy and we don’t get to spend a lot of time together as a family so this was nice. “National Star is quite unique and it’s amazing to see it in its full glory, to go in

the classrooms and hear about everything they do.” Andy Metcalfe, joint managing director of construction company Speller Metcalfe, was joined by coworkers Kevin Bloxsome and Stuart Jones. “We are working on the new Pittville development for National Star so it’s great to take part to support one of the biggest local charities,” said Kevin Bloxsome. Businesses taking part included Guy Biggin from Crowe Clark Whitehill, and teams from Roberts Limbrick and Space Engineering. “National Star is fantastic and we’re really pleased to be able to help out,” said Karen Holmes, customer services manager at Pulsin. “I used to cycle a lot but I haven’t done any for a while so thought it might finish me off but when I thought about how determined some of National Star’s students I wanted to push myself.”

Appeal, which works in partnership with The Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to provide maternal and child health training to Kambia health

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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 30 APRIL 2015

Dementia guiDe helps Cheltenham Carers get gooD to go WITH more than two million people in the UK predicted to be living with dementia by 2051, Care UK’s Sandfields care home on St. George's Road in Cheltenham has published Good to Go – a guide to overcoming the challenges of getting out and about, aimed at transforming the experiences of those caring for loved ones living with dementia. Good to Go highlights how important it is for those living with dementia – and their carers – to get out and about, and the emotional and physical benefits of staying active. The guide explains how to make the most of every outing, big or small, with practical advice and words of encouragement volunteered by people working in Care UK care homes, as well as residents and family carers. According to Ruth Baggs, home manager at Sandfields, Good to Go has the potential to improve the day-to-day experiences of

those living with dementia and of those whose lives are also affected by the condition. “It is absolutely essential that family carers are given support and practical advice to enable them and their loved ones to enjoy all the benefits of being outdoors as often as they can,” said Ruth. “Anecdotal feedback suggests outdoor activities can bring back memories to give those living with dementia moments of calm and clarity; however it’s perfectly understandable that with so many physical and emotional demands on carers it is all too easy to fall into a routine and stay indoors.” Veteran broadcaster and journalist, Angela Rippon OBE, who cared for her late mother, Edna, when she was diagnosed with vascular dementia, has welcomed the publication of Good to Go. Angela, who is an ambassador for the Alzheimer’s Society and co-chairs the Prime Minister’s Dementia Friendly Communities

Empowering the people of Zambia with donated bikes LOCAL luxury travel company Abercrombie & Kent is delighted to team up with charity Wheels of Change, to support a life-changing community based bike project in Zambia. A&K have brought a 40-foot shipping container to Cheltenham College Sports Centre, where people can come along and donate any unwanted bikes or tools that they may have. The container will then be shipped to the village of Nakatindi, in Zambia, where the container will be converted into a bike shop. The bikes will be distributed to the local community and a number of local people will be trained up in bicycle mechanics, book keeping etc, creating a long-term sustainable bike shop enterprise. This weekend (2nd/3rd May) is the last opportunity for people to come along and drop off their bikes. So far we have received 134 bikes, but we would really like to exceed 200. The bikes do not have to be in tip-top condition, but they do need to be repairable. Drop-off information: Saturday 2nd May (9.00am – 5.00pm) Sunday 3rd May (10.00am – 4.00pm) Cheltenham College Sports Centre, Thirlestaine Road, GL53 7AD

Champions Group, said: “In my experience, there are good days and bad days when caring for someone with a memory-impairment condition such as dementia, but it is really important for you and the person you’re caring for to regularly get out and about – to enjoy a change of scenery and feel the sun on your face from time to time.” Free copies of Good to Go are available to pick up from Sandfields on St. George's Road and can also be downloaded from www.careuk.com/goodtogo. For more information on Sandfields and any forthcoming dementia advice events at the home, please visit www.careuk.com/sandfields or call 0333 321 0921.

Venting spleen THAT’S IT FOLKS - The Liberal Democrats may have just shafted every taxpayer in Cheltenham with the purchase of the council’s new home. Earlier this month, the Cheltenham Borough Council agreed it would be a good idea to move all their staff out of the municipal offices and buy a new base somewhere else in the town. The move would free up the municipal buildings for some fancy development – possibly a Selfridges? And the council could perhaps downsize their staff in the process of buying smaller premises? It sounded like a sincere effort from the CBC to start making some much needed cuts. However - according to Conservative members on the council, the complete opposite is taking place and the Liberals are squandering £millions of our tax money rather than saving it. Whilst the name, price and location of the building is yet to be made public they are warning us

local man about town, tom thurlow lets loose

now that the Lib Dem-led council have majorly overpaid for the new headquarters. The borough council’s independent valuation of the building shows it is worth considerably less than the agreed price. Even before the finer details have been released publicly, Mark Sheldon, director of resources for CBC has sheepishly admitted: “It is true that the negotiated price is above the assessed value of the building purely as an investment.” To make matters worse,

these buffoons on the council are making a mockery of the whole North Place car park sham by using £2.5million from its sale to plug the gap on this new acquisition. The whole thing stinks of incompetency. I mean really?! If you thought national politics were a bloody mess then welcome to local. It’s diabolical that they can’t facilitate an office move without losing £millions of our money let alone attempt to run our entire country. On a cheerier note – I read with great interest that local woman Rachel Child will be participating in the Cheltenham Challenge in June. The charity event is held at the racecourse in order to raise funds for some very

worthy causes. But none are quite as important as Rachel’s… in my eyes. Rachel is taking part in the wheelchair race along with her friends to raise awareness for Multiple Sclerosis. Diagnosed with the neurological condition in her twenties (shortly after giving birth to her son), she’s battled through it and now lives a normal and happy life whilst needing the help of a wheelchair. To hear she’s still an avid swimmer is really uplifting. MS is a truly awful condition and to think that in our advanced age of medicine we still do not know the cause or cure is mind-boggling. The MS Society are doing everything possible to fund research and to find a cure so if you can support Rachel and others sufferers please do help; I certainly will. More info: mssociety.org.uk/cheltenham

Get more of Tom’s insights by following him on Twitter @thurlow

The views, opinions and positions expressed by the authors and those providing comments on these articles are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or positions of The Cheltenham Standard

30 APRIL 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

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and increasing pressure there. Any decision on location would up to the NHS trust and local residents, but with

The boy started to follow the victim in Albert Road, whistling at her and trying to talk to her, and ignoring her request to leave her alone. The boy pursued the woman all the way to her work place in New Barn

FOOTBALL CAMP TUESDAY 26TH - FRIDAY 29TH MAY

Lane and into the grounds, where he grabbed her bottom and breasts. The offender is aged about 15, white, 5ft 5ins tall with dark brown shoulder-length hair in a shaggy style. He wore a black tracksuit and was riding a

14 15

plans being put in place to redevelop the Whaddon Road car park, I believe this could be a good potential site for a new surgery.” Mr Chalk believes that despite increasing pressure on NHS resources, the residents' campaign is still achievable. He added that if the “demand and will is there, anything is possible” and that he ”would be writing to the NHS trust to ask them to seriously consider this proposal.”

Youth on bike sexuallY assaulted woman in Pittville POLICE are appealing for information after a youth on a bike harassed and sexually assaulted a woman as she walked to work. The incident happened in the Pittville area of Cheltenham just before 9am on Friday, 10th April.

black mountain bike. Anyone who recognises the boy from the description or who has any information which could help trace him is asked to call 101, quoting incident number 108 of 10th April 2015.

MAY HALF TERM

Revised collection days for this May bank holiday AS it’s the early May bank holiday this weekend, the council’s waste collection provider, Ubico, is reminding residents of their alternative collection days. Collections of waste, recycling and garden waste will take place a day later than usual as follows: Normal collection day

Revised collection day

Monday 4 May

Tuesday 5 May

Wednesday 6 May

Thursday 7 May

Friday 8 May

Saturday 9 May

(bank holiday)

Normal scheduled collections will resume from Monday 11 May In some areas refuse and recycling collections take place as early as 7am so residents are asked to present their food caddies, refuse/garden waste bins and/or bags and recycling boxes in advance. The Swindon Road recycling centre will be open on the bank holiday, 9am until 1pm, with usual opening hours on all other days. See www.cheltenham.gov.uk/recycling for more information or call 01242 262626.

RUGBY CAMP THURSDAY 28TH - FRIDAY 29TH MAY

FOOTBALL AND RUGBY CAMPS PRICES FROM £10 PER DAY

Last week’s solutions (23rd april 2015): ACROSS: 4 Offside; 8 Odessa; 9 Grating; 10 Madder; 11 Toffee; 12 Lead mine; 18 Talk shop; 20 Dearth; 21 Debtor; 22 William; 23 Desert; 24 Restore. DOWN: 1 Formula; 2 Headway; 3 Esteem; 5 Foretell; 6 Set off; 7 Dancer; 13 In the air; 14 Chatted; 15 Operate; 16 Cerise; 17 Armlet; 19 Keeper.

closure of the Seven Posts surgery in Prestbury, which is set to merge with the Bishops Cleeve health centre under plans put forward by the NHS Trust. The man who wants to be the town's next MP believes that the time is now right for a new surgery in the heart of Oakley. Speaking to the Standard, the Tory hopeful said “I believe there is a strong case for a new GP's surgery in this area, which has a higher than average proportion of elderly people living there, so it is difficult to access NHS facilities unless you get two buses or can afford a taxi. That is driving more people through our emergency department

Chalk calls for new doctor’s surgery in Oakley CHELTENHAM'S Conservative MP hopeful has called on NHS bosses to listen to residents' concerns about the lack of health services in one of the town's most deprived wards. Mr Chalk's plea follows a long running campaign by residents in Oakley, who currently have to travel to the Sixways surgery in Charlton Kings or the St Paul's surgery in order to see a doctor. They believe the lack of NHS facilities in their local area is putting more pressure on Cheltenham's A+E, as those in need of treatment have no option but to go straight to the emergency department. This problem could be made worse by the

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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 30 APRIL 2015

Lib Dems critical of Tory economic claims LOCAL LibDem Martin Horwood has criticised Conservative claims that they will stick to the economic course forged by the Coalition after they were called the ‘con of the campaign’ by the Liberal Democrat Treasury spokesman Danny Alexander. Mr Alexander, the Liberal Democrat Chief Secretary to the Treasury said Tory economic plans in the next parliament differed hugely from the sensible and balanced approach of the last five years. “t is clear the Tories are diverting from this plan, a plan backed by the OECD and IMF" said Mr Horwood "Many businesses in Cheltenham have told me they've welcomed the stable and measured approach to deficit reduction adopted by the coalition which has painstakingly restored confidence in the economy.” “Far from sticking to policies that have brought record jobs and growth, George Osborne's plans represent a massive lurch to the right"

added Mr Alexander. "They will cut more than is economically necessary, risking financial stability." "Small businesses are correct, a change of tack “would be far too risky”. Only the Liberal Democrats will stick to the balanced and fair plan that has got us this far." Martin set out the contrast between the coalition's approach and the published

Tory plans for the next five years: Mr Horwood added: “Liberal Democrats in government have acted as a brake on Tory plans to cut too far and too fast. But if they win a handful of seats like Cheltenham they will have the power to go it alone and pursue a more extreme vision of cuts above and beyond what is needed to balance the books. That is

BoTTleGreen laUnches JaZZ FesTival cocKTail available 29th april – 4th May 2015 BOTTLEGREEN Drinks has launched an exclusive Cheltenham Jazz Festival cocktail ahead of the hotly anticipated festival next week. The landmark event will see a star studded line up of musicians including Grammy award winning Gregory Porter, soulstress Laura Mvula and jazz legend Jamie Cullum. Festivalgoers will be able to enjoy Bottlegreen’s Cheltenham Jazz Festival cocktail exclusively from the bottlegreen Garden Bar. The delicious concoction showcases the brands Pink pomegranate and elderflower Tonic Water. Bottlegreen’s tonic range is an expertly crafted blend of fruit and botanicals, designed to enhance and augment the finest quality spirits. The Pink Tonic, headlining the

exclusive cocktail, uses three contrasting flavours – the sweetness of pomegranate, bitterness of quinine and the sweet floral notes of Elderflower. The Cheltenham Jazz Festival cocktail is a delicate blend of Pink Tonic Water gently mixed with ice cold Gin, Aperol and Fresh Pink Grapefruit Juice. This refreshing tipple will be the perfect accessory to soak up the sunshine and soul of the iconic Festival.

Cheltenham Jazz Festival Cocktail Ingredients: • 45ml Tanqueray No. TEN Gin • 15ml Aperol • 25ml Fresh Pink Grapefruit Juice • bottlegreen Pink Tonic Water • Wedge of Grapefruit • Edible Flower

In a highball glass with cubed ice, first pour together the Tanqueray Gin and Aperol. Add in the fresh grapefruit juice and mix well. Finish by topping up with bottlegreen’s Pink Tonic Water. Garnish with a wedge of grapefruit and an edible flower The bottlegreen Garden Bar will be the destination for those looking to enjoy deliciously refreshing alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails. Here the stylish drink experts will showcase the brands signature cordials, sparkling pressés and tonic waters. The exclusive Cheltenham Festival Cocktail will only be available from the bottlegreen Garden Bar for £8.50.

To adverTise in The sTandard call oUr sales TeaM on 01242 257019

exactly what George Osborne has set out in his plan to keep cutting public spending even after he says he will have balanced the books in 2-017/18. And because Labour want to drag the whole process out over the whole course of the parliament, borrowing more in the meantime, only the Liberal Democrats are promising an end to austerity by 2018.”

small change makes diﬀerence for charities C H E LT E N H A M charities are among thousands to benefit across the country thanks to the generosity of customers at the UK’s second largest building society. Yorkshire Building Society Charitable Foundation, which is largely made up of customers donating the pence of their annual interest, has announced it has donated more than £6million since its first donation in 1999, with an amazing £43,794 being donated to charities in Cheltenham. Cheltenham Animal Shelter and Mayor of Cheltenham's Charity are just two examples of good causes that have been on the receiving end of donations after being recommended for support by customers locally – with

each donation contributing to the Charitable Foundation reaching the £6million milestone. David Knight, manager of the Chelsea Building Society in Cheltenham, said: “It’s an absolute pleasure to be able to support the Charitable Foundation’s fantastic announcement that it has broken the £6million barrier. I’m especially pleased to see that many of these donations have been made in support of charities and good causes in Cheltenham and our surrounding communities.”

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30 APRIL 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

Dance & Gymnastics Show draws a crowd at All Saints ON 29th April All Saints’ Academy invited students and parents/carers to enjoy the Gymnastics & Dance Show. Dance and Gymnastics students from Years 7 – 13 took part. There were 21 acts in total, some students study BTEC Dance Level 2 and Level 3 and others attend an after school gymnastics or dance class. This was the second Gymnastics and Dance Show following a successful one last year. Even more students took part in this year’s show and there was a great deal of support from the 100+ audience. Staff, fellow students, parents/carers and families came to see the show. PE Teacher Jodie

Oldham and Dance Teacher Sharna Smith organised the show and were thrilled with the performances ‘the students worked really hard on their routines and we are so proud of what they achieved. Thank you to everyone that came along and supported the show for the second year running, it was a tremendous success.’ Miss Oldham runs an afterschool gymnastics class for students wanting to learn moves and routines and Miss Smith teaches BTEC Dance and also holds a Dance enrichment club. Vice Principal Liam Wilkinson said ‘it was a fantastic event and even bigger and better than last year.’

Rotary and Lions clubs in Cheltenham dig deep to help Nepal disaster ORGANISATIONS in Cheltenham will be out in force on Friday and this weekend aiding efforts for the Nepal Earthquake Appeal. The Cheltenham Rotary club have already sent 10 water purification boxes and two Shelter boxes to help those affected in the region. David Evans, International Committee chairman, said: "The Rotary Club of Cheltenham have set themselves a target of £5000 for aid to Nepal." Twenty members will be in The Promenade and Montpelier on Friday 1st May from 10am - 8pm.

Cross border agreement must work for Police dogs GLOUCESTERSHIRE Police and Crime Commissioner Martin Surl has begun a review of the constabulary’s dog section, one of areas in which it works closest with neighbouring forces. While other police forces have opted to merge to offset budget cuts, Gloucestershire - one of the UK's oldest and smallest constabularies - remains independent, preferring strategic alliances in specific areas only. As part of the Tri-Force agreement, as it is called, Gloucestershire works in partnership with police in Wiltshire, Avon and Somerset. As well as dogs, the three forces also collaborate over serious organised crime, firearms and the policing of roads. Mr Surl, who has called for a review to make sure the agreement works for all parties and is fair on the animals too, said: "It's a positive review to see how well it's gone and to see if it's fi-

The funds will be sent on Monday, direct to Rotary charities operating in Nepal. The Lions Club of Cheltenham are also having a collection to raise money for the Disaster Fund. On Saturday, May 2 a plant sale will be held in Church Piece, Charlton Kings from 9am to 1.30pm. The Lions will start the collection with the proceeds from a raffle. The UN has said more than 4,000 people were killed in the Nepal earthquake. Around eight million were affected, with 1.4million needing food aid.

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nancially viable, which I think it is. “A lot of these dogs are specialist and sometimes it's better to share training, share the specialist dogs and sometimes you'll need more than one. "The Gloucestershire dogs are based here in Gloucestershire where they spend most of their time. Certainly, the welfare of the dogs is paramount and we'll be looking at that to see how well they travel.

“Talking to the handlers it seems okay but I want to be sure". Gloucestershire Police Dog Omar and his handler Debbie Shields were among the stars at Crufts recently where they were judged Police Dog Team of the Year. They received the Police Dog Team operational humanitarian action of 2014 award for saving a man's life in the face of extreme violence.

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 30 APRIL 2015

BUSINESS editor’sDesk s the political scene in Cheltenham gurgles and simmers up to boiling point, the local would be members of Parliament are still attempting to garner attention for our votes and it must be said that the quality of their signage has taken a bit of a nose dive of late. In a hasty attempt to plaster the town with their names and party colours the level of joinery is questionable to say the least. In fact one part time amateur ‘joiner’ (no names, no pack drill) told me that he was surprised they were still up. This DIY activity that hits every town in the UK in the run–up to any election is borderline panic of the wooden variety and if we even have a wind as strong as a pensioner’s candle blow, it’ll look like deforestation of the worst kind. I’m sure the part-time party supporters and activists (bless them) would be the first to admit that the skill levels aren’t exactly of ‘Grand Designs’ proportions. I personally know that there are number of very senior ex-CEO’s and Chairmen out there offering their helping hands to erect these flimsy, bonfire-ready messages. It’s perfectly understandable that the levels of joinery would be ‘ready for the skip.” I’ve seen some very shaky, wind-prone signs flapping fit to drop as the YTS levels of joinery takes a bashing. God knows what the Health and Safety Executive mob would have to say as this political plywood comes barrelling down a street near you some time soon. You may not want a Tory or Lib Dem hammering on your door, but their signage may be about to make an unwelcome appearance as it tumbles past your house. It’s a testament to party loyalties that some house owners allow these ‘Heath Robinson’ temporary structures to be erected outside their houses. In fact some of the signs make the Estate Agents efforts look good by way of permanence. Mind you I’ve only seen two Green Party signs in the town. Perhaps they’re worried about the forest, use of timber or just being too obvious. I do hope the paint they’re using is made of spinach or such like and not some commercially bought toxic mix?

Eric Barton, Editor

Got a comment?

Please contact us at editor@cheltenhamstandard.co.uk Cheltenham Standard is published weekly by Cheltenham Standard Ltd is registered at Suite 104, Eagle Tower, Montpellier Drive, Cheltenham, GL50 1TA. Reproduction of any material, in whole or in part, is strictly forbidden without the prior written consent of the publishers. All material is sent at the owner’s risk and whilst every care is taken, heltenham Standard Ltd will not accept liability for loss or damage. Dates, information and prices quoted are believed to be correct at time of going to press but are subject to change and no responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions. Neither the editor nor publisher accepts responsibility for any material submitted, whether photographic or otherwise. All rights reserved. ISSN no. 2055-2092. Terms and conditions at www.cheltenhamstandard.co.uk

APPOINTMENT OF DEBT SPECIALIST GROWS CHELTENHAM-BASED FIRM A NEW debt-recovery solicitor has joined the growing team of experts working at the professional services firm, Knights. Chris Harmer has more than 15 years’ experience in debt recovery and joins the 16-strong dispute resolution team based at the firm’s head office in Staffordshire and working with clients across the UK. Chris said: “I’ve always worked in debt recovery since qualifying as a solicitor in 2000. I think it’s one of the most interesting aspects of law and I really enjoy helping clients to retrieve what’s owed to them. "I’ve previously worked

with international brewery, Carlsberg Tetley covering the east of the country and have a great deal of experience with large clients as well as smaller businesses. I spent three years working for a debt recovery consultancy in the North West of England before moving back into private practice.” Chris will be helping to implement a bespoke case management system to improve efficiency and streamline current cases. “Graduating from Staffordshire University meant I was always aware of Knights as an influential and forwardthinking firm. I’m really looking forward to the new

Local business leaders offer their formal backing to Conservatives A CLUTCH of small business leaders have offered their formal backing to the Conservatives ahead of the 2015 General Election. A number of firms have signed an open letter to the Daily Telegraph calling for the Tories to be "given the chance to finish what they have started.” The letter has more than 5,000 signatories and states that shaking things up politically would be “far too risky.” Mark Owen the chairman of

the Federation of Small Businesses for Gloucestershire and the south west, is one of the people to have signed. Other Cheltenham businesses who have also signed the letter include: Paul Bence, managing director of Bence's Builders Merchants in Cheltenham. Richard Martin, managing director of Crown Dry Cleaners in Cheltenham. Ray Gill, director of Lansdown Properties in Cheltenham.

Tesco Metro to move to Brewery SUPERMARKET giant Tesco has confirmed that its metro store in Cheltenham's High Street will be moving to the Brewery development. The store in the High street is still trading but it will be vacating its premises to allow further work on the major new development of the centre which is expanding to include shops and hotels as well as restaurants and entrainment venues. Rumours had started to circulate that the store might close completely as Tesco, announced record losses this

week and may have decided to pull its Metro store out of the development and possibly the town centre altogether. But those rumours have been denied.

Chris Harmer

challenge this role brings and working with clients across England and Wales who need our support,” he added. Chris’ appointment is part of Knights’ ambitious strategy to become a top 100 law firm by 2017 and he joins a number of talented lawyers recruited by Knights, which has seen its team grow by more than 100 percent in the last three years.

David Beech, Knights’ CEO welcomed Chris to the team. He said: “Chris’ expert knowledge in the field of debt recovery is a real asset to our dispute resolution team. His wide experience means we can offer even more support to new and existing clients and we’re delighted to welcome him to our team.” The dispute resolution team offers pragmatic and expert advice on contractual disputes, construction, injunctive relief, insolvency, intellectual property infringements, mediation, partnership and shareholder disputes, professional and other negligence and property litigation.

Premiere Products sold after nearly 100 years in business A CHELTENHAM cleaning products company has been sold after nearly a century in business. Premiere Products in Bouncer Lane, has been acquired by James Briggs Ltd, an aerosol and speciality

chemicals manufacturer. Premiere was established in Cheltenham in 1924 and distributes its products across the World. Both the business and its assets have now been acquired by James Briggs.

Montpellier Chapter to be sold MONTPELLIER Chapter, in Bayshill Road which opened its doors in 2010, will be sold as part of a move by parent company, Swire Hotels. The building which houses Montpellier Chapter has served as a hotel for decades, having previously been a Savoy Hotel and Kandinsky Hotel. It was one of the locations in the Great Diamond Hunt last year. A statement from Swire said: "Christie and Co have been appointed to confidentially market Swire Properties Portfolio. “It is business as usual for the hotel in the meantime. “We will update the market as and when we have more information on the sales.” Swire currently manages

urban hotels in Hong Kong, mainland China and the United Kingdom. Previous visitors to the Chapter have said on Facebook that they will be sad to see it sold. The Chapter's website describes it as: “Sophisticated, calm and contemporary, it has a style and energy in tune with the town's idiosyncratic spirit. “And it's not just us that say that, the hotel was voted in The Sunday Times Travel Magazine as one of the Top 100 Hotels in the World.”

30 APRIL 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

WHAT’S ON

BUSINESS AS USUAL The world premiere of a new play wiTh music a tale of courage and grit with a liberal smattering of humour!

With their husbands and boyfriends ﬁghting for freedom in France during World War 1, the womenfolk of Gloucestershire determine that it must be Business as Usual on the home front. Paul Milton, Everyman theatre’s Creative Director said: “this is the rural touring strand of our work to commemorate World War 1, Gloucestershire remembers World War one. it is a brand new musical show, with all the actors singing and/or

playing instruments. the show is touring to rural venues, including Cliﬀords Mesne Church, north nibley Chapel, st Mary’s Church, Westcote, Whiteway Colony hall, slimbridge Village hall, Kingshill house, Dursley and Pitchcombe Village hall. there is also an accompanying exhibition of World War 1 memorabilia.” Business as Usual is presented in collaboration with the Wilson art Gallery and Museum, the soldiers of

Gloucestershire Museum, the history Press and Gloucestershire archives and funded by the heritage Lottery Fund, the summerﬁeld trust and BPE solicitors LLP the Gloucestershire remembers World War one project helps individuals, groups and communities explore and discover their heritage during the Great War. through a range of innovative resources workshops, tours, exhibitions, creative activities

and training, people can participate and engage with their heritage and local area. to get involved, be inspired, or to learn more, visit www.glosremembers.co.uk Business as usual everyman Theatre studio Tuesday 12th – Wednesday 13th May, 7.45pm Tickets: £10.50 (£9 concessions) available from the Box oﬃce on 01242 572573 or online at www.everymantheatre.org.uk

FRee FilM sCReening Raising Funds FoR age uK stUDEnts from the University of Gloucestershire are celebrating the golden age of hollywood with a screening of the Big sleep at the Park campus in Cheltenham. the free event, which includes food, drink and music from the era, features a reception before the showing of the 1946 thriller starring humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall. Film students Josh Moulinié, from the Forest of Dean, and natalie Featherstone are part of the team organizing the screening which takes place on May 9th from noon. she said: “it promises to be a great afternoon to

enjoy with friends or even to meet new people. You can dress to impress if you prefer, but it’s not compulsory. there’s also a raﬄe and the proceeds will

be raising funds for the Gloucestershire branch of the age UK charity, which promotes social and interactive activities for the elderly to battle loneliness

and isolation.” To book your seat contact natalie Featherstone on 07402 002 022 or email natalieFeatherstone@ connect.glos.ac.uk

new aPP for Wilson gallery Visitors to the Wilson, Cheltenham’s art gallery and museum, will now be able to add an exciting level of detail to their trip by accessing a brand new app, Cotswolds arts & Crafts Museum, funded by arts Council England, devoted to the arts and Crafts Movement. the app, available to download on itunes and googleplay, will allow visitors to gain a deeper insight into 50 objects in the arts and Crafts Movement Collection at the Wilson. it contains many images from the Wilson’s archive collections that are not often on display, features audio interviews with arts and Crafts experts, oral history recordings from makers of the period, and an all-new video about the Winchcombe Pottery. the Wilson has worked closely in partnership with the University of Gloucestershire’s Faculty of Media, art & technology to create 3D images of key artefacts in the collection for the app. the Wilson’s arts and

Crafts Movement collection contains a huge body of material – furniture, metalwork, jewellery, paintings and a substantial archive – that was designed, made and used in the local Cotswolds area. the Cotswolds in the late 19th and early 20th centuries became a hotbed of designers and architects, artists and craftspeople wanting to escape the city and live a simple life. Using objects from the collection, the app will bring the world they lived and worked in to life, and will help create links between the objects and the Cotswolds locations where the designers created them. Jane Lillystone, Museum, arts and tourism Manager commented: “We are thrilled to be able to oﬀer access to our collection via a mobile app. not only does it allow us to broaden access to the Wilson’s collections, the idea that it will encourage visitors to explore the Cotswolds in a wider context is very exciting.”

Wychwood teams up with BBC introducing stage as over 30 acts are added to the festival Britain's best loved family festival Wychwood also unveils a jammed packed programme of workshops & activities for all ages including the Children's Literature Festival, yoga, circus skills, dance & more. Plus even more acts are set to play the mainstage at Wychwood this year as Mad Dog Mcrea, Dr & the Medics, the Edwin starr Band featuring angelo starr and more are added to the festival. Wychwood will

showcase some of the best homegrown talent as the BBC introducing stage returns with a myriad of musicians from the surrounding counties. the UK's best loved family festival also unveils its most eclectic family programme to date with the Children's Literature Festival line-up featuring a Wychwood ﬁrst with a band made entirely of authors along with everything from clay modeling to willow weaving,

Ukulele performances to samba and face painting to laughter yoga. With over 50 activities and workshops to chose from and a diverse musical line-up there is something for everyone at Wychwood Festival 2015. The festival takes place at Cheltenham Racecourse, 29th - 31st May, weekend and day tickets are on sale with more information at www.wychwoodfestival.com

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 30 APRIL 2015

TELEVISION Your one-stop guide to the best tv over the four-day ‘weekend’

30 APRIL 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

QuestionTime with the

RegistRAtion is now Closed As the event is Full A big thAnks to Cheltenham town Football Club, all our sponsors and panellists ambrose re c r u i t m e n t

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World of Smile is an allencompassing solution for house and garden improvements. Tell us what exactly you provide? World of Smile are unique in the conservatory market in that we go a step or two further to being a one stop shop for the home & garden. We offer everything from furniture for the home to garden improvements, summerhouses and most importantly to me, creating a place your family can grow in and enjoy for years! In addition to all these services, we also have both a building and a conservatory company entwined with other wonderful products to ensure you only need us to complete everything you need for your home. Many homes in Cheltenham have old style sash windows – what is an affordable way of replacing them? Sash window replacement is not just about being affordable, it’s about using a product that you’re both satisfied with and that will enhance your home to both increase its curb appeal whilst

Apart from storage sheds, you provide beautiful garden buildings. For someone looking at creating additional home / office space in the garden what do you suggest? At World of Smile, we try to be as bespoke as our customers spaces, lives and desires are! This means that nothing is off limits, we can build you a garden office that’s 30ft long or a summerhouse for the bottom of the garden with leaded windows and cedar roof-tops. We can make your dream a reality no matter what your budget. We have a showground to showcase all these items, as the quality and standards of these buildings is what sets us apart. This is something you can see for yourself as soon as you enter the World of Smile Leisure Village on the Evesham Road. How high spec are your conservatories - can you also create authentic orangeries which would work with period properties? Whether you are looking for a lean-to, Georgian, Edwardian, Victorian conservatory or something a little more bespoke like a P-shaped conservatory, then we can create it for you, no project is too big or too small for us. Orangeries have also grown in popularity recently. Dating back to Renaissance Italy, orangeries were

used for growing exotic fruits and plants, and are a different take on a traditional conservatory. Our orangeries are individually made and designed to complement the style of your home. Constructed with a combination of brick pillars and glass, they offer light-filled and flexible living spaces. A wide range of features and options mean you can have yours exactly as you want it. Summer is on its way and many people are looking for new garden furniture. What do you recommend and how weather proof are your products? I think people nowadays want something they don’t have to maintain, as we are a time-starved generation who love our free time. This means one thing, composite material like Rattan furniture, which requires no painting or staining can live outside without the tired weather look that the delightful UK weather gives us. People will pay a little more to have a little more time to just SIT and relax in the little time they have What home improvement do you feel makes the most impact aesthetically on a property? For me personally it’s the garden room. An extension of the family living space, conservatories have now evolved to being a room the whole family can use all year round, even in the coldest winter months

and hottest of summer days. A solid roof looks really smart and also helps with fuel efficiency due to better heat retention. I would say seven out of ten of the extensions or conservatories we build, now have composite roofing as it’s cheaper than a single story extension but looks and acts just like a real roof. How do your prices and services compare with that of your competitors? I think a lot of people went Internet crazy with buying things online. Sometimes you got a winner but more often than not you would be left feeling short changed in terms of quality and standards. I myself have made the same mistake. At World of Smile we offer you the opportunity to see what you are getting by coming to visit us and seeing the product for yourself so you can get a real idea of what your money is getting you. We are very excited that now we have an online showroom and shop as well as our physical Leisure Village. This means that you can browse your product online and then come and see it in the flesh at our Evesham Road Leisure Village or buy an item online that you have seen for yourself from the comfort of your own sofa. This is a really unique selling point for us as we don’t know of anyone else in the area or indeed anywhere, that offers this kind of customer experience for these types of products.

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30 APRIL 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

SPORT

RUGBY UNION / HORSE RACING / FOOTBALL / CRICKET

Late shoW seaLs ninth Win in a roW for GLouCester RUGBY UNION

Gloucester 42 Newcastle Falcons 40 GLOUCESTER extended their home-winning run to nine games with a thrilling last-gasp success at home to Newcastle. Newcastle were 27-13 in front at half-time before the home side launched a fightback. The Cherry and Whites, who play Edinburgh in the European Challenge Cup final on Friday, picked up a try bonus-point. They trailed 40-23 with 10

minutes to go but ran in three tries to seal a famous win on home soil at Kingsholm. Billy Twelvetrees touched down twice, with Dan Robson and Henry Purdy also crossing the line. Billy Burns landed three penalties and three conversions, with Greig Laidlaw adding another conversion. Gloucester’s director of

rugby David Humphreys said: “You can't coach character, you can't coach spirit, and I think in the second-half today you saw the spirit that's in this team. “In the build up to this game we were aware we've a European Cup Final on Friday. “That is a huge day out for everybody associated with the club, but at the same time we knew we had to perform today, we knew we had to win, to give us that momentum going into the game. “Over the season there are games we felt we should have

won that we didn't win. “This was a game that maybe we didn't deserve to win but we worked so hard and showed enormous spirit to come back and seal the victory.” * Gloucester have been fined £5,000 and given a suspended two-point deduction for fielding an incorrectly registered player in a Premiership match. Argentine lock Mariano Galarza, 28, did not hold registration when selected for the 23-6 defeat at Sale on March 29.

Mertoglu is last-gasp hero for Leckhampton CHELTENHAM LEAGUE FOOTBALL

Photo: Lydia Viney

YUSUF Mertoglu’s last minute goal sealed the GMB sponsored Junior Charity Cup for Leckhampton Rovers and denied Welland a league and cup double. Already crowned Cheltenham League Division Three champions, Welland went into the match as favourites against league runners-up Leckhampton. There were very few goalscoring chances during a well-contested first half at Kayte Lane. Rovers goalkeeper Joe Quiney was quick off his line to deny Omar Elmougy after

Mark Taylor’s pass and Elmougy saw another shot saved. Jack Horrell’s free-kick was deflected just wide for Leckhampton before Quiney pulled off another good stop to keep out Elmougy’s shot in the 40th minute and it remained goalless at the break. Taylor headed over from a corner with the goal gaping two minutes into the second half as Welland threatened again. Tim Rylatt saw an effort well saved by Niall Hacking in the 63rd minute, but Rovers were presented a golden chance to open the scoring in the 78th minute.

James Horrell saw his shot handled in the box by Paul Edwards and referee Mick McDermid pointed to the spot and showed a red card to Edwards. The resulting penalty from the normally reliable James Horrell was brilliantly saved by Hacking and the game looked to be heading into extra-time. But Mertoglu raced onto a long ball in the final seconds and lifted the ball over the advancing Hacking and into the net after one bounce. Welland’s Stacey Brimmell saw red after the final whistle for something he said to the officials, but Leckhampton

celebrated and both teams can look forward to Division Two football next season. Leckhampton Rovers: J Quiney, A Summersby (P Rodgers 86), James Horrell, J Eckworth, C Edwards, J Lawrence, T Rylatt, Y Mertoglu, K Mahon, M Mullaney (M Lawrence 84). Subs not used: M Rawlings, D Boerby, T Woodley. Welland: N Hacking, B Pearson, J Williams, J Gullick, J Fletcher, C Tommey, P Edwards, M Taylor, O Elmougy, J Lush (S Brimmell 64), D Knapper (J Harding 74). Subs not used: T Soley, S Barnett, B Deakin.

HORSE RACING >> ContinueD froM BaCK PaGe

Greenham at Newbury probably the best of these. The Hannon trained Estidhkaar was a good second in the Greenham showing the same battling qualities he showed last season going down by only a neck with a number of well touted three year olds well adrift. He is presently better win and place value at 7/1 than 6/4 Gleneagles. The race is not simply about two horses and Elm Park winner of the Racing Post Trophy at Doncaster last back end must surely run a big race if his trainer Andrew Balding is happy with the ground and declares him. He will be suited by the mile and has a very good turn of foot which could easily see him home on Saturday. An interesting horse if he were to be ‘supplemented’ for the race is French raider Territories. Already a winner of his trial this year in France, Andre Fabre his trainer does not tilt at windmills and if running is likely to be a massive player. Like Elm Park, Territories would however prefer good ground. A forgotten outsider may be The Wow Signal who if you forgive his last run last season is surely overpriced at 25/1. Agreed there is a stamina doubt but he does possess good speed and attitude which might see him finish

in the first four nonetheless. The 1000 Guineas field this year does not look to have a super star waiting in the wings. Lucida is very well regarded, trained by the master Jim Bolger in Ireland and has already won at Newmarket (last season). She is however a fairly short price and would start favourite in the absence of Found. On the other hand Osaila at around 14/1 presently is much more of a betting proposition. Winner of her trial at Newmarket recently she represents the powerful stable of Richard Hannon with rider Frankie Dettori on board who arguably is riding better this season than in recent seasons. In her trial she beat a very nice filly in New Providence so is primed for a very good effort in an open race. Both classics are of course preludes to the Derby and Oaks in June and given that horses that run into the first five or six places in the Guineas without winning often go on to win the Derby or Oaks it is worth keeping an eye on those horses ‘running on’ at the finish on Saturday and Sunday. The National Hunt season finished last Saturday, with the already highlighted as a horse to follow, Polly Peachum winning the very last race of the season. Move over Pricewise!

Referee: M McDermid.

County’s ﬁrst ever disability hardball team launched CRICKET

GLOUCESTERSHIRE has launched its first ever hard ball disability cricket team. The brand new side will take to the field for the first time against Essex on May 17 following an intensive preseason training programme. The team – who train at Gloucester City Winget CC – has been formed through Leckhampton’s Yusef Mertoglu battles with Welland’s Dave Knapper

flat season moves up a gear

a partnership between the Gloucestershire Cricket Board (GCB) and community interest company So Fab Sports. GCB projects and programmes manager Chris Munden said: “The formation of our first disability hard ball team is a hugely exciting development. Our aim is to make cricket accessible for everyone, regardless

of age or ability and I am delighted that we now have somewhere for people with a disability to play competitively.” Gloucestershire already has a visually impaired cricket club – The Gloucestershire Growlers – a soft ball team which started last season and are in the process of setting up a deaf team.

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 30 APRIL 2015

SPORT

FOOTBALL

Cleal so happy to ﬁnish season with derby win BISHOP'S Cleeve ended their nine year stay in the Southern League with a wellearned three points over local rivals Shortwood United. A Joe Tustain penalty and a brace from the returning Jack Watts was enough to secure the win and finish a difficult season on a high. Wood started the game on the front foot and dominated the early proceedings and showing the signs of an in-form team. Steve Benbow was called into action making outstanding saves to deny Lewis Sommers, Nick Humphreys and Matt Bennett as the Cleeve defence came under constant pressure. Bennett himself then headed wide when unmarked from close range before Wood had the ball in the net only to be ruled out for offside.

Young midfielder John Dodd beat a couple of men then shot from distance narrowly missing the target before Aaron Drake had Tom King at full stretch from a free kick 25 yards out. The deadlock was broken on half-time in controversial fashion when King went to roll the ball out and Cleeve striker Watts raised his leg and the ball hit it and fell into his path. King then tried to rugby tackle Watts, but he kept his feet and rolled the ball into the empty net. King was cautioned for remonstrating with the referee. In the first minute of the second half Tustain had the chance to double the lead when Jordy Bryan won the ball in the midfield before setting Tustain free however his shot from distance sailed high and wide. It was 2-0 on 55 minutes when Watts took his tally to 16 for the season when he

unleashed a powerful shot past King into the bottom corner. On 59 minutes Josh KleinDavies reduced the deficit when he was allowed too much time to turn and shoot from 20 yards and a slight deflection saw it past Benbow into the net. Cleeve then came under pressure again as Shortwood looked to get back into the game a series of corners and free-kicks piled on the pressure but the defence of Aaron Drake, Jordan Stoddart and Dan Sherry stood firm. At the other end Tustain went close with a shot from Distance and Bryan fired wide from close range. On 79 minutes the game was over as contest when Watts danced his way into the box and was tripped. Tustain drilled the penalty home against his former club making to restore the two goal advantage.

Shortwood substitute James Singh was lucky to escape with only a caution when he bundled into Benbow late on leaving the keeper down for a good five minutes. Boss Steve Cleal said: “To end with a win is a nice feeling and it was no more than my lads deserved. We showed character desire and we applied ourselves in every department today I just wish we had done it sooner and more often.

Lakeside complete second double by hitting Bredon for six CHELTENHAM LEAGUE FOOTBALL

0 6

FC LAKESIDE Reserves retained the Minor Charity Cup with a dominant display against nine man Bredon Reserves in the final at Kayte Lane on Monday night. Eddie Farrel, who is best known as a goalkeeper for Lakeside’s first team, led the way with a hat-trick, while his strike partner Ryan Gourley scored twice and was the game’s outstanding player. Bredon wasted a chance in the opening seconds when Joe Mulrenan shot wide with the goal gaping after a defensive mix-up and Lakeside capitalised, firing in four goals before half-time. The Cheltenham League Division Five champions opened the scoring in the 10th minute when Ryan Gourley slotted in his first after a shot was blocked in the six yard box.

Lakeside's Edward Farrel and Bredon's Daniel Spencer

Jamie Diamond made a couple of fingertip saves to deny James Robson and Ryan Gourley, but Farrel’s clinical finish made it 2-0 after Gourley’s pass in the 22nd minute. Max Gourley set up Farrell for a delicate flick at the near post to make it 3-0 in the 41st minute and Ryan Gourley cracking in a superb fourth in stoppage time. Bredon’s hopes of mounting a comeback were hit in the 50th minute when Daniel Spencer was sent off for foul and abusive language.

Photo: LydiA ViNEy

Bredon Res Lakeside Res

Scott Jordan forced Lakeside goalkeeper Robert Jones into a diving parry, but Bredon lost another player in the 64th minute when Sammy Wood was shown a second yellow card for a late challenge. His first caution had arrived in the 38th minute for a lunge at Aaron Pugh. Farrel lobbed in Lakeside’s fifth with some style in the 71st minute and Max Gourley tucked away the sixth in the 73rd minute with an accurate low shot. Lakeside defeated Andoversford Reserves after

extra-time in last year’s final, when they were reduced to 10 men themselves. Trevor Jones’ team completed an impressive second successive league and cup double in front of a healthy crowd and can look forward to Division Four football with confidence next term. Bredon Reserves: J Diamond, J Gallagher (L Smith 71), D Spencer, B Haywood, I MacDuff, J Gregory, R MacDuff (S Hodgson 76), S Wood, S Jordan, J Mulrenan (D Grove 32), D Barber (I Ricketts 71). Subs not used: S Ditchburn. FC Lakeside Reserves: R Jones, A Pugh, S Gorry (C Hindley 76), J Pugh, R Graham, W Arkell, H Mansell, R Gourley, J Robson, M Gourley, E Farrel (A Pulham 72). Subs not used: S D’Souza, N Cross, S Gourley. Referee: I Butler. Star Man: Ryan Gourley.

“When I look at this season as a whole, we knew how difficult it would be and at times our lads simply haven’t been good enough. “I have used 57 players this year and that tells a story, but I have loved every minute of it in difficult circumstances and I’ve learnt a lot about myself and that has to be a positive step. “Some of the lads have developed over the season and hopefully every player has learnt something about

themselves as an individual and as a footballer. “I want to thank all the players who have put a shift in under difficult circumstances, plus my backroom staff Ali (Bulpitt, physio) and Patrick (Cleal, coach). “A big thank you has to go to Derek Lightstone, assistant manager) the chairman (Dave Walker) and most importantly all the fans who have supported us through everything this season.”

Leckhampton Rovers winners at Youth Cup ﬁnals Leckhampton Rovers Mambas 1 Leckhampton Rovers Pythons 0 YOUTH FOOTBALL

TWO teams from C h e l t e n h a m ’s community award winning football club, Leckhampton Rovers FC, contested the Cheltenham Youth Football League Cup Final for the youngest age group on Sunday. The Under-nine section match, hosted by Cheltenham Town at Whaddon Road, was a fantastic conclusion to the season for the Mambas (winners) and Pythons Under-nine teams. The excitement of playing in front of a rousing crowd at Whaddon Road soon dissipated as the teams battled to take control of a fiercely competitive and Photo: ANGUS BEthUNE

SOUTHERN LEAGUE FOOTBALL

evenly matched game. The high quality defensive performances kept chances to a minimum with the game deadlocked at the interval. Both teams made changes as the second half unfolded with goal opportunities becoming more frequent. A fine save from the Mambas goalkeeper kept the scores level, before the match was finally decided by a keenly struck free-kick with the clock running down.

30 APRIL 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

SPORT

FooTbaLL

Cheltenham League round-up IN WHAT is proving to be one of the most exciting ‘run ins’ in the League’s history the Division One title in the Cheltenham League, sponsored by Bristol Street Motors Cheltenham Ford, will go down to a winner takes all final day decider between Whaddon United and FC Lakeside. United saw their chance to wrap up the title disappear last Saturday when they went down 3-1 at Upton Town. With Lakeside defeating Newton FC 8-2 they go into the final match a point behind United so only a win will be good enough. With the top two setting the pace for much of the season it will be a fitting finale to an enthralling season. As with Division One, the second division title also went down to the last week and Staunton and Corse blew two opportunities to take the title. With Northleach withdrawing from the League late on, Corse needed just three points from their final two matches to take top spot. After being held to a draw by Prestbury in mid-week they needed to beat FC Barometrics Reserves on Saturday to overtake Cheltenham Civil Service Reserves. Rather than being a dead rubber for Baros, they knew

Champions win away, but it is Town who will go up COUNTY FOOTBALL

CHAMPIONS Cheltenham Civil Service ended Chipping Sodbury Town’s hopes of finishing second with a 2-0 victory at The Riding. It is likely to be Sodbury’s last game in the Marcliff Gloucestershire County Football League as they have finished third in the table and

victory would take them above Corse and leave them in second place. In the end it was Baros' desire that proved decisive on the day. Supported by Wayne O’Shea and his Service players, who watched anxiously from the sideline, Baros won the game 4-2 to hand the title to Service, something they has given up hope of last Saturday. With Welland already crowned Division Three champions, Leckhampton Rovers cemented their place as runners up following a 5-2 win over Fintan Reserves. With a game to play Rovers lead second placed Brockworth Albion Reserves by six points. The big game in Division Four saw first play second as Northway played Apperley. Steve Allsopp proved to be the difference between the teams as he scored all four Northway goals in a 4-2 win. Victory for Northway handed them the title and means Apperley will finish second, edging out Cheltenham Civil Service III on goal difference. With one game left to play Smiths Athletic Reserves could steal fourth place however they will need to beat Northway and overturn a six goal deficit if they are to leapfrog Kings AFC Reserves. Kings beat Winchombe Town Reserves 3-0 last Satur-

day to leave Town in bottom spot. There was frustration at the top of Division Five when Kingshill Sports withdrew from the League at the 11th hour. With just three games left to play their withdrawal had a profound impact at the top of the table as they had held leaders FC Lakeside Reserves to a draw. With challengers Cheltenham Civil Service IV having beaten Kingshill twice, the loss of six points saw them having to win both of their last games rather than just one. Alas it was not to be for Service whose 3-2 loss at the hands of Staunton and Corse Reserves on Thursday night handed the title to Lakeside much to Service manager Simon Greenwood’s anger. With four of the six cham-

pions now decided Division Six will also go down to the final round of games. Although the title is Malvern Vale’s to lose. Vale faced Cheltenham United last Saturday in a must win game. United had beaten their opponents on Easter Monday 8-0 and went into the match high on confidence. Despite missing the services of leading scorer Dan Stowe, and having three players suspended, they took the game to United. Despite Vale having the lion's share of possession in the first 15 minutes, they failed to create any clear cut chances, for which they almost paid the price when United's striker Chris Clavin was sent through on goal. Fortunately for Vale, Williams, in goal, was quickly off his line to smother the ball.

The warning signs made Vale shift up a gear as they began to rain in shots, from distance, on the United goal. However for every wayward shot on the United goal came a near miss on the Vale goal, as United took advantage of Vale's pressing game to launch quick attacks in response. The half ultimately saw the sides cancel each other out, finishing goalless. From the restart, Vale quickly lost possession as United pushed forward in numbers, but the attack broke down and within minutes Vale were in front. Picking up the ball in the United half Griffiths and Ireland exchanged passes before Griffiths placed his shot into the far corner of the net. Vale's lead was doubled five minutes later as Tuberfield

stabbed the ball home from close range, latching on to flick header from King. It was clear United were going to make Vale work to keep their lead as they pressed in search of a route back into the game, but it was United's need to go forward that cost them a third. A defensive clearance set Dow through on the United goal and he calmly chipped the advancing United goalkeeper. To United's credit, the deficit did not deter them as they continued to create chances against a resolute Vale defence. Vale were gifted a fourth when a defensive mistake allowed Turberfield to race clear before slotting the ball home. With fifteen minutes left on the clock, Vale rounded off the scoring with a fifth, Griffiths heading home from close range. The result means Vale trail leaders Fintan Reserves by a single point. With Fintan’s season now over, Vale only need to draw with Charlton Rovers III next week to take the title. With Rovers just one place off the foot of the table the odds are stacked in their opponents favour and Vale will be strong favourites to take the title in their inaugural season.

have acquired the necessary ground grading criteria to play at step six next season, while Service have not. Sodbury could have claimed something from this game but the difference was in the finishing and excellent defending from Service. The visitors made a good start and John Evans was denied from putting them ahead by the legs of goalkeeper George Hale after eight minutes. On 15 minutes the home side had their first chance to open the scoring as an inswinging corner from the left was bundled off the line by

Cameron Smith. Jack Sklenar got the ball into the Sodbury net after a good build up but it was ruled out for offside. In the 30th minute, Hale read Smith’s free kick well and made the save look easy. On 34 minutes Justin Cattle broke through the Cheltenham defence and with a clear shot on goal looked odds on to score but keeper Tim Griffiths had other ideas as the striker shot he smothered the ball but it escaped back to Cattle whose second shot was pushed away by Griffiths for a corner. A rasping shot from James

Mackie a couple of minutes later just cleared the visitors bar. Sodbury had a free kick on the left near the goal line that was pumped into the box and looked all the way a goal until Chris Pates got back to clear the ball off the line. Two minutes before the break Cheltenham stole the lead. Evans picked up the ball in midfield before threading it through for Sklenar to run clear, round Hale and slide the ball into an empty net. Sodbury were caught cold two minutes into the second half when Stuart Midwinter was put clear to hammer the

ball past Hale for a 2-0 lead. Sklenar went very close to making it 3-0 in the 48th minute his shot was just wide of the post. Evans should have made it three in the 51st minute when Hale had ventured out to the edge of the box to try and clear the ball as it looped up for Evans to head at an empty goal but he only succeeded in putting it wide. Chances were not coming for the home side but on 72 minutes Danny Coombes had a great chance to pull a goal back for the home side but fired his shot straight at Griffiths.

With still one fixture to play AEK Boco secured the runners-up spot with a 3-2 victory at Bishop’s Cleeve Reserves. James Laver gave Boco the lead on 10 minutes and Liam Powell made that 2-0 on 20 minutes with one of his special free-kicks. Cleeve’s James Pickup reduced the arrears in the 25th minute from the penalty spot and midway through the second half Adam Gill levelled the score with a header at the far post. Boco stole the three points right on 90 minutes with a goal from Liam Crewe.

Photo: Lydia Viney

CHELTENHAM LEAGUE FOOTBALL

Cheltenham United's Ryan Bunning and Malvern Vale's Chris King

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 30 APRIL 2015

SPORT

with JON PALMER, SPORtS EditOR jon@cheltenhamstandard.co.uk

GARY Johnson has agreed to be Cheltenham Town’s permanent manager for their return to non-league football next season. Brought in for the final seven games of a turbulent campaign for the club, the former Yeovil Town and Bristol City boss was unable to stave off the drop. A 1-0 home defeat by Shrewsbury Town condemned the Robins to the Vanarama National League next term after 16 years in the Football League. Johnson, who led Yeovil to the Conference title in 2002/03, will now set about building a squad to challenge for an immediate return to League Two with a heavily reduced budget. There are 14 players currently contracted beyond the end of this season, but major changes are expected on and off the pitch. Johnson, 59, will be assisted by Russell Milton, who stepped up from his academy role to manage the club after the departure of Paul Buckle in February after only 79 days in charge. Cheltenham round off a season to forget at AFC Wimbledon on Saturday, with several of their younger players expected to be given a run out. Their relegation fate was sealed in front of the crowd

PHOTO: THOUSAND WORD MEDIA

Johnson sET To accEpT challEngE of bringing robins back inTo lEaguE

Gary Johnson

of more than 5,000, with Shrewsbury’s win courtesy of Jean Louis Akpa-Akpro’s deflected strike in the 20th minute sealing their promotion to League One. Johnson said: It’s always very sad when a team gets relegated, especially when a team is relegated out of the league and then has to work very hard to get back up. “Unfortunately, when you’re second from bottom and you get relegated then you genuinely deserve to be down there for whatever reason. “Over the season there hasn’t been enough in the team, there hasn’t been

enough to keep the club in the League. “We’ve tried very hard over the last few weeks rushing people in and we worked all hours god sends and tried to get them doing the same, unfortunately the losers amongst them are less than professional. “You have to tell a few little home truths to people and some we’ve trusted and some we haven’t, we’ve had to use them and some have let me down. “When a team goes down something’s not right. From recruitment to quality, there’s also fitness levels players need to maintain and they need to live

like professionals and act like professionals and some of them, I think, found it very hard to do that. “That is what I found was disappointing more than anything else, when the injuries came in and when you need people who haven’t been available for certain reasons.” Meanwhile, chairman Paul Baker has confirmed he will stay on for the club’s return to the Conference. “It’s massively disappointing to be relegated, but you can’t say it wasn’t on the cards,” Baker said. “It’s one to forget because it’s been a dreadful

season, but we can now look forward and that’s what I am going to do. “I am committed to staying on and we need to make sure we get our player recruitment right because that’s been dreadful for the past 24 months, with one or two exceptions. “The players aren’t good enough and that’s why we are where we are. People can blame the board, for our decisions and yes, some have been wrong. “We have got more wrong than right this season, but over 16 years we’ve done a huge amount for this club.”

CHELTENHAM TOWN: Carson; Berry, Brown, Deaman, Braham-Barrett; Burns, Sparrow (Hanks 68), Richards, Kotwica; Harrad, Manset (Sterling-James 61). Subs not used: Gould, Williams, Dale, Bowen, Lawrence. SHREWSBURY TOWN: Leutwiler; Ellis, Goldson, Grandison, Demetriou; Gayle, Lawrence, Woods, Grant; Akpa Akpro (Barnett 71), Collins (Mangan 71). Subs not used: Vernon, Halstead, Clark, Mandron, Smith. REFEREE: T Kettle. ATTEANDANCE: 5,117 (1,705 from Shrewsbury).

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First two Flat classics look wide open horsE racing

By JAMES dALy THIS weekend sees the flat racing season move up a gear with the 2000 Guineas run on Saturday and the fillies’ equivalent the 1000 Guineas run on Sunday down the straight mile on Newmarket racecourse. Aidan O’Brien has had the ante post favourites for both races for some time but whilst the 2000 Guineas favourite Gleneagles has hardened in the betting, Found, favourite for Sunday’s race has drifted and there is some doubt about her participation. Neither horse is good betting value however and whilst Gleneagles in particular might be a very strong contender, ground riding quick would not be ideal and he has not had a run this season. The trials for the 2000 Guineas all took place a couple of weeks or so ago with the TURN TO PAGE 21 >