The Cheltenham Post Newspaper 24th April 2026

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AROUND THE COUNTY news from Gloucestershire

Men jailed for subjecting man to six-hour ordeal of physical and mental abuse

TWO men from the Forest of Dean who physically and psychologically tortured a man after falsely accusing him of stealing money from them have been jailed.

Joshua Rice, aged 38, and 44year-old Andrew Rowbotham subjected the victim to a terrifying six-hour ordeal in July last year (2025).

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Where to find us

You can pick up your copy of the Cheltenham Post in many shops and leisure places throughout the town.

We also have stands at your local supermarkets listed below; Arle Court Transport Hub

Asda Superstore, Hatherley Lane

Tesco Superstore, Collets Drive

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Morrisons, Caernarvon Road Up Hatherley

Sainsburys, Gallagher Retail Park

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Co-Op, Salisbury Avenue

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Cheltenham General Hospital

We are also at selected other Co-Op stores as well as many 1000s delivered door-to-door on a rotation basis every two weeks.

This culminated in the victim fearing for his life after the duo gagged him, blindfolded him and put him in a 'body bag' in a hole in the ground.

On Friday 10th April the offenders were jailed for a combined total of more than eight years. It was heard at Gloucester Crown Court how the victim, aged in his 20s, had met Rice and Rowbotham through a mutual acquaintance in June 2025.

The victim described feeling 'cuckooed' by the pair, who frequently came to his house and asked him to store an unknown quantity of cash there a few weeks later.

Scared to refuse, the victim reluctantly agreed.

In the early hours of 29th July last year, Rice, of Coalway Road, Coleford, and Rowbotham, of no fixed abode, accused the victim of stealing the cash they had given him and ransacked his property looking for the money.

The victim was then told to drive the men home. Stopping on the way, Rice and Rowbotham forced the victim to get into the front passenger seat of the car.

The pair then threatened the victim and assaulted him, punching him multiple times in the face and head causing cuts and bruising.

The victim was also forced to hand over his car keys and mobile phone and was burnt with a cigarette lighter.

Rice and Rowbotham then drove the victim to Rice's house where they made further threats to kill him and subjected him to further assaults.

They threatened to break his legs with a hockey stick and held a curved knife up to his eye. Rice also threatened to cut the victim's finger off with a tool.

Rice then forced the victim to give him the names of his female relatives. He searched for them on social media and he made threats to rape and kill them if the victim

reported him and Rowbotham to the police.

Later that afternoon, hoping the pair would take him home, the victim went with the men back to his car and he noticed a large, black plastic sheet had been placed on the seat.

Rice and Rowbotham then drove the victim to a picnic area in the Forest of Dean and stopped in a lay-by.

The court heard how the men gagged the victim and took him down to the bottom of a steep slope where there was a hole in the ground and they laid the plastic sheet in the hole.

The victim was forced to sit on the sheeting while his hands were zip-tied behind him and he was blind-folded.

He was made to lie in the hole while the sheet was folded over his body and face. The victim described it as 'being in a body bag'.

As they made further threats to kill him and held something against his head, the victim described being petrified and was begging for his life.

Rice and Rowbotham eventually relented and took him back to the car. On the way back to Rice's house, they stopped the car again and terrorised the victim further.

After arriving at Rice's property, they eventually let the victim go, but told him they would be watching him and would visit him

every 24 hours. They ordered him to have a shower and get his car cleaned to dispose of any evidence.

A relative of the victim reported the incident to police later that day and Rice and Rowbotham were arrested, initially on suspicion of kidnap.

All of the weapons the victim described being threatened with were found by police at Rice's address and seized as evidence.

Officers also found plastic sheeting and zip-ties at the location the victim was taken to in the Forest of Dean.

In police interview, both men denied the offence, but they were subsequently charged and remanded in custody.

Rice and Rowbotham later pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm and making threats to kill.

In a statement which was read to the court, the victim described how Rice and Rowbotham's actions that day have affected him.

He said: “I've struggled to sleep, having flashbacks during the day as well as at night; of them shouting at me, hitting me and especially of being in that bag –for what was probably five to ten minutes but felt like a lifetime as they talked about killing me.

“I really thought that was it for me, and I said my goodbyes, apologising to my family for somehow having ended up in that

situation.

“They might not have murdered me, even though I could feel their threats were real enough, but due to the incident, I've sometimes felt so low I've wanted to take my own life.

“My home, my friendships, my sense of security and my selfesteem – they've taken away so much, I sometimes feel they did actually kill me.”

Recorder Mawhinney sentenced Rice to four years and four months imprisonment.

He noted how Rowbotham had shown some remorse for his actions and had “from time to time” tried to discourage Rice from his actions that day.

Rowbotham was handed a prison sentence of three years and seven months.

Both men were also given a fiveyear restraining order and were each ordered to pay costs to the victim of £228.

Following sentencing, investigating officer Detective Constable Annabel Brittain said: “Assaulting, threatening and then terrifying the victim by tying him up, wrapping him in plastic sheeting and putting him in a hole in the ground deep in the forest is the stuff of nightmares.

“The victim went through a horrendous ordeal over a long period, and it is fortunate he did not suffer more serious physical injuries.”

Tributes to ‘kind and compassionate’ Jim after Cheltenham assault

Continued from front page

“Jimmy was one of the kindest people anyone could have the pleasure of meeting. He was caring, compassionate, and always put others first.

“He made sure no one around him ever felt alone, and his love of motorcycles brought him into contact with many people, forming friendships wherever he went.

“With a natural warmth and a gift for storytelling, he shared his life with great joy and, in doing so, touched a remarkable number of lives.

“Our lives will never be the same without him, and we

know that many others will share in the sadness we feel.”

Police received a report of a serious assault on Honeybourne Way at around 7.30pm on Wednesday 8th April.

Two teenage boys, aged 16 and 17, were arrested on suspicion of murder. No further action is being taken against the 16-year-old, while the 17-year-old remains on police bail as enquiries continue.

The victim’s death is now being investigated by the Major Crime Investigation Team.

Investigating officers are still appealing for further

information and witnesses to what took place to come forward and contact police. Information can be provided to police online by completing the following form and quoting incident 430 of 8 April: www.gloucestershire.police.u k/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-usabout-existing-case-report/ Did you know you can report information anonymously through the independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers? More information can be found here: www.crimestoppersuk.org/give-information/form s/give-informationanonymously

Woman dies following Cheltenham collision

A WOMAN who sustained serious injuries following a collision in Cheltenham last month has died and officers are continuing to appeal for witnesses.

Police were called by the ambulance service at around 8.50am on Monday 16th March with a report of a collision on Prestbury Road, near to the junction with Whaddon Road.

The incident involved a woman who was riding a bicycle and a bus.

Emergency services attended and the woman,

aged in her 30s, was taken to Gloucestershire Royal Hospital with serious injuries, before being transferred to Southmead Hospital in Bristol.

The woman remained in hospital for treatment and died from her injuries on Tuesday evening (7 April). Her family are now being supported by specially trained officers.

The bus driver was not physically injured and there were no passengers on the bus at the time of the collision.

Officers from the Roads Policing Unit are continuing to investigate what happened and are asking anyone with information to come forward.

They are also keen to hear from anyone who has CCTV or dashcam footage which they believe to be relevant.

Information can be provided to police online by completing the following form and quoting incident 51 of 16 March: www.gloucestershire.police.u k/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-usabout-existing-case-report/

Assault on bus from Winchcombe

GLOUCESTERSHIRE Police are wanting to identify two men after they tried to stop another man from sexually assaulting a girl while travelling on a bus.

The incident happened on Friday 27th March on the W bus from Winchcombe to Cheltenham.

When the 17-year-old victim got onto the bus in Winchcombe at 12.07pm a man approached her and made comments on her appearance. He then tried to put his hand on her leg.

Another man on the bus saw this and told the man to stop, and the suspect then sat back down.

When the girl got off the bus in Cheltenham by Primark on High Street, the suspect then tried to put his hand on her bottom. Another man on the bus again told him not to.

The suspect then followed the child off the bus until she met up with someone she knew further along High Street, and at that point the suspect turned around and walked off.

Police would like to speak to the two men who intervened, as they may have information which could assist the investigation.

No arrests have been made at this stage and enquiries are ongoing.

The men, and anyone else who was on the bus and witnessed what happened, are asked to contact police by completing the following online form and quoting occurrence 53260018255: www.gloucestershire.police.u k/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-usabout-existing-case-report/

Gloucestershire Constabulary publishes ASB Action Plan

GLOUCESTERSHIRE

Constabulary has published its Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Action Plan setting out how officers and partners will work together to reduce harm and make neighbourhoods safer across the county.

The plan forms part of the constabulary’s delivery of the Government’s Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee (NPG), a key element of the national Safer Streets mission to make communities feel safe.

Under the NPG, tackling ASB is a core priority for every police force in England and Wales. It is also one of the priorities outlined in Police and Crime Commissioner, Chris Nelson’s Police and Crime Plan for Gloucestershire.

As of July 2025, each force has appointed a dedicated ASB lead responsible for building tailor-made, evidence-based approaches to address ASB in partnership with local authorities, housing associations, charities and wider community groups. The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner has convening powers to bring all these

agencies together.

Gloucestershire’s plan is rooted in tackling community concerns. It focuses on five key themes:

l Victims – by providing consistent, timely and highquality contact to victims of ASB it aims to reflect their experience, needs and expectations. It will also use structured vulnerability assessments to identify repeat or high-harm victims and deliver tailored problemsolving plans.

l Community – after listening to communities the team will respond visibly and effectively to the ASB issues that matter most to them. And by keeping communities informed through timely, consistent and clear updates, the force hope to build public confidence in our service.

l Partnership – in

strengthening established partnerships the plan will ensure the most appropriate partner leads on ASB cases.

l Suspects – police will target high-harm and repeat offenders with robust, evidence-based management and use the full range of partnership powers to reduce ASB.

l Location – by developing a clear understanding of where ASB is causing the most harm the team will be able to ensure our activity tackling it is evidence-based.

Superintendent James Glansfield, head of Neighbourhood Policing and Anti-Social Behaviour lead, said: “We take all anti-social behaviour extremely seriously as we know it can have a significant and lasting impact on people’s lives.

“We’ve worked closely with partners to develop our ASB

Action Plan to ensure activity is targeted where it is needed most, that it’s provided by the most appropriate agency and is delivered in line with local expectations.

“We seek to intervene as early as we can in instances of antisocial behaviour, work with our colleagues in other agencies to put in place measures to prevent it from happening and deal robustly with perpetrators.

“We want all those who live, work and visit our great county to feel safe at all times and the plan is very much victim focused.”

Chris Nelson, Police and Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire, said:

“Reducing ASB is central to improving trust, confidence and how safe people feel in their communities. I have campaigned for more action against ASB since I was first

elected as your commissioner.

“Part of my role includes acting as the public’s voice in policing, and you tell me time and time again of the nuisance and anti-social behaviours you experience. Whether that be in our city and town centres, in rural villages or through to problematic neighbours.

“Effective policing can only succeed when councils, communities and volunteers are fully engaged, a responsibility my office helps to achieve.

“We make sure partners are accountable and have what they need to play their part.

This includes sharing data, expertise and problem-solving skills to deliver long-term solutions for our communities.

“This action plan sets out the strategic approach for Gloucestershire, and I am looking forward to seeing it delivered.”

In the dock!

The following cases have all been heard recently at Cheltenham Magistrates Court:

Patrick Bermingham, 36, of Fiddlers Green Lane, Cheltenham, was sentenced to 12 months’ jail suspended for two years for a series of motoring offences which he admitted. The most serious offence was the aggravated taking of a Mercedes car without the owner’s consent. He drove it dangerously at speeds of more than 100mph and failed to stop for the police. The court said he had shown a ‘flagrant disregard for people and their property.’ Bermingham admitted a total of 9 motoring offences committed in June, July and December last year. As well as the suspended jail term he was banned from driving for five years, ordered to abstain from alcohol for 120 days, given a six-month mental health treatment order and ordered to participate in up to 30 days of rehab activities.

Terence White, 48, of Dunalley Street, Cheltenham, was jailed for 16 weeks after he pleaded guilty to eight shoplifting offences at Aldi, Home Bargains, Dunelm, Decathlon and Sainsbury’s in the town. He also admitted that on 28th January this year - when he stole a £1,900 electric mountain bike from Decathlon - he was in breach of a criminal behaviour order requiring him to prove ownership of any bicycle in his possession. Jailing him, the magistrates said the offences were so serious that only an immediate prison term was justified, particularly as they were committed during the operational period of a suspended sentence.

Mason McConnon, 31, of St James Walk, Honeybourne Way, Cheltenham, was sentenced to 14 weeks’ jail suspended for two years after he admitted two offences of fraud and two of stealing from cars. He pleaded guilty to fraudulently using stolen bank cards to try to obtain £200 and to theft of tools worth £680 from a car and theft of a wallet containing £150 and a £70 torch from a second car. He was placed on a drug rehabilitation order with a requirement to attend up to 20 activity days and was ordered to pay compensation totalling £910.

Natalie Jones, 43, of Regents Court, St Stephens Road, Cheltenham, pleaded not guilty to assaulting a woman causing her actual bodily harm and to assaulting another woman by beating. Both charges allege she committed the assaults in Cheltenham on 8th July 2022. Ms Jones was unconditionally bailed to await trial on June 24th.

Nicholas Duckworth, 23, of York Rd, Priors Park, Tewkesbury, was bailed to await trial at Gloucester Crown Court on two charges of sexual assault, one of indecent exposure and one of attempting to cause a woman to engage in penetrative sexual activity. All the alleged offences are said to have occurred in Bishop’s Cleeve on 5th August 2023.

Javeisha Powell, 22, of Burnet Drive, Cheltenham, admitted being drunk and disorderly in Sapphire Rd, Bishop’s Cleeve, on 27th October last year and assaulting a woman custody detention officer that night. Powell was unconditionally bailed until April 30th for a pre-sentence report to be prepared.

Bridie Beresford, 28, of St Paul’s Road, Cheltenham, admitted stealing £40 worth of shampoo from Lidl in Mercia Road, Gloucester, and miscellaneous items of unknown value from Bargain Buys, Gloucester in January this year. She also admitted failing to surrender to bail at court on Feb 12. She was sentenced to a oneyear community order with six months of mental health treatment and up to 15 rehab activity days. She was ordered to pay £40 compensation.

Joshua Townsend, 37, of Harvest St, Cheltenham, was convicted of harassing a woman by making unwanted contact with her by various means between 10th Sept 2024 and 25th March 2025. He was bailed until 1st May for a pre-sentence report to be prepared. It is a condition of bail that he does not contact the victim.

Benjamin Mitchell, 41, of Concorde Way, Gloucester admitted stalking a woman

in Cheltenham between 1012 Oct last year. He was bailed till 1st May for a presentence report.

Michael Willett, 62, of Vittoria Walk, Cheltenham, admitted assaulting a woman by beating her on 6th November 2025. He was sentenced to a one-year community order with up to 10 days of rehab activities. He was fined £96 and ordered to pay a £114 surcharge. The court ordered him not to make any contact with his victim for the next two years.

Paul Maxwell, 46, of Vittoria Walk, Cheltenham, admitted that on 19th January this year he was at premises in Sun Street in contravention of a closure order issued by the court last November. He also admitted failing to surrender to bail for a court hearing last month. He was fined £150 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £60 surcharge.

Kean Bennett, 35, of Brickfield Drive, St Peters, Cheltenham, who is alleged to have broken the 60mph speed limit in a Vauxhall vehicle on the A417 Brockworth by-pass on 9th August last year, has been told to attend court on May 20th for a disqualification hearing.

Jake Smith, 31, of Golden Vale, Churchdown, denied two charges of intentionally strangling a woman in Cheltenham in March/April 2025. He was conditionally bailed to await trial at Gloucester Crown Court and was told to attend a hearing there on 20th July 2027. Conditions of bail include GPS tagging and requirements not to contact his alleged victim or to go within 500m of her Cheltenham address. He must also live and sleep every night at his Churchdown home.

Stephanie Norledge, 35, of Pennington Court, Lipson Road, Springbank, was banned from driving for a year and fined £350 plus £85 costs for driving a Land Rover Defender on the A40 in Cheltenham when she had excess Benzoylecgonine (cocaine) in her blood on 7th July last year. She admitted

the offence and was also placed on a 12-month community order with a requirement to take part in rehab activities. Further, she pleaded guilty to three other charges – using a handheld phone while driving a Mercedes van on Princess Elizabeth Way on 24th March last year, possessing 11 cans of nitrous oxide on 7th July 2025 and possessing 10 Diazepam tablets on the same day. The court ordered forfeiture and destruction of the drugs and gas and fined her £10 with a 6-month ban for using the phone while driving.

William Croft, 56, of Moonstone, Cockleford, nr Cheltenham, was sentenced to 23 weeks’ jail suspended for a year and banned from driving for 42 months after he admitted twice failing to provide specimens to police when suspected of drink driving. The court said a prison term was justified because Croft had shown ‘a propensity to ignore the law.’ He was also ordered to abstain from drinking alcohol for 60 days and placed under a 12-month supervision order with a requirement to take part in rehab activities. Croft admitted that on 2nd March last year he drove a Tesla at Cockleford without insurance and that he failed to provide a blood specimen. He also admitted that on 26th March 2025 he drove a Honda car without insurance and failed to provide a breath specimen when required to do so. He further admitted that on 15th August last year he again drove without insurance, this time in an MG on the A435 Cheltenham Road.

Mark O’Neill, 39, of Vittoria Walk, Cheltenham, was remanded in custody to await trial at Gloucester Crown Court on charges of assault, criminal damage and making threats to kill. He is alleged to have assaulted a man by beating him in Cheltenham on 7th January this year and then on March 28th to have damaged doors at the man’s Cheltenham home and made a threat to a police officer that he would kill the same man. He will make his first appearance at the Crown Court on April 28th.

James Thomas, 28, of Grasmere Road, Cheltenham, admitted eight offences of theft of dog beds and dog food from Pets At Home in Cheltenham and a further theft from B&Q. The court heard that he walked out of Pets at Home five times in one week in January this year with 15 of the dog beds worth a total of £750. A month earlier he had stolen six of the beds worth £300 –and on two other occasions he took a total of £151.99 worth of dog food from the store on the Golden Valley Retail Park. He was bailed until May 8th for a presentence report to be prepared. It is a condition of bail that he must not enter any shops on the Gallagher Retail Park, the Golden Valley Retail Park or the Centrum Retail Park.

James Daffurn, 39, of Hartpury Close, Cheltenham, admitted assaulting a woman by beating her on 5th October last year. He was sentenced to a one-year community order with a requirement to do 200 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered not to go to the victim’s home address or contact her for the next three years. The court ordered him to pay costs of £85.

Georgia Turnbull, 23, of Buckingham Drive, Churchdown, admitted assaulting a woman by beating her in Gloucester on 23rd October 2024. She denied a charge of being drunk and disorderly on that date and was found not guilty after the prosecution offered no evidence. Turnbull was conditionally discharged for a year and ordered to pay £200 compensation to her victim. She was also ordered to pay £100 costs and a £26 surcharge.

Anthony Davis, 47, of Arle Rd, Cheltenham, admitted stealing perfume sets worth £1,071-90 from Boots at the Gallagher Retail Park on 3rd November 2024. He was unconditionally bailed till May 12th for a pre-sentence report to be prepared.

Christian Ginn, 28, of Wenlock Rd, Tewkesbury, was ordered to register as a sex offender at the Hesters Way Station in Cheltenham

after he admitted possessing illegal indecent images of children. He indicated guilty pleas to charges of having six Category C images of children and one prohibited image of a child on 7th July 2024. He was bailed till 12th May for a pre-sentence report to be prepared. While on bail he must register with police and must not contact anyone under 18 or live or sleep at an address where any child resides.

Emma Bellamy, 43, of Rowton Court, High St, Cheltenham, is charged with stealing £411 worth of cardigans and parkas from Next on 5th October last year. A warrant without bail was issued for her arrest.

Blissa Smith, 32, of Monkscroft, Cheltenham, admitted that on Christmas Eve last year in Cheltenham she criminally damaged windows at a man’s home without lawful excuse and either intended to cause damage or was reckless whether the property would be destroyed or damaged. She was conditionally discharged for a year and ordered to pay a £26 surcharge.

Martin Williams, 45, of no fixed abode, is charged with being drunk and disorderly in Queens Road, Cheltenham, on 26th February this year. His case was adjourned till May 6th for a plea hearing.

Kane McConnon, 35, of Colne Ave, Oakley, Cheltenham, was banned from driving for six months and fined £660 plus costs of £90 for failing to notify Gloucestershire Police who was driving an Audi A3 at the time of an alleged motoring offence between 26th August and 25th September last year. The magistrates found him guilty in his absence.

Chukwuma Atumonye, 37, of Brookbank Close, Cheltenham, admitted driving a Peugeot car without insurance or a valid licence on Gloucester Road, Cheltenham, on 14th July last year. He was banned from driving for six months, fined £128 and ordered to pay costs of £120 and a surcharge of £51.

Local councils back WECA move Local councils back WECA move

Six Gloucestershire councils unite behind devolution plans and WECA ambition

SIX of Gloucestershire’s seven councils have set out a joint ambition for the county to join the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) as part of future devolution plans.

In a letter to ministers Matthew Pennycook MP and Miatta Fahnbulleh MP, council leaders said the first key step would be the creation of a single countywide Foundation Strategic Authority (FSA) by May 2027.

They say this would give Gloucestershire the strategic capacity, devolved powers and evidence base needed to support a future bid to join WECA.

The letter has been cosigned by the leaders of Gloucestershire County Council, Gloucester City Council, Cotswold District Council, Cheltenham Borough Council, Stroud District Council and Forest of Dean District Council.

Tewkesbury Borough Council is expected to confirm its position at a

meeting next month.

Economic links highlighted WECA was established in 2017 to drive economic growth and investment across the West of England, covering Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol and South Gloucestershire.

Council leaders say Gloucestershire already has strong economic ties with the region. Key sectors including cyber and secure technology, green energy, digital, aerospace, agri-tech and advanced manufacturing are said to align more closely with WECA than with other areas.

They also point to labour market links, commuting patterns and shared infrastructure as evidence of a natural fit with the West of England.

Leaders argue that joining WECA would bring stronger regional collaboration, improved access to investment and a governance model better aligned with the county’s economic identity.

Separate from council reorganisation

The proposals come alongside ongoing plans to reorganise local government in Gloucestershire. The Government is currently considering options to replace the existing county and district system with one or two unitary councils, with a decision expected this summer.

Council leaders said their preference for a single countywide FSA would remain the same regardless of the outcome of those proposals.

Planning for future growth

Work is also under way on a Gloucestershire Spatial Development Strategy (SDS), which will guide long-term planning on housing, infrastructure and land use.

Preparatory work has already been coordinated through the Gloucestershire City Region Board, including shared evidence, a Local Growth Plan, the

Strategic and Local Plan, and a Local Nature Recovery Strategy.

Next steps

Council leaders have invited ministers to begin early discussions, with further details of Gloucestershire’s proposed devolution plans set to be submitted to government later this year.

Cllr Lisa Spivey, leader of Gloucestershire County Council, said: “Gloucestershire’s council leaders agree this is the right way forward for the county. Our economy and our communities already work closely with the West of England, so this approach would see our area join a combined authority that truly reflects who we are and where we most naturally align.

“By setting out our position now, we are aiming to unlock the benefits of devolution sooner, ensuring our residents feel the difference in their day-to-day lives.”

Max Wilkinson MP

I’M opening this week with a request for action: please contact the local council to show your support for the development of a new cancer centre at Cheltenham General Hospital.

The team behind the Big Space Cancer Appeal are working to deliver this groundbreaking £17.5 million project. They’re asking as many local residents as possible to speak up in favour of it.

I’ve written to the planners myself - and I hope you will too. You can do so by emailing planning@cheltenham.gov. uk - and to ensure your comment gets through, use the reference 26/00530/FUL. It takes only a few minutes and costs nothing, but it could make a real difference.

Let’s help make this the strongest public response to any planning application the council has ever received.

But please don’t put it off: the deadline is coming soon.

I feel so strongly about this because cancer touches far too many families. And when it does, we all depend on the NHS - not just for treatment, but for care delivered with dignity and compassion. Having the best possible facilities matters. It matters for patients, for families, and for the staff who work so hard to support people through the toughest moments of their lives.

This campaign is also deeply personal for me. My dad died of lymphoma in 2018. My wife was fortunate to survive ovarian cancer. Those

experiences stay with you. They shape how you see the world and they leave a permanent mark on a family.

That is why I have such admiration for the people at the Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity, who are working with Dr Sam Guglani, Dr Charles Candish and colleagues to bring this project to life. They are raising funds to ensure Cheltenham can provide the very best environment possible for people receiving cancer care at our local hospital.

The project is ambitiousbut I believe it is absolutely one we must keep pushing. I know many people across Cheltenham are already doing their bit, through fundraising events, donations, and community efforts. I’m proud of what so many residents have done. I ran a half marathon last year as part of the appeal - my toes still haven’t forgiven me - but it was a privilege to take part. Thank you to everyone who sponsored me and supported the cause.

If you’re able to give, donations are still very welcome. You can contribute at justgiving.com/campaign/t hebigspacecancerappealwhether it’s a few pounds or more, it all helps.

For now, though, the most important thing is this: please email the council to back the planning application for the new cancer centre. A better facility will mean better care - and together we can help make it happen.

Labour Party

SO, what has the Labour Government ever done for us?

For me, it is a question that brings to mind a scene in Monty Python’s “Life of Brian”, when Reg demands, “What have the Romans ever done for us?” - only for his comrades to quickly reply with a long list of improvements such as roads, medicine, education, public order, health and sanitation. It’s easy to complain, as Reg did, but not so easy to notice and appreciate improvements and new benefits when they occur.

Since returning to government in July 2024, Labour has focused on what it believes really matters to people and on what will help with everyday living.

This month, households have seen around £150 taken off their energy bills, thanks to a 7 per cent fall in the price cap. And that is before the £150 Warm Home Discount for those who are eligible. Pensioners have also benefited. The State Pension has risen by 4.8 per cent, bringing the full weekly amount to £241.30 - a meaningful boost at a time when prices remain high. Workers on lower pay are seeing tangible improvements, too. The National Living Wage and Minimum Wage have both increased by 4 per cent. That’s worth around £900 a year for someone working full time on the living wage, and almost £1,500 a year for younger workers. Changes that reward work and help people keep pace with rising costs.

Healthcare costs are another pressure on family budgets, which is why the Government is keeping NHS prescription charges in England below £10.

Starting this month, families with young children will begin to see the benefits of recent government changes. Thirty hours of

Dear Reader, With the elections on May 7th drawing closer, I would like to begin this week’s article by quoting Rowena Hay, the Liberal Democrat leader of Cheltenham Borough Council, from her recent piece in this newspaper: “Local elections are

Clive Harriss

funded childcare is now available for children from nine months old through to school age, saving up to £7,500 a year on childcare costs, making returning to work possible - and worthwhile.

Parents of primary school children will see the continued rollout of free breakfast clubs, worth up to £450 a year per childpractical help to ease household costs and give children a better start to the school day.

One of the most significant changes has been ending the two-child limit in Universal Credit. This will increase eligible families’ income by £3,500 per additional child per year, helping to lift around 450,000 children out of poverty by 2030. These are all welcome changes that reward work and help people keep pace with rising costs.

Politics will always have its sceptics, and there will always be modern-day Regs insisting that nothing ever changes.

But when you take a step back and look at what Labour has delivered, the picture is much clearer. Lower bills. Higher wages. Better support for families. A Labour Government, in action, making everyday life that bit easier for everyone everywhere.

Promoted by Clive Harriss on behalf of Cheltenham Labour Party, both at Office 242, 20 Winchcombe Street, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL52 2LY.

Mentor Link chief meets Cheltenham MP to discuss charity’s work

THE founder of children’s charity Mentor Link has met Cheltenham MP Max Wilkinson to discuss the organisation’s mentoring support for young people and its plans to expand work in the area.

Andrea Maddocks MBE, chief executive and founder of Mentor Link, met Mr Wilkinson at Cheltenham council offices at the start of April to outline the charity’s work in schools.

Mentor Link is currently working with Greatfield Park Primary School in Cheltenham, providing oneto-one mentoring support for

Reform UK

Matt Podmore, Reform UK Cheltenham Chair

an important opportunity to have your say on who represents you… I urge everyone eligible to get out there and make your voice heard.”

I agree wholeheartedly. However, I must ask: why then did the council apply to cancel these elections? They are only taking place because Reform UK mounted a legal challenge in the High Court. So, I believe the evidence is clear: if you want democracy, a smaller state, less censorship,

and lower taxes, then Reform is the answer both locally and nationally. The Liberal Democrats and Labour, by contrast, appear intent on raising taxes, limiting freedom of speech, and avoiding democratic accountability.

Take Cheltenham MP Max Wilkinson’s recent comments on social media: “Social media is a massive problem at the moment for engagement. If you put out content about, for example, thinking immigration is too

children facing social or emotional difficulties in school.

The charity also runs an EBSA (Emotionally Based School Avoidance) project, which supports children who are struggling to attend school.

Andrea said: “It was great to meet with Max Wilkinson and explain the difference having a mentor can make to a child’s life. Providing dedicated one-to-one listening support can change a child’s life and engagement in learning.

Max is hoping to help spread the word about the charity’s

high… social media now makes it very easy for your voice to be heard in a way that wasn’t possible in the past.”

Max Wilkinson does not appear to share the concerns many British people have about illegal immigration, but he is clearly concerned about how easily those views can be expressed. As he has said on several occasions, he supports “more safe routes” for migrants and faster integration into communities.

This week, we also learned that a certain Hotel in Cheltenham is being vacated, with occupants reportedly being moved into Houses of Multiple

work.”

With more than 24 years of experience providing support in schools, the charity says it has built a strong reputation for helping children return to learning. It is in partnership with more than 80 primary and secondary schools across the Midlands.

The aim of Mentor Link is to provide regular one-toone support from professionally recruited and trained mentors, helping to improve self-esteem and engagement in learning.

All volunteer mentors are DBS-checked and receive

Occupation (HMOs). The approach taken by the Government, supported by Wilkinson and the Liberal Democrats, is not to stop illegal immigration, but to expand legal routes and house people within local communities.

Did you vote for that? Will you vote for that?

Let’s be realistic: on May 7th, Reform will not become the dominant party on Cheltenham Borough Council. However, we can win seats and become a strong opposition to the Liberal Democrats. That would mean greater scrutiny, real accountability, and a stronger voice for residents.

induction and safeguarding training, along with ongoing training and support from the Educational Psychology Team at Worcestershire Children First.

Mentor Link is continuing to expand and is seeking to support more children in Cheltenham and the surrounding areas by working with more schools and recruiting additional volunteers.

Parents, potential volunteers or schools can contact the charity at enquiries@mentorlink.org.uk or by calling 01299 822336 for more information.

Reform councillors would challenge waste, push for transparency, and raise the concerns of local people in the council chamber. It is time to throw open the doors and windows of local government, so residents can clearly see how their council tax is being spent. You may have traditionally voted Conservative or Liberal Democrat, but I ask you honestly: are you satisfied with how Cheltenham looks and feels today? If not, consider lending us your vote on May 7.

Promoted by Matt Podmore on behalf of Reform UK, both at Millbank Tower, 21–24 Millbank, London, SW1P 4QP.

Cheltenham business gets local children gardening over Easter

A CHELTENHAM retailer has helped inspire a new generation of gardeners after gifting nearly 1,500 plants to local primary school children over the Easter holidays.

Charlies, the home, garden and outdoor living store which opened on Tewkesbury Road in October 2025, gave away a total of 1,472 plants as part of a community initiative designed to encourage children to get outdoors and try gardening.

The campaign saw local families visit the store to collect their free plants, with almost 1,500 children taking part and getting hands-on with planting during the Easter break.

Hollie Clarke, Store Manager at Charlies Cheltenham, said: “We’ve been incredibly grateful for the warm welcome we’ve received from the Cheltenham community since opening last year and we wanted to find a way to give something back.

“When we first arrived in Cheltenham, we handed out seeds in the town centre to introduce ourselves, so continuing that growing theme felt like the perfect way to say thank you.

“It’s been fantastic to see so many children getting involved - gardening is such a simple but rewarding activity and we hope this has inspired lots of young people to spend more time outdoors and discover the joy of growing their own plants.”

The initiative also highlights the wider benefits of gardening for children, with studies consistently showing that spending time outdoors can support both physical health and mental wellbeing, while helping to build confidence and practical skills.

As an independent, familyrun business founded in 1986, Charlies has quickly established itself as a popular addition to Cheltenham’s retail offering, providing a wide range of products for home, garden and outdoor living.

The Easter giveaway forms part of the store’s ongoing commitment to engaging

with the local community and encouraging more people to enjoy outdoor living.

Conservative Party

Rob Garnham - Cheltenham Chairman

THE clock is ticking. The Elections are just two weeks away. Whilst the politicians and campaigners can tell you exactly how long that is in days, hours and probably minutes, we know that elections are not something you talk about every day.

But perhaps on Thursday 7th May you will talk about this election – and hopefully go and vote. Or maybe you have used your postal vote already. Did you know that in some parts of Cheltenham the turnout is as little as 19% and is rarely over 50% in any area. I ask that whatever your politics, please use your vote.

Cheltenham is dominated by Lib Dems and this election will see a much wider range of political parties involved. You will have plenty of choice whatever you believe in, so why not take part in the democracy, and freedom to vote, that we benefit from in this country – and is the envy of many around the world.

Of course, I want as many as possible voting Conservative so that we can return Councillors to the Borough and hold the ruling party to account. And talking of percentages again, the Lib Dems sometimes have up to 30% of their members missing from Council. However, we are proud that as

Conservatives we have had a 100% representation at full council meetings since last October so we can ask searching public questions on your behalf. If we can do that as volunteers, imagine how much more effective we could be as your elected Councillor, speaking up for you.

There is lots of debate about council tax increases

as you would expect. We know Reform are now stating they never said they will cut council tax.

However Times Radio challenged Zia Yusuf and quoted directly from leaflets in Northamptonshire, Worcestershire and Leicestershire that said Reform will “reduce Council waste to cut taxes”. Far from keeping a promise to cut taxes, Reform-led Worcestershire County Council put up their council tax by nearly 9%. I’ll say no more. Conservatives in Cheltenham will bring energy and positivity back into the Council Chamber. Want to know what we stand for? How about:

• Re-opening of the Swindon Road tip;

• Reducing parking charges to support our town centre;

• One Council for Gloucestershire not two;

• Listening to residents –spending according to your priorities;

• Better road maintenance.

It’s your choice, your vote. Please use it and please use it wisely.

Promoted by Rob Garnham on behalf of Cheltenham Conservative Association, both at Conservative Party Headquarters, 4 Matthew Parker Street, London, SW1H 9HQ.

No quick fixes as Cheltenham tackles rough sleeping

WITH an election looming you will read promises from candidates guaranteeing quick fixes to complicated issues; simple solutions and magic wands will be brandished in the hope that voters put their cross in the right box on the ballot paper.

In most cases there is no silver bullet to the problems local councillors try to fix for residents, it’s all about long-term thinking and balancing what we want to do and what we can do.

One issue that has been raised recently is the impact of rough sleeping in and around our town centre. I feel passionately that Cheltenham’s parks and town centre are vital community assets, and it is important they remain safe, welcoming and accessible to all. I also know that people experiencing homelessness deserve our help and support; they are often suffering from a combination of factors such as mental ill-health, substance misuse and addiction, which has blighted many since childhood. I do not believe that vulnerable people should be pushed out of sight and out of mind.

There are some people who would paint our town in a negative light but rough sleeping is a national challenge, with the estimated numbers of rough sleepers increasing again to a new peak for the UK in 2025.

In Cheltenham we are not alone in facing this complex issue.

As a council we utilise a range of initiatives to reduce rough sleeping by facilitating the transition from streets to homes, including, direct-access “Somewhere Safe to Stay Hub” as a first-step service providing support and shortterm accommodation for those experiencing homelessness. The council also offers a range of supported housing with varying scales of accessible support based on an individual’s needs. We work with the county council as well as charities like P3 and offer some of our own housing stock and housing management service to make sure that vulnerable people have somewhere safe to stay.

Just one person suffering from homelessness is too

Rowena Hay Leader of Cheltenham Borough Council

many, it is bad for the individual and bad for our town. You can report concerns for rough sleepers on the ‘Streetlink’ website (you can do this on your phone). Streetlink will then pass this information to Julian House (who are commissioned by the council to provide outreach) to investigate and to offer support.

Despite our best efforts to support every person who finds themselves on the streets in our town, sometimes it becomes necessary for us to use the enforcement powers at our disposal.

It is vital that our residents, businesses and visitors feel protected and for them to understand that we strive to make our beautiful town a place you can enjoy without fear of antisocial behaviour. We will not hesitate to use enforcement action where there is evidence of criminal activity, environmental harm or behaviour that makes people feel unsafe –because that is the right thing to do.

Rough sleeping continues to be a challenging issue for town centres everywhere, but in Cheltenham we remain committed to working with our partners to tackle this by supporting vulnerable individuals, whilst also protecting the spaces that are rightly valued by our communities.

‘Mowgli Magic’ brings kindness to Cheltenham

A CHELTENHAM restaurant is turning small acts of kindness into something a little more tangible this spring, with a new initiative designed to lift spirits across the town.

Mowgli Street Food, in the Brewery Quarter, has launched a new give-back initiative in Cheltenham.

The local restaurant is spreading positivity and kindness by inviting the community to come together and nominate friends, neighbours or colleagues who deserve a little lift to brighten their week.

The initiative, called Mowgli Magic, will see the Cheltenham restaurant gifting experiences or treats to people across the area who are most in need of a boost. It might be a loved one who has recently had a tough time, or someone who always puts others first and deserves some extra kindness.

At a time when many people across the UK are facing challenges, the initiative aims to spread kindness and positivity to those who need it.

Locals are encouraged to share their stories, and each week over the next month, Mowgli Cheltenham will select one local nominee to receive a personalised gift – a gesture designed to bring light and happiness to someone’s week.

The nationwide initiative –which is headed up by Mowgli’s founder, Nisha Katona MBE – is about recognising the strength of the people around us, celebrating community spirit, and encouraging moments of light when they’re needed most.

Ewelina Knapik, General Manager at Mowgli Cheltenham, said: “Mowgli has always been about enriching the lives of the communities around us, and Mowgli Magic is born from that. Times are hard for a lot

of people at the moment, and we really care about our customers. My team and I are hoping we can make

someone’s day a bit brighter by doing something special for someone who needs a bit of kindness.”

Cheltenham residents can submit nominations via the Mowgli Magic webpage, sharing the story of someone they feel deserves this special gift, and each week for the next month, Mowgli will reach out to the deserving recipients.

Mowgli Street Food was born to show the world how Indians eat at home and on their streets. Founded in 2014 by barrister-turnedrestaurateur Nisha Katona MBE, Mowgli is known for its fresh, vibrant and bold dishes, served in glowing interiors adorned with fairy lights and its iconic swing seating.

Find out more about Mowgli Magic on the website: www.mowglistreetfood.com/ mowgli-magic/

Bishop’s Cleeve Care Home residents overjoyed at Shetland ponies’ visit

TWO adorable Shetland ponies brought smiles, laughter and a touch of spring magic to a Cheltenham care home during a truly unforgettable visit.

Residents at Bishop’s Cleeve Care Home on Ruby Avenue were thrilled to meet Lollipop and Moomin as they trotted in to say hello during a heartwarming day of fun.

The duo from Lollipop Pony Parties initially met residents and their loved ones in the home’s garden, where the bright spring weather lifted everyone’s spirits.

However, Lollipop and Moomin didn’t stop there, taking a tour of the Advinia Healthcare home’s lounges before popping into some residents’ bedrooms to say hello.

Resident Angela, 94, said: “It’s been absolutely wonderful, and to finally see a small horse up close like this… well, in my younger years I probably would have tried to ride one of themnot very well, mind!”

The joyful day was the

brainchild of Wellbeing Coordinator Terri Rowles, who was inspired by a conversation with residents about new activities they’d like to try.

She set about arranging the animal encounter as part of the wellbeing programme ‘B Happie’, in which team members focus on creating meaningful and uplifting experiences for residents.

Delighted residents, relatives and colleagues agreed that the entire experience had been a real

treat.

Deputy Manager Ema Lemos said: “There was such an incredible energy throughout the home. You could feel the excitement building from the moment they arrived, and it carried on all afternoon.

“Seeing our residents, families and team all come together, laughing and enjoying something so different - it really was a fantastic event and one we’ll be talking about for a long time.”

Cheltenham Jazz Festival announces partnership with DEYA Brewery to celebrate 30th anniversary

CHELTENHAM Jazz

Festival (29th April-4th May) is thrilled to announce a new 3-year partnership with DEYA Brewery for 2026, celebrating the Festival’s 30th anniversary with bold sounds, fresh talent and great beer.

Marking the next chapter of the internationally renowned jazz festival, the Partnership will bring the newly-named DEYA Arena to life with genre-defying artists and high-energy performances across the May Bank Holiday weekend.

To commemorate this special collaboration, DEYA is brewing a limited-edition beer to celebrate 30 years of Cheltenham Jazz Festival and to toast to its future – a first for the Festival.

Festival-goers will also be able to enjoy DEYA’s official bar in the standing venue, serving up their delicious brews in an expanded 900capacity Arena in the Montpellier Gardens Festival

Village.

Co-CEO and Head of Programming at Cheltenham Jazz Festival, Ian George said:

“We’re thrilled to be collaborating with DEYA Brewery, bringing two Cheltenham institutions together to create an unforgettable Festival experience for our audiences.

From the DEYA Arena stage to the Big Top to our PAC programme, it’s going to be a birthday celebration to remember as we celebrate turning 30 years young with

music, community and of course, great beer.”

Theo Freyne, CEO DEYA Brewing Company, said: “We are so excited and proud to be partnering with the incredible, internationally revered Cheltenham Jazz Festival. Gorgeous DEYA beer will be pouring across the Festival bars and there will be a specific DEYA Arena and a one-off collaboration beer to celebrate. This is a dream partnership for us and our beloved customers in Cheltenham.”

My reflections on Gloucestershire’s new Anti-Social Behaviour Action plan

OVER the past few years as your Police and Crime Commissioner, one message has come through to me loud and clear: antisocial behaviour isn’t just an inconvenience, it chips away at people’s everyday sense of safety and quality of life. That’s why I’m genuinely pleased to share that Gloucestershire Constabulary has now published its comprehensive Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Action Plan, a clear step forward in how we support our communities.

I’ve long said that tackling ASB must be a core priority for our county. It forms a central part of my Police and Crime Prevention Plan, and it is also one of the expectations set out in the Government’s Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee. Under this national commitment, every police force in England and Wales now has a dedicated ASB lead.

By Chris Nelson Police & Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire

My Office and I have extensive knowledge of the make-up of anti-social behaviour. If you’re an avid reader of these columns you would have read only a few weeks ago my piece on Anti-Social Behaviour Case Reviews. These reviews give people stuck in the cycle of ASB someone to represent them and to bring all relevant agencies together to solve a problem. This is a function that is run from my Office, as we have convening powers to bring these people together, ensure responsible agencies are acting accordingly and that we share best practice.

A few things stand out to me most in this ASB Action Plan, in particular, how deeply it is rooted in the real concerns of the people who live here. It shows that we’ve been listening, whether it’s

through neighbourhood meetings, casework, data, surveys or the many conversations I have with you across the county. Those voices have shaped the five key themes at the heart of the strategy: victims, community, partnership, suspects, and location.

I’m particularly encouraged by the victimfocused approach. Ensuring people receive timely, consistent updates and that we understand who is most vulnerable is vital. ASB may not always make headlines, but it leaves real emotional scars, especially for those who experience it repeatedly.

If you’d like to explore the full ASB Action Plan and what it means for your area, it’s available now on the Constabulary’s and the OPCC’s website.

New Tesco opens on Cheltenham Promenade

TESCO has opened a new Express store in Cheltenham, bringing a range of food-togo options and community support initiatives to the town centre.

The new Cheltenham Promenade Express opened its doors for the first time on the morning of Thursday 2 April, with colleagues eager to welcome customers inside. The store is located on Cheltenham Promenade, on the corner of Imperial Lane.

Among the features on offer are a wide range of food-togo options, a bakery section, InPost lockers and a Costa Express machine available on site.

Store manager Dan Larner said: “I’m really looking forward to building a brand new team and helping colleagues grow into confident, skilled members of the store. No day in a Tesco store is ever the same, and that pace motivates us to always find the best ways to serve our customers. We’re excited to become part of the Cheltenham community and to offer great service from day one, as well as support local groups through our community programmes.”

Local schools, registered charities and not-for-profit organisations supporting children and young people are also being invited to

apply for up to £1,500 for causes that improve access to healthy, nutritious food.

This could include breakfast or holiday clubs, cooking or gardening initiatives, providing fruit or healthy snacks for a sports club, or projects that build life skills, confidence and wellbeing.

The new store is also participating in the Community Food Connection scheme, which redistributes surplus food to charities and

community groups from every Tesco store at the end of each day.

Since its launch in 2016, the Tesco Community Food Connection scheme has donated more than 145 million meals to charities across the UK.

The scheme is run in partnership with food redistribution charity FareShare. Each month, more than one million meals’ worth of food are donated across the country.

Abandoned cats given a second chance

ANIMALS find themselves at Cheltenham Animal Shelter for a variety of reasons.

Some pets arrive because their families have had a change in circumstances and can no longer provide them with the care they need, while others, like Brie and Ritz, are brought in as strays.

At the end of March, a delivery driver from Birmingham was taking his lunchbreak in a local layby when he spotted a bin bag moving by the roadside. Upon investigation, he was shocked to discover the bag contained two female cats

By Katie Bevan

(one of which was heavily pregnant) and three tiny kittens.

Unfamiliar with the area, he quickly searched online for nearby rescue centres, secured the cats and kittens into cardboard boxes with air holes, and drove them to Cheltenham Animal Shelter where they are now receiving love and support from our team. The Shelter is currently caring for over 30 cats ensuring they are kept warm, safe and comfortable until they are ready to find their forever

homes.

On arrival, Brie had sore eyes and required daily eye drops for two weeks. This has now cleared up and a follow up vet appointment has given her a clean bill of health. Her three kittens, Colby, Edam and Feta are thriving and putting weight on well. They are learning to walk and gaining confidence exploring their pen.

Ritz gave birth to six kittens at the beginning of April, very sadly three have since died. With strays, little is known about their medical history, and the kittens can be vulnerable. Ritz and her remaining three kittens are now doing well,

they are still very young and dependant, but they are feeding and steadily putting on weight.

Despite being found abandoned, both Brie and Ritz are very affectionate and calm. Brie was comfortable having her eye drops put in and has been very relaxed at her vet appointments.

Dance, Dine and Make a Difference

One of the ways the Shelter raises money to be able to provide food, comfort and essential medical care to homeless animals, like Brie, Ritz and their kittens is through fundraising events.

On Friday 5th June, we’re delighted to be hosting a special Summer Ceilidh in celebration of our 100-year anniversary. Join us for a memorable evening of live music, dancing, and delicious food at the beautiful Tithe Barn in

Bishop’s Cleeve. When you, your friends and family purchase tickets, you will be making a real difference to the lives of animals. Please purchase your tickets to this fun-filled evening on our website or by scanning the QR code.

Recipes Steph Williams

Pork Medallions with Whisky Cream Sauce

Join me in this easy way to create a luxurious starter or elevated supper dish. This decadent boozy sauce will hit the sweet spot for an impressive meal. It’s a nice break from the typical Chicken or Steak and honestly gives Pork the spotlight as it deserves on a weeknight dinner! Perfect... and I mean perfect with a juicy fillet of meat and some greens. There is just something so filling, satisfying and indulgent about a cream sauce. Altogether, it’s an easy, crowd-pleasing, 10minute dinner accompaniment, containing only 0.5g Carbs.

Ingredients Serves 2

• 30ml Whisky

• 80ml Double Cream

• 1/2 teaspoon Cracked Black Pepper

• 30ml Chicken Stock

• Herbs to garnish - Fresh Thyme here

• 6-8 Pork Medallions

• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil

Instructions

l Crush your Peppercorns if not already bought that way, using a pestle and mortar.

l Add to a shallow pan all the ingredients but the booze and bring to a boil for around 20 seconds.

l Reduce to a medium heat and pour in the Whisky and continue cooking for 3 more minutes.

l Let stand and remove from the heat for 1 minute.

l Pan fry the Pork Medallions in 1 tablespoon Oil, evenly on each side on a medium-high heat. The time will depend on their size but a few minutes each side to start with is wise and judge it from there.

l Garnish with chopped herbs and serve!

Recipe notes Serve this sauce with juicy meats, low-carb veggies such as Kale, Spinach, Green Beans or Broccoli. I am absolutely no whisky connoisseur, so won't recommend one. Personal preference at the end of the day! Use half a stock cube as you aren't making a huge batch. It'll be too strong and salty otherwise.

Carrot & Orange Sauce

This sauce has a bright natural sweetness to it from the fruits and veggies, then come the layers of flavour from the thyme and stock. Enjoy with gamey meats like duck - Duck and orange are a delicious pairing, a delightful combination with big flavours that is sure to please any dinner guest. The slight acidity of the Fruit cuts through the richness of the gamey meat. This recipe should take you around 15 minutes to make and contains around 10g of net carbohydrate.

Ingredients

Serves 2

• 1 medium Carrot

• Juice and pith of 1 Orange

• 80ml Vegetable Stock

• 1/4 teaspoon Thyme

• Salt & Pepper to taste

Instructions

l Dice the Carrot into small 1cm chunks.

l Add all ingredients to a small saucepan, bring to the boil, then simmer on a low to medium heat for 10-12 minutes until soft and the liquid is reduced by around 50%.

l Blend until smooth and serve.

Recipe notes

You may need to add a splash of water at the end before blending to ensure smoothness. Make sure to only use half a stock

or it'll be far too salty.

Jazz Festival star-studded line-up

CHELTENHAM Jazz

Festival will celebrate a major milestone in 2026 as it marks its 30th anniversary with a landmark programme featuring international headliners, genre-defying collaborations and one of its most ambitious line-ups to date.

Running from Wednesday, 29th April to Monday, 4th May, 2026, the six-day festival will once again transform Cheltenham into one of Europe’s leading destinations for live jazz and contemporary music, welcoming global stars, acclaimed innovators and the next generation of emerging talent.

As the festival reaches its 30th year, organisers say the anniversary edition will honour its rich legacy while firmly looking to the future. Over three decades, Cheltenham Jazz Festival has become synonymous with world-class performances, bold programming and a commitment to nurturing new voices alongside internationally recognised artists.

A key highlight of the 2026 celebrations is the appointment of double Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Corinne

Bailey Rae as Guest Curator. Taking over from Gregory Porter, she will help shape the artistic direction of the festival over the next three years and curate a series of special performances. Her involvement coincides with the 20th anniversary of her debut album and signals a new creative chapter for the event.

The anniversary programme also includes a major orchestral tribute to jazz legend Miles Davis, with the

Guy Barker Big Band and BBC Concert Orchestra presenting Miles Davis Symphonic: Kind of Blue, marking 100 years since his birth.

Across the Big Top, the newly expanded DEYA Arena, the Parabola Arts Centre and venues throughout the town, audiences can expect a packed schedule of performances spanning jazz, soul, funk, blues and pop. Headline names include Jessie J, Van Morrison, Joss Stone,

REVIEW: Midsomer Murders –

The Killings at Badger’s Drift

ONE of the many things that Britain is proud to boast is the quintessential village. A romantic idyllic chocolatebox image of nostalgic bygone days. But visit Midsomer if you dare.

Enduringly popular is the genre with deadly crimes in tranquil settings. It works every time, think St. Mary Mead and Miss Marple for example.

Midsomer has lasted the test of time with nearly 30 years of success. How will it do on stage?

The story begins as Lucy Bellringer refuses to believe her best friend has died naturally and spares no time in instructing Inspector Barnaby and Sergeant Troy in her mission to get justice for the beloved teacher.

Originally, John Nettles already a well-established TV copper played DCI Barnaby and Daniel Casey his Sergeant. In this theatre production Daniel Casey takes

By Ruth Carr

up the role of Inspector.

The twists and turns kept me wondering as the motives not to mention death toll keep piling up. Who did it?

The supporting cast are fantastic at playing multiple roles and their flexibility shines in each character.

The Rainbirds are an outrageously camp and over exuberant mother-and-son duo who would put John Inman to shame.

Adapted well for stage, this production has just the right amount of humour in order to entertain without losing the show’s winning ingredients. Remember, Midsomer does not take itself seriously. In one episode, Martine McCutcheon played a character who died when she was crushed under a giant wheel of Midsomer Blue cheese.

For all die-hard Midsomer fans, it truly is in keeping just

with a bit of pumped-up stagey humour that is most definitely tongue-in-cheek.

The Everyman hosted an Audio Described performance of The Killings at Badger’s Drift, in which blind and visually impaired patrons can enjoy the show with the aid of a personal headset, through which a description of the show is relayed by the fantastic Audio Describer Francesca.

A touch tour is available prior to the performance. We are taken onto the stage for a unique experience for VIP’S (visually Impaired people and their companions) to get a feel for the show.

VIP’s do not miss those funny moments that are highly visual as we have Francesca to keep us in the loop. There is a good smattering of interactive humour where the actors break the fourth wall and look directly into the audience. Even some of the scene changes are full of fun.

Wind & Fire Experience by Al McKay, 10cc, Nigel Kennedy, Jack Savoretti, ABC, Jalen Ngonda and James Morrison, alongside leading jazz innovators such as Joshua Redman, Makaya McCraven, Bill Frisell, Lady Blackbird and Eyvind Kang.

The UK jazz scene is strongly represented with Courtney Pine, Emma-Jean Thackray, GeorgiaCécile, Gotts Street Park, Nectar Woode, Gentlemen’s Dub Club and Blue Lab Beats, while international acts include Roberto Fonseca,

The Brewery Quarter Brings Free Live Music to Cheltenham Jazz Festival Weekend

THE Brewery Quarter will host two afternoons of free live music on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 May as part of Cheltenham BID’s Around Town sponsorship, bringing a festival atmosphere into the heart of the town.

Cheltenham’s Jazz Festival buzz is set to spill into the town centre this May bank holiday weekend, with outdoor performances across both days offering visitors even more chances to enjoy the celebrations.

Running from 1:30pm to 6:15pm each day, the programme will feature a mix of jazz, funk, soul and vocal performances from a range of talented acts.

A highlight of the weekend will be the outdoor seating area, with tables and chairs positioned directly in front of the stage, and outdoor service available courtesy of Flight Club throughout the performances, creating the perfect spot for visitors to enjoy drinks, food and live music in the open air.

Saturday 2 May Line-Up 1:45pm - 2:30pm Josh Hicks 2:45pm - 3:45pm

Jack Macs Funk Pack 4:00pm - 5:00pm Royal Birmingham Conservatoire 5:15pm - 6:15pm Easy 3

Sunday 3 May Line-Up

1:30pm - 2:30pm The Cash Cows 2:45pm - 3:45pm i-Sing Choir 4:00pm - 5:00pm Bass12 5:15pm - 6:15pm Stolen Chocolates

Demelsa Coleman, Marketing Manager at The Brewery Quarter, said: “Jazz Festival weekend is

one of the most exciting times in Cheltenham’s events calendar, and we’re delighted to be part of the buzz this year. The Brewery Quarter will be the perfect place to enjoy live music in the open air, with fantastic performances, great food and drinks, and an unbeatable atmosphere right in the heart of town.” The event is free to attend and open to all, making The Brewery Quarter a must-visit destination for festival-goers, shoppers and those looking to enjoy the long weekend in Cheltenham.

Why your falling energy bill isn’t the win it seems

A drop in the Ofgem price cap may look like relief, but rising infrastructure costs tell a different story. Solar power, meanwhile, is quietly becoming the only home upgrade that pays for itself

YOUR energy bill has gone down. So why does it not feel like a win?

This month’s column is about two things: why your falling energy bill isn’t the win it appears to be, and why solar is the only home improvement I know that puts money back in your pocket year after year.

April brought a welcome headline - the Ofgem price cap fell by £117 to £1,641 for the quarter. But look closer. Most of that saving came from the Government shifting green levies onto general taxation, not from the cost of energy itself coming down. In fact, £66 a year has just been added back onto bills to fund grid upgrades under the new RIIO-3 framework. In real terms, we are still paying around 35% more than we were before the 2022 energy crisis.

Meanwhile, the cost of actually building and maintaining the grid is

By Ian Williams

climbing fast. Copper surged to record highs late last year.

Aluminium is at a three-year peak. Steel, plastics and cement all face new carbon costs since the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism came into force on 1 January. Every pylon, transformer and kilometre of cable needed to modernise our grid costs more than it did twelve months ago - and guess who pays for that? Us, for decades to come. Here is the point most people miss. You do not pay for your electricity when you flick the switch. You pay for the twenty-year infrastructure bill baked into every unit. The April dip is a one-off political adjustment. The trend underneath it is up. Which is where solar changes the game. A properly sized system on a

Cheltenham roof means your summer bills drop to zero - and in the brightest months you are actually selling surplus energy back to the grid through the Smart Export Guarantee. Even in winter, you cut your imports sharply. Within ten years, regardless of the system size you choose, the sums flip. Your roof stops being an expense and starts being cash positive. Now tell me another home improvement that does that. A £15,000 new kitchen depreciates the day the fitters leave. A bathroom refit, the same. A garden redesign, a home cinema, the latest EV charger - all outflows. Lovely, but they cost you.

Solar is the only upgrade I can think of that sends money the other way. Given where the underlying cost of running the grid is heading, independence is not the green choice any more. It is the financial one.

Public Notice Licensing Act 2003

I / we. Cheltenham Saracens Football Club. applied on 20/04/26 for a premises licence at St Peters Community and Sports Hub, St Peters Close, Cheltenham, GL51 9GE, for The Sale of Alcohol on Sunday to Saturday 11am to 11pm

Full details are included in the application held at Cheltenham Borough Council. The application has been made to: Cheltenham Borough Council, Licensing Team, Municipal Offices, Promenade, Cheltenham, Glos. GL50 9SA Email: licensing@cheltenham.gov.uk

The application can be inspected at the Council’s offices from Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm.

Any person wishing to make representations about this application may do so in writing to the above address or via email to licensing@cheltenham.gov.uk no later than 19/05/26.

(date 28 days beginning the day after the application was submitted)

It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application punishable on summary conviction by an unlimited fine.

Money talks Fanny Snaith

What Wine Taught Me About Money

A READER wrote to me recently after one of my emails about inherited money patterns. She'd sat with the question I'd asked - what have you inherited around money that you'd like to give back? - and she came up with her answer. Shame. She was going to give back shame.

But then she said something that stopped me in my tracks. She'd also realised she had the same inherited relationship with wine. "If I take the understanding that it is something I inherited rather than chose," she wrote, "then I can relate to it differently."

I have been thinking about that sentence ever since. Because she's right. And the parallel is closer than most of us would care to admit. 16 months ago, I stopped drinking. Not because I had a problem in the way people usually mean when they say that. I stopped because wine was taking up too much of my mind. That's the honest version. It wasn't that I wanted the blur - it was that the thought of it was running in the background all day long. In the morning, a quiet calculation of how much I'd had the night before. By lunchtime, the little negotiation starting up againwill I tonight, won't I, probably just a glass. And by six o'clock I'd find myself half-hoping my partner Neil would come home with news of a difficult day. Because then there would be a reason to open a bottle, and the decision would be made for us.

Here is what struck me once I could see it clearly: that is exactly how financial anxiety works.

Not just for people who are struggling. For people with good incomes, comfortable lives, savings even. The lowlevel hum is still there. Not loud enough to demand attention. Just persistent enough to drain it. A background noise that runs from morning to evening,

social world adds on top. I was criticised once for not being interested in expensive clothes and fashion. For not caring about labels. I took it personally at the time - as if there was something wrong with me, something that needed correcting. I understand now that what was really happening was simpler: certain kinds of spending were the entrance fee for belonging in that world, and I wasn't paying it. I don't care about it now at all. But I notice how long it took me to stop caring. How deep that kind of social inheritance goes.

surfacing at two in the morning, sitting just beneath the surface of a pleasant weekend, making the whole thing slightly less free than it should be.

I was lucky. For me, the wine was blotting out other thoughts I wanted to escapenot money. But I know for many people it is exactly that. The glass at the end of the day that blurs the edges of the financial anxiety they haven't yet looked at directly. The spending that soothes the same unease it slowly creates.

Wine works exactly the same way as money in another sense too. We don't choose our relationship with it. We inherit it.

I watched how my mother unwound at the end of the day. I absorbed it - not consciously, not with any intention - the way children absorb everything that surrounds them. Nobody sat me down and told me this was what you did when the day was long. It was just the water I swam in.

Money is the same. You inherit the silence around it, or the anxiety, or the ease, or the shame. You inherit the belief that people like you don't talk about money, or that it will always be tight, or that spending on yourself is fine while saving feels dull and pointless. You absorb the rules without anyone ever stating them.

Then there's what your

The important thing - and this is where I want people to sit for a moment - is that inherited patterns don't stay inherited forever. We take them on, and then we practice them. And the more we practice them, the more they become ours. That is not something to feel guilty about. It is simply how the brain works. We wire ourselves, over and over, into habitual ways of thinking, feeling and behaving around money. And because we did the wiring, we can also do the rewiring. Not through willpower or self-punishment. Through intention and attention. Gentle, consistent, honest attention.

The people I most admire with money - and I don't mean the wealthiest, I mean the ones who are genuinely at ease with it, the real magicians - they have done this work. They are conscious, aware, and open to flow. They trust their own decisions. They are generous without fear and careful without anxiety. They are not performing financial competence. They have simply looked at what they inherited, decided what to keep, and quietly let the rest go.

That is available to anyone. It starts not with a budget or a savings app, but with one honest question. What did I inherit here? And is it actually mine to keep?

The impact of rising oil and gas prices

on developed and emerging market economies

Who really loses when energy prices rise?

ENERGY prices are back in the spotlight, and with geopolitical risk once again pushing oil and gas costs higher, some investors are asking quite an interesting question: who feels the pain most – the UK or emerging markets?

The short answer is that emerging markets, taken as a whole, are often more exposed. Energy accounts for a larger share of household spending and industrial costs across much of the developing world, meaning price rises feed more quickly into inflation.

For energy importing countries, higher prices can weaken currencies, widen trade deficits and force central banks to tighten policy just as growth slows.

Unlike the UK, many emerging economies also lack the fiscal firepower to cushion households and businesses with generous subsidies. When energy prices spike, the shock tends to land faster and harder.

But this is only half the story. Emerging markets are not a single trade. A number of large emerging market economies are major energy producers. For them, higher oil and

gas prices can actually improve trade balances, lift government revenues and support currencies, meaning that rising energy costs can be a net positive rather than a drag.

Despite being a developed economy, the UK remains exposed to global gas prices, with electricity costs among the highest in the developed world. Energy price spikes feed directly into inflation, squeezing households and complicating the Bank of England’s path to lower interest rates.

For investors, the takeaway is clear: rising energy prices are rarely a simple risk off story. The real divide is not between emerging markets and the UK, but between energy winners and energy losers – wherever they happen to sit on the map.

Capital at risk. All views expressed are those of the author and should not be considered a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell any products or securities.

To find out how local wealth manager JM Finn could help you plan for long-term care costs, contact your Cheltenham office on 01242 502 808

Businesses brace for rising rates as new system takes effect

CHELTENHAM BID and the Chamber of Commerce have warned that businesses across the town are facing significant increases in their business rate bills, with new invoices expected shortly.

Many firms are likely to see sharp rises, with further increases anticipated over the next three years. While much of the attention has focused on small retail and hospitality businesses, the impact is expected to be felt more widely.

The Federation of Small Businesses estimates that smaller firms could face average increases of more

than 50 per cent over the period, adding further pressure at a time when employment costs are also rising. These businesses play a major role in the local economy, supporting jobs and contributing to the social and cultural life of towns such as Cheltenham, as well as being vital to tourism. However, they are not alone. Office occupiers are also expected to face steep increases under the new system.

The changes, announced in the 2025 Autumn Statement, came into force from April 2026. They include new

rateable value calculations, revised multipliers (effectively the tax rate), and a reduction of, or in some cases removal of existing reliefs.

Despite some later adjustments to reliefs, BID leaders say many businesses are still likely to be hard hit. This has led to renewed calls for the Government to review the system and introduce a fairer approach that supports businesses while limiting the impact on growth and jobs. Given the complexity of the system, the effect will vary significantly between businesses. Owners were urged to review their current

Valuation Office Agency valuation before 31st March, as this may influence the new rateable value applied from April.

From 1 April, businesses are able to appeal their new valuation. Simple cases can be handled independently, though some may choose to appoint an agent. Firms are advised to check credentials carefully, such as membership of RICS or IRRV, and to be cautious of rogue agents charging high fees or making unrealistic promises. Businesses should also ensure they are claiming all available reliefs. Those who

believe they may qualify for additional support are encouraged to contact Cheltenham Borough Council’s rates office.

Reviewing business plans and costs is also recommended, with advice available from accountants, as well as local support organisations including Cheltenham BID and the Growth Hub.

National organisations including the British Chambers of Commerce and the Retail Consortium have called for more extensive reform of the system. The Heart of London Business

Alliance has also put forward proposals for change.

Locally, the Hands Off Our Pubs campaign has attracted attention, while the Federation of Small Businesses has urged the Government to take further action.

Cheltenham BID and the Chamber say they remain in regular contact with Cheltenham MP Max Wilkinson and local authorities, and are encouraging businesses to share their concerns so they can be raised at a national level. Business owners can also contact their MP directly.

TEST YOUR BRAINPOWER Puzzles

1. The evening star is another name for which planet?

2. The sea areas known as North and South Utsire are off the coast of which country?

3. Which tennis player did Jannik Sinner defeat to take the singles title at the 2025 ATP Finals held in Turin?

4. The character of Oberon appears in which Shakespeare play?

5. The currency unit of Hungary has what name?

6. Which best-selling singersongwriter served for six years in the British army, rising to the rank of captain?

7. Complete the name of this book by Nigella Lawson – How to be a Domestic... what?

8. Which musical film links Barbra Streisand, Lady Gaga and Judy Garland?

9. Which famous blue-veined cheese is made in the Lombardy region of Italy?

10. The painters pigment Cerulean is a shade of which colour?

are two miniature five-square crosswords using the same grid –but the letters have been mixed up. You have to work out which letters belong to which crossword.

Place the four signs (add, subtract, multiply, divide) one in each circle so that the total of each across and down line is the same. Perform the first calculation in each line first and ignore the mathematical law which says you should always perform division and multiplication before addition and subtraction.

2. End with a hint (3)

5. Is it a deep crimson colour? (3,3)

7. Arrogant Ruth at university first (6)

9. Unattainable reward, a valuable cup or saucer perhaps (5,2,4)

10. Made fun of tangled nets above (4,2)

11. Pinned down Edward, about to be unwell (6)

13. Gap rapidly starts to appear in the shore (6)

16. Go through new recipe (6)

18. Absolutely nothing on the breakfast menu? (3,1,7)

19. Way followed by a student (6)

20. Coat to take to the cleaners (6)

21. Port in merry England (3)

1. Release from awful curse before end of June (6)

2. Praise, say it louder (4,2)

3. Bird not quite out of breath (6)

4. Dog set about filling food (6)

6. Must escort a travelling youth leader (11)

8. A petrol fire could grow rapidly (11)

10. Shed tears over short outside broadcasts (3)

12. Expected to be paid (3)

14. Norma’s arranged the price of freedom (6)

15. She or I upset the outfitter (6)

16. Bouffant hairstyle on hassock (6)

17. Compel company establishment to get around hesitantly (6)

NONAGRAM

1. Girl’s name (8) 5. Lather (4) 7. Thickening agent (9) 9. Horse’s foot (4)

How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found. Guidelines:

Any word found in the Concise Oxford Dictionary (Tenth Edition) is eligible with the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible).

crab; croak; crook; crop; kora; okra; orca; oscar; park; poor; pork; proa; prob; rack; rasp; rock; rook; sark; scar; scarp; scrap; SCRAPBOOK; soar; sora; sorb; spar; spark; spoor. EQUALISER: CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Patricia; 5 Suds; 7 Cornflour; 9 Hoof; 10 Demi; 11 Slash; 14 Marsh; 15 Unite; 16 Alarm; 17 Shear; 18 Upset; 19 Dress; 22 Ague; 24 Loom; 26 Steam iron; 27 Nosh; 28 Holiness. Down – 1 Push; 2 Roof; 3 Canal; 4 Atlas; 5 Spud; 6 Sediment; 7 Courteous;

Each number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off. Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares.

As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.

SUDOKU

Sport

Civil Service Ladies lift County Cup

CHELTENHAM Civil Service Ladies secured the 2024/25 GFA Women’s Challenge Cup with a 2-0 victory over City of Gloucester, as Jess Brown struck twice in a composed final performance at Bishops Cleeve’s Everyone's Energy Kayte Lane Stadium.

With less than two minutes on the clock, Service captain Jasmine Hart's superb through ball set Brown free. Accelerating behind the defence, Brown's powerful effort from outside the box flew into the roof of the net, leaving City of Gloucester keeper Erin Strahan helpless. It was a perfect start for Maxine Greenwood’s team and for the next 10 minutes it looked like Service could go on to dominate the match. As they used the full width of the pitch and moved the ball quickly, City struggled to get a foothold in the game, although for all Service's efforts they failed to create

any clear-cut chances. As the half progressed, City grew into the match with Service keeper Penny Fletcher being called into action. Despite coming into the game with an injury, Fletcher was equal to everything thrown at her. A combination of her excellent handling and a well-drilled defensive unit ensured City

were unable to get the goal they craved.

At the other end, Service continued to look dangerous on the break. The pace of Hayley Raimist on the right, and Gemma Riley through the middle, caused City problems but the final ball was often missing and Strahan’s goal went untroubled.

With the teams cancelling each other out for large periods, Service went into the break with their lead intact.

The second half started in a similar pattern to the first. Both Riley and substitute Mary-Ann Gittings had chances to extend Service's lead after getting behind the back line, but neither was

able to convert.

While the lead remained a single goal there was always a chance that City would get back in the tie, although the half settled into a pattern of the teams exchanging possession in midfield with little or no efforts to really challenge either keeper.

As the game entered the last 15 minutes, Service finally extended their lead.

Full-back Emily Roberts made a powerful run down the left before sending an inviting cross to the back post which left Strahan and her defenders stranded.

Kaydee Wheeler timed her run perfectly, slotting in from an acute angle.

Wheeler’s first-time strike looked effortless, masking the skill needed to control and direct a ball moving at pace.

Within minutes it was nearly three. Riley’s strike was heading for the top corner before Strahan’s flying fingertip save diverted

the ball past the post. City weren’t giving up, however. While Strahan was pulling off heroics at one end, Fletcher was stubbornly refusing to be beaten at the other. After keeping out City’s top scorer Kacie Anderson with a fine save in the first half, Fletcher once again denied Anderson as she looked to halve the deficit.

As the clock ticked past the 90-minute mark, Service put the tie to bed. While Service captain Hart put in a Player of the Match performance, working tirelessly to keep City at bay, it was Brown who had the first, and indeed the last, say. Her first goal set Service on the road to victory, her second added panache to the result. Collecting the ball 25 yards out, she looked up before elegantly lofting the ball over Strahan into the roof of the net. It was a fitting end to a wonderful advert for the women’s game locally.

Mitre’s drop out of play-off spot

TWO disappointing results for Bishops Cleeve have seen the Mitres drop out of the play-off places, with a final-day miracle required to see them leapfrog Shaftesbury, who currently hold the final spot.

Paul Collicutt’s side require a 12-goal swing to claim fifth, with a big win needed at Bideford and a heavy loss required from Shaftesbury at home to Exmouth.

The week started with a Monday night trip to Swindon Supermarine in a fixture rescheduled from Valentine’s Day, but it ended up a night to forget as they fell to a 3-0 loss at the Imagine Cruising Stadium. The damage was done early on. The result looked clear from the start, with Supermarine capitalising on a stretched back line and hitting the ball wide to the left at every opportunity. This fashioned their first chance, with a low ball across the pitch followed by a low shot to the right, well saved by Lewis Clayton after just five minutes.

By Ben Ware

saw it fly towards goal, but it was tame enough for the keeper to chest down. With this came the end of a disastrous opening half.

A change of shape instantly made the Mitres the better side. Three changes saw Joe Jeremiah, Will Turner and Toby Holland take to the pitch and shore up the back line, provide attacking opportunities and take control of the midfield.

Unfortunately, it proved to be one of those days in front of goal.

The early danger came to fruition in the eighth minute, an unmarked header, a goalmouth scramble, and an early opener via the foot of Brad Hooper, who tapped in from close range. Clayton was forced into another save in the 16th minute as the home side cut in from the left and shot to the right, before being called into action again two minutes later as he rushed out to slide in and clear the danger.

The second goal came in the 22nd minute and was of Cleeve’s own doing. Supermarine played the ball around the back line, with the Mitres only able to put it out for a corner, but Hooper was there again to find the net at the far post.

With the danger ever present, they succumbed to a third goal just after the halfhour mark. Supermarine broke down the left again, missed a header at the cross, but recycled the ball and scored with little opposition.

Jonny Asamoah curled it across goal and into the far corner.

Cleeve’s next sight of goal, using the term loosely, came when Zack Kotwica slid in to win the ball on halfway and

Jay Malshanskyj fed Noah Rubio on the edge of the box, but his shot was saved in the 51st minute. Harry Williams then charged forward in the 55th, his wellplaced shot saved again. The onslaught did not stop there as a big save denied Malshanskyj from close range after more good wide play from the Mitres, with brave defending denying Rubio the rebound in the 61st minute.

The 71st minute brought a brilliant run from Jeremiah, the right back dancing through the Supermarine back line before passing to Williams, who could not shoot as the ball got stuck under his leg in a muddy goalmouth. The final opportunity came two minutes from time as Holland, a standout on the night, crossed towards Williams, whose run was just too early and saw the ball fly just above his head.

Supermarine retained their clean sheet in a goalless second half, and the play-off advantage was squandered.

Saturday then became allimportant as the Mitres travelled to Falmouth Town, with a win able to put them level with Shaftesbury going into the final day, but it was not on the cards. Goals from Oscar Massey, Harrison Jewel and Oliver Walker sealed a second consecutive 3-0 loss for Cleeve and scuppered any real hopes of success, though the season can still end on a high in Tuesday’s GFA Senior Challenge Cup final at Forest Green Rovers.

Bishops Cleeve Ladies just one point off the title

BISHOPS Cleeve Ladies Development find themselves only one point away from securing their first-ever league title in just their second season in existence, with a nine-point lead at the top of the Gloucestershire County Women’s Football League Division Three.

With just three games left and nine points to play for, the Ladies Devs require only a draw from their game against eighth-place Tuffley Rovers at Winchcombe School on the 26th of April (14:00), while second-place AEK Boco Ladies Development travel to seventh-place Bristol Ladies Union. AEK Boco dropping points can also secure the title.

The side has the chance to secure a league and cup double when they run out in the final of the Sue Henson-Green Cup at Cirencester Town on the 17th of May. Cam Hunter’s side face Lydney Town of Division Four, looking to repeat last season’s heroics, which saw the Mitres beat runaway Division Three champions Ellwood 5-0 at the same venue.

Gough hat-trick as Cleeve Ladies cruise to eight-goal victory

BISHOPS Cleeve Ladies made no mistake in beating Bristol and West at Kayte Lane on Sunday, as the sides lined up for the third time this season.

The game finished as an 8-0 win for the Mitres, who won the reverse fixture in November but lost 3-1 at the same venue in the League Cup. Leonie Gough netted a hat-trick and Nia GearyAndrews a brace, with Becca Harris, Leigh Mitchell and Alice Jackson also on the scoresheet.

The action started almost immediately, with GearyAndrews meeting a good cross at the back post in only the third minute, but her effort flew over for a goal kick. This did not dwell on minds for long, however, as three minutes later Harris gave her side the lead with a great strike into the top-left corner. She was put into a good position by an excellent

By Dan Brian

Lauren Peck through ball, but this took nothing away from a fine finish.

With 11 minutes on the clock, Harris was again causing problems down the right-hand side, this time being played through by Belle Torrington. She managed to get a shot away but was kept out by the Bristol and West keeper.

In the 14th minute, GearyAndrews doubled the Mitres’ advantage, making up for her earlier miss as she finished past the goalkeeper from the opposite side of the box. Torrington picked up a welldeserved assist and Cleeve were looking comfortable. With 25 minutes gone, Geary-Andrews was involved again, playing the ball across the face of goal where Gough was waiting. Good defending,

however, prevented a third.

In the space of a minute, Bristol and West had two efforts on goal, with one off target and one on target, but neither found the back of the net. This came back to haunt them in the 42nd minute, as substitute Mitchell nodded home a third for the hosts with a brave header.

Cleeve were not done with the first half yet, as Jackson won the ball back in midfield, rounded the goalkeeper and finished in the first minute of injury time.

The hosts started the second half as they ended the first, positively. Geary-Andrews was causing trouble down the left again, this time cutting it back for Immy O’Brien on the edge of the area, whose effort bounced off the bar and behind for a goal kick.

A good save from the Bristol and West keeper in the 53rd minute kept O’Brien out again, before further saves in

the 58th and 65th minutes denied Geary-Andrews. Two minutes later, however, she grabbed her well-deserved second, arriving at the back post at exactly the right moment to put the game to bed.

Cleeve were far from done, and Gough’s curling effort past the goalkeeper with just under 20 minutes to go proved exactly that. She added her second soon after from a similar position, firing against the post and watching it roll over the line as Cleeve’s advantage increased to seven. With just over five minutes left on the clock, Gough completed her hat-trick, scoring with another calm finish from inside the box. With eight goals on the scoresheet, the referee blew the full-time whistle, meaning Bishops Cleeve walked away with a very impressive and highly respectable 8-0 victory.

—

Cheltenham football league round-up with Rob Morrison

IT’S a frenetic spell for the Cheltenham League as the season surges towards its climax, with promotion races, title battles and cup commitments colliding across all three divisions.

In the Premier Division, momentum has suddenly shifted in dramatic fashion. Back-to-back defeats for title favourites FC Wickhamford have thrown the title race wide open after what had looked like an almost unassailable position.

Going into last weekend’s trip to Cheltenham Civil Service, Wickhamford were firmly in control, still unbeaten in the league deep into April. But their remarkable run finally came to an end as player-manager Stu Midwinter struck again to help Service secure a 3-1 victory and hand the chasing pack renewed hope.

If that result raised eyebrows, what followed sent shockwaves through the

division. Wickhamford were comprehensively beaten 5-1 by a strong Tewkesbury Town Reserves side, inspired by a Scott Jordan hat-trick. The emphatic win moved Town to within three points of their rivals, with a game in hand, and transformed what looked like a minor stumble into a full-blown wobble.

Town have shown no signs of slowing down. A draw with Montpellier followed, before a ruthless 12-2 demolition of Charlton Rovers at the weekend. That result propelled them a point clear at the summit, albeit having played a game more than Wickhamford. With the two sides set to meet in the final fixture of the season, the title could yet come down to a winner-takes-all showdown. Wickhamford, meanwhile, were looking for a swift response when they faced FC Lakeside Reserves in the Senior Charities Cup semifinal on Friday night. With

Shurdington Reserves already booked into May’s final after a penalty shoot-out victory over Worcester Forge, there was plenty at stake. Wickhamford led, but Lakeside fought back to force penalties after 90 minutes. This time, however, Wickhamford held their nerve, winning the shoot-out 3-1 to keep their silverware ambitions alive.

Elsewhere in cup action, places in the Junior Cup semifinals were decided. Whaddon United Reserves edged past Montpellier on penalties after a 1-1 draw, while Southside Star advanced with a 3-1 win over Charlton Rovers thanks to two goals from Ryan Brady and another from Ben Plumb. The draw has paired Star with Wickhamford, while Whaddon will face Bishops Cleeve A.

League action continued at the weekend with two Premier Division fixtures. Bishops Cleeve A and Whaddon

Match reports with Pat Cox

United Reserves shared the points in a 1-1 draw, a result that keeps third-placed Cleeve faintly in the title picture should those above them slip up. The goals flowed elsewhere as Montpellier edged Southside Star 5-4 in a thrilling encounter.

In Division One, the spotlight remains firmly fixed on Mickleton Rangers and Shurdington Rovers. With the sides due to meet four times in the final month, their rivalry will decide two cups and the league title. Rovers struck first, claiming the County Cup with a 3-1 victory. Their second meeting, in the league on Saturday, proved far tighter as the sides settled for a 2-2 draw - a result that favours Rangers, who remain five points clear with four games left.

Cheltenham United sit second, though the title now looks beyond reach with just one league fixture remaining.

Nevertheless, it has been a positive campaign for United, capped by County Cup success in midweek following a penalty shoot-out victory over Rodborough and Cainscross Old Boys.

At the foot of Division One, the picture is far clearer.

Winchcombe Town Reserves are mathematically condemned to bottom spot, nine points adrift with only one game remaining. A 6-2 defeat at Tewkesbury Town III marked their 19th league loss of a difficult season.

Division Two is also poised for a gripping conclusion.

Bredon Reserves moved into top spot after a convincing 40 win over Bishops Cleeve B, leapfrogging Cheltenham

Saracens A. They hold a twopoint lead, though have played a game more.

The weekend, however, belonged to Worcester Forge, whose 10-0 rout of Tredworth Tigers III leaves them just three points off the summit with two games in hand. With three fixtures left, the title is firmly in their controlthough this season has shown that nothing can be taken for granted.

At the other end of the table, Leckhampton Rovers Reserves’ 1-0 victory over Montpellier Reserves has left Montpellier staring at a daunting task to avoid the wooden spoon. With four matches remaining, they trail St John’s by nine points.

Saturday 18th April 2026: Cheltenham Town 1 – Newport County AFC 0

THE Robins increased their home winning streak in a hard-fought contest against a lowly Newport team fighting relegation by the slimmest of margins, in a match where the score could have been anything.

As well as hitting the woodwork twice, Newport missed some clear-cut chances and, for their part, Cheltenham were denied by Newport keeper Jordan Wright on a couple of occasions when they should have added to their solitary goal.

Newport started brightly and Sven Sprangler tried his

luck twice from distance in the first 10 minutes but did not trouble Joe Day.

In the 12th minute, the Robins’ first decent attack saw Josh Davison set up Jordan Thomas, but from close range Wright pulled off a brilliant save to keep the score level.

Cheltenham were getting on top and Isaac Hutchinson had a goal-bound shot blocked in the 26th minute. Five minutes later, Town should have taken the lead from a Luke Young corner which was met by Harry Ashfield’s head eight yards out, but he went for power

Tuesday 14th April 2026:

ALTHOUGH they were outplayed for a lot of the match Cheltenham’s fighting spirit saw them gain all three points from a game that they could have been soundly beaten in.

The Robins started brightly enough, and the lively Luke Young fired wide in the second minute just before Jake Bickerstaff forced a save from Glenn Morris.

Two more efforts on the Gillingham goal were diverted for corners firstly from Josh Davison quickly

followed by Jordan Thomas. Against the run of play

Gillingham took the lead in the 18th minute when ex Wolverhampton player Sam Vokes flicked a ball on exposing the Robins’ flat defence and Ronan Hale beat Joe Day putting his shot into the bottom left corner.

This gave Gillingham a boost and the rest of the first half saw them attacking and looking likely to increase their lead and without Day they would have done so. In the 20th minute he saved

and placed it wide. A bad miss.

Robbie Cundy had to leave the fray due to injury, and this seemed to affect the Robins’ concentration as Newport finished the half strongly.

In the 42nd minute, from a Harrison Biggins free kick, Newport captain Matt Baker climbed highest and beat Day but not the crossbar, and the ball was scrambled clear.

From the resulting corner, Newport had two efforts blocked and Day was needed to save from close range.

The first half somehow

well from Armani Little and the very next minute an even better one denied Bradley Dack.

Day was beaten for a second time in the 25th minute by Vokes but the linesman’s flag saved the Robins.

Half time arrived with the Robins lucky to still be in touch.

Gillingham started the second half as they had finished the first, on top and Day was required again in the 51st minute to save from ex-Robins player Andy

finished goalless, with both sides feeling they should be in front.

Steve Cotterill introduced Mo Faal at half-time and, with Newport starting to gain the ascendancy, two more substitutions were made in the 57th minute. Faal tried his luck from 25 yards but shot straight at Wright.

Newport continued to press the Robins and Day then saw Biggins smash a left-foot shot against his crossbar.

Once again, Cotterill’s substitutions proved decisive as Mo Faal

Smith with captain James Wilson blocking the follow up attempt.

With just over one hour gone the industrious Young played a great one-two with newly introduced substitute Mo Faal and picked out the run of Isaac Hutchinson into the box, who finished with aplomb. The Robins’ slickest move of the match deserved the goal.

The next 10 minutes were Cheltenham’s best as they found new energy and intensity pushing forward. Attempts from Harry

produced a great touch and pass to put fellow substitute George Miller through with just Wright to beat, which he did, despatching a leftfoot shot past him into the far corner in the 82nd minute.

Cheltenham controlled the closing stages of the match and a good run by George Nurse saw him set up Hutchinson, whose normal surety in front of goal deserted him as he pulled his shot wide.

A good, open match which the Robins’ fans will be pleased to have taken all three points from.

1

Ashfield, Young and Robbie Cundy were all deflected for corners in quick succession.

With 8 minutes of stoppage time starting the Robins continued to push and once again Steve Cotterill’s substitutions were rewarded when George Nurse’s cross was cleared as far as the advancing Faal who smashed an unstoppable volley past Morris for a magic moment! All three points gained thanks to two great goals and some great Day saves.

Super-sub Miller secures three points with goal

Continued from back page

Robins manager Steve Cotterill continued: “These games that are chucked in for good measure and we have another one chucked in next week. It’s really hard and it doesn’t matter what you do and how well you look after yourself, that pitch out there, the size of it, not just ours but any pitch, can make a coward of you if you are not fit enough to be able to run around it. Our boys have stood up to that today.

“Sometimes when that happens, that lack of sharpness within you is very difficult. You have to be careful not to make too many changes. If you make too many changes, you lose any sort of rhythm you are trying to pick up and any continuity.

“It’s a difficult period we are going through now, but thankfully we have a chunk of it done and we have two more games to go this week, in that period.”

Despite the tough schedule, Cheltenham have had a great week and head into their final few games in a great position. A fantastic finish to a campaign that has seen a lot

of change and mixed fortunes.

Cotterill continued: “In a few moments, with the chances we’ve had, with a couple just wide of the post. I thought the cutback in the second half, we might score from that when it got to Hutch (Isaac Hutchinson). Some good bits of play, but without that freshness or sharpness. They all talk about it, players at the top level talk about it. I saw an interview with Erling Haaland yesterday, talking about having a clear week. That is huge when it comes to any sort of game you are playing at your own level.

Congratulations to the players, they have been magnificent. There was a great crowd here today and I thought our crowd matched their crowd and it was a really good all-in battle today, with sprinklings of good play from both teams.”

Striker Mo Faal did great work for George Miller’s goal. Miller, who deserved to score after his efforts this season through injuries and difficult spells, was clearly elated to add another to his tally, passionately celebrating

with teammates after the finish.

Cotterill praised every striker for his efforts.

He said: “It was really good, great set-up from Mo. I thought Josh Davison did really well in the first half. The only thing was when we lost Robbie Cundy, we lost a bit of size there. No disrespect to Josh, but Mo is probably better in the air. We thought, towards the end of the first half, they started to load our box, sensing that Robbie was off the pitch. That's not a position I want to get into so you have to make a tough decision, like I did at half-time. It hurts me as much as it hurts Josh, but he took it in a brilliant manner, as disappointed as he was and how well he played in the first half. You have to make those decisions and that was a tough one for me because I knew that would hurt him. But if we look at it, I wouldn't say he played as well as he can play the other night, but over the two games, he's done really, really well. He obviously gets to sit out the Tuesday game. That was the reason for starting him again today. Now we

Terrace talk with Will Alder

NEEDING a win to guarantee safety, over 600 fans travelled up to the Midlands to face Walsall at the Bescot Stadium, perhaps most more in hope than expectation. They were duly rewarded with quite possibly our most dominant away performance since the trip to Newport County back in October, particularly the second-half display. Chances were few and far between in the first half and it was actually the home side who had the pick of them. Veteran winger Albert Adomah saw an effort just wide and Daniel Kanu also had a strike deflected onto the bar, with The Saddlers seeming more likely to break the deadlock at this stage. It was a different story after the break though, with Cheltenham taking complete control. George Miller saw an effort wide with just the keeper to beat early in the second half, but soon after this a wellworked corner routine allowed Harry Ashfield to neatly open the scoring from inside the box.

The floodgates then opened as the hosts’ heads began to drop. Isaac Hutchinson produced another moment of magic to waltz through a non-existent home defence and smash home, before Miller added a third from close range.

need to look at how the setup looks for Tuesday night really.”

Cheltenham have recovered well in the league since Cotterill took over. They are now more than safe and enjoying their last few games. Cotterill admits that he is getting greedy though and wants as many points as he can.

He said: “Don't forget, I'll be super ambitious with what I am looking for. I didn't think we needed as many points as we needed. When I was talking to you all that time ago, I thought 44 points would keep us up this year. Then I mentioned it a few weeks ago and thought 43 points would keep us up. Since we've surpassed that, everybody gets greedy. Myself more than anybody. Not everything is going to run smoothly and I know that because I've experienced it. I just think at the moment, a lot of people are proud Cheltonians at this moment in time. I think we've done a really, really decent job of trying to turn everything around and get some wins on the board. It means everything to me, that does.”

Substitute Josh Martin, who has had very limited game time under Cotterill, completed the rout in injury time to send the jubilant away following home extremely happy. This result ended Walsall’s slight hopes for a late push to the playoffs and more importantly meant that we were mathematically safe from relegation with five matches left to play in the League 2 season, which is quite frankly a miraculous achievement given the situation we were in when Steve Cotterill took charge. Cotts was brought in to keep us in the Football League, but he has done so much more than that, he has really given us our club back and I am excited to see what he can do in the summer with a bit more investment from upstairs.

With League 2 football for 2026/7 assured, Gillingham were the next visitors to Whaddon Road. The Gills’ position down near the foot of the table I am sure is a surprise to many given the amount of money that has been spent

assembling their squad and this one was never going to be an easy task. Our job was made more difficult as the away side opened the scoring through the dangerous Ronan Hale, as he found the bottom corner following a Sam Vokes pass. In truth Arkell JudeBoyd should probably have done a lot better defensively in a 1v1 situation and prevented the strike on goal. Following a string of saves by Joe Day to keep us in the game, top scorer Isaac Hutchinson thumped home his 20th goal of the season with a classy finish from inside the box to bring the Robins level after some good work from substitute Mo Faal, setting up Luke Young to then deliver from the right. As time began to run out and with the game seemingly heading for a draw, which we would have definitely taken, Wrexham loanee Faal found himself in the right place at the right time and smashed a sublime volley into the top right corner to seal three points for the Robins, a goal truly worthy of winning any football match. Town then extended their unbeaten run to four games with a 1-0 win over relegation-threatened Newport County at Whaddon Road. We have now not been beaten in the League at home since February and have generally shown a really good level of consistency, with very few poor performances during Cotts’ second spell in charge. The breakthrough came after some more great forward play from Mo Faal, who took down Luke Young’s chipped through ball superbly before playing in George Miller to apply the finishing touch and claim all three points. Miller has had his critics this season, myself included, and his return of five League goals thus far is testament really to the fact that he has quite frankly missed too many chances to be at the level that we would need if we are going to be challenging at the top end of the table next time around. I personally would not renew his contract for next season, and don’t think that he should be our first-choice centre forward going into the new campaign, but if he was offered a new deal as a squad player, this could be a better role for him going forward in my opinion.

Cheltenham Post

Friday 24th April 2026

Robins cap brilliant week with win over Newport

capped off a brilliant week in League Two with a 1-0 home win against Newport County.

Striker George Miller came off the bench to net the only goal of the game after some good hold-up play by Mo Faal.

The goal and three points see Cheltenham take nine points from a possible nine this week after a 0-4 away victory against Walsall and a 2-1 win against Gillingham in midweek.

The Robins had to work hard for their points as Newport fight for survival in League Two, sitting just one point above the relegation zone with two games remaining.

Cotterill praised his players after a tough week, with another coming up. He spoke

Chief Football Writer

about how difficult it can be playing every 3-4 days at this level.

He said: “Yes, hard-fought, that’s exactly what it was, but you are not expecting anything else when you are coming up number one against Newport and they are down there absolutely fighting for their lives, aren’t they, so that was never going to be an easy game for us. With the exertions of midweek also, they’ve had a clear week on us and we’ve seen with results earlier in the day, Barrow getting beaten by Walsall. Walsall have had a clear week, Barrow have had a midweek game.”

Continued on page 31