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Friday 12th January 2018

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A local man has been jailed for using hidden cameras to film women in bedrooms and bathrooms across the country.

EDWARD Parker, 29, secretly filmed his victims at addresses in Bristol, Nottinghamshire, Sheffield and Hampshire. He admitted 16 charges, including 12 of observing a person doing a private act. Parker, of Pitville Circus Road, Cheltenham was jailed for three years at Bristol Crown Court. He was made subject of an indefinite sexual harm prevention order and placed on the sex offenders

register indefinitely. Passing sentence, Judge Douglas Field said Parker secretly filmed women for his own "perverted sexual gratification" and that the offences had "deeply affected" his victims. Parker also admitted three charges of making an indecent or pseudo photograph of a child and one of possessing a prohibited image of a child.

Continued on Page 2

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SPORT

ISSUE 79

Cherry & Whites outmauled See back page

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Friday 12th January 2018

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Cheltenham Standard

Cheltenham Standard

News

Night time venue staff offered free safeguarding training

Continued from front page

Detective Constable Abigail Carey said more than 800 indecent images of children had been found on his computer. "It was clear the women in the footage did not know they were being filmed," she said.

She said the 29-year-old refused to provide names of any of the women in the footage but "claimed they had consented to being filmed". She also commented, "We managed to identify six victims”, adding, "All the victims were extremely upset about what Parker had done and his actions have had a significant impact on each of them." She also said that Parker was a "manipulative and deceptive offender", who had shown "no remorse".

NHS struggling to cope NHS bosses across the West say they are struggling to cope with the surge in patients being seen since Christmas. We have contacted hospitals across our region and from the responses received so far, the key point is that patients with operations booked should attend their appointment unless they are

contacted by their hospital. A spokesperson for Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said, “It is likely that some routine care will need to be cancelled. Every effort is being made to keep this to an absolute minimum and cancellations are most likely to affect patients requiring an inpatient bed.”

Civil injunction for local man JASON Daniel Keen, age 36 and of no fixed abode, was given a Civil Injunction under the antisocial behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 by Gloucestershire County Court on Monday 22 November 2017. The injunction is for a one-year period, due to his antisocial behaviour in Cheltenham. The borough council’s public protection team led the investigation with support from Gloucestershire Police, local businesses and members of the public. Mr Keen was offered help and support to address his antisocial behaviour and received warnings before the council took legal action.

The injunction was necessary to provide protection and respite for Cheltenham’s residents, businesses and visitors.

Mr Keen is forbidden (whether by himself or by instructing or encouraging or permitting any other

person) to: 1) Engage in conduct which causes, or is capable of causing a nuisance or annoyance to any person within the town of Cheltenham; 2) Enter or be in the area outlined in bold red on the attached map, more particularly bound by:a) the A46 and Berkeley Street to the East; b) the A46 Fairview Road, St Margaret’s Road and Swindon Road to the North; c) Poole Way, Park Street to the West; d) Knapp Road, St James Square, Imperial Square to the South; 3) Sitting or standing with either arm outstretched with a receptacle for money in close proximity and with personal possessions in close proximity within the town centre of Cheltenham. If Mr Keen breaches the order, he will face the

consequences at court. If anyone witnesses Mr Keen breaching these conditions, please contact the police on their non-emergency number 101.

Lisa Jones, antisocial behaviour coordinator for Cheltenham Borough Council, commented, “Members of the public and businesses have endured months of antisocial behaviour by Mr Keen and deserve some respite from him. Enforcement is the last resort and we always offer help and support before such action is taken. I hope this sends out a strong message to others that antisocial behaviour will not be tolerated in Cheltenham.” Mike Redman, director of environment at Cheltenham Borough Council, said, “The council and its partners work hard to help those who are in need to find suitable accommodation, but where people will not engage and repeatedly exhibit behaviour which

TWO men died earlier this week when their light aircraft crashed into a field in Worcestershire.

The single-engine plane was heading to Gloucestershire Airport just outside Cheltenham when it came down in foggy conditions at Bredon Hill near the village of Overbury. The airport said air traffic control lost contact with the aircraft at about 12:40 GMT and "alerting action was taken with the appropriate agencies".

The men were declared dead at the scene, West Midlands

Ambulance Service confirmed.

Eyewitnesses later described seeing the aircraft in a tree. The Civil Aviation Authority and the Air Accidents Investigation Branch have been informed about the crash, police say. A cordon remained around the site overnight and officers were working to identify the men and inform their next of kin. It "quickly became apparent that nothing could be done to save either man" and they were confirmed dead, the ambulance service said. The service said that

because of the foggy conditions the Midlands Air Ambulance, based in Strensham, with a doctor and critical care paramedic on board had to land two miles away. The pair were then picked up by a paramedic officer in a car and taken to the scene, where two ambulances and a second paramedic officer also attended.

Lizzie Ransted, who was walking on Bredon Hill at the time of the crash said that as she was

Plane tragedy, two dead

causes annoyance, fear and distress to others, we will not hesitate to use the powers available to us to prevent such activity.” Cabinet member for development and safety, Cllr Andrew McKinlay, continued, “This action sends a strong message to the residents of Cheltenham. To those who would engage in anti-social behaviour the message that this will not be tolerated, and action will be taken. “To residents and businesses in the town centre, the message is that the council is committed to tackling antisocial behaviour and will work with them and the police to address these issues.”

walking down the hill, when she "heard a loud engine sound".

Adding, "It was sort of cutting out and then we heard a very loud crash bang. We couldn't see anything.... visibility was so bad," she said. "But it was the noise. We knew something was not right."

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DOOR staff, licensees, bar staff and others working in Cheltenham’s night time economy are being offered free training aimed at increasing safety for employees and customers. The training which is supported by the Police and Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire - will be delivered by Nick Gazzard, chairman of the Hollie Gazzard Trust and Ceri Fowler from the College of Policing.

The training will: • equip key staff with the right knowledge and confidence to assess vulnerability and initiate appropriate safeguarding • give key staff insight to victims’ needs and dispel common myths • equip key staff working in the night time economy with the knowledge to identify potential sexual predators and confidence to take positive action • create a culture of zero tolerance to sexual predatory behaviour • prevent serious sexual

violence. This training has been delivered successfully in other parts of the country, including partners in Gloucester. Colin Pilsworth, night-time economy coordinator for Cheltenham Borough Council said: “Cheltenham has achieved award winning Purple Flag status for its vibrant, safe and well managed evening and night-time economy. This training for people working within the licensed trade will supplement existing mandatory safeguarding training for taxi and private hire drivers in Cheltenham, ensuring that our town centre remains a safe place for all visitors, day and night.’’ Cllr Andrew McKinlay, cabinet member for development and safety, says: “I believe that ensuring that Cheltenham has a safe town centre plays a key part in the success of our night time economy, and is vital for the town’s future economic wellbeing. “People working in the night time economy are on the front line when it comes to maximising safety for their

customers, and they play a key part in keeping the town centre safe. “This training will help them to be more confident in addressing potential safety issues, and I would encourage all town centre businesses and staff to take part in this training.” Staff from Cheltenham venues can attend this valuable, free of charge training on: Monday 15 January from 6pm - 7.30pm at the University of Gloucestershire’s Francis Close Hall Campus, Swindon Road, Cheltenham (GL50 4AZ).

Please notify Linda Farrall from the University Students’ Union (lfarrall@glos.ac.uk) if you wish to attend. There are a limited number of places which must be pre-booked with the name of the person attending and the venue or organisation they are representing. Parking is free after 5pm on campus but is limited.

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Friday 12th January 2018

Cheltenham Standard

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Cheeky pint LOCAL MP, Alex Chalk, took time out to visit the Tivoli on Andover Street in Cheltenham, a pub within his constituency that has recently undergone a £200K investment, creating eighteen jobs. New owners, whose investment has seen quirky additions like lamps made of copper piping to images of animals in military dress, recently bought the now quintessential, contemporary pub. Even the outdoor courtyard has been renovated with statues and heated wooden booths. There’s a gin parlour of thirty-eight blends, wine cellar stocked from worldwide vineyards, a full range of cask ales from pale to amber, and craft beers including Hop House 13 and Camden Pale Ale. "The detail in the décor, improved look and feel, especially the external area, has turned the Tivoli into a fantastic pub for the community.

Investments and commitment to local businesses like that shown at the Tivoli is great for Cheltenham in terms of employment, a boost to the local economy and the reputation of our town," commented Mr Chalk.

Monday: Cheltenham St Nicolas Church Hall, Swindon Lane 9:30am and 11:30am Caroline 07446 157092 Hatherley St Margaret’s Hall, Coniston Road 5.30pm and 7.30pm Nicky 07870 666186 Cheltenham Gloucester Road Primary School, Gloucester Road 5.30pm and 7:30pm Maxine 07857 542527 Bishops Cleeve Bishops Cleeve Football Club, Kayte Lane 5:00pm and 7:00pm Cath 07988 630336

Tuesday: Warden Hill United Reformed Church, Salisbury Avenue 9:30am and 11.30am Dawn 07703 052682 St Marks St Marks C of E Church, Church Road 5:30pm and 7:30pm Nicky 07870 666186

“The Tivoli is an important part of the local community and we were delighted that Alex came to meet the team and see the transformation of our business,” said manager Craig Whitehouse Area manager Mike DonovanSmith was on hand to give Mr

Cheltenham Oakley Community Resource Centre, Clyde Crescent 5:00pm and 7:00pm Maxine 07857 542527 Cheltenham Town Centre St Matthews Church, Clarence Street 5.30pm and 7:30pm Dawn 07703 052682 Leckhampton Leckhampton School, Hall Road 6:30pm Teresa 01242 571660

Wednesday: Charlton Kings The Holy Apostles Hall, London Road 9.30 am and 6:00pm Teresa 01242 571660 St Marks St Marks & Hesters Way Community Centre, Brooklyn Road 9:30am, 11:30am, 5:00pm & 7:00pm Caroline 07446 157092 Bishops Cleeve Bishops Cleeve Methodist Hall, Bishops Close 5:00pm & 7:00pm Judith 01242 602083 Tewkesbury Tewkesbury School Sixth Form Centre Ashchurch Road 5:00pm and 7:00pm Vickie 07967 089859

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: (self employed) for members past and present.

For more information contact Maxine on 07857 542527

4

Chalk the guided tour: “We appreciate Mr Chalk visiting the Tivoli to see the transformation and to meet the local team. This investment forms part of our annual £50 Million spend developing our pubs across the country providing enhanced

Up Hatherley St. Philip & St. James Church, Cold Pool Lane 5:30pm & 7:30pm Dawn 07703 052682

Thursday: Bishops Cleeve Bishops Cleeve Methodist Hall, Bishops Close 9.30am Cath 07988 630336 Prestbury The Prestbury Centre, 236 Prestbury Road 5:30pm & 7:00pm Teresa 01242 571660 Benhall St Marks C of E School, Robert Burns Ave 5:30pm & 7:30pm Dawn 07703 052682 Winchcombe Abbey Fields Community Centre, Back Lane 6.30pm Vickie 07967 089859 St Marks St Barnabas Church Hall, Orchard Way 7.30pm Claire 07909 139996

Saturday: Cheltenham The Rock, St Peters Church, Tewkesbury Road 9.30 am Claire 07909 139996

Pets prove popular

community facilities, creating jobs and careers for people of all ages. Hospitality is an important business sector generating significant income for government and are pleased that Mr Chalk recognises the importance of the local pub.”

CHELTENHAM has proven that they’re a town of pet lovers, after colleagues in Pets At Home stores in the area helped to raise £6,877 for the annual Support Adoption For Pets ‘Santa Paws’ appeal. Pets At Home in Cheltenham and Cheltenham Golden Valley raised enough money to provide 13,756 dinners for homeless pets in and Support Adoption For Pets.

Throughout December, customers shopping in more than 440 Pets At Home stores including, Pets At Home Cheltenham, were encouraged to donate 50p to help provide a Christmas dinner for pets spending Christmas in a rescue centre. The annual ‘Santa Paws’ fundraising appeal, set out to raise enough money to fund a recordbreaking 2.4million Christmas dinners for abandoned pets over the holidays, and successfully surpassed this target reaching almost 3 million dinners. Support Adoption For Pets Fundraising Manager, Amy Wilson said: “It’s amazing to see that so many people were

able to come together and make Christmas special by donating a dinner for those pets without a loving forever home. We would like to thank the residents of Cheltenham who made a donation. Their help has brought Christmas cheer and love into the lives of pets who need it most.”

Support Adoption For Pets is a charity established by Pets at Home in 2006. Every year it helps more than 1,000 rehoming centres and pet rescue organisations across the UK through grant funding and support. In addition to its fundraising work, it also runs dedicated adoption centres in over 440 Pets at Home stores.

Weaving the world’s first knitted garden Cheltenham Standard

Friday 12th January 2018

A widow is creating a full-size knitted show garden installation for the RHS Malvern Spring Festival in memory of her husband to help raise £50,000 for the hospice charity which helped care for him and to aid in her battle with anxiety and depression since his death.

CLARE Young, 50, supported by a team of friends, crafters and community groups has started work on the full-size show garden installation for the RHS Malvern Spring Festival called the ‘Work of Heart’ garden.

Clare said: “My husband Ken died at Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice in August 2015 at the age of 47. After Ken died, I found life very difficult. I was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety and

my clinical psychologist suggested knitting as a way to help my symptoms. "I’ve always tried to turn all negatives into positives since Ken died, so I picked up my knitting needles. I started by creating knitted Christmas decorations and Easter Bunnies which raised £1,300 for the hospice where Ken was looked after. This was followed by installing a yarn bombed message of thanks in the hospice grounds in the May 2017 with the help of a group of friends and

Pull a pint ‘in court’

ONCE open in February 2018, this new Brunning and Price pub in the town centre just off the High Street and The Prom will be called The Old Courthouse, to honour its heritage. The plan of the building remains firmly in the footprint of its legal days. On the ground floor was the large public waiting will make a huge bar area, two smaller rooms off this area which were once the Clerk’s office and the Council and Solicitors’ rooms will become a lovely snug and a Private Dining Room, seating up to fourteen. On the first floor is the Court Chamber comprising the public benches and the court room. The original benches of the dock remain, but are will now become part of the seating area. Two bars will house seven local ales and a vast array of gins and whiskies (amongst the usual delicacies one presumes to find on a good bar). Food will be served from a daily menu created by the team using seasonal ingredients based

News

knitters. This led to an invitation for us to do something really special at RHS Malvern Spring Festival." The invitation was from Clare’s friend Suzy Hillier, Head of Commercial at Three Counties Showground, which is home to the RHS Malvern Spring Festival, when Clare and Suzy came up with the idea of knitting a garden for RHS Malvern at Clare’s 50th birthday party. Clare also wanted to find a special way to mark what would’ve been Ken’s 50th birthday in 2018 and soon the

£50,000 fundraising target to thank Sue Ryder and pay tribute to the poignant occasion became her focus. The incredible installation measuring 4m by 4m will include a hospice bedroom overgrown with knitted plants known for their healing properties. We’d like to

encourage as many people as possible to support Clare’s campaign to create 10,000 hearts for the knitted garden, and to come along and see the knitted garden itself at the RHS Malvern Spring Festival in May.” We expect more than 100,000 people to attend the festival

between May 10th and 13th, giving them the opportunity to see this once in a lifetime creation.”

To get behind Clare’s fundraising effort and make a donation please visit http://www.justgiving.com/fundra ising/workofheartgarden

The Old Courthouse Cheltenham

OPENING FEBRUARY 2018

on modern British classics (with an exotic twist or two here and there). Dogs and families are of course welcome (both to be kept on a lead!) Reza, their manager, is looking to recruit a strong team of a Deputy Manager, two Assistant Managers and a Bar Manager front of house and a whole host of chef roles in the kitchens. Nearer the time of opening, they’ll be looking for lots of local crew to work in the

bar as well as waiting and maintenance roles. The team at The Old Courthouse would love to hear from anyone who would like to be involved.

To register your interest for any role visit www.oldcourthousepub.co.uk or to apply please send your CV with a covering letter telling them about you and what makes you tick to mike@brunningandprice.co.uk.

www.cheltenhamstandard.co.uk

Recruitment Open Day 25th and 26th January For more information please visit www.oldcourthouse.pub/jobs

www.cheltenhamstandard.co.uk

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Friday 12th January 2018

News

National Star College student makes big screen appeal

JASON Felce, a disabled student at the National Star college near Cheltenham, is a huge fan of Worcester Warriors.

During half time of Friday's match against London Irish, he featured in a video message on the big screen. His family, who live in Milton Keynes, were at Sixways and had no idea it had been produced. Jason usually has his communication equipment taken off his chair when he attends matches, but wants other fans to know he "has a voice" and they are welcome to greet him at games.

Cheltenham Standard

Events planned to mark the centenary of WW1 PRIMARY school children are being invited to remember the centenary of the Royal Air Force, with a trip to the Jet Age Museum.

The commemoration event, entitled Cheltenham Remembers the Centenary of the Royal Air Force will see a month-long exhibition in April 2018 at the Staverton based museum. It will show the impact on the borough of the newly formed RAF, the birth of the aircraft industry and the close relationship with GCHQ. Local primary schools are being invited to the education days throughout April. For schools wishing to find out more, contact the Jet Age education coordinator, on 01452 715165 or email murdeng@blueyonder.co.uk A full programme of Cheltenham Remembers events which mark the centenary of the First World War is being rolled out this year.

The programme follows the successful restoration of the Promenade war memorial in 2017.

The borough council is working with several partners, with others expected to participate later, to offer a host of activities and events for people of all ages, throughout this year. The programme will be available soon. Councillor Flo

Clucas, cabinet member for healthy lifestyles said: ‘'The First World War affected every family in the land. It is right that we remember those who died, or were severely injured and those who

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To find out more information about the role or to apply, contact Five Rivers Childcare on 0345 266 0272 or visit www.five-rivers.org/fostering

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suffered because of loss. We should not forget either those, who like the Voluntary Aid Detachments, including here in Cheltenham, helped servicemen and women to recover from

serious injury and return to their families. ‘’We owe them a debt that can never be repaid.’’ Mark Sheldon, director of resources and project sponsor added: ‘’2018 marks 100 years since the end of

the Great War. With our partners, we want to remember our local heroes and enable residents to gain a greater understanding of the impact the war had on their communities.’’

Cheltenham Standard

News

Royal delight THE Queen's granddaughter Zara Tindall and her husband Mike Tindall are expecting their second child, a spokeswoman for the couple has said. The Queen and the Royal Family were "very pleased" to hear the news, a Buckingham Palace spokesman said. The couple, who have a three-year-old daughter, Mia, have previously lost a baby during pregnancy. The baby is believed to be due in the summer and would be the Queen's seventh great grandchild. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge expect to welcome their third child in April, which will be the Queen's sixth great grandchild. In her Christmas speech, the Queen said her family "look forward to welcoming new members into it next year". Alongside the impending arrival of two great grandchildren, Prince Harry is due to marry Meghan Markle in May. The baby announcement was made as former equestrian champion

Mrs Tindall and former England and Gloucester rugby player Mr Tindall enjoyed a working holiday in Australia. Mrs Tindall, who is the daughter of the Queen's only daughter, the Princess Royal, married Mr Tindall in 2011. As a member of the Great Britain eventing team, she won the Eventing World Championship in 2006 and was named BBC Sports Personality later that year, before securing a silver medal at the London 2012 Olympics. Mr Tindall, 35 - who won the 2003 Rugby World Cup with England does not hold a royal title and is not an HRH. If as expected Mr and Mrs Tindall's baby is born after the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's, the child will be the 19th in line to the throne. The couple had revealed in November 2016 they were expecting a baby in late spring 2017 but the following month announced they had lost the baby.

Cheltenham Spa’s leading paving company

Westminster-man Alex Chalk MP

HAPPY New Year! I hope you had a wonderful celebration, be it in Cheltenham or elsewhere. As we head into 2018 I feel hugely optimistic about what together we can achieve for Cheltenham this year. We are fortunate to live in such a special town, but I am certain it can be better still, for all who live here. The foundations were laid for a stronger and fairer Cheltenham in 2017. 2018 must be the year of even greater progress. On schools funding, 2018 will be the year when our secondary schools start to draw down the extra funding won during the marathon campaign in 2017 to fight back against historic postcode funding injustice.

On housing, Cheltenham’s growing attractiveness as a place to live was reflected in the largest house price increase anywhere in Britain.

But a vibrant, decent society doesn’t pull the homeownership ladder up. With the Joint Core Strategy for housing now settled, in 2018 we need to start building those homes for the next generation. On infrastructure, 2018 will be the year when the Gloucestershire public get to

Friday 12th January 2018

www.spapave.com BEFORE

have their say on two shortlisted schemes to address the horrendous Air Balloon/A417 pinch-point. Cheltenham will start to benefit from the rollout of new, IEP, trains with automatic doors, faster acceleration/deceleration, and a sub-2-hour service to London. I have also been promised extensive station improvements too, and (crucially!!) additional station parking. There’s so much more – from my free post-6 pm parking campaign, the Boot’s Corner trial, to the need to preserve our A&E as

an addition to, not substitute for, a new 24/7 Urgent Treatment Centre. And I’ll be publishing my report about the impact of social media bullying on adolescent mental health. 2018 must also be the year when we improve our understanding of what is behind the extraordinary surge in adolescent mental health problems affecting young people in Cheltenham and elsewhere.

Prevention is always better than cure.

Best wishes for a happy and healthy 2018.

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LOCAL choir leader Cathy Hart

Sing in the new is inviting the people of Cheltenham to ‘sing in the new’ this January, as it is the month of resolutions and new beginnings.

Cheltenham’s Got 2 Sing choir starts its new term Tuesday 16th January at Lakeside Primary School and Cathy is hoping to introduce people to singing as a means of living healthier and happier lives by training members in vocal technique, harmony & performance!

Singing may not necessarily be

the first topic that springs to mind, but joining a choir may well prove as beneficial as joining a gym - and a whole lot more fun! Beth Dunn, founder of Got 2 Sing, commented, “Got 2 Sing is not your typical ‘stand behind the music’ type of choir as there’s no requirement to read music or audition. “Our rehearsals are friendly and fun and we sing wonderful, uplifting popular songs in three-part harmony and put some movement to the songs to bring them to life!” Beth added,

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“From experience I know how much singing together can improve people’s self-esteem, health and confidence and being part of a choir has helped many of our members with loneliness, depression and anxiety, offering a sense of community and belonging.”

Got 2 Sing re-opens: Tues 16 Jan – at Lakeside Primary School Hatherley Road CHELTENHAM GL51 6HR 7.15pm for 7.30 pm – 9.00pm.

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Located on Fullers Court, Westgate Street, Gloucester it's one of the largest Fitness Superstore showrooms.

Customers are free to browse the exciting ranges, try the equipment for themselves and seek advice from the store's dedicated sales advisors. With a

genuine interest in fitness, many of Fitness Superstore's staff come from a sporting or personal training background and can give unbiased, professional advice. The store has welcomed several familiar faces through its doors, most recently international rugby star, Richard Hibbard.

Why not pay them a visit instore to see what's on offer?

Store manager, Peter, and his team, look forward to welcoming you soon. You can also shop online 24/7 at www.fitness-superstore.co.uk.

New £10K play area on horizon

CHILDREN and families will soon benefit from improved play are at Salisbury Avenue following a £10,528 investment from Gloucestershire County Council and Leckhampton with Warden Hill Parish Council.

The new equipment will include a low platform roundabout and springer, along with all new softer surfacing, making it safer for children to play on. The council say that this will provide a safe and exciting play area with new and improved facilities available to children with disabilities. Work is expected to begin early in March with the aim of completing the first phase removing the existing equipment, which has been in place for over 20 years - within a month. The improvements are being funded through a county council grant and funds raised by Leckhampton with Warden Hill Parish Council.

Cllr Iain Dobie has contributed £5,000 from the children’s activity fund, with the local parish council providing £5,528 to assist with installation and costs. Cllr Iain Dobie, (pictured) who is the county councillor for Leckhampton and Warden Hill, said: “This investment will provide a stimulating and safe environment for young children in the area. As county councillor for the area I am proud to have played a central role in helping make this

happen. “The new roundabout has been specially designed with children with disabilities and wheelchair users in mind and is a major step forward towards inclusivity amongst all children using the upgraded facility. I hope that families

enjoy the new equipment and the many health benefits associated with outdoor play.”

Salisbury Avenue play area is an all-weather play facility that is designed for both early years and young children from ages 2 to 11.

11

Be a bobby?

Friday 12th January 2018

Cheltenham Standard

News

Gloucestershire Constabulary is launching a new recruitment campaign aimed at recruiting 30 new police officers to its ranks.

THE Constabulary is looking for those who work effectively with others and demonstrate high levels of personal initiative, drive and resilience.

We would particularly welcome applications from underrepresented groups.

The application window opens next Tuesday (16 January) and runs for a week.

Deputy Chief Constable Jon Stratford said: "Ours is a Constabulary with a proud history, a great reputation,

magnificent people and real ambition. Appointing the right individuals to become the police officers of the future is vital to allow us to continue to deliver superb policing services.” All the relevant information about the campaign is available on the Constabulary website: https://www.gloucestershire.polic e.uk/more-onus/recruitment/policeofficer/police-officer-recruitment / Recruitment opens at 9am next

Tuesday (16 January) and closes at 4pm on Tuesday 23 January 2018. Those who believe they meet our requirements will have the opportunity to take part in an eligibility assessment via our website. This will be available at any time over the seven consecutive days.

A specific email address has been set up for this campaign – this should be used for any questions about Police Officer recruitment: PoliceOfficerRecruitment2018@ gloucestershire.pnn.police.uk

Mayor’s Ball CHELTENHAM residents, dignitaries and businesses are invited to come and join the Mayor of Cheltenham Councillor Klara Sudbury, for her Civic Ball - An Enchanted Evening. This fundraising black-tie event, aims to raise money for the two local charities that the Mayor is supporting through her charity appeal. The Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity’s Focus Fund provides vital equipment and support for cancer patients at Cheltenham General Hospital. The Hollie Gazzard Trust was set up following the

murder of Hollie by a former partner and works to raise awareness of and tackle domestic abuse. This very special evening takes place at Manor by the Lake on Friday 23 February 2017, with tickets on sale for £50 per person. All profits will go to the mayor’s chosen charities. Guests will enjoy a pre-dinner drink in the Manor House before sitting down to a delicious three course dinner at 7.30pm in the ballroom. Dance music will be provided by skifflepop rascals Thrill Collins and there will also be a raffle and auction. Councillor Klara Sudbury said: “Manor by the

Lake is a magical location for what I hope will be a very memorable evening. During my mayoral year I have wanted to bring some fun to the role of Mayor whilst raising a lot of money for two great local charities. I am delighted that Thrill Collins are bringing their own brand of funky pop covers to my civic ball. This event is a really important part of my mayoral year; it promises to be a night to remember.”

Tickets are available from Jennie Ingram, telephone 01242 264108 or email jennie.ingram@cheltenham. gov.uk

Carrier bag cost to be extended to smaller retailers THE 5p charge for plastic bags could be extended to cover nearly all retailers, as part of government plans for the environment. Shops with fewer than 250 employees are currently exempt from the charge, which was introduced in England in October 2015.

It's thought the proposal will be part of the government's 25year environment plan, which was unveiled this week the government said the charge for single-use plastic bags has contributed to a reduction in use of nearly 90 per cent. The charge applies to every new plastic bag used in shops or chains with 250 or more full-

12

time employees. Under the new proposals, the charges will also apply at convenience stores, independent retailers and small local chains which could affect many shoppers and businesses in the town. Plastic bags at

airport shops or on-board trains, planes or ships are currently not included, nor are paper carrier bags.

There is likely to be a consultation on extending the 5p charge in England.

www.cheltenhamstandard.co.uk

Friday 12th January 2018

Business

Editor’s

Shout Out!

FIRSTLY, Happy New Year to everyone. For some, 2017 was brilliant and for others not so good, so whichever slot you fall into let’s hope 2018 is a cracker for all of us.

In December myself and ‘the blonde’ went to the press opening of the new Ivy restaurant in Montpellier. The restaurant is sited in the old Rotunda building, and I have to say they’ve made a sizzling job of it. It’s a ‘no expense spared’ kind of art deco structure. Nicely done, and very sympathetic to the original building. The launch, like most PR junkets around this town, was mobbed. There are some folks and the odd editor of certain lifestyle magazines who will turn up for the opening of an envelope. (you know who you are). In my humble opinion The Ivy won’t see them as actual paying customers again, as the ‘freebie evening’ was probably the scant amount of their participation, and any future attendance will be rarer than a lawyer who can’t stand the sight of money. On a more serious note, I sincerely hope that The Ivy doesn’t fall foul of the Cheltenham Curse’. By that, I mean that as soon as anywhere new opens the

good, the bad and the downright ugly flock like mindless lemmings who have joined forces with moths seeking a flame as they infest the newly opened establishment.

They will inhabit the new ‘joint’ for a few months until they tire of it, and when something equally shiny opens they cluster themselves in that direction and so on. It rides on the back of some old lame ‘hipster’ horse as the ‘place to see and be seen’.

Pathetic. However, as we all know, this flurry of initial activity can be short-lived in this town. As I’ve said before, it’s the old sustainability factor of yet another new restaurant or pub opening its doors to a small captive audience who have nowhere else to go.

There’s only so many people in this town with enough spare loot to support all the bars etc. It seems to me that the old stalwarts of ‘movers and shakers’ who drive leased Porsches and Audis may just drift, like some old middle-aged unwanted flotsam, back to their old haunts.

I hope The Ivy doesn’t go the way of the gastronomic dodo?

If it does, we only have the lemmings to blame!

Eric Barton Editor - Arsepuffin The Cheltenham Standard is published bi-weekly by Cheltenham Standard Ltd. registered at 4 Royal Crescent, Cheltenham. GL50 3DA. Reproduction of any materials, in whole or in part, is strictly forbidden without prior written consent of the publisher. All material is sent at the owners risk and whilst every care is taken, Cheltenham 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 accepted for any errors or omissions. Neither the editor nor the 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

Cheltenham Standard

Cleeve Hill House Hotel sold to first time buyer SPECIALIST business property adviser, Christie & Co has sold Cleeve Hill House Hotel, a substantial Edwardian detached property constructed circa 1902 and located on the outskirts of Cheltenham. The bed & breakfast business boasts 10 en suite letting bedrooms and benefits from owner's accommodation. Having owned the business for the past 10 years, Manfred and Jacqueline Zeilerbauer have decided to retire from the industry and they are looking forward to the next chapter of their lives. Manfred’s retirement follows 56 years in the hospitality sector, having opened and operated a number of hotels including 11 years at Center Parcs as Operations Director tasked with the opening of new sites. New owner, Lindsey Holland, comes with an impressive breadth of experience within the hospitality industry. Most recently, Lindsey led both the Operations and Team Development at St Pancras Hotel Group. Having previously boasted senior management experience at the critically acclaimed Zetter Townhouse and Serviced Apartment brand, Dolphin House, Lindsey has now

decided to apply that wealth of experience to her own venture.

Lindsey Holland stated; “This is a dream come true for me. I’ve been working in the hotel industry for over 15 years - so doing the thing I love most, in a town I love, is something I feel completely excited by. This is an opportunity to not only continue the great work that Manfred and Jacqueline have done, but also to really maximise the potential this historic building has. I can’t wait to get started.” Matthew Smith, Director at Christie & Co's Bristol office who handled

HOUSE prices in Cheltenham grew quicker than any other part of the UK in 2017.

Prices in the town grew faster than anywhere in London and beat seaside towns Bournemouth and Brighton, in second and third place respectively. The latest figures, from mortgage lender Halifax, show that prices in Cheltenham rose by 13 per cent, or an average of £36,033, taking the average house price in the town to £313,150. The rise is nearly five times higher than the average price rise nationally of 2.7 per cent.

Russell Galley, managing director of Halifax said: "A number of towns and cities have recorded significant rises in house prices over the past year, with all of the top 20 performers recording growth of at least double the national average. "Unlike last year, the top performers are not exclusive to London and the South East, with the top spot now belonging to Cheltenham in the South West, and towns in East Anglia, East Midlands, North West, Wales and Yorkshire and the Humber also making the list." At the other end of the scale, house prices in Perth in Scotland fell by 5.3 per cent, with 12 other towns recording a fall in prices.

the sale comments; “We are delighted to announce the sale of Cleeve Hill House Hotel and we wish Manfred & Jacqueline all the very best in their welldeserved retirement. We also wish the new owner, Lindsey, all the success for the future and are confident the business will move from strength to strength under her stewardship.

Lindsey’s career has been anchored in the hotel sector and her experience and ideas present an exciting time for the business.”

Cleeve Hill Hotel was sold off a guide price of £849,950.

New Directors for Superdry FORMER directors at Debenhams and Burberry have joined the board of SuperGroup, the Cheltenhambased company behind high street fashion brand Superdry.

Dennis Millard has been appointed as senior independent director and John Smith as a non-executive director with effect from 1 February 2018.

Millard is currently the chairman of Halfords Group and deputy chairman and senior independent director of Pets at Home. He was previously senior independent director at Debenhams, Premier Farnell and Xchanging plc, and was also chairman of Connect Group.

Smith was the chief operating officer of luxury brand

PHOTOGRAPHS Dennis Millard &

Burberry until June 2017. Prior to that he was a non-executive director of Burberry and chief executive of BBC Worldwide.

He is currently a non-executive director of Travelport Worldwide.

Superdry's current senior

independent director, Keith Edelman, will step down from that role with effect from 1 February 2018 but will remain a non-executive director.

Peter Bamford, chairman of SuperGroup, said: "I am delighted that Dennis Millard

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House price surge

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John Smith

and John Smith are joining our Board. They both bring skills and experiences which will strengthen the Board and help deliver the next stage of our growth strategy and progress towards becoming a global digital brand."

“The team at Ten2Two were great to work with.

The time they took to understand our business and put forward suitable candidates was outstanding.”

Jonny Edser, MD Wildgoose Events

www.cheltenhamstandard.co.uk

Cheltenham Standard

Friday 12th January 2018

Sale Day SOME of Cheltenham's bestloved independent retailers are coming together for a major sale this month.

Cheltenham Business Improvement District (BID) has brought together nine businesses for Cheltenham's Independents Sale from 11am to 4pm on Sunday January 28 in the Princess Hall at Cheltenham Ladies College. Some shops will cut as much as 75 per cent off the normal price of some goods.

Admission to the event is free.

Last year, more than 500 shoppers attended the BID's Boutique Sale and picked up some great bargains. Women's and men's clothing, shoes, jewellery and travel goods will all be available this year. The businesses taking part are: Beards, Bodega, Boutique 3, Enekes, James of Montpellier, Keith Scarrott Shoes, Love It, Sandra Dee and The Union Project. Sophie Scarrott, director of Keith Scarrott Shoes, said:

"It's a great opportunity for us to get together in one place and offer some fantastic savings.

We're looking forward to welcoming both regular and new customers." Kevan Blackadder, BID director, said: "The BID aims to support the town's businesses in many ways, and that includes our independents.

"They aren't able to run one-off sale events in the same way that some national retailers do, and we wanted to give them this opportunity. We've been delighted with the response and have signed up some great names. "There is the added attraction that the event is being held in the iconic setting of Princess Hall at Cheltenham Ladies College this year. For anyone who hasn't been able to visit the college before, that will be a great experience as well."

That event was entirely fashionbased last year but has been broadened this year for the benefit of both

Airport director flies the nest

DARREN Lewington is stepping down as operations director at Gloucestershire Airport at the end of the month. Mr Lewington has been at the airport for 24 years, including 17 years in management and board positions. He said: "I have decided that the time is right for me to leave Gloucestershire Airport.

With the full support of the board of directors, I'll step down from my post as operations director at the end of January.

"I'll be pursuing a number of other activities, including my business venture, Aerotiques, my volunteer activities with the Jet Age Museum and fly2help, and also undertaking aviation consultancy and ATC training. "As most of my social life and leisure activities revolve around aviation too, I'll still very much be around the airport

and I'm very keen to stay in touch." He added: "I leave at a point when the airport is on the verge of great things. I am immensely proud of what the teams I have been privileged to work with have achieved in making Staverton the busiest and best GA (general aviation) airfield in the UK. "The airport has

been my life for the last two decades; I'm lucky to be able to consider many of you as friends rather than merely clients, tenants and business contacts. There have been ups and downs, but I will always look back fondly on my time here and look forward to watching the airport develop further."

PHOTOGRAPH Darren Young BID

Rovers return

Bingo Hall to become flats NEW plans have been lodged to redevelop a former bingo hall and car showroom site in Cheltenham with a mixed-use scheme featuring flats and commercial units.

An application has been submitted to Cheltenham Borough Council for the redevelopment of existing buildings and a piece of undeveloped land along the Lower High Street. The site is made up of three plots of land with each formerly under separate ownership. Planning consent has previously been granted for 33 residential properties and two commercial units across three applications. It is currently occupied by the ACE Bingo Hall building and a former car showroom, as well as an undeveloped plot of land. The new proposals comprise a four-storey

building located in the southern part of the site, along with a two-storey unit located in the North-Western corner.

The buildings will comprise 40 residential apartments with three retail units on the ground floor, fronting onto the High Street. Car parking will also be provided for 20 vehicles. A planning statement submitted as part of the application said the scheme "maximizes the use of land and this ensures that the piece of brownfield land is used in the most effective manner". It added: "The proposal will contribute positively in economic terms and in relation to the recent push on a national level to support and boost small to medium size housebuilders."

SF Planning and Coombes: Everitt architects worked on the plans on behalf of applicant Mark Casey Ltd.

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Business

A CHELTENHAM company has been appointed to oversee the development of a new stateof-the-art training ground for Bristol Rovers Football Club.

Evans Jones Surveyors and Planning Consultants, have been chosen to develop land near the M5 motorway at Almondsbury, near Bristol.

This is a landmark project for Evans Jones who have also recently managed a project for the Football Association on Wembley Stadium. Bristol Rovers said: "Dwane Sports are pleased to announce that Evans Jones Chartered Surveyors and Planning Consultants of Cheltenham have been appointed as manager to oversee the development of The Colony training facilities." David Jones, (pictured) Managing Director at Evans Jones commented: "Evans Jones are delighted to be working with Bristol Rovers to develop the new training ground. The site at Almondsbury offers excellent potential to provide a new state‐of‐the‐art facility for the club". The site of the new training ground at Hortham Lane in Almondsbury is to be known as The Colony. Whilst the site has consent for the provision of sports pitches and associated facilities, it is anticipated that revised proposals will be submitted to South Gloucestershire Council shortly and work will commence on the new ground once permission has been secured. Rovers chairman, Steve Hamer, spoke to fans towards the end of last year and said he hoped that Rovers will be moved into the new facility for the start of the 2019/20 season.

“The team at Ten2Two were great to work with.

The time they took to understand our business and put forward suitable candidates was outstanding.”

Jonny Edser, MD Wildgoose Events 15

Cheltenham Standard

Friday 12th January 2018

Former Strictly and X Factor stars to appear at Town Hall KRISTINA Rihanoff and Christopher Maloney are to team up in a new smash hit dance show that promises to transport audiences on a musical journey through time.

The pair became close pals during their time in ‘Celebrity Big Brother’ – and now they are to appear together in a nationwide tour of glittering stage show ‘Dance to the Music’. The new production will showcase every genre of dance, from the roaring twenties to the present day, with plenty of sequins and

The Magic of Motown – Celebrating the sound of a generation MUSIC fans are invited to the biggest party of the year at the Town Hall as the unstoppable Magic of Motown show steams into town! Seen by over a million people, it's no surprise that the show is one of the biggest success stories in British theatre history, even performing for Her Majesty the Queen, as special guests at the Royal Variety Performance. Prepare yourself for 40 back-to-back classic Motown hits, glittering costume changes, dazzling dance moves and outstanding musicianship in

this explosive concert experience. Celebrate the sound of a generation as the timeless music of Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Supremes, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, Jackson 5, Smokey Robinson and more, are sensationally recreated for you by an exceptionally talented cast and band.This breath-taking concert spectacular takes you on a musical journey through all your favourite songs, including: Ain’t No Mountain, Signed Sealed Delivered, Grapevine, Get

surprises along the way!

The production is the creation of professional dancer and choreographer Kristina, who spent eight years on hit BBC show ‘Strictly Come Dancing’.

Kristina, who became a parent with partner Ben Cohen in 2016, said: “Dance To The Music is a totally new show with some breath-taking dance routines that I hope the audience will love.

“Chris and I have kept in touch ever since we left the Big Brother house and I’m really excited about working with him. As every fan of The X Factor will know, Chris has got a fantastic singing voice, and I’m very lucky to be joined by him.

“It’s a dance production like no other because it includes everything from tap and the Charleston, right through to modern Latin and Ballroom.

There’s even BreakDancing and Hip-Hop!” In

Ready, Dancing In The Streets, My Girl, Blame It On The Boogie, Uptight, Endless Love, My Cherie Amor, All Night Long, Heatwave and many, many more.

VENUE: Cheltenham Town

addition to Christopher’s vocals, Kristina will once again be paired with her former professional dance partner Robin Windsor, who himself starred on ‘Strictly’ for four years. Also gracing the stage will be Oksana Platero, who partnered Judge Rinder on Series 14 of the BBC show, becoming famous for her jaw-dropping lifts!

Oksana’s husband Jonathan is also in the cast, as is top singersongwriter Beth Sherburn.

Christopher, a former finalist on ‘The X Factor’, said: “I’m looking forward to having a great time in such an exciting show! Hopefully I’ll get to do to the odd bit of cha cha cha myself, as well as singing my heart out!”

Cheltenham Town Hall 23rd January Prices: £50.00, £32.00, £28.00, £25.00 http://www.cheltenhamto wnhall.org.uk/event/dance -to-the-music-190755/

Hall DATE: Saturday 3rd March 2018 – 7:30 pm BOX OFFICE: 08445 762210 WEBSITE: www.cheltenhamtownhall.org .uk

What’s On

Private Lives

By Noël Coward

LONDON Classic Theatre announce additional dates for their production of Noël Coward’s comedy masterpiece, Private Lives.

Olivia Beardsley and Helen Keeley return to the production as Sibyl Chase and Amanda Prynne, and are joined by two new cast members, Gareth Bennett-Ryan (Elyot Chase) and Paul Sandys (Victor Prynne). The production tours to 16 venues in the new year, opening at Yvonne Arnaud, Guildford on 16 January, and concluding the run at the Coventry Belgrade Theatre on 21 April.

1930. Deauville, France. Two newly-married couples occupy adjoining honeymoon suites in the same hotel. As a distant orchestra plays, Sibyl gazes adoringly at charismatic husband Elyot, while Victor admires his new wife, the vivacious and sophisticated Amanda.

Champagne flows and the sea shimmers in the moonlight as the newlyweds prepare for the evening ahead. But when Amanda overhears a familiar voice singing a forgotten song, an old

Stylistics at Town Hall THE Stylistics was formed in Philadelphia, PA in 1966 from two groups, "The Percussions" and "The Monarchs". When members from each group were drafted or went on to further their education, the remaining members under the guidance of their English teacher joined forces and changed the name to "The Stylistics".

After working locally for a number of years, the group was approached by Bill Perry who asked if they would be interested in recording. Their first song "You're a Big Girl Now" was recorded at Virtue Recording Studio and was soon picked up in the tri-state area and before long, it became a number 1 hit in Philadelphia and a few other cities.

Bill was interested in promoting the record nationally but didn't have the resources. He decided to contact Avco Records and made a deal. After the success of "You're A Big Girl Now", Avco wanted to follow up with an album release. The album was entitled "The Stylistics" and from that album came "Stop, Look, Listen to

Flashdance comes to the Everyman theatre

FLASHDANCE - The Musical is the inspiring and unforgettable story of 18 year old Alex, a welder by day and 'flashdancer' by night, who dreams of going to the prestigious Shipley Dance Academy and becoming a professional dancer. When a romance complicates her ambitions, she harnesses it to drive her dream. Based on the Paramount Pictures film (Screenplay by Tom Hedley and Joe Eszterhas, story by Tom

Hedley) Flashdance is an inspiring musical about the power of holding onto your dreams and love against all the odds. Prepare to be blown away by an astonishing musical spectacle and phenomenal choreography to this iconic score including the smash hits Maniac, Manhunt, Gloria, I Love Rock & Roll and the sensational title track Flashdance... What a Feeling. Produced by the award winning team at Selladoor

www.cheltenhamstandard.co.uk

spark reignites, with spectacular consequences.

Full of razor-sharp wit and quickfire dialogue, Private Lives is Noël Coward’s most popular and enduring stage comedy.

Extraordinarily written in only three days, Private Lives opened at London’s Phoenix Theatre in August 1930 to packed houses.

Since then, this charming comedy of manners has retained its remarkable appeal, captivating audiences all over the world. Noël Coward was one of the greatest playwrights of the 20th Century. His most notable plays include Hay Fever, Design for Living, Present Laughter and Blithe Spirit.

Cheltenham Everyman Theatre 23-27 January Box Office: 01242 572573 www.everymantheatre.org.uk

your Heart", "You Are Everything" and "Betcha By Golly Wow". The success of the first album was phenomenal for that time along with an unheard release of six singles in total. Herbert Murrell and Airrion Love are the remaining original members of The Stylistics. Friends since junior high school, Herb and Airrion have managed to keep their institution of 70's music alive. It was thought to be the end of the Stylistics following the departure of their original lead singer, but as in life "THE SHOW MUST GO ON!" Cheltenham Town Hall Friday 26th Jan £31.50 Ticketshttp://www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.u k/event/the-stylistics-2018-180155/

Productions - producers of Footloose, Avenue Q and Little Shop of Horrors and Runaway Entertainment – producers of In The Heights, Guys and Dolls and Lazarus, Flashdance - The Musical is not to be missed!

Sparks will fly and you will dance like you've never danced before!

Everyman Theatre 29th Jan- 3rd Feb Tickets https://www.everymantheatre.or g.uk/m-shows/flashdance/

17

Cheltenham Standard

FESTIVAL TRIALS DAY SATURDAY 27th JANUARY

THE STAGE IS SET

Friday 12th January 2018

Skelton improver to take the honours in Classic Chase TOMORROW’S Grade 3 Classic Handicap Chase over 3 miles 5 furlongs at Warwick saw last year’s winner One For Arthur go on to win the Grand National. Whether we will see this year’s National winner in the field is open to doubt, but Dan Skelton’s Sir Mangan looks an interesting contender, if taking up the entry .Although a ten year old, he has not been over raced and took a class 2 handicap chase at Bangor readily, back in November last year .He has been kept fresh since then by Skelton, presumably with this race in mind, and with the trip and the ground likely to be in his favour too, it all points to a big run from Sir Mangan at a reasonable price .Of the other possible runners in the race, Krackatoa King has been performing well this season and trainer Kerry Lee is in good form, so you could see him running his usual honest race, without quite being good enough. Nigel Twiston Davies’s Cogry was very disappointing in the Ladbrokes Trophy (formerly the Hennessey) at Newbury, but

Sport

by James Daly this is a lesser task and the nineyear-old did win nicely at Cheltenham in October last year and finished second in last season’s Scottish Grand National. He could be worth a small each way saver, particularly if the ground did not ride too heavy. Kempton’s Lanzarote Hurdle tomorrow is always competitive, but it would not be a total surprise to see Dan Skelton go close in this Listed race with another improver in Spiritofthegames.

Splash of ‘Binge?’

CHELTENHAM.CO.UK

JOCKEY Tom Bellamy failed a breath test and was suspended from New Year's Day's racing at Cheltenham as his alcohol level was above the allowed threshold.

The Gloucestershire rider, 23, had been set to ride trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies' Ballymalin and Splash Of Ginge. The matter has been referred to the British Horseracing Authority. "I'm devastated for him. He had two drinks all night. I definitely don't blame him.

He's just unlucky," TwistonDavies told BBC Radio Gloucestershire. "His last drink was before 12 (on New Year's Eve). It's a third of the drink drive limit, so half a pint

will put you over. "If you're a big boy, you can't eat. He'll never have a drink now, I don't suppose. The punishment is enough."

BHA rules allow for "sampling" to be "carried out at any time on a racecourse and off-course in certain circumstances". However, testing is conducted on a "nonselective basis", with every rider required to provide a breath sample. The official stewards' report said: "Tom Bellamy provided a sample which was found to contain alcohol above the threshold level for breath samples. "The rider, the clerk of the scales and the sampling officer were interviewed."

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Half way through season WE are now officially half way through the season at Cheltenham, and what a fantastic eight days of action we have had so far since it kicked off in October. Next up is the final raceday before The Festival, Festival Trials Day which takes place on Saturday 27th January.

It's the final chance that the trainers have to run their horses at the Home of Jump Racing before the big meeting in midMarch and many of the races are seen as key trials for The Festival. The highlight on the card is the BetBright Trials Cotswold Chase, which often sees horses running before they then appear in the Timico Cheltenham Gold Cup. Alongside the BetBright Trial Cotswold Chase there are six other races to enjoy, four of which will also be shown on ITV Racing. It will then just be six weeks until this year's Festival, where over 260,000 people visit the racecourse and the wider Cheltenham area to enjoy once of the finest sporting occasions.

This year's Festival takes place between 13-16th March, and it is gearing up to be as exciting as usual with the equine superstars

heading to the Cotswolds to battle it out for the honours, with 28 races and over £4.5million in prize money.

For details on Festival Trials Day and Cheltenham Racecourse, please visit www.cheltenham.co.uk<http://w

Photograph Jeannie Knight

ww.cheltenham.co.uk>. Tickets can be booked by calling 0344 579 3003.

19

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Friday 12th January 2018

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ROLLING MAUL DASH GLOUCESTER A LAST-MINUTE penalty try saw Northampton beat Gloucester to win their first Premiership match since September and deliver victory in Alan Gaffney's first match at the club.

Saints, with technical coaching consultant Gaffney now in charge, took the lead through winger Ken Pisi. But Saints were 11 points down before Nic Groom's score and the late penalty.

Gloucester's own penalty try and scores for James Hanson and John Afoa were only enough for a losing bonus point.

The Cherry and Whites led for most of the game but, although suffering a fifth defeat of the season, they remain fourth by a single point. They had a healthy lead with 25 minutes to play after Jake Polledri carried strongly into the 22 and a deft off-load from Owen Williams freed Afoa to

Northampton Saints 22-19 Gloucester score. But Gloucester failed to claim the subsequent restart and it kick-started a Saints comeback as Pisi broke up the right wing before Groom eventually dived over. The score gave Northampton belief and, having rarely threatened in an error-strewn second half, they kicked a late penalty close to the Gloucester line - and set up the maul which won the game.

Euphoric relief filled Franklin's Gardens as the home supporters celebrated just Northampton's second win in 14 matches in all competitions and their first in the Premiership since beating Harlequins at home at the end of September.

Northampton technical coaching consultant Alan Gaffney said, "The boys dug in very deep and, when you have been on a losing streak for some time, it would

have been easy to give in.

"Overall, they're in a pretty positive place even though the results in the last three months have not been what they would have wanted. "I will now be sitting down with eight, 10 or 12 of them to get their thoughts on where things are at." Gloucester head coach Johan Ackermann commented, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Not to be nasty, but we probably lost it more than they won it. "In the last six minutes, we

lost a line-out, knocked on questionably and conceded a scrum penalty so we let it slip.

"Moving forward, Ross Moriarty has trained with the team and, if he gets the clearance, he will be up for selection from next week."

Northampton: Tuala; Foden, Horne, Burrell, Pisi; Mallinder, Groom; Ma'afu, Hartley (capt), Ford-Robinson, Ratuniyarawa, Lawes, Wood, Gibson, Harrison.

Replacements: Haywood, Van Wyk, Brookes, Paterson, Nutley, Reinach, Grayson, Stephenson.

Sin bin: Ratuniyarawa (15)

Gloucester: Marshall; Woodward, Trinder, Symons, Halaifonua; Williams, Heinz (capt); Hohneck, Hanson, Afoa; Slater, Galarza; Ackermann, Polledri, Morgan.

Replacements: Matu'u, Orr, Balmain, Savage, Ludlow, Vellacott, Twelvetrees, Sharples.

Robins see off Colchester CHELTENHAM won for the first time in four League Two outings with victory over 10man Colchester.

Town goalkeeper Scott Flinders denied Frankie Kent before Colchester took a 40th-minute lead when Kurtis Guthrie held off Joe Morrell and scored with a superb 25yard shot, despite Flinders' best efforts to keep it out. But Colchester were reduced to 10 men three minutes later when winger Kyel Reid was dismissed after lashing out at Morrell prior to a Colchester free-kick. And Cheltenham equalised just before the hour mark when former Colchester attacker Sanmi Odelusi bundled home from close range after Mohamed Eisa's low drive had been kept out.

Cheltenham went ahead with 20 minutes remaining through Nigel Atangana, who converted after Tom Eastman had failed to cut out Jerell Sellars' drive from the left. It was 3-1 with 11 minutes remaining when Sellars drove a low shot under Sam Walker and in from Kevin Dawson's pass. And Eisa wrapped up Cheltenham's win five minutes later when he slotted home clinically, from Carl Winchester's pass.

New striker for Cheltenham Town

LAST week the Robins signed former Wigan and Colchester forward Sanmi Odelusi until the end of the season. The 24-year-old began his career at Bolton and has also had loan spells with Milton Keynes Dons, Coventry, Rochdale and Blackpool.

"Sanmi has got good experience with the clubs he's been at and has got very good pace," said boss Gary Johnson. Odelusi faced Colchester, with whom he spent the first half of this season, in League Two last Saturday.