Cheltenham MP Meets Yorkshire Boss

Cheltenham MP Martin Horwood has met with Yorkshire Building Society boss Iain Cornish to discuss the future of Chelsea Building Society's two Cheltenham sites and 700 local jobs. He has already met with acting Chelsea chief executive Stuart Bernau to discuss the merger of the two building societies which is due to take place next year if approved by their members.

'Once again, I'd like to say how much I appreciate the very open approach of both Chelsea and the Yorkshire' said Martin. 'It is clear that redundancies are inevitable and that staff in Cheltenham are facing an uncertain future but this very early meeting with the Yorkshire's chief executive is a positive sign that they are not afraid to be open and consultative. My impression is that Iain is genuinely committed to discussing the future of Cheltenham jobs before any major decisions are taken. I felt it was important to make the immediate case for people in Cheltenham but obviously the real consultation must be first and foremost with the workforce in Cheltenham themselves. At the moment there is no staff representative body or trade union at Chelsea and I'm very pleased that one of the first steps that has been agreed with the Yorkshire is to elect staff representatives who can be involved in decisions and discussions. Yorkshire have an established independent staff association and I am hoping to meet with them as well as with staff representatives from Cheltenham as soon as possible.'

Martin's discussions with Iain Cornish focussed on the overlap between the two building societies and the future of jobs in the Chelsea's Thirlestaine Road and Charlton Kings sites.

'I was reassured that the senior management at the Yorkshire aren't simply planning to turn Chelsea into a cipher' said Martin. Although they have made clear that only one site will survive and that jobs will have to go, they also appreciate that there are distinctive and valuable features of Chelsea's business that would be lost if it was reduced to no more than a brand name. That makes me more hopeful that a substantial number of jobs really can be saved in Cheltenham. I will continue to press for this to happen and I hope to work closely with staff representatives in Cheltenham as soon as they emerge.'

'I put the case for Cheltenham as strongly as I could. I genuinely believe that Chelsea have an extraordinarily committed and talented workforce and that Cheltenham's unique pool of expertise in marketing, financial services and technology would all serve the new merged building society well in the future.'

Cotswold Male Voice Choir Are Looking for New Members

Rehearsals take place from 13 January 2010 onwards at Dean Close School.

Like to Sing? Join The Costwold Male Voice Choir! The choir is now 60 years old and has a full bookings schedule for 2009 and 2010 - but they need you! They are looking for new members for this sociable, reliable, and experienced Male Voice Choir. They rehearse each Wednesday at Prince Michael Hall at Deans Close School in Cheltenham (chosen for its easy links to all major roads).

1st Tenor (....like singing in tight jeans!)
2nd Tenor (...they follow the tune!)
Baritone (....more volume than the next section!)
Bass (....if you like melody, this is the section for you!)

All sections are welcoming and its great fun to learn the new songs as a team in one unit. Our dedicated committee and Musical Director with brilliant pianist make this group of choristers a joy to sing with. So go on! Give it a go! For more information go to http://www.cotswoldmvc.org/ or call our secretary Paul Hipkiss on 01242 511139.

Meet Your MP Martin Horwood in Cheltenham This December

Martin Horwood is the Liberal Democrat Member of Parliament for Cheltenham. If you need to discuss any matters with your local MP, you can arrange an appointment at his advice surgeries on Friday lunchtimes or evenings. Appointments can be booked by phoning the office on 01242 224889 or e-mailing martin@martinhorwood.net.

You can also meet Martin at various events taking place in and around Cheltenham.


Monday, 14 December 2009
7:30am
Martin has arranged to visit the Royal Mail delivery office in Swindon Road to meet staff and find out about the local operation and how they deal with the huge amount of Christmas mail.
midday
Last week Martin was presented with an award at the Dods Charity Champion Awards – Martin won the Animal Welfare Champion award. He was nominated for this award by Naturewatch, an animal welfare charity based in Cheltenham (in Hewlett Road, next door to Martin’s office). There will be a photo call with Martin, Naturewatch staff and the award, at midday at the Naturewatch office.
5:45pm
Martin is attending the Christmas lights switch-on and singing by 19th Cheltenham Brownies at 50 Hollis Gardens in Cheltenham.

Tuesday, 15 December 2009
3.30pm onwards
Martin is leading for the Liberal Democrats on the Flood and Water Management Bill which receives its Second Reading in the House of Commons this afternoon. In Second Reading, the format is a debate where the merits and general principles of the Bill are discussed by all parties.

Wednesday, 16 December 2009
2:00pm
Martin has been invited to be in the audience for a Key Stage 2 performance of Cinderella at St John’s Primary School in Albion Street.
7:00pm
Martin is going to the local Friends of the Earth Christmas party at St Luke’s Hall in Cheltenham.

Thursday, 17 December 2009
2:30pm
Members of St Matthews Thursday Club have invited Martin to join their Christmas party at St Matthew’s Church in Clarence Street.
6:30pm
Martin is going to the Cheltenham North Rotary Club Christmas Dinner at the Queens Hotel.

Sunday, 20 December 2009
6:00pm
Martin is going to a Christmas Carol Concert at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Thirlestaine Road.

To keep up-to-date with Martin's Horwood's appearances in parliament please visit our website.

December Gigs in Cheltenham

11 December 2009
The Subterraneans at The Front Rooms, 9:00 PM

12 December 2009
Zoidberg, Loungefly & Nights @ the circus at The Two Pigs
Screaming 88s, The Monicans, Coxon's Riot & support TBC at Frog and Fiddle, 8:30PM, £ 5.00
Final Duo at The Front Rooms, 9:00 PM

15 December 2009
The Gannets featuring the Guillemot's Fyfe Dangerfield at Slak Bar, 8:00 PM, £5 in adv £6 on the door

17 December 2009
Open Mic Night at The Front Rooms
Johnny Coppin at the Town Hall, 7:30PM

18 December 2009
Socken, 2 sick monkeys, Joe and the sluts at The Two Pigs

18-19 December 2009
The Downstroke at The Front Rooms, 9:00 PM

24 December 2009
The Subterraneans at The Front Rooms, 9:00 PM

31 December 2009
Red Lemons at The Front Rooms, 9:00PM

Cheltenham MP Is Concerned about Chelsea Building Society Takeover

Cheltenham MP Martin Horwood expressed real concern over the proposed merger of Chelsea Building Society with Yorkshire Building Society and particularly the future of 700 jobs at the Society's Thirlestaine Road headquarters and its Charlton Kings site. The 'merger' announced today promises that the new enlarged Yorkshire Building Society will retain its head office in Bradford, retain only an 'operational presence' in Cheltenham and retain the Chelsea name only as a brand. The merger still has to be voted through by Chelsea members and has to be given the all-clear by the Financial Services Authority which is likely to take place in the new year. The merger itself is likely to take place on 1 April 2010. It will create the UK's second largest building society with assets worth more than £35 billion.

'This had an air of inevitability about it but it is still a sad day for the Chelsea and for Cheltenham', said Martin. 'The Society will remain a mutual organisation and if a merger with someone had become inevitable, then Yorkshire is probably one of the best possible partners, particularly as it is a strong mutual itself and the two branch networks complement rather than duplicate each other. But I have grave concerns about the job losses that are going to result in Cheltenham. This is, in effect, a takeover. I have been assured that there will be a 'significant operational presence' here on top of any branch presence but that this will only be guaranteed for three years and that it will probably be at just one site.'

'I have also been promised a meeting within days with chairman and chief executive Stuart Bernau at which I will raise the future of staff in Cheltenham and also my concerns about the future of Chelsea's community involvement programme which has benefited many local schools and charities, including LINC, Sue Ryder Care, Winston's Wish, Gardner's Lane, Lynworth Primary and Christ College.'

'But there are deeper questions for the society and the mutual sector to answer. How did a building society, supposedly based on strong mutual values, get into such a position of weakness? I was being assured not that long ago that Chelsea's finances were strongly based on retail savings and that it was less exposed to recession than many of its banking competitors. That turns out to have been what could be politely called 'optimistic'. There is little that they could have done about their exposure to the Icelandic bank collapse - many local authorities and other institutions were caught the same way. But that is only part of the picture. Underlying profitability was clearly pretty weak and Chelsea's future looked bleak from the day their credit rating was downgraded by ratings agencies in April, following their public revelation that they were exposed to up to £41m worth of fraudulent mortgage deals. And it's now clear that resulted from the society departing from its traditional mutual values and indulging in risky practices very similar to its banking competitors, including aggressively marketed buy-to-let mortgages, self-certified, sub-prime and high loan-to-value mortgages.'

'I will be asking questions in Parliament about the road that led to takeover and the role of the Financial Services Authority and I will also be seeking meetings with the Building Societies Association and the mutuals organisation Mutuo to discuss the issue. Building societies should have been part of the solution not part of the problem.'

Cheltenham Christmas Lights Switch-On Photos and Video

PHOTOS FROM CHELTENHAM CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH-ON 2009

VIDEO FROM CHELTENHAM CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH-ON 2009

Red Lemons Performing at The Front Rooms

27 & 28 November 2009, The Front Rooms

Fancy a bitter music this weekend? The Red Lemons, a celebrated British soul band, are performing at The Front Rooms on Friday and Saturday night. Famed for their ''funky'' and lively style, the seven-piece group has played for a host of celebrities including Princess Anne, Billy Connolly, David Frost and Jeremy Irons. The band - which includes a rhythm, brass and vocal section - has also performed alongside Chaka Khan, Robert Plant, Blow Monkeys, Edwin Starr and Jools Holland. It even supported the legendary Chuck Berry on a 15-date UK sell-out tour. But The Red Lemons' biggest acclaim is being likened to the Godfather of soul himself, James Brown.

Now the band are coming to Cheltenham to perform at the exclusive music venue The Front Rooms. According to the band's Gloucestershire-based agent, Quality Entertainment, the show will be a memorable one. A statement on the firm's site says: ''This band will have you standing on your seat, dancing in the aisles and finally stamping your feet for more!'' The Front Rooms, dubbed the South West's answer to 'Ronnie Scott's', the legendary jazz club in London's Soho, opened for business last month. Since then, the exclusive 20,000sq ft venue - which boasts two stages, three bars, a VIP area and even a red carpet onto the High Street for customers - has carved a reputation for showcasing the best British talent.

The Red Lemons will perform live sets on both Friday and Saturday nights from 9pm. Tickets cost just £5 and are available from http://www.thefrontrooms.com/, or by calling 01242 571789.

Meet Your MP Martin Horwood in Cheltenham This November

Martin Horwood is the Liberal Democrat Member of Parliament for Cheltenham. If you need to discuss any matters with your local MP, you can arrange an appointment at his advice surgeries on Friday lunchtimes or evenings. Appointments can be booked by phoning the office on 01242 224889 or e-mailing martin@martinhorwood.net.

You can also meet Martin at various events taking place in and around Cheltenham.

Tuesday, 24 November 2009
12.30pm
Martin is meeting with University of Gloucestershire students for a question and answer session, following their tour of the Houses of Parliament.
3.30pm onwards
Martin is speaking in the House on the Flood and Water Management Bill, as part of the Environment day debate on the Queen’s Speech proposals.
5.00pm
Martin is meeting with Lord Adonis, Secretary of State for Transport, to discuss Ultra-Light Rail opportunities for Gloucestershire, along with the Cheltenham Chamber of Commerce.

Friday, 27 November 2009
2.00pm
Martin is visiting Christ College to publicise Natural England’s free maps scheme. In a tie-up with Ordnance Survey (OS), Natural England are offering schools a resource to help teach the art of map reading. The Language of Landscape booklet for teachers will be distributed as part of the national mapping agency’s annual Free Maps for 11 Year Olds scheme. The initiative, which launched on 3 September, will provide every Year 7 pupil with an OS Explorer Map to keep.

Saturday, 28 November 2009
3.30pm
Martin is attending the Winston’s Wish Annual Christmas Gathering at Cheltenham Ladies’ College. This event is an opportunity for families who have been supported by Winston’s Wish to come together to remember the person in their life who has died. The event is a poignant ceremony, where children and their families are able to share their thoughts and feelings and we reflect on the last year at Winston’s Wish.

To keep up-to-date with Martin's Horwood's appearances in parliament please visit our website.

Cheltenham Connect Christmas Craft Fair

4 - 6 December 2009, The Exmouth Arms, Bath Road

A giant marquee will be erected in the gardens of The Exmouth Arms, 167 Bath Road, Cheltenham, to host Cheltenham Connect's first Christmas Craft Fair. A wide variety of local crafts people have been invited to show off their products and skills. There will be lots of festive bunting, mulled wine, a variety of live entertainment and a large Christmas tree to get everybody in the mood. A Santa's Grotto will give the children the opportunity to meet Santa on the Saturday and Sunday afternoons.

Times:
Friday, December 4th, 10am-8pm
Saturday, December 5th, 10am-8pm
Sunday, December 6th, 11am-4pm

The aim is for this to become an annual event, that will bring people from all over Cheltenham and beyond, and Cheltenham Connect will be promoting the idea of 'Buy Local for Christmas' as widely as possible, in conjunction with a "SAMPLES WEEK" hosted by the Bath Road shops. Expect it to be a great experience for all the family! Email karen@cheltenhamconnect.co.uk for more details or visit http://www.cheltenhamconnect.co.uk/.

For information about these and other Cheltenham events please visit our Cheltenham events guide.

Mardy Fridays Launch Night at 13 Degrees Night Club

27 November 2009, 13 Degrees, 10pm

Mardy Fish Promotions proudly presents “Mardy Fridays” at 13 Degrees Night Club, 13 St. Georges Street. Welcome in the weekend with the best live bands from Cheltenham and beyond, from rock to pop via some special acoustic appearances in the terrace bar. Come see why Cheltenham is becoming recognised on the national scene as a hotbed of new musical talent and say you were there first.

Jim Lockey & The Solemn Sun, The Elle Cooper Band, Thrill Collins will be performing from 10pm. Tickets: £3 before 12:30pm, £5 After. For more info email mardyfish@live.co.uk

For more information about this and other Cheltenham events please visit our Cheltenham events guide.

Alex Ward & John Bisset at Xposed Club

20 November 2009, 8pm, Xposed Club, Pittville Studios

Friday 20th will bring to Xposed Club, the monthly live music club at Pittville Studios at the University of Gloucestershire, Albert Road, the guitar duo Alex Ward and John Bisset with special guest Chris Cundy (Bass clarinet and saxophones) and Jade Hamzelou Trio.

Alex and John first met when they were part of the Butch Morris London Skyscraper Tour of England in 1997. They continued playing in the London Improvisers Orchestra, which grew out of the Butch Morris orchestra, and began playing together regularly after Alex moved from Oxford to London in 1999.

It was the combination of two guitars that excited them from the off and they have explored this through their duo Crypt and through the ‘urban surf’ of their band Pocket, as well as in other less regular groups.

Despite their delight in the electric guitar duelling which characterises Pocket, where the roles of lead and rhythm are clearly defined, they found that for free improvisation the acoustic guitars were more satisfying. The occasional gig on electrics somehow didn’t work. In 2008, however, they began adding a third player to the group, and this brought new life to their interactions – their tendency to homogenise made for a strong background for the third player, whilst being disrupted by the unpredictability of the guest.

Christopher Cundy is a self taught musician with a particular interest in improvisation as well as more experimental composition. When he was still in his teens he started out as a street busker, a profession which he still maintains to this day and which compliments his desire to explore music within a changing and urban environment.

He studied Fine Art at Cheltenham art college between 1996-99. Painting and drawing, particularly abstract line drawing, is something that still closely informs his distinctive and open approach to new music techniques be it within a classical, jazz or pop context.

Since 2005 Chris Cundy has been working exclusively as a live performer with Mercury Music Award nominated experimental pop group ‘Guillemots’ (Polydor Records). His collaborations with lead singer Fyfe Dangerfield date back several years. Cundy’s current activity with Guillemots has seen him tour internationally with the band and has featured him in many TV and radio appearances including Top of the Pops.

Jade Hamzelou Trio consists of Jade Hamzelou (electric Harp and Voice) , Graeme Owen (Double Bass) Alan Tocknell (Drums). Jade and Graeme have recently featured as a duo in the Site festival '09 at Stroud Valley Artspace. As a trio with drums, this will be the band's debut performance. Jade has been a singer songwriter on the harp for years and as a soloist opened this year's Faery Fest in Cornwall. The music is upbeat with strong grooves and a light dance feel to it. The unusual line up lends itself to an acoustic setting with a dose of effects and a little grit to it.

Pulp Fiction at The Lollipop Lounge MOVIE CLUB

29 November 2009, Vodka Revolution bar

After the success of the first Lollipop Lounge Movie Club their next night, on Sunday 29th November will bring the screening of PULP FICTION. Hosted by Vodka Revolutions, a large cinema style projector is installed to bring you the screening of the film. The Lollipop Lounge will provide you with ushers, free popcorn and The Lollipop Lounge entertainment. Vodka Revolutions will be offering table service (cocktails/wine/beer while you watch the movie!) and the kitchen will be open to serve pizzas if you fancy eating.

Critics and audiences worldwide hailed PULP FICTION as the star-studded picture that redefined cinema in the 20th Century. Writer/director Quentin Tarantino (Academy Award Winner for Best Original Screenplay, 1994) delivers an unforgettable cast of characters -- including a pair of low-rent hit men (John Travolta and Samuel L. Jackson), their boss's sexy wife (Uma Thurman), and a desperate prizefighter (Bruce Willis) - in a wildly entertaining and exhilarating motion picture adventure that both thrills and amuses.

Tickets only £5.00 To reserve your seats buy now in advance at http://www.ticketingsolutions.com/portal/event/14135

For more information about this and other Cheltenham events please visit our Cheltenham events guide.

Erik Mongrain at The Front Rooms This Wednesday

18 November 2009, The Front Rooms, tickets still available

The guitarist who pioneered the 'lap tapping' technique favoured by bands including Metallica is coming to The Front Rooms this Wednesday.

Erik Mongrain shot to fame in the 90s after laying the instrument on his lap and 'playing' it like a piano. Rather than strumming the strings like most guitarists, he struck them with both hands like piano keys. His extraordinary style became known as 'lap tapping', and won critical acclaim from fans and reviewers worldwide. The 29-year-old became an internet sensation after footage of him playing was posted on You Tube. More than four million people logged on to the video sharing site to see the Canadian in action.

Now Mongrain is heading to Cheltenham's exclusive music venue The Front Rooms as part of a UK tour. The self-taught guitarist, who lives in Montreal, said: ''I can't wait to visit Cheltenham on Wednesday and perform at The Front Rooms. ''It's a fantastic venue and I hope my performance will do it justice!''

Mongrain, who musical influences include Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana, began playing guitar at the age of 14. Having mastered traditional classical, acoustic and electric styles, he began ''experimenting''. These included the little-known 'lap tapping' technique, which sees the instrument laid flat on the musician's lap. Instead of holding a chord with one hand and strumming the strings with the other, he tapped the strings with both hands - as if it were a piano. ''The effect was spectacular,'' he said.

While the style was not strictly new, Mongrain's involvement catapulted it into the mainstream. He went on to release his first CD, 'Fates' in 2007, followed by his second, 'Equilibrium, a year later. Both went on to win international acclaim.

Mongrain will play two 40-minute sets at The Front Rooms tomorrow night, from 9pm. He will be supported by local guitarist and harpist Dale Campbell, whose own career is also flourishing.

The Front Rooms, dubbed the South West's answer to 'Ronnie Scott's', the legendary jazz club in London's Soho, opened for business last month. Since then, the exclusive 20,000sq ft venue - which boasts two stages, three bars, a VIP area and even a red carpet onto the High Street for customers - has carved a reputation for showcasing the best British talent. Next month's big acts are set to an exclusive performance by The Drifters.

For tickets, visit www.thefrontrooms.com or call 01242 571789.

For more information about this and other Cheltenham events please visit our Cheltenham events guide.

Good News for Campaign to Double Swindon to Kemble Railway Line

The Swindon-Kemble rail link was given the green light at a meeting of the South West Region Transport and Infrastructure Board in Exeter. The way is now cleared for the Department of Transport to give the final go-ahead and work could now begin as soon 2011. The scheme to double the track should cost around £50m - of which £20m has already been committed through the South West region. The balance will now come from the £30m originally allocated to the Westbury Bypass improvement, which is not going ahead now.

Councillor Stan Waddington, county council cabinet member for environment, said: "This is very good news for Gloucestershire and a triumph for the persistence of all those people and businesses that have supported our campaign to get this scheme brought forward. Altogether, more than 800 people signed our online petition and another 60 businesses, representing around 10,000 employees, sent letters of support. This was on top of a similar campaign we ran last year, when more than 2,000 people signed an online petition calling for action."

November Music Gigs in Cheltenham

15 November 2009
Frog and Fiddle Blackberry Wood, Thrill Collins 20:00 £31.50

20 November 2009
Pittville Campus Alex Ward & John Bissett + special guest Chris Cundy, with support 20:00 £13/11 conc.
2 Pigs Mr Zippy, Kenisia, Coxon's Riot 20:00 £6/3 conc.
Bacon Theatre Upbeat Beatles 20:00 £3 in adv £4 on the door
Frog and Fiddle We Were Promised Jet Packs 20:00 TBC
2 Pigs Aggressor, Nuck Chorris & TBC 20:00

21 November 2009
Centaur Jools Holland 19:30

22 November 2009
Town Hall Bill Wyman & The Rhythm Kings 20:00

26 November 2009
Frog and Fiddle Dufus, Poppy & friends, Juey 19:30 Free

28 November 2009
2 Pigs Rookie/Error, Kids Can't Fly & Stillbust 20:00 £4/3 NUS

Brendan Cole to Perform in Cheltenham

3 January 2010, Cheltenham Town Hall

Brendan Cole, one of the professional dancers in BBC TV’s ‘Strictly Come Dancing’, announces his first live tour of the UK LIVE and UNJUDGED, performing at the Cheltenham Town Hall on 3rd January 2010. Brendan with his dancers, singers and a scorching band of hip young musicians gives the ultimate modern take on ballroom, up close and personal.

"I'm so very excited! To get the chance to create and perform my passion for dance with a live audience is a dream come true. With music that inspires me, my wish is to share with the audience the emotion and feeling dance gives me and bring performance to a whole new level. The dancers involved are all brilliant in their own right and together we will be bringing our unique talents to the stage to create true dance magic without limitation. I hope that everyone who gets to see the show enjoys it as much as I have enjoyed creating it." said Brendan Cole.

Brendan, the ‘bad boy of ballroom’, and his dancers which include Brother Scott, (three-times New Zealand champion); Latin American professionals Andrew Cuerden and Hanna Haarala (‘Strictly Come Dancing’ series 3). Izabela Hannah (series 3) and Nicole Cutler, former Strictly professional and World Latin American Champion will be staying at Holiday Inn Express Cheltenham.

To celebrate the launch of Brendan Cole’s live tour, the Holiday Inn Express Cheltenham is offering discounted accommodation for zealous fans who would like to attend his show at the Town Hall. The popular Cheltenham hotel is offering rates from £49.00 Saturday 2nd January and Sunday 3rd January for ticket holders (subject to availability). To book contact Kimberley Hatherall 01242 548200 or visit http://www.hiexcheltenham.com/ for more information.

To book tickets for the performance please visit http://www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk/whatson-full.asp?ID=1110

Changes to Bus Routes in Cheltenham Update

Cheltenham MP Martin Horwood has welcomed the Conservative-controlled County Council's u-turn on some local bus services but has asked for an explanation of why the threatened W bus service is still facing the axe. And he wants an explanation for why Cheltenham was singled out for the cuts in the first place.

Martin said 'We saw significant protests against the axing of the K and J buses and the Conservative administration have obviously seen the writing on the wall and made a welcome u-turn. But the u-turn isn't finished. The biggest protest of all was by residents in the Cleevemount estate against the axing of the W bus service and no mention has been made of saving this service which is a lifeline for many vulnerable and elderly people. Why has their voice not been heard?'

Martin said the administration’s u-turn left other questions unanswered too. 'Why was Cheltenham singled out like this in the first place? No other district in the county was considered for a hit to its public transport like this. They're already neglecting Cheltenham's roads and pavements and making life hell for people on foot, in wheelchairs, on bikes and in cars. Then they wanted to take many of our bus services out as well. It's all very well for my Conservative opponent to celebrate the u-turn but it was his own party that threatened the cut in the first place!'

Local resident Glenda Combe said ‘I’ve sent Gloucestershire County Council over 100 names objecting to the scrapping of the W service. I hope Cllr Waddington will listen to our concerns. The loss of this bus will make life extremely difficult for many elderly residents who will not be able to walk to the suggested alternatives”

Martin is writing to Conservative cabinet member Councillor Stan Waddington to ask him to meet residents still threatened by the bus cuts to explain to them face to face why their services are being withdrawn.

Cheltenham Racecourse Fireworks 2009 Photos and Video

PHOTOS FROM CHELTENHAM RACECOURSE FIREWORKS 2009

VIDEO FROM CHELTENHAM RACECOURSE FIREWORKS 2009

Sinbad the Sailor, A Family Pantomime in Churchdown

10 - 15 November 2009, St. John's Hall, Churchdown

Churchdown's favourite amateur dramatic society St. John's Players are performing Sinbad the Sailor, a pantomime written by local writer Simon Rayner Davis in St. John's Hall, St. John's Avenue, Churchdown, Gloucester, GL3 2DB

PERFORMANCES
Tues - Sat Evenings 7:30pm
Sat - Family matinee 3:00pm
Sun - Family matinee 4:00pm
Tickets £7, concessions £6
Family matinee all tickets £5
Box office 01452 857371


For information about this and other Cheltenham events please visit our Cheltenham events guide.

Text from Your Mobile to Pay for Parking in Cheltenham

The text to park scheme has been extended in Cheltenham for a trial period to all on-street parking bays that are currently pay and display and all off-street car parks under council control. You can now pay for parking from the comfort of your car and don't even have to display a ticket. You can also use your mobile to extend your stay if necessary and be reminded by text when your time is running out. There is a 20p charge on top of the actual parking costs and you get a text message 5 or 10 minutes before your time is up which costs another 10p.

To register for the scheme you need to call 01242 330330 and follow the instructions. Existing users can also text the word "info" to 65565 for instructions on how to pay by text.

Cheltenham MP Shortlisted for Wildlife Champion Award

Cheltenham’s MP Martin Horwood has been shortlisted for a national award for his work on raising awareness of animal welfare issues. Martin has made the shortlist for the Animal Welfare Champion category in the DODS Charity Champion Awards on 8 December.

Martin was nominated by the locally based national charity, Naturewatch, who campaign against animal cruelty and who teamed up with Martin to table Early Day Motion 545 which called for non-animal alternatives to be used in research and testing. This EDM is one of the most successful ever to be tabled in Parliament and has attracted the support of 267 MPs to date.

Recently Martin has worked closely with the Shark Trust after local school pupil Jake Batty alerted him to the immoral issue of shark finning, and how it was still allowed to take place in UK waters. Martin tabled an EDM on this issue and the government has since conceded that the law was wrong and has changed the law as a result of this pressure. Martin has also led the way on other animal welfare issues, tabling EDMs on microchipping of dogs and seal imports from commercial hunts and co-sponsoring motions on other issues such as whaling.

Martin said ‘This came as a complete surprise. I didn't set out to win any awards, I just took up issues that I cared about or that constituents like Jake brought to my attention. I think the voluntary organisations like Naturewatch, RSPCA and the Shark Trust deserve their share of the credit too - we depend on their expertise and research to bring these issues to public attention.'

Dawn Lewis, Campaign Manager from Naturewatch, who nominated Martin, said ‘Martin is truly deserving of the title Animal Welfare Champion. His hard work over a period of many years has ensured animal welfare considerations have remained high on the political agenda. We are enormously grateful for the tremendous support he has provided over the years to our campaigns, and hope that Martin’s invaluable contribution to animal welfare is recognised’.

Christmas Events at The Brewery

Saturdays, 21 November - 19 December 2009, The Brewery

From the 21st November 2009, don’t miss Saturdays at The Brewery. In the weeks leading up to Christmas there will be five amazing free events to get you into the festive spirit. The events take place from 12pm to 4pm at set times.

21 November 2009 - TITAN THE ROBOT

Back by popular demand! Titan the robot is quite literally the biggest entertainer on the planet. The 8ft gigantic robot will be keeping Brewery customers on their toes as he parades through the centre, with unforgettable performances.

28 November 2009 - BJORN THE POLAR BEAR

Don’t miss Bjorn the Polar Bear and his keeper Ursula who will be joining Father Christmas at The Brewery. Bjorn is a life-size, fully animated pod puppet, with a highly skilled performer inside operating all the movements including facial animation. This bear will delight the children as they watch him perform, not at all scary, but very huggable! Two performances will be held between 12 and 4pm - keep a look out on the website for further updates. Father Christmas will also be around througout the day to make sure that children have been good for their parents this year, before he delivers his presents to them.

5 December 2009 - REAL LIVE RAINDEER

Bells will be tinkling as Father Christmas brings two of his reindeer to The Brewery. Come and meet them in person and have photographs taken capturing the essence of Christmas before they join the other reindeer to deliver presents on Christmas Eve.

12 December 2009 - CHRISTMAS LANTERN WORKSHOP & CAROL SINGING

Another completely free activity! A final opportunity for kids to decorate their very own Christmas gift bag and tag. All these events take place at set times between 12pm and 4pm at The Brewery and both children and adults are very welcome.

For information about this and other Cheltenham events please visit our Cheltenham events guide.

Cheltenham MP Comments on Kelly's Expenses Crackdown

Cheltenham MP Martin Horwood has warmly welcomed news that Sir Christopher Kelly's inquiry into MPs' expenses will impose radical changes to the flawed expenses regime. The key recommendation thought to be in the report is the banning of MPs’ claims for mortgage interest on private second homes. In his submission to Sir Christopher Kelly in June, Martin argued strongly that banning mortgage payments would 'at a stroke... prevent all the problems of moats, duck-houses, tennis courts, interior decorators, ‘flipping’, capital gains tax and profiting from public expenditure.' He also argued that, having lost public trust on the whole expenses issue, MPs should accept Kelly's eventual recommendations without question.

Martin said 'If this leak is confirmed, it is excellent news and a real victory for people power and the freedom of the press. I wasn't convinced that Kelly would be this bold in cracking down on the system but if it's true, then I'm delighted. I think this will go a long way to restoring Parliament's reputation by removing any temptation for MPs to claim for private homes. It was a mistake for this loophole to be introduced into the expenses system in the 1980s and it is absolutely right that it should now go. I understand that he is recommending a five year transition period which seems quite generous but I can't imagine many MPs would risk facing their electorate at a second general election while still claiming for an allowance that was being banned.'

Other recommendations apparently to be included in Kelly's report include the banning of any second homes within 60 minutes commuting distance of Parliament and the banning of employment of family members. Martin commented: 'there will be arguments for and against these recommendations, for instance that late night votes might leave some MPs having to claim huge taxi fares or that loyal spouses will effectively be sacked despite doing nothing wrong. It's important that the changes are implemented fairly but the bottom line is that we could have sorted all this out ourselves and we blew it. The public won't tolerate us unpicking the reforms.'

Bath Road Christmas Lights Switch-On

Thursday, 26 November 2009, Bath Road

Bath Road traders hope to attract shoppers this year with a spectacular seasonal display, including 50 Christmas trees decorated with lights. The Christmas lights will be switched on officially on Thursday, 26 November. The shops will be open for late shopping and Santa Claus and Cheltenham mayor Lloyd Surgenor will make an appearance. There will be live music performances, dancing and food tasting.


For information about this and other Cheltenham events please visit our Cheltenham events guide.

Cheltenham Christmas Market 2009

20 November - 6 December 2009, The Promenade

The annual German-style Christmas Market is coming to the Promenade on Friday, 20 November. It will feature newly designed decorated wooden challets, selling a wide range of festive crafts and gifts. Since 2003 when it first appeared in the Promenade, Cheltenham Christmas Market has become a popular Christmas attraction in the region. This year the Christmas market is staying in the Promenade until Sunday, 6 December. Stalls will include Christmas decorations and baubles, unusual and hand-made Christmas cards, wooden carved animals and ornaments, ornaments from Welsh coal, traditional Morrocan lanterns and puppets. You'll be able to buy traditional wooden toys as well as Russian crafts and dolls. There will be musical instruments from around the world, jewellery made from cones and flowers. Refreshments will include French crepes, mulled wine and bratwurst which should keep shoppers warm.

TIMES:
10am – 6pm Monday – Wednesday
10am – 8pm Thursday – Saturday
11am – 5pm Sundays

For information about this and other Cheltenham events please visit our Cheltenham events guide.

Cheltenham Literature Festival 2009 Photos and Video

Cheltenham Literature Festival 2009 ended on Sunday, and as every year brought to Cheltenham many stars. Writers, comedians, actors, directors, poets, journalists, musicians and politicians, have flocked to the Festival, which this year offered over 440 events.

What were your favourite events at this year's Festival? Were they stars of the silver screen such as Robert Vaughn or Judi Dench, or acclaimed writers, such as Graham Swift, John Irving or Sebastian Faulks, journalists, such as Andrew Marr, Gavin Esler or Kate Adie, or comedians, such as Jo Brand, Alistair McGowan or Mitchell & Webb, or perhaps TV personalities, such as Kevin McCloud or Stephen Fry?

PHOTOS FROM CHELTENHAM LITERATURE FESTIVAL 2009

VIDEO FROM CHELTENHAM LITERATURE FESTIVAL 2009

Buccaneer Blades Fencing Course for Beginners

Starting 6 November 2009, Abbeydale Sports Centre

Learn fencing this autumn with BuccaneerBlades, who use a system designed in conjunction with the British Fencing Association to bring safe fencing to 6-19 year olds.

The course lasts four weeks (four Fridays) from 6 November 2009 to 27 November 2009 5pm-6pm and are suitable for ages 8-17yrs. Suitable for beginners to the sport of fencing. This course covers a British Fencing Association approved syllabus leading to a level 1 certificate. Please contact BuccaneerBlades for further details and to request or download a registration form. Numbers are limited to 10 students. Price is £30 per student payable in advance.

For more information visit their website at http://www.buccaneerblades.co.uk/ email liz@buccaneerblades.co.uk or phone 01452 532388, mobile 07774 214830.

Meet Your MP Martin Horwood in Cheltenham

Martin Horwood is the Liberal Democrat Member of Parliament for Cheltenham. If you need to discuss any matters with your local MP, you can arrange an appointment at his advice surgeries on Friday lunchtimes or evenings. Appointments can be booked by phoning the office on 01242 224889 or e-mailing martin@martinhorwood.net.

You can also meet Martin at various events taking place in and around Cheltenham.

Monday 19 October 2009
2:00pm
Martin will be visiting St Catherine’s Surgery, a GP surgery based at the St Paul’s Medical Centre, to find out more about the day to day running of the surgery.

Wednesday 21 October 2009
Along with his colleague Simon Hughes, Martin is leading the main chamber debate in the House of Commons, entitled ‘Government’s failure of leadership in the climate crisis’, from 4pm until 7pm. This is a Liberal Democrat opposition day where the Lib Dems have the opportunity to set the agenda for the rest of the House to debate and to call the government to account.

Thursday 22 October 2009
6:00pm
Martin will be at the launch of Linc’s 2010 calendar at Montpellier Wine Bar. See http://www.lincfund.org/calendar2010_49.php for more details about the calendar and Linc.
7:30pm
Balcarras School are holding their Annual Prize Giving and Martin has been invited to attend.

To keep up-to-date with Martin's Horwood's appearances in parliament please visit our website.

Cheltenham MP Calls for Final Swindon-Kemble Push

Cheltenham MP Martin Horwood, attending today's Gloucestershire Rail Day at the National Waterways Museum, has called on all those involved in business and local government in the county to make one final effort to win the upgrading of the troubled Swindon-Kemble line. This single track railway is a major bottleneck for services between Gloucestershire and Swindon, Reading and London. Redoubling it would deliver more reliable and direct trains from Cheltenham Spa and other Gloucestershire stations.

After intensive lobbying from Martin and other local MPs, transport minister Andrew Adonis has backed the scheme and identified more than £50m of available funding, including £30m from the cancellation of the Westbury By-pass. At today's Rail Day, Network Rail confirmed their support, subject to final funding agreement and cost-benefit analysis. The final hurdle is the green light needed from South West regional authorities.

Martin said 'We have nearly won this battle. Upgrading this line will make both business and leisure travel to and from Gloucestershire easier and much more reliable. It will be good for Cheltenham, good for Gloucestershire, good for business and good for the environment. But we could still lose this vital improvement if we don't pull out all the stops right now. The money is running out fast at national level and this £50 million could evaporate fast if we don't grab it for Gloucestershire. '

Martin also rejected calls to put a new Gloucester Parkway station back on the agenda. 'Parkway is dead in the water and it should stay there. It would damage Cheltenham and Gloucester's current services and lead to more car use not less. I'm pleased that Network Rail confirmed today that it is no longer a supported scheme and not part of their future plans.'

Cheltenham Literature Festival Family Fun Days

Saturday 10 & Saturday 17 October 2009, Imperial Gardens

Imperial Gardens will come to life with free family fun on Saturday 10 October and Saturday 17 October as part of the Cheltenham Literature Festival. On 10 October Big Draw project will be launched with amazing artist and scientist Lizzie Burns. Together with illustration students from the University of Gloucestershire, she will help members of the public to create their very own masterpiece. Punch & Judy make a welcome return, along with face painting, jugglers, stilt walkers and a children will get the chance to learn circus skills. There will also be a bouncy castle and much more, such as outdoor performances from storytellers and poets, and a host of colourful children’s characters roaming the Gardens.

High School Musical at Bacon Theatre Cheltenham

29 - 31 October 2009, Bacon Theatre

Disney High School Musical is the original and by far the best in the HSM trilogy. Stage Experience is a registered charity providing a taste of professional theatre to young people by offering Performing Arts opportunities within a production directed and produced by industry specialists. Cast members receive tuition from professionals (director, musical director, voice coach and choreographer), and experience performing on a professionally designed set, to live music and with the latest in theatre lighting and effects.

High School Musical is a story about two high school juniors from rival cliques - Troy Bolton, captain of the basketball team, and Gabriella Montez, a beautiful and shy transfer student who excels in math and science. Together, they try out for the lead parts in their high school musical and as a result divide the school. Despite other students' attempts to thwart their dreams, Troy and Gabriella resist peer pressure and rivalry, inspiring others along the way not to "stick to the status quo".

This high energy musical is a great for children during the October half term. The feel good songs and energetic dance numbers are great fun for all the family and will have everyone dancing in the aisles. Book now online at www.hsm1.co.uk or call the Bacon Theatre Box Office on 01242 258002. Prices - Bacon Theatre £15 & £11.50, online at http://www.hsm1.co.uk/ £14 & £10.50

Dates: 29th - 31st October 2009
Performance Times: 7.30pm & 2.30pm

For more information about this and other Cheltenham events please visit our Cheltenham events guide.

Cheltenham MP Praised by Green Groups

A national coalition of environmental and conservation organisations - including Friends of the Earth, WWF, Greenpeace and the RSPB - have praised the new Liberal Democrat policy on the natural environment, adopted at the party's recent conference in Bournemouth. And they singled out Cheltenham MP Martin Horwood, one of the co-authors of the policy, in a letter of thanks to party leader Nick Clegg.

The policy paper, Our Natural Heritage, set out the party's position on protecting wildlife and the natural environment, called for increased access to the countryside, tougher penalties for pollution and wildlife crimes, a new anti-waste strategy and an end to nationally-imposed housing targets that threaten countryside across the UK. It was overwhelmingly passed by the party's conference in Bournemouth last week. The letter signed by the chief executives of eight leading environmental organisations described the policy as 'a coherent and credible set of policies on the natural environment; drawing together policies on the landscape, biodiversity, environmental protection and the growing threat that we face from the depletion of natural resources.'

They went on: 'We would particularly like to take this opportunity to express our thanks to Martin Horwood and his team, who took great trouble to consult with the NGO [non-governmental organisation] community throughout the development of these policies, and were receptive to many of the issues we raised with them'.

Releasing the letter yesterday, party leader Nick Clegg also thanked Martin: 'The Liberal Democrats have always been the leading party on the natural environment, and thanks to the tireless and dedicated efforts of Martin Horwood and his team, we have continued this tradition. The new policy paper shows that we as a party are committed to protecting the spaces we live in, and I applaud everyone involved for bringing it to fruition'

Cheltenham Fireworks 2009

Autumn is well on its way and November Guy Fawkes fireworks extravaganza is fast approaching. There is a number of great fireworks displays and bonfire nights taking place in and around Cheltenham.

BIRDLIP SCHOOL BONFIRE AND FIREWORKS
6 November 2009 - Birdlip School

The first bonfire night of this November's fireworks season will take place on Friday, 6 November at Birdlip School. The gates open at 6pm, fireworks will start at 6.50pm. There will be BBQ, Hot drinks, Mulled Wine and most of all safe family atmosphere. Ample parking is available in the field next to the Royal George. Admission: £4 per adult, £2.50 per child, £10 per family.

BISHOP'S CLEEVE PRIMARY SCHOOL BONFIRE AND FIREWORKS
6 November 2009 - Bishop's Cleeve Primary School
The gates open at 6.30pm and the bonfire will be lit at 7.15pm. Tickets cost £4 for adults and £1.50 for primary school children, on the gate.

CHELTENHAM ROUND TABLE FIREWORK EXTRAVAGANZA
7 November 2009 - Cheltenham Racecourse

Cheltenham Racecourse will traditionally host a dazzling evening of musical entertainment, fun packed fairground and one of the largest firework displays coordinated to themed music in the South West of England. This year there will be a musical roadshow leading up to the display by Star FM, a comprehensive fairground set-up and an extensive firework display co-ordinated to themed music and led by DJ Joe Lemer. The gates are open at 5.00pm and the display is scheduled to start at 7.00pm. Tickets: £3 Children (Under 14 Years) and £5 Adults

THE BIG FAMILY BONFIRE NIGHT
7 November 2009 - Leckhampton Scouts HQ, Leckhampton Road

A Bonfire Night is being held at Leckhampton Scouts HQ, Leckhampton Road with fireworks, hot food, licensed bar and lots more. Admission: One large firework or £10 per family. Start at 6pm.

FIREWORKS PARTY AT CIVIL SERVICE CLUB
8 November 2009 - Civil Service Sports Club, Tewkesbury Road, Uckington

The fireworks party at Cheltenham Civil Service club will include including children’s entertainment, a pigroast and bar in the clubhouse. The bar opens at 5pm, the fireworks start at 6.30pm and the children's entertainment at 7pm to 8.30pm. Tickets cost £4 for CACSSA/CSSC members, £5 for non-members when booked in advance and £1 for children under 16. Adults tickets cost £6 when purchased on the day.

BONFIRE AND FIREWORK DISPLAY AT BURLEY FIELDS
14 November 2009 - Burley Fields, Leckhampton Lane

A large firework extravaganza in Leckhampton, Cheltenham with lots of entertainment for the whole family, including disco & live music, small fun fair, fast food serving mouth watering pork baps, burgers, hotdogs and chips with a licensed bar. The fireworks are professionally lit by Sandling Fireworks. Bonfire lit at 7pm, Kids Firework display at 8.15pm with main display at 9.45pm. Tickets: £4 in advance or £6 on the night (limited tickets available) available from Burley Fields Farm shop (Friday 10 am - 1 pm & Sat 10am - 4pm), Leckhampton convenience store and Shurdington Post Office or by Phoning Pam on 07769700067 or Steve on 07831734683. Last admission 9pm.

BONFIRE AND FIREWORK DISPLAY AT ST. EDWARDS SCHOOL
14 November 2009 - St. Edward's School, Charlton Kings

St. Edward's School Bonfire and Fireworks Display is organised by the school PTA. There will be stalls, rides for small children, hotdogs and much more. Gates open 6pm, display at 7pm. Tickets are available from the school or on the gates

More dates to follow soon...

Is your local community or group organizing a bonfire/fireworks night? Do you know of fireworks display near where you are? Please let us know at cheltenham4u@aol.com and we’ll include it in our list.

Cheltenham Healthy Walks

Just 30 minutes a day of brisk walking can have many health benefits. Cheltenham Health Walks is a free health programme organised by Cheltenham Borough Council. So, if you enjoy walking, meeting new people and socialising, have good local knowledge and want to help out in your local community, please contact Rowena Adam for more information on 01242 775202 or rowena.adam@cheltenham.gov.uk. All walks are free and last between 20 to 60 minutes.

WALK TIMETABLE
Mondays: 2pm
Meeting point: leisure@ Cheltenham reception, Tommy Taylor’s Lane
A gentle walk around Pittville Park and the surrounding area
Tuesdays: 10.30am
Meeting point: The Doorstep Café, Hesters Way Resource Centre
A gentle walk around Hesters Way followed by refreshments in the café
Wednesdays:
10.30am
Meeting point: Oakley Community Resource Centre, Clyde Crescent
A local walk around Oakley and Prestbury
2pm
Meeting point: Park Campus (UoG) reception
Come and enjoy the Merestones Meander or the Montpellier Mooch followed by tea and coffee in the refectory.
Thursdays: 10.30am
Meeting point: The Plaisterer’s Arms, Winchcombe
A beautiful walk around Winchcombe taking in Sudeley Castle and the surrounding areas
Fridays: 10.30am
Meeting point: The Vine coffee shop, Church Street, Charlton Kings
Join us for a quiet walk away from the major roads, followed by refreshments at The Vine

Recover Your Stolen Bike

Police in Cheltenham are bringing back regular bike-viewing sessions for people who have reported a theft of their bike. Every month about 20 to 30 bikes are recovered by the police which remain unidentified.

The first viewing will be held between 9am and 2pm on 10 October 2009 and then on every second Saturday of the month. The viewings will be held at Cheltenham Police Station on Lansdown Road. Anyone wanting to attend must bring their crime letter with them, with the unique crime number, which they would have received when they reported their bike stolen.

The best way to reunite with your bike after it's been stolen is to have it security tagged. You can register your bikes on www.immobilise.com, where a secure portfolio of property is created which is added to the National Mobile Property Register and can help recover items which are stolen.

For further information on the work of Cheltenham Town Centre Safer Community Team please visit the Constabulary website at www.gloucestershire.police.uk and go to the neighbourhood policing pages.

Meet Your MP Martin Horwood in Cheltenham

Martin Horwood is the Liberal Democrat Member of Parliament for Cheltenham. If you need to discuss any matters with your local MP, you can arrange an appointment at his advice surgeries on Friday lunchtimes or evenings. Appointments can be booked by phoning the office on 01242 224889 or e-mailing martin@martinhorwood.net.

You can also meet Martin at various events taking place in and around Cheltenham.

Friday 25 September 2009
11:30am
East Glos Tennis Club in Cheltenham are holding a coffee morning as part of Macmillan’s ‘World’s Biggest Coffee Morning’. The event runs from 10am until 12:30pm, and Martin will be going along at around 11:30am.
5:45pm
Martin will be attending the Cheltenham Arts Council annual awards ceremony at the Playhouse Theatre. Please see http://www.freewebs.com/cheltenhamartscouncil/awards2009.htm for more information.

Saturday 26 September 2009
10:45am
Martin will be going along to a Dads Group meeting at the Hesters Way Childrens Centre to meet other dads and their children.
1:00pm
An Eco Fun Day is being held at the Springbank Community Resource Centre. The event runs from 10am until 2pm, and Martin will be arriving at around 1pm. For more information about the event please contact Chris Green at chrisgreen@hwnp.org.uk.

Sunday 27 September 2009
3:00pm
Martin and his wife will be attending a concert by the Cantilena Orchestra at Cheltenham Town Hall. The concert is in aid of the British Heart Foundation and Maggie’s Centres.

Monday 28 September 2009
10:00am
Martin will be spending some time at Greatfield Park Primary School in Cheltenham.
12:15pm
Martin is speaking at the AGM of Third Sector Services, which will be held in the Montpellier Room at Cheltenham Borough Council.
2:00pm
Martin is speaking in assembly at Cheltenham Kingsmead School. He’ll be telling the pupils about life as an MP and how what he does affects the younger generation.
3:00pm
Waitrose in Cheltenham is holding an event to mark the first anniversary of the ‘Community Matters’ scheme. Martin will be speaking about the importance of local charities.

Tuesday 29 September 2009
10:00am
Martin will be visiting Balcarras School to meet with the new A Level politics group and Year 13 pupils.

Wednesday 30 September 2009
7:00pm
Martin will visit Dean Close School to speak to politics students, followed by speaking at a Francis Bacon dinner.

Friday 02 October 2009
9:00am
Martin will visit Arthur Dye Primary School in Cheltenham, where he will join in assembly and then open the new playground and building improvements.
2:30pm
Martin will speak to 6th formers at St. Edwards School.

To keep up-to-date with Martin's Horwood's appearances in parliament please visit our website.

Cheltenham MP Rallies Party Against RSS

Cheltenham MP Martin Horwood rallied his party yesterday to support his plans to protect the UK’s biodiversity and restore its natural environment.

Speaking to party conference in Bournemouth, Martin urged members to support the policy paper, Our Natural Heritage: Policies on the Natural Environment. This policy, among other measures to protect and enhance the UK’s natural environment, would scrap the controversial Regional Spatial Strategy housing targets which are threatening greenfield land around Cheltenham.

Martin said, ‘I am delighted to be moving this conference motion today. Our policy on the natural environment has been widely welcomed by conservation charities and green groups. But for Cheltenham in particular, the commitment to ditch those RSS targets is really important. Locally and nationally, you can trust the Lib Dems to protect our green spaces.

‘Our Natural Heritage also calls for tough action internationally on deforestation to tackle serious climate change. And it calls for radical reform of the remit of Ofwat so that profit is not put above people.

‘The Lib Dems have a long history of being the greenest of the political parties and this policy will strengthen our record.’

Martin Horwood has also spoken out against the big barrage option for the Severn Estuary at conference. An alternative, the much smaller ‘Shoots’ barrage, in combination with tidal reefs and lagoons has been proposed by the Lib Dem Severn Tidal Power working group, who believe it will offer environmentally sustainable energy generation.

The combination of technologies, phased over time, would enable power generation over a staggered period of time and the reefs would generate a large amount of energy with very minimal environmental damage. This proposal would provide upwards of 8% of the UK’s electricity needs.

Speaking on the motion, which was passed by the party, Martin said ‘This imaginative solution that the Liberal Democrats have proposed is a triple win. It will generate just as much electricity as the big barrage, without the environmental damage to eco-systems and because some of the elements of the proposal can start generating electricity sooner, this will cut down our carbon emissions even more than the big barrage.

‘We must of course make sure that we balance local and environmental concerns, and I believe this policy does just that. The big barrage would be an environmental disaster for the Severn Estuary’.

Start Singing with Philomusica

It’s easy to get fed up when there’s often so much bad news in the media. And the disappointing summer weather hasn’t helped much. If you’re in need of cheering up, the members of local choir Philomusica would love to hear from you.

Philomusica’s conductor, Linda Parsons, is a firm believer in the positive benefits of singing. Linda says: “Raising your voice in song with a friendly group of singers is a sure-fire way of getting the feel-good factor. It’s huge fun!” Linda adds that singing can help you keep in trim too. “Medical research has shown that singing helps you tone up your muscles and also releases endorphins which create the body’s “feel good” factor. So rehearsing and performing can even beat going to the gym!”

The choir, which draws its membership from all over the county, is keen to attract new singers as they begin rehearsals for their autumn series of concerts. “ We don’t audition people before they join” said Linda. “ We would rather people came along and gave us a try. Our autumn programme offers what should be a fascinating contrast. We’re going to sing Mozart’s Requiem, one of the greatest pieces in the choral repertoire and we’re going to couple it with performances of a brand new work by Howard Goodall. His Eternal Light. A Requiem was only composed in 2008 but it’s already a big hit and it includes some lovely, accessible music. New members can expect a warm welcome and some great music to sing.”

If you want to hear Philomusica in action before joining you can hear them perform Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana and Feel the Spirit, a suite of Spirituals in arrangements by John Rutter. That concert is in Pershore Abbey on Saturday 26 September 2009 at 7.30pm.

Philomusica has a rehearsal group which meets at 7.30pm each Friday at The Milestone School, Longford Lane, Gloucester and interested singers are welcome to come along to a rehearsal or to visit the choir’s website at www.philomusica.org.uk. Further information is also available from Linda Parsons on 01452 700847; John Quinn on 01452 506417; or Gaye Boggon on 01452 308674.

Eco Fun Day at Springbank Community Centre

26 September 2009, Springbank Community Centre

Eco Fun Day will take place at Springbank Community Resource Centre and Springfields Park on Saturday, September 26th from 10am to 2pm. It is a low carbon family entertainment activity that has the theme of climate change running throughout. Hesters Way Neighbourhood Project who are organising the event hope that it will play a significant part in raising environmental consciousness in the area while at the same time providing fun activities and a varied programme of entertainment with something for all the family.

Among the activities planned for the day are dance, sketches by Everyman Theatre, Thomas Trilby circus act, competitions, information on climate change and recycling, arts workshops, a magic show, line dancing, belly dancing, Capoeira (an Afro-Brazilian art form that combines elements of martial arts, games, music, and dance), a samba band, Tai Chi, a creatures of the rainforest workshop, composting instruction, local community group activities, a range of children's entertainment, cycling training and repair, energy saving information, waste management information, jobs, volunteering and training information, family advice and guidance, a mobile police station, a calligraphy workshop, Play Rangers activities, The Fun Music man, football tournaments, health walks, a raffle and tombola and much more. There will be a BBQ and refreshments are available.

Eco Fun Day is also one of a number of events that are scheduled for Peace Week, 19th to 27th September, and activities will be taking place on the day to celebrate this. Eco Fun Day is free and everyone is invited to come along. If you would like any further information or are able to help out on the day, please call Chris Green on 01242 539088.

For more information about this and other Cheltenham events please visit our Cheltenham events guide.

Changes to Bus Routes in Cheltenham

Yet again, Cheltenham bus service is going to see some changes. Sadly, some bus routes in Cheltenham are to be withdrawn, as passenger numbers are low.

Service K (Cheltenham town centre to Up Hatherley and Warden Hill), service J (Cheltenham town centre to Benhall estate) and also service W in Prestbury will be withdrawn completely.
Evening journeys after 7pm for Service H (Cheltenham town centre to Wymans Brook) will be also withdrawn. The frequency of Sunday services will be reduced from hourly to two hourly on Services B (Cheltenham town ce ntre to Charlton Kings), H (Cheltenham Town Centre to Wymans Brook), F (Cheltenham Town Centre to Leckhampton) and G (Cheltenham town centre to St Marks).

More regular timetable for Service N (Cheltenham town centre to Prestbury) will be introduced, with a service every half hour throughout the day. Evening service to Charlton Kings will be saved due to integration of service B with service 41.

However, it's not all doom and gloom for Cheltenham bus service, some routes are seeing improvements, such as service 94 to Gloucester which now uses super luxury double deck 'Gold' buses, the first route in the UK to do so. Extra buses are being added to ensure that the frequency of service 94 is kept to 10 minutes at peak times, as well as off-peak.

For information on Cheltenham transport and timetables of local buses please visit www.cheltenham4u.co.uk/transport.asp

2009 - 2010 Cheltenham Horse Racing Fixtures

16 October - 17 October 2009 – The Showcase
The Showcase offers a stunning start to the new season at Cheltenham Racecourse with a two day meeting. Seven races each day, with almost every category of horse catered for, will allow you to get some early season pointers for the forthcoming fixtures at Cheltenham and elsewhere. During the Showcase you can learn about all aspects of horse racing - you can watch how a horse is saddled, visit the weighing room and the commentary box and perhaps even present a prize. After Friday's races champion trainer Paul Nicholls and jockey Ruby Walsh will be giving a talk at the Cheltenham Literature Festival. Tickets from £9. Gates open 11.30am, first race 2.20pm.

13 November - 15 November 2009 – The Open
The Open represents three days of the best that racing has to offer and is the biggest and most important meeting of the first half of the Jumps season, with £750,000 in prize money up for grabs. 18 races provide for a thrilling competition between many of the best Jump horses in Europe, large and enthusiastic crowds creating a special atmosphere and even the opportunity to spend your winnings in the tented village. Friday is Countryside Day with its unique country fair, where you can see a range of demonstrations from duck herding to dressage. The highlight of the meeting is Saturday's Paddy Power Gold Cup, a race that has been a high point of the Autumn racing calendar since 1960, which offer £150,000 prize. The gates open at 10am, first race is on at 12.50pm and last race runs at 4pm. Tickets start from £9.

11 December - 12 December 2009 – Boylesports International
Boylesports International features two days of the highest class action, with many emerging and established equine stars on display. Saturday's card includes the £200,000 boylesports.com International, one of the most valuable hurdle races of the entire season in Britain or Ireland and the ultra competitive boylesports.com Gold Cup, a superb race in its own right and one of the series of 2 mile 5 furlong handicap chases that never fail to illuminate the season at Cheltenham. On Friday, take your second chance of the season to experience Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase, along with the £100,000 boylepoker.com Handicap Chase, as a second highlight on another outstanding card. In the evening on Friday, The Centaur hosts the Brightwells Bloodstock Sale, to which everyone is welcome.

1 January 2010 – New Year’s Day Racing
2010 horse racing at Cheltenham Racecourse starts with New Year's Day Racing. The New Year is kick started with some of the best horses, jockeys and trainers in the land. Gates open at 10.00am, first race is on at 12.25pm, last race at 3.55pm. Advanced tickets to Best Mate enclosure £10, Club/Tattersalls £22.

30 January 2010 – Festival Trials Day
This is arguably the best one day Jumps meeting of the entire season anywhere. Seven races give some final clues as to the destination of the big prizes at The Festival (Five Festival winners ran on this day last season), but this is a day of sporting drama that is far more than a prelude to four days in March. Highlights include the Letheby & Christopher Chase, Byrne Bros Cleeve Hurdle and the Ladbrokes Trophy Chase. Gates open at 10.30am, first race is on at 12.55pm, last race at 4.20pm. Advanced tickets to Best Mate enclosure £10, Club/Tattersalls £22.

16 March - 19 March 2010 – The Festival
The National Hunt Festival is the highlight of Cheltenham's horse racing calendar, with its importance in British racing, comparable to the World Cup in football. It features the famous Cheltenham Gold Cup, the tradition of which goes back to 1819 and which had its present form since 1924. The four-days of the best steeplechase and hurdle racing attracts thousands of visitors from Ireland, with a strong line-up of Irish horses challenging for the prizes on offer. The 20 races offer in excess of £2 million in prize money. Thursdays have been established as Ladies’ Day when ladies fashion takes the centre stage and the name of a Lady who has made the most Outstanding Contribution to Jump Racing, as well as the winner for the Best Dressed Lady awards is announced. Advance booking is recommended as it will save you money.

14 April - 16 April 2010 – The April Meeting
Since 2008 April Meeting, a Friday evening fixture has been added to the traditional two days. There is also another top class National Hunt sale organised by Brightwells in the Centaur on the evening following the first day of the meeting, which in recent years produced a staggering £2.3 million in aggregate turnover. Advance tickets to Best Mate enclosure £9, Club/Tattersalls £18.

5 May 2010 – Hunter Chase Evening
Hunter Chase Evening is a fixture where amateur jockeys take centre stage on the racecourse, taking part in six races. Off the track, this ever-popular meeting provides an outstanding atmosphere in which to enjoy the last meeting of our season. Advance tickets to Best Mate enclosure £9, Club/Tattersalls £18.

Rowan Gymnastics Club for Pre-School Children

Rowan Gymnastics Club at St. Philip and James Church Centre, in Cold Pool Lane, Up Hatherley, runs pre-school gymnastics classes with the help of Early Gym. An exciting range of dedicated pre-school equipment allows for the introduction of gymnastics for the three and four to five-year-olds. The equipment is a scaled-down version of the equipment used in the other classes for the older gymnasts, which has been specially designed to take into account the size of these early gymnasts.

It allows for the introduction of gymnastics at an early stage in a fun and friendly environment. A small team of qualified coaches run these classes. Classes are held on Wednesdays at 1pm and 2pm and Saturdays at 9.30am. Recreational and competition classes for 5-7 years old, 7-10 years old 10+ years old and adults take place at Bournside Sports Centre in Warden Hill Road.

If you would like your child to be part of this exciting sport, contact Dave Powell, the head coach on 01242 572868 or email davepowell49@ukonline.co.uk.

For more information about Rowan Gymnastics Club and other Cheltenham clubs and societies please visit our Community section at www.cheltenham4u.co.uk/community.

If you are a member of Cheltenham club or society and would like to get your club's profile featured to promote its activities please get in touch. To find out how please visit our website www.cheltenham4u.co.uk/community.

MASH Festival at Cheltenham Leisure Centre

19 September 2009, Cheltenham Leisure Centre, 1pm - 6pm

MASH (Music, Arts, Sports and Health) Festival will take place at Cheltenham Leisure Centre on Saturday, 19 September 2009. It will be a day of events and activities to celebrate wellbeing and culture in Cheltenham. This free event will include sports tasters, street entertainers, samba drumming workshop, Ceroc, Salsa, Belly Dance and Street Dance workshops, Wii Room and much more. In Cheltenham Art Gallery from 11am - 4pm there will be live music performances, improvised music relay and visitors will be able to get their health checked for free.

TIMETABLE OF EVENTS

Dance Studio - 45 minute sessions
1.00 - 2.00 Belly Dancing
2.00 - 3.00 Salsa Workshop
3.00 - 4.00 Coady Crew
4.00 - 5.00 Ceroc Workshop
Multi Use Area
1.00 - 6.00 Circus Skills
Squash Courts 1-4
1.30 - 3.30 Mini Squash Taster Session led by Tim Miller
4.00 - 6.00 Racketball Taster Session led by Tim Miller
Squash Court 5
1.00 - 6.00 Free Play
Sports Hall - 50 minute sessions
1.00 - 2.00 Badminton
1.00 - 2.00 Samba Drumming
1.00 - 2.00 Soft Play Session
2.00 - 3.00 5-A-Side
2.00 - 3.00 Table Tennis
2.00 - 3.00 Soft Play Session
3.00 - 4.00 Kwik cricket
3.00 - 4.00 Tri golf
3.00 - 4.00 Soft Play Session
4.00 - 5.00 Sports hall athletics
4.00 - 5.00 Bouncy castle
4.00 - 5.00 Soft Play Session
5.00 - 6.00 Short Tennis
5.00 - 6.00 Bouncy castle
5.00 - 6.00 Soft Play Session
Teaching Pool
1.00 - 4.00 Free Swim
Main Pool

1.00 - 6.00 Free Swim

For more information about this and other Cheltenham events please visit our Cheltenham events guide.

Salsa at Holiday Inn Express Cheltenham

10 October 2009, Holiday Inn Express Cheltenham

A weekend dance event is being held to raise much needed funds for Cheltenham’s Leukaemia and Intensive Chemotherapy Fund; to continue supporting local patients and their families affected by leukaemia, lymphoma and other blood cancers.

Cheltenham locals are invited to attend a Latin-style dance event with 2 salsa dance workshops with professional tuition aimed at all levels, followed by 2 live performances by top dance professionals as part of the entertainment. The event includes a 3 course dinner buffet menu, complimentary cocktails and an evening disco until late.

Proceeds from top raffle prizes will be donated to help support the LINC Charity based at Cheltenham General Hospital. Dr. Gill Rouse, LINC co-ordinator, says “We are glad to have support to raise much needed funds for a new countywide haematology unit to be built. Sincere thanks to all those who can support the event.”

The event will take place on Saturday, 10th October from 6.30pm to 12am at Holiday Inn Express Cheltenham. For more information and to book tickets call 01242 548200 or visit http://www.hiexcheltenham.com/.

For more information about this and other Cheltenham events please visit our Cheltenham events guide.