Cheltenham4u.co.uk

Your Memories of Cheltenham in the 1960s Wanted

2012-01-04T03:21:00.000-08:00

Peter Gill, the author of Cheltenham in the 50s is working on a follow up book - Cheltenham in the 60s to be published by Stroud based publisher The History Press.

Having done a considerable amount of research he is now looking for more anecdotes, local knowledge and photographs from the general public and was wondering if any of our readers have any pictures of the town and its people during the decade that show events, buildings and areas that have changed or personalities of the period (sportsmen and women, musicians, dignitaries, employers etc).

Cheltenham in the 60s will be Peter's 8th book - the others being Cheltenham at War, North Gloucestershire at War, South Gloucestershire at War, Cheltenham in the 50s, Cheltenham Races, Cheltenham's Racing Heroes and Cheltenham's Music. He has also written and performed in two plays (one of which is still currently touring).

You can email your photos and stories to Peter at petergill@live.co.uk

Visit our Cheltenham Nostalgia pages to refresh your memories of Cheltenham of that period and share your own experiences.

Captain Noah and his Floating Zoo at All Saints Church

2011-11-18T04:42:00.000-08:00

10 December 2011 All Saints Church, All Saints Road, Cheltenham

Musica Vera is joining forces with the Choir of Charlton Kings Junior School in a performance of "Captain Noah and his Floating Zoo", as well as Christmas Carols for both choirs and audience. The concert starts at 7.00 pm and tickets cost £9.00 (free admission to children under 16). Tickets available from Cheltenham Tourist Information Centre, 77 Promenade, Cheltenham. Proceeds will go to The Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts. For further info. Tel 01242 517258.

Day of Reflection on Dean Francis Close

2011-11-11T04:33:00.000-08:00

28 November 2011 Glenfall House, Mill Lane, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham GL54 4EP

Glenfall House is the retreat and conference centre for the Diocese of Gloucester. On the 28th November, Bishop John Went, the bishop of Tewkesbury, will lead a day focussing on Dean Francis Close, who contributed so much to the life of Cheltenham and the wider church as well as to education. The day costs £18.75 and includes a three course lunch. Advance bookings only 01242 583654 or email enquiries@glenfallhouse.org www.glenfallhouse.org

Cheltenham Chamber Orchestra Concert

2011-11-03T05:11:00.000-07:00

19 November 2011
St. Andrew's Church Montpellier

The well-known local chamber orchestra presents an evening of music by Mendelssohn. George Ewart leads the orchestra andwill also play the violin concerto. The concert opens with the Overture "Fingal's Cave" and concludes with the Symphony No.3 "The Scottish". The conductor is John Longstaff. Tickets are available from the Tourist Information Centre priced at £15 with concessions and discounts if bought in advance.

OFF THE CUFF at The Parabola Arts Centre

2011-11-03T05:07:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 16th November 2011 7:15pm
The OFFSTAGE Theatre Group and Cheltenham Comedy Festival Present... 'OFF THE CUFF' It's Childish Humour For Adults The Parabola Arts Centre, Cheltenham Wednesday 16th November 2011 7:15pm (Doors open at 7:00pm) Tickets: £8.50

'OFF THE CUFF' is a Cheltenham-based comedy improvisation troupe, with a heavy musical element, that has been successfully running in Cheltenham since 2007 (it's much like a live version of the TV show 'Whose Line Is It Anyway?'), where it regularly attracts sell-out audiences. They were the first act booked for the inaugural Stratford-Upon-Avon Fringe Festival in 2010 (and booked again for 2011), sold out at the Birmingham Comedy Festival 2010, and headlined the Cabaret Stage at the Bristol Festival for three years running; as well as touring festivals and theatres up and down the country. OFF THE CUFF have been granted a prime venue amongst a plethora of famous comedians (see www.cheltenhamcomedy.com for the full line-up), so let's show those Edinburgh nominees and highly-paid stars that Cheltenham performers can tickle the funny bones too. Support your local act!

Audiences will have their funny bones shaken and their chuckle muscles sprained by the comic performance of a troupe of actor-comedians who make it all up as they go along. There is no script, there are no rehearsals and there is nowhere to hide. The members of the audience provide the suggestions and the scenarios, which means the show is never the same twice. The lively cast are all actors/improvisers and the show is a spin-off from the award-winning travelling theatre group, OFFSTAGE, who have been commissioned for and performed on BBC Radio, as well as creating shows for BBC Worldwide and in Los Angeles, USA.

Speaking on behalf of the Cheltenham Comedy Festival, co-director Mark Makin said: 'We believe that it's important to showcase the best of local talent along with the best of UK comedy at the festival. Off The Cuff have been building up a strong following in the area for their quick fire improvised wit, so come along to the Parabola Arts Centre on the 16th November to catch these rising stars' Speaking for The OFFSTAGE Theatre Group, Barnaby Eaton-Jones said: "We're delighted to be bringing our popular brand of comedy improv to the stage of the Parabola Arts Centre, as part of the very first Cheltenham Comedy Festival.

If you like stand-up comedy, you'll LOVE comedy improv. You get more comedians for the price of your ticket, more gags, and no structured set that won't budge for laughs if the audience don't like it. In fact, the audience are the ones who mould the show, with their imput, so we've never had anyone go home unhappy!"

For tickets to see this action-packed comedy show, full of music, mayhem and mirth, please call the Cheltenham Town Hall box office on 0844 576 2210, email them on boxoffice@cheltenham.gov.uk or visit the specific page: www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk.

Cheltenham Connect 2011 Christmas Craft Fair

2011-10-27T02:52:00.001-07:00

Fri 2nd and Sat 3rd December, 10am - 6pm,
Sun 4th December 11am - 4pm Exmouth Arms, Bath Road, Cheltenham

South Cheltenham initiative Cheltenham Connect is holding its third Christmas Craft Fair on the first weekend in December at the Exmouth Arms in Bath Road, Cheltenham. With a magical Santa's Grotto for the children, entertainment from local choirs and musicians, mulled wine, mince pies and a wide range of craft stalls, the event aims to promote the wealth of local talent in the area and to encourage everyone to think and buy local for Christmas.

The craft fair has become a much anticipated annual event and the theme for 2011 is 'Crimblefest', with all the participants encouraged to wear fun, festive outfits. More than 40 local craftspeople will be represented, offering a range of beautiful hand-made goods ranging from pottery, jewellery, textiles and woodcrafts to Christmas decorations and homemade cakes. The fair will be held under a tented village erected by local company and sponsor Mobenn Marquees, and there will be more craft stands in the top room of the Exmouth Arms.

Any local craftspeople who are interested in exhibiting should contact scarlett@cheltenhamconnect.co.uk

Jazz Nights in Cheltenham 2011- 2012

2011-10-27T02:45:00.000-07:00

The Venue Jazz Club Glos - First Tuesday of the month (please note venues vary)
Tickets: 01242 587776
Tickets: £6
Doors open: 8 p.m.
Music starts: 8.30 p.m.

Tuesday November 1 2011
The Kim Cypher Band
Modern jazz and funk quintet
The Little Owl
237 Cirencester Road
Charlton Kings
Cheltenham
GL53 8EB

Tuesday December 5 2011
The J B Jazz & Blues Band
Louis Prima inspired quintet
The Wheatsheaf
Old Bath Road
Cheltenham
GL53 9AJ

Tuesday January 3 2012
The Joe Martin Trio
Classic swing vocals by teenage phenomenon Joe
D’Fly
1a Crescent Place
Cheltenham
GL50 3NX

Tuesday February 7 2012
Dom Franks’ Strayhorn
Hard hitting, groove laden quartet
The Little Owl
237 Cirencester Road
Charlton Kings
Cheltenham
GL53 8EB

Tuesday March 6 2012
The APO Band
Modern jazz and funk quartet
The Wheatsheaf
Old Bath Road
Cheltenham
GL53 9AJ

Tuesday April 3 2012
Bex & Franks Latin Jazz Quartet
Sumptuous vocals and rhythms with virtuosic guitar
D’Fly
1a Crescent Place
Cheltenham
GL50 3NX

Tuesday May 1 2012
Tommy Charles Tetraphonic
Energetic, off-kilter quartet
The Little Owl
237 Cirencester Road
Charlton Kings
Cheltenham
GL53 8EB

Tuesday June 5 2012
The Cotswold Big Band
High calibre & enrgetically led ensemble
The Wheatsheaf
Old Bath Road
Cheltenham
GL53 9AJ

Tuesday July 3 2012
The Hot Fingers Trio
1930s style combo led by Spats Langham
D’Fly
1a Crescent Place
Cheltenham
GL50 3NX

Tuesday August 7 2012
The Patsy Gamble Band
Star saxophonist with a mixture of jazz,funk & blues standards & original tunes
The Little Owl
237 Cirencester Road
Charlton Kings
Cheltenham
GL53 8EB

Tuesday September 4 2012
The Rod Kelly Trio
Intelligent renditions of jazz standards by this piano maestro
The Wheatsheaf
Old Bath Road
Cheltenham
GL53 9AJ

Tuesday October 2 2012
The Jeanne Marlow Trio
Vocalist Jeanne with her picks from the Great American Songbook
D’Fly
1a Crescent Place
Cheltenham
GL50 3NX

Tuesday November 6 2012
TBC
TBC
The Little Owl
237 Cirencester Road
Charlton Kings
Cheltenham
GL53 8EB

Tuesday December 4 2012
Catherine Sykes sings The Peggy Lee Songbook
Return of this star vocalist & her trio
The Wheatsheaf
Old Bath Road
Cheltenham
GL53 9AJ

Nick Clegg to visit Cheltenham

2011-10-06T02:20:00.000-07:00

On Friday, 7 October 2011, Liberal Democrat Leader and Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, will visit a primary school in Cheltenham, ahead of his visit to the Cheltenham Literature Festival. He will join a class to talk about their favourite books and join a reading group.

WHO: Liberal Democrat Leader and Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, and Liberal Democrat MP for Cheltenham, Martin Horwood
WHAT: Visit to a primary school
WHEN: 13.30, Friday, 7 October 2011
WHERE: Springbank Primary Academy, Springbank Road, Cheltenham, GL51 0PH

Cheltenham MP condemns planning policy

2011-09-18T05:59:00.000-07:00

SPEAKING today (Sunday) at Liberal Democrat party conference in Birmingham, Martin Horwood will speak out against the proposed reforms to the planning system contained within the draft National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).

Martin will warn that the government’s record on the natural environment will be put at risk if the policy goes forward unamended. A range of green organisations, including the National Trust and the Campaign to Protect Rural England, are already galvanising opposition to the new draft planning policy.

Addressing a fringe meeting of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Martin will say “The Localism Bill and the Natural Environment White Paper were important steps towards greater power to protect the natural environment at local level. That was so far, so good for the ‘greenest government ever’. But George Osborne’s proclamation that the default answer to development should be ‘yes’ pointed in exactly the opposite direction. I’m afraid that the National Planning Policy Framework seems to confirm the worst fears of green organisations in this respect. It looks to me like a developer’s charter.”

Locally, environmental organisations including Save the Countryside and the Leckhampton Green Land Action Group have expressed fears that the new NPPF will do as much damage to green spaces around Cheltenham as Labour’s old Regional Spatial Strategy.

Martin added “We had all hoped that these campaigns were won when the coalition was formed but it seems as though the fight isn’t over yet.”

County buries Parkway bid

2011-09-09T02:05:00.001-07:00

GLOUCESTERSHIRE County Council today submits its final bid for government money for the ‘Integrated Transport Elmbridge Court’ or ITEC scheme – and it doesn’t include the controversial plan for a Parkway station on Green Belt land near the Elmbridge Court roundabout between Cheltenham and Gloucester. Cheltenham MP Martin Horwood, who has been campaigning against the Parkway plan since 2005, welcomed the news: ‘This is a very sensible move by the county. I’m delighted that the Parkway plan has been quietly but finally laid to rest. The station threatened the future of Cheltenham Spa station and would have meant Cheltenham having to drive down the A40 to catch the train. It would have been bad for Cheltenham, bad for the environment and bad for rail travellers.’

The plan for improved roads and public transport initially attracted all-party support but became controversial in 2005 when a business plan was produced that made clear the case for the Parkway station element of the scheme was based on a reduction of services at the existing Cheltenham Spa and Gloucester stations. The plan was supported by then Gloucester Labour MP Parmjit Dhanda and by the county council’s Conservative administration. But Cheltenham Tories and many rail users from Gloucester as well as Cheltenham soon backed Martin’s campaign, as did high profile figures like Jonathon Porritt. Martin urged the county to switch its attention to other rail improvements like the redoubling of the Swindon-Kemble line.

In 2007 the Department for Transport rejected the scheme which has since been redrafted without the Parkway station element. The second and final part of the bid is being submitted to government today. There was a brief resumption of the campaign when then county councillor, now Euro MP, Julie Girling., said she thought the Parkway bid could be revived at a later stage. But today’s bid effectively means it is dead and buried.

‘We thought we had won this campaign some years ago’ said Martin ‘but it is reassuring to know that it’s really over now. The joint campaign for the redoubling of the Swindon-Kemble line succeeded this year as well and just shows what we can achieve in Gloucestershire when we work together.’

CHELTENHAM MP backs further amends to Health Bill

2011-09-06T09:43:00.000-07:00

CHELTENHAM MP Martin Horwood is to back further amendments to the government’s Health and Social Care Bill which is being considered again by the House of Commons today and tomorrow. Lib Dem MPs Andrew George and Greg Mulholland and Green MP Caroline Lucas have tabled a series of amendments addressing remaining concerns about the bill, including the power of the Secretary of State to provide – as well as secure - healthcare and the promotion of collaboration and integration in the health service as well as competition.

Martin met Lib Dem health minister Paul Burstow today to discuss the bill and to explain his own amendments to the bill on the status of public health within the new NHS.*

More than a thousand amendments are already being made to Conservative Health Secretary Andrew Lansley’s original draft of the bill, following opposition at the spring Liberal Democrat conference in Sheffield and from campaigners and health professionals.

Martin commented: ‘The Lib Dems have already questioned and challenged Andrew Lansley over this bill and produced some important changes. There are more safeguards against cherry-picking of profitable services by private companies, the promotion of competition by the regulatory body has been replaced with promoting the interests of patients, GPs are no longer going to be in sole charge of local healthcare commissioning and that can never be passed on to private companies.’

‘But I am nevertheless prepared to support further amendments, if they are put to a vote, to put beyond doubt the right of the secretary of state to provide – as well as secure – a comprehensive health service and to make clear that integration and collaboration are more important to the NHS than competition. My own amendments are designed to prevent the fragmentation of the public health profession which is currently part of the NHS but which will be transferred to local authorities under the new bill.’

‘I have received significant reassurances from Paul Burstow that protections against privatisation, cherry-picking and excessive competition are already much stronger in the revised bill but I’m also very aware of the significant concerns of many of my constituents, including health professionals, and would be happier to see a belt-and-braces approach to these issues. The bill was always going to guarantee the continuation of healthcare provided free at the point of delivery and funded by the NHS and I’m not afraid of private providers like those we have now in Gloucestershire such as Sue Ryder and the Cobalt charity. But I cannot see the harm in further strengthening the bill’s protections against more predatory competition’.

‘If we don’t achieve these amendments over the next couple of days in the House of Commons, I hope similar ones will be made in the House of Lords when the bill moves forward.’

CHELTENHAM MP to join ‘super-injunction’ inquiry

2011-09-06T02:28:00.000-07:00

CHELTENHAM MP Martin Horwood has been appointed as one of the two Liberal Democrat members of the joint parliamentary committee set up in the wake of May’s ‘super-injunction’ row. During May this year media attention focussed on a series of so-called ‘super-injunctions’ issued by courts to celebrities and others trying to protect their identities from the tabloid press. Former Formula 1 president Max Mosley, disgraced banker Fred Goodwin and Premier League footballer Ryan Giggs are amongst the famous names who have struggled to keep various aspects of their private lives out of the tabloids, some seeking and using so-called ‘super-injunctions’ under which the media are prevented from reporting not just the actual issues but even the existence of a legal dispute.

The row came to a head when Lib Dem MP John Hemming named Ryan Giggs in Parliament, putting clearly into the public domain what millions of Twitter users had already discovered. Furious arguments ensued over the right to privacy, the liberties of parliament, the courts and the media and the balance between free speech and personal privacy.

The joint parliamentary committee of Lords and MPs is being established with a brief to investigate how the laws on privacy and super-injunctions are working in practice, how a balance can be struck between privacy and freedom of expression and how best to determine the public interest in such cases. Other members of the committee include Exeter Labour MP and former minister Ben Bradshaw, retired bishop Richard Harries and Stratford Tory MP Nadhim Zadawi. The other Liberal Democrat member will be Jane Bonham Carter, Baroness Bonham Carter of Yarnbury, a former BBC producer whose great-grandfather was Liberal Prime Minister Herbert Asquith.

The first meeting of the committee will be on Thursday, 8 September.

Martin commented: ‘It’s an enormous privilege and a responsibility to be appointed to such a high profile committee. This issue touches on our civil liberties, our right to privacy, the freedom of the press and the right of the courts not to be bullied by MPs – and vice versa. It’s a controversial field and full of strongly conflicting viewpoints. I am trying to approach it with an open mind. As a Liberal, I’m obviously conscious of the importance of defending hard-won freedoms, including freedom on the internet but I do think people have a right to a private life and we need to guard against the abuse of power by rich news organisations as well as by governments.’

Grow's 1st Birthday Celebrations at D-Fly

2011-08-30T03:31:00.000-07:00

02 September 2011
D-Fly Cheltenham

Grow are holding a cocktail and black tie evening to celebrate their first birthday and want you to join them. 7.30pm onwards on Friday 2nd September at D-Fly, Cheltenham.

Tickets:
Standard Entry £20 to include:
· Mojitos on arrival
· Thai Canapes
· Variety of Thai Main Courses
· Cup Cake Tower
· Live Music from Saskia Says
· DJ till late &
· Casino Tables VIP

Entry £30 to include all of the above and:
· 2-4-1 on cocktails until 10pm
· £10 of casino chips

Tickets are available online from: www.growglos.org/events.

Baroque Concert at St Andrew's Church

2011-08-30T01:07:00.000-07:00

24 September 2011
St Andrew's Church, Montpellier

Cheltenham Chamber Orchestra will present a concert of baroque music, directed from the violin by George Ewart. Soloists are Elizabeth Lester and Anna Marlowe and the concert starts at 7.30pm. Tickets are available at the Tourist Office or at the door.

Cheltenham Connect Business Day

2011-08-29T03:09:00.000-07:00

30 September 2011, 10am - 4pm
Cheltenham Bowling Club, Suffolk Square, Cheltenham

Supported by Cheltenham MP Martin Horwood, this free event is showcasing the town’s business talent to help Gloucestershire companies meet local suppliers and advisors and to enable them to connect with South Cheltenham businesses..

Business Connect has been organised by a group of South Cheltenham businesses as part of the Cheltenham Connect initiative. It will include 20 exhibition stands, a presentation from international business expert Geoff Burch – recently voted Business Communicator of 2011 – and a networking lunch. Attendance is free, and all attendees will be entered into a prize draw to win £1,000 of services from the participating companies. Visitors can just drop in for half an hour or stay for the entire day.

“We know many businesses would like to work with more local suppliers, but don’t have time to search for the right people,” says Belinda Wilson, spokesperson for Cheltenham Connect and director of GlosJobs. “This event is an opportunity to meet a wide range of companies in one place, discuss how they could help you meet your business objectives and pick up new ideas. We believe that local businesses don’t need to go to London, Bristol or Birmingham to source top quality expert support when it is right here on their doorstep.’’

“There are lots of benefits in working with local companies – they can respond quickly, fit in a meeting when an urgent project comes up and their costs are extremely competitive. You’re also likely to find yourself working directly with an experienced professional, rather than having the majority of the work done by a junior member of staff.

“Whether you’re looking for a social media expert, a fresh new designer, advice on green issues or help in sourcing and retaining talented staff, the event will introduce you to local experts who can help.”

Connect Business takes place on Friday 30^th September 2011 at 10am – 4pm at Cheltenham Bowling Club, Suffolk Square, Cheltenham. For further information and to book a free place go to www.businessconnect.org.uk or email belinda@cheltenhamconnect.co.uk

Connect Business is organised by Cheltenham Connect, a growing community initiative with the aim of strengthening and empowering the residential and trading community of South Cheltenham.

AGENDA
10am Official opening by Cheltenham MP Martin Horwood
12 noon Presentation from Geoff Burch, internationally renowned business expert on "Go It Alone, the Streetwise Secrets of Self Employment”, followed by a book signing
1pm - 2pm Networking lunch with standholders and attendees – pre-booking essential £5.50 per person
2pm - 4pm "Have a go" at bowling
After 4pm Drinks at the bar

PHIL COOL at The Roses Theatre

2011-08-25T08:04:00.000-07:00

3^rd September 2011
The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury

Yet again legendary comedian and impressionist Phil Cool, a 1980s icon, is on tour and with sell out houses wherever he goes it is clear that he at least is recession proof. With his 1980s television shows obtaining cult status through ‘youtube’ and the like, Phil has found himself yet more adoring fans and the verdict is obvious – his comedy is as contemporary, valid and hilarious today as it has ever been.

Phil is a stand-up chameleon - one minute George W Bush, the next Paul McCartney, then Bill Clinton and later Bugs Bunny! There has never been anyone like him and never will be again and with a new television show being talked about, a DVD and a book deal all in the offing it is clear that 2011 will be a momentous one for Phil and his fans.

With 5 top selling videos, 4 TV specials, 3 hit series for the BBC, 2 acclaimed series for Independent TV there is only 1 dream remaining for Phil – to play Jim Carrey’s dad in a Hollywood blockbuster …… watch this space!

BOX OFFICE NUMBER 01684 295 074

THE TWO KEYS at The Wheatsheaf

2011-08-25T05:14:00.000-07:00

Friday 23rd September 2011
The Wheatsheaf, Old Bath Road, Cheltenham

In 1999 a nationwide search was conducted to find the best boogie woogie piano/vocalists in the country. The reason? Jools Holland was opening ‘The Jam House’ in Birmingham and the star attraction was going to be ‘The Duelling Pianists’. Two piano players, facing each other on grand pianos who would accompany each other, perform with each other and ultimately compete with each other in a mind blowing finale of piano thumping energy and musicianship.

Hundreds of piano players were auditioned, four were ultimately picked to be The Jam House’s resident duellists. Two of them, Adrian Dixon from London and Cheltenham’s very own Peter Gill were given the honour of being the opening act to perform at the club. That first performance to a celebrity studded audience was so sensational that they were immediately engaged for their own theatre show.

Ten years after finishing that tour they are now back together and touring again in what can only be described as an explosive exhibition of boogie woogie and rock n roll piano playing.

Catch them while you can as due to their other independent commitments they will only be touring together on selected dates.

Cheltenham Open Studios Art Exhibtion

2011-08-25T05:10:00.000-07:00

08 - 18 September 2011
St. Lukes Church

An art exhibtion hosted by Cheltenham Open Studios of 29 artists including paintings, jewellery and ceramics.

12 - 4pm daily
Saturday 10: 11 - 1.30pm, and 7 - 9pm for the open view;
Saturday 17: 2 - 4pm.

All welcome, FREE exhibition

The Times Cheltenham Literature Festival 2011

2011-08-25T05:07:00.000-07:00

7th October - 16th October 2011

This autumn The Times Cheltenham Literature Festival will welcome over 600 of the world's greatest writers, poets, politicians, thinkers and stars to Cheltenham for an inspiring mix of debate and discussion. Now in its 62nd year - 2011 promises the most ambitious and varied programme to date with Screen legend Christopher Lee, BAFTA-award winning Joanna Lumley, musician and radio broadcaster Jarvis Cocker and presenter and film critic Jonathan Ross all taking to the Cheltenham stage.

The Festival theme Journeys of Discovery has inspired an adventurous programme of over 500 fascinating events. The journey is led by five very different Guest Directors, who promise to delight and inspire with their own unique series of events. Ben Fogle, A L Kennedy, Jo Shapcott, Mike Atherton and Anjum Anand will all host some of the world's top explorers, poets and literary and culinary treats at the Festival. At its core, the Festival continues to celebrate the pure pleasure of reading. The very literary line-up of esteemed writers includes Ben Okri, Lee Child and Howard Jacobson as well as the Bonne Maman Big Read project which aims to spread the joy of Joseph Heller's Catch-22.

The range of the programme offers something for literary lovers of all ages - from high-profile debate with leading political figures, to big names from the small and silver screen like Marcus Brigstocke and Larry Lamb, to Book it!, the programme of fun and exciting events for families and young readers. For every hard-hitting debate in Cheltenham Town Hall, there will be a chance to meet Peppa Pig, Peter Rabbit or The Gruffalo out in the gardens!

For the first time Cheltenham town centre will come alive in the brand new Festival Quarter which takes over both Imperial Square and Montpellier Gardens. The Festival Quarter will provide the perfect place to indulge in literary delights with four exciting new venues, a great place to soak up the atmosphere with delicious cafés, free live events and a huge bookshop.

The full festival programme is available to download at: www.cheltenhamfestivals.com/literature

Deep Roots Music Festival at Frog & Fiddle

2010-07-15T08:29:00.000-07:00

31 July 2010, Frog & Fiddle

Deep Roots' second installment comes after the success of it's first night in February 2010 that raised over £350 for DEC Haiti and Rene:gade Roots which saw more than 300 people pass through and raised more than £400 for Sue Ryder. This time they will bring you some of the finest local talent this county has seen on a packed night of bands, DJ's and MC's that will have the place jumping.

ACTS:
Boys in the Wood (Acoustic/Folk/Reggae)
Vital Organz (Live Roots UK Hip Hop)
Arianna & The 4th Phase (Acoustic)
Rat-Tash Co (Live Roots UK Hip Hop)
Elliot Withers (Acoustic/Alternative)
Charlotte Coupland (Acoustic/Folk)

DJ's:
DJ Senz/Nick Beats
Expect a lively jam session toward the end of the gig with all the artists involved in the night =)

Time: 7.30pm - 11:30pm Price: £3/£2.50(Students)/£2 Live Music Society
For more information visit http://www.deep-roots.co.uk/

Cheltenham MP To Become a Chair of the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Transport Committee

2010-07-15T07:42:00.000-07:00

Cheltenham MP Martin Horwood has welcomed his appointment by Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg as chair of the Liberal Democrat parliamentary transport committee. He chaired his first meeting of the policy group last Wednesday. Martin’s new brief will cover all aspects of transport policy including rail, road, aviation, buses, cycling and alternatives to travel. In the last parliament, he was a shadow environment minister for the Lib Dems but as many senior Lib Dems have entered the coalition government, roles have changed to focus on co-ordinating policy with ministers and leading the development of new policy for the Liberal Democrat party. Lib Dem transport minister Norman Baker will attend the parliamentary committee whenever possible and Martin will have a direct line to the Department for Transport.

“I’m very pleased to have been given this role” said Martin. “It’s important that there is a Lib Dem voice outside government on key policy issues. We may be in government but we are still a separate political party with our own values and ideas as well. Norman Baker has brought his outstanding green credentials to government and we will be doing our best to support him. But we also need to look ahead to the party’s 2015 manifesto and keep the fresh, radical ideas coming.”

“It’s also a role that ties in very neatly with my responsibility to Cheltenham. Bus services, railway services and aviation are all local issues as well as national ones and I hope I will learn a lot from dealing with government that I can put to good use here as well.”

Leckhampton Court Hospice Autumn Fayre

2010-07-15T07:34:00.000-07:00

11 September 2010, Leckhampton Court, Church Road, Leckhampton. 11am - 4pm

Live music, performances and entertainment all day including The Music Man children's entertainer, Cotswold Big Band and Gloucestershire Morris Men. Stalls selling arts and crafts, jams, plants and much more. Grand Raffle, bouncy castle, Angells Pets, face painting, children's games, BBQ, tea and cakes.

Admission: Adults £2, Children and Concessions £1. All proceeds will go to Sue Ryder Care - Leckhampton Court Hospice.

District Sports Summer Activities for Children

2010-07-15T07:26:00.000-07:00

District Sports are running the following 4 weeks this summer:

July 26th - 30th Football Academy @ Chipping Campden School, Cotswolds
August 2nd - 6th American Sports Academy @ Sir Thomas Rich School, Gloucester
August 9th - 13th Cricket Academy @ Balcarras School, Cheltenham
August 23rd - 27th Football Academy @ Chipping Campden School, Cotswolds

All days are 9am-4pm, the schools are aimed at mixed ability boys and girls between 5-14 yrs old, coaching new skills, tactics and gameplay. All coaches are qualified, CRB checked and experienced in delivering FUN and enjoyable sessions. There will be plenty of competitions and prizes within each week so everyone always goes home happy.

Costs - £17 per day or £70 per week (£15 discount) + 10% discount available for siblings attending together. To book - please contact Jamie on 07763462795 or email him at jroberts@districtsports.co.uk

Cheltenham MP Praises RSS Abolition by Coalition

2010-07-06T07:15:00.000-07:00

Cheltenham MP Martin Horwood welcomed the coalition’s commitment to scrapping Regional Spatial Strategies (RSS), which would have imposed thousands of new homes on areas of green land around Cheltenham.

Speaking in a debate in Westminster Hall, Martin praised the work of organisations such as the Leckhampton Green Land Action Group (Leglag) and Save the Countryside. He singled out local campaigners and councillors like Kit Braunholtz, Alice Ross, Helen Wells, Gerry Potter, Cllr Klara Sudbury, Cllr Steve Jordan and Cllr John Webster, who campaigned tirelessly for the abolition of the South West RSS.

Martin said ‘It is fantastic news that RSSs are being abolished. I would like to congratulate the coalition ministers on taking this important step forward in giving power back to local communities.’

Martin nevertheless asked ministers to urgently consider some possible risks in the coalition strategy: ‘It is clear that ministers now want to hand power back to local communities but I am concerned that the Planning Inspectorate might undermine those good intentions when they come to rule on local appeals. I am also worried that a policy vacuum might emerge between the abolition of the RSS and the emergence of local strategies like our own Joint Core Strategy. ‘

Finally, Martin raised the impact of the RSS abolition on those on the housing waiting list: ‘If this does mean some constraint on market housing, which could in turn affect the affordable housing that has often piggybacked on market housing, then the coalition must address how we can provide more affordable housing, and in particular social housing for rent. This could be done by providing more flexibility for landlords like Cheltenham Borough Homes to buy and build more new council housing.’

Cheltenham MP Questions CRC Decision

2010-07-06T07:13:00.000-07:00

Cheltenham MP Martin Horwood has responded to the government announcement that the Commission for Rural Communities (CRC) is to close. The Cheltenham-based agency will be replaced by a Rural Communities Policy Unit that will be part of the Department for the Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). The coalition has announced its intention to cut costs across government to help reduce the crippling national debt and also to remove so-called 'arms-length' quangos when policy is better made by ministers. But Martin has been critical of the lack of consultation surrounding this decision and said the government's announcement left important questions unanswered.

He commented: 'At least 60 jobs in Cheltenham have been put at risk by this announcement and I will be making a strong case to ministers for the new policy unit to retain staff in Cheltenham. But there are wider issues too. The CRC has three functions. Providing expert advice to government on rural affairs can be done within Defra but it's difficult to see how their independent watchdog and advocacy functions will be carried out. These are important influences on government policy. Only today, the Commission has launched an important report on upland areas stressing the importance of biodiversity, landscape management and reforestation as well as the needs of those who actually live in rural upland areas. Just abolishing this function could leave a big gap in government thinking.'

'I'm also very disappointed in the lack of consultation surrounding this decision. The new politics should be about transparency, consultation and evidence-based decision-making but I can't see much evidence of any of these on this occasion. I'm not expecting any special favours as a government MP, and I realise the ministers involved were Conservatives not members of my own party, but I would have thought all stakeholders should have been properly consulted. If the coalition is to keep public confidence for what are inevitably going to be some very tough decisions, we need to do better than this.'

Cheltenham Animal Shelter's Novelty Dog Show

2010-07-06T06:57:00.000-07:00

10 July 2010, Cheltenham Animal Shelter, Gardener's Lane, Cheltenham

Come along to Cheltenham Animal Shelter's annual Open Day and Novelty Dog Show on Saturday 10th July from 12 noon until 4pm. They have lots of fun activities for all the family including a bouncy castle, bbq, ice cream, jewellery stands, charity bric-a-brac stalls, tea and cakes, competitions plus lots more! Joe Inglis (BBC Vets in Practice star) will be officially opening the event and will have a stall there as well. Entry is free. For more information visit Gloucestershire Animal Welfare Association and Cheltenham Animal Shelter Gardners Lane Cheltenham GL51 9JW 01242 548775 www.gawa.org.uk

Cheltenham Connect Craft and Music Festival

2010-06-25T04:16:00.000-07:00

3 - 4 July 2010, Bath Road

The weekend of the 3rd and 4th July will see two days of bands and entertainment at The Norwood Arms and Exmouth Arms, Bath Road, Cheltenham, as well as other events going on in the shops along the road.

The Norwood Arms
Locally made crafts being sold from market stalls in the car park, Local trader stalls, Bouncy castle, Face painting, Health and wellbeing area, Local musicians playing all day.

The Exmouth Arms
Badge making, Flag decorating, Summer fete games, Toddlers play area, Barbeque, Local organisations, Green group area, Health and wellbeing area, Local traders stands, Local musicians all day.

Saturday 3rd July 2010
12 noon on Saturday 3rd July sees the official opening of The Norwood Triangle (in the road behind The Exmouth Arms), where 200 years ago to the day the Leckhampton Tramroad was opened. The opening will be attended by the Earl of Suffolk, whose great, great, great, great grandfather, who opened the original tramroad, as well as Martin Horwood MP, Anne Regan Cheltenham Mayor, Cheltenham Silver Band and St James' Primary School Junior Choir.

On Saturday 1-3pm, meet John "Duff" Lowe, who played with Lennon and McCartney when they were in The Quarrymen, at The Record Shop.

Also on Saturday, Mayor's Grand Balloon Race will set off at 4.30pm from The Exmouth Arms.

Sunday 4th July 2010
On Sunday 2.30pm, enter the "Eco Warriors" fancy dress competition. Let your imagination run wild! Endangered animals, Carbon monsters, Recycling heroes, Green giants, 10:10 planet earth protectors...

Raffle tickets will be on sale all weekend. Raffle prizes include Champagne lunch for 2 at The Daffodil, Tea on the Terrace at the House of Commons and many more.

Jazz at Open Air Theatre Festival

2010-06-25T03:59:00.000-07:00

15 July & 1 August 2010, Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Shelburne Road, 7.30pm

Always hugely popular and always sold out, Peter Gill returns to the Tuckwell Amphitheatre at Dean Close School for two performances of sublime, cool jazz, blues and boogie on Thursday 15th July and Sunday 1st August. Organisers of the Open-air Theatre Festival are thrilled to announce that local pianist and music promoter, Peter Gill, has secured more of his talented musician friends to perform in the idyllic outdoor venue. A highlight of the social calendar, Jazz on a Summer’s Evening has established itself as the place to relax on a balmy summer’s night.

Speaking for the Open-air Theatre Festival team, Jess Waterman said: “It’s time to dust off those picnic hampers, chill down some sparkling wine and grab yourself some tickets to the hottest outdoor theatre festival in the county. Great live events and cinematic treats will once again be sandwiched between two generous helpings of sensational jazz from the master of sophistication, Peter Gill, together with a host of his musical cohorts.”

Peter Gill has also announced that the event will be given a lift for 2010. It would be hard to improve on the formula that has been so successful over recent years, but Peter intends to keep the audience on its toes by injecting new life into the festival’s popular musical event. He said: “Both of our concerts this year will be thematic. I don’t want to give too much away as that will reduce the surprise but the audience can expect to be taken on a musical journey which I hope will enhance the songs and make their evening just a little bit more special and unique”

Festival grounds will open 1½ hours before the show for picnicking and the licensed festival café will be serving chilled beers, wines and Pimms, plus hot drinks and snacks. Please bring suitable clothing and your own seating. Tickets : £15 (£13) Box Office : 01242 258002

Jonah-Man Jazz at St. Peter's Church, Leckhampton

2010-06-25T03:12:00.000-07:00

17 July 2010, St. Peter's Church, Leckhampton

Concert of lighter music for a summer evening including Jonah-Man Jazz (Michael Hurd) will take place at St. Peter's Church, Leckhampton on 17 July 2010. Conductor Oliver Mason, Piano James Babbage. Tickets £9 to include refreshments at the door or from Cheltenham Tourist Information Centre, Tel 01242 522878. All proceeds go to Sue Ryder Care, Leckhampton Court Hospice. Enquiries tel. 01242 517258.

June Music Gigs in Cheltenham

2010-06-10T04:15:00.000-07:00

11/06/2010
THE SCREENING + SUPPORT, FROG & FIDDLE
JB3, ROYAL GEORGE (BIRDLIP)
IMPERIAL LEISURE, BOOGIE LOUNGE

12/06/2010
PROFOUNDLY BLUE, COTSWOLD INN
MICHIGAN AVENUE, KINGS HEAD (BISHOPS CLEEVE)

13/06/2010
BRIAN MACABE, RISING SUN (CLEEVE HILL)
JIM LOCKEY & THE SOLEMN SUN (ALBUM LAUNCH), FROG & FIDDLE
DIK CADBURY, THE PRIORY (TETBURY)

15/06/2010
PETE GILL SWING BAND, VENUE JAZZ CLUB

16/06/2010
NEWMAN AND FRIENDS, ST STEPHENS CLUB

17/06/2010
LEON DAYE, APPLE TREE (WOODMANCOTE)

18/06/2010
CASTROVALVA, THE NIGHT OWL
TOM JURGENS, ROYAL GEORGE (BIRDLIP)
BATTLE OF THE BANDS, COTSWOLD INN

19/06/2010
OTIS MACK SOLO, VICTORY CLUB
BIG BLACK CAR, COTSWOLD INN
HAMBLING & DIKE, SUFFOLK ARMS
BLACK MOLLYS, EXIT STATE, NIGHT OWL

20/06/2010
UKULELE FESTIVAL OF GREAT BRITAIN, TOWN HALL

24/06/2010
STEVE DEGUTIS, APPLE TREE (WOODMANCOTE)

25/06/2010
THRILL COLLINS, STILL BUST + SUPPORT, FROG & FIDDLE
M I BROWN, ROYAL GEORGE (BIRDLIP)

26/06/2010
SHORT AND SWEET, SUFFOLK ARMS
SLUNK MONKEY + SUPPORT, THE 2PIGS
JIBBAFISH, COTSWOLD INN

27/06/2010
TAINT, LUMPHAMMER + SUPPORT, FROG & FIDDLE

Ladies Pampering Evening at Swindon Village School

2010-06-10T03:54:00.000-07:00

19 June 2010, Swindon Village School

Ladies' Pamper Evening will take place on Saturday June 19th at Swindon Village School. If you buy your tickets from the school office in advance you could win a free neck and shoulder massage on the night - 7 left to win! Tickets cost £3 and include a complimentary drink on arrival. Tickets will also be available to buy on the night.

The first 30 ladies through the door on the night will receive a fantastic free goody bag with over 15 items inside. Treatments now available to pre book - £10 for 20 minute slots Leg, foot, shoulder/neck massages Mini manicure or pedicure Nail art Mini facial Back massage Indian head massage - £5 for 10 minute slots Please remember, even if you buy your ticket in advance you are not guaranteed a treatment slot unless you book and pay for one prior to the event. There will be a licensed bar with complimentary nibbles available.

Raffle tickets will be sold on the night., some great prizes have been donated. There will also be fabulous shopping stalls - All Things Nice, Holland and Barrett, Tortue Fashion, Spoilt Bags, Partylite Eclectic Forever Living - Aloe Vera, Delainey Fashions, Donna Beaver's Flowers, Pampered Chef, a wide variety of jewellery stalls, Phoenix Cards, Bach Flower, Remedies, Endless Beauty.

Ride for Ryder Anniversary Challenge Bike Ride

2010-06-10T02:38:00.000-07:00

27 June 2010, Cheltenham Racecourse

To celebrate the 30th Anniversary of Sue Ryder Care - Leckhampton Court Hospice we are asking people to jump on their bikes and take on this Anniversary Special Challenge Bike Ride and raise lots of sponsorship for the hospice. The special ride this year starts at Cheltenham Racecourse at 10am and follows a 45 mile route through the beautiful Gloucestershire countryside with a couple of additional hills thrown in for good measure! Anyone with a roadworthy bicycle can take on this challenge.

We will look after you on the day with complimentary snacks and refreshments provided at a midway refreshment stop. There is also the option to have refreshment stop in the grounds of Leckhampton Court Hospice before heading back to the Racecourse to check back in. Encourage friends to join in on this fun challenge, bring a packed lunch and make a day of it.

Registration is £8 (in advance) £10 (on the day) per cyclist and you can register online at www.suerydercare.org/rideforrydergloucestershire or contact 01242 246 293 for registration forms.

Raising money for Sue Ryder Care - Leckhampton Court Hospice: Every year we need to raise over £1 million to continue caring for people from across Gloucestershire. We rely on people raising sponsorship for taking part in the bike ride in order to help raise these vital funds. Please get friends, family and colleagues to support you taking on this challenge and help make a difference to local families.

Cheltenham Netball Fun League

2010-05-31T11:35:00.000-07:00

Cheltenham based fun netball league has been set up. It's fun, flexible and friendly! Teams and individual players can enter and there are separate divisions for all standards. For an application form email register@netballfunleague.co.uk. Matches are played at Bentham Country Club, Cheltenham, GL3 4UD. For more information visit www.netballfunleague.co.uk

Jazz At The Venue Jazz Club, The Wheatsheaf Inn, Leckhampton

2010-05-31T10:44:00.000-07:00

First and Third Tuesday of every month, £6 entrance

Doors open for diners from 8 pm, music from 9 pm. If you wish to dine please make sure that you book a table well in advance. Last orders for food are at 8.45 pm.

Tuesday 1st June – The Armstrong-Simkins Quartet
The welcome return of cornettist Dennis Armstrong and pianist Pete Simkins for an evening of swinging, foot-tapping music inspired by the Chicago and New York jazz scenes of the 1920s and 1930s. Dennis and Pete are joined on this occasion by the experienced Chris Pearce on clarinet and saxes and by the talented Rachel Hayward on banjo and guitar.

Tuesday 15th June – The Peter Gill Swing Band
Another great night of ratpack inspired jazz featuring the wonderful musicianship of Patsy Gamble on saxophones, Mike Cypher on drums, Wayne Elliott on bass, Mike Croshaw on guitar, Peter Gill on piano and Suzy Jacoby on vocals.

You can now book tickets to The Venue Jazz Club online at http://www.beyondeternitypromotions.com/Venue%20Jazz%20Club.php or http://www.petegill.com/Venue.htm

Cheltenham Racecourse Christmas Party - A Midnight in Monte Carlo

2010-05-31T10:30:00.001-07:00

3 - 18 December 2010, Cheltenham Racecourse

The UK's leading Christmas party specialist, Best Parties Ever is hosting a spectacular themed party at Cheltenham racecourse for the very first time this year! Local businesses, smaller groups and individuals can step into a world of glamour and elegance as the company unveils 'Midnight in Monte Carlo.' Join the jet-set and stroll down the red carpet into Millionaires Casino where you will be greeted by the infectious rhythms of the amazing live jazz band.

The ornate columns and marble floors of the sophisticated champagne bar provide a perfect setting for a glass of Kir Royale. Watch the breathtaking contortionist before sitting down to a sumptuous five course dinner, accompanied by showgirl cabaret and aerial silk dancers. After dinner and the amazing roof-top acrobatic finale, would-be racing drivers can head for the Pit Lane and race the Monaco circuit on Grand Prix simulators or grab a beer at the Paddock Bar. Or why not test your hand on the Roulette or Blackjack tables for a real Monte Carlo experience? For those seeking even more adventure, don't forget the deluxe dodgem cars, or simply head to the dance floor to show off your moves! And at the end of the night, tuck into a free survivors' breakfast before heading home.

The 2010 season runs from Friday 3 December until Saturday 18 December with prices starting from as little as £34.50. Reservations can be made on 0844 499 4040 or by e-mail sales@bestpartiesever.com. For further information check out the company's Facebook or Twitter pages - www.facebook.com/pages/Best-Parties-Ever/93610162341, @BestPartiesEver

Bishop's Cleeve Tithe Barn Farmers' and Craft Market

2010-05-31T10:11:00.000-07:00

18th July 2010, Tithe Barn, Bishop's Cleeve

An exciting new venture is shaping up for the Bishop's Cleeve Village Hall. A new indoor Farmers and Craft Market in Bishop's Cleeve's 13th century Tithe Barn (next to Tesco's in the centre of Bishop's Cleeve) will be run by the Trustees of the Tithe Barn every 3rd Sunday of the month, starting on 18 July. Bring the family and stock up on great tasting farm fresh produce and top quality crafts. There will be teas and coffees and refreshments on sale. Plenty of car parking available.

DATES:
July 18th from 2:30 to 5:30
August 22nd from 11:30 to 2:30
September 19th from 12:30 to 3:30
October 17th from 12:30 to 3:30
November 21st from 12:30 to 3:30
December 19th from 12:30 to 3:30

If you are interested in selling at the Sunday Farmer's Market and taking a stall for either produce or crafts, please contact James Habgood on 01242 673052

All Day Music Festival in Aid of Sue Ryder

2010-05-24T05:44:00.000-07:00

29 May 2010, Café Rene, Gloucester

Marking the start of the UK's festival season with their very own mini-festival of music and culture to raise money for Sue Ryder Care, Café Rene & Deep Roots have teamed up to bring you Rene:gade Roots. The music will start on the outdoor stage from 2pm and host a range of the best local bands from acoustic to rock, folk to funk. The cellar bar will also host hand picked local DJ's to keep you dancing through to the early hours. During the day there will be fundraising and fun everywhere you turn with a BBQ selling top home cooked nosh and much more. What's more, it's FREE. Forget overpriced tickets and muddy fields come and enjoy quality music, a local cider and remember the festival feeling.

Artists performing throughout the day will be: Boys In The Wood Vital Organz Dr Mojito Joe & The Sluts The Me Me Me's Rufio Summers Yours Swift Manouver Thrill Collins The Outcast Band Charlotte Coupland DJ's in the Cellar Bar from 10pm will be: Dirty Lyle Danny Ruckus (Betamorph Recs)

Culture Lounge at Thirteen Degrees

2010-05-24T05:38:00.000-07:00

Cheltenham Culture Lounge introduce a brand new live music pre-club warm up that hosts a showcase of exciting acoustic based artists in a fusion of popular genres. The night will showcase the best local acts bringing a range of edgy covers and original music followed by resident DJs playing the best dance-floor tracks in town.

28th May 2010
Thrill Collins http://www.myspace.com/thrillcollinsmusic
Arianna & The 4th Phase http://www.myspace.com/ariannaofficial
Charlotte Coupland http://www.myspace.com/charlottecoupland
+ Resident DJ's

4th June 2010
Rufio Summers/Joe Green http://www.myspace.com/rufiosummers
Gus/Nathan Rose (Boys In The Wood) http://www.myspace.com/boysinthewood
Russ Poole http://www.RussPoole.co.uk/
+ Resident DJ's

£3 // £2 Student/NUS/Culture Card 2-4-1 Cocktails before 12. For more information visit www.culturelounge.co.uk

Martin Horwood, Cheltenham MP, in Talks with Kraft

2010-05-24T03:23:00.000-07:00

Martin Horwood, MP for Cheltenham, has declared his allegiance to the Queen in Parliament on 19 May 2010. The affirmation has legal effect and Members who have not taken it are unable to sit during any debate or vote in a division, or they will lose their seat.

Martin affirmed ‘I Martin Horwood do solemnly, sincerely, and truly declare and affirm, That I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, her heirs and successors, according to law.’

Martin said ‘I am delighted to officially resume my seat in Parliament today. It has been a real honour to serve the people of Cheltenham for the last five years and I am looking forward to doing so once again.’
Martin started his work as an MP by holding 'constructive’ talks with Kraft about their planned move out of Cheltenham. The US food giant’s UK headquarters is currently in Bayshill Road and employs more than 400 people. Following their controversial purchase of Cadbury, the company has announced plans to consolidate head office functions in Bournville and Uxbridge. Consultation with staff is likely to carry on late into the summer and closure of the Cheltenham headquarters, if confirmed, would take place in late 2011.

Talks today focussed on the process and scope of the consultation, support for Kraft’s Cheltenham-based employees, the company’s local community programme and the advantages of Cheltenham as a corporate location.

Martin said ‘I put the strongest possible case for the retention of a Kraft presence in Cheltenham. I understand the huge importance of Bournville to the Cadbury brand and community. I don’t want to raise false hopes but I did point out that if I worked in Uxbridge, I’d leap at the chance to move to Cheltenham.’

‘If the closure does go ahead as expected, it’s essential that Kraft support the employees who will lose or leave their jobs, and those that are able and happy to move and those that want to commute, for instance from Cheltenham to Bournville. That could include acknowledging the demands longer commuting distances will put on family responsibilities. I was very encouraged by Kraft’s initial response and I think they are very conscious of their reputation as a good employer and their obligation to people who have worked hard for the company here for many years.’

‘I was also pleased to hear that they will be maintaining their community involvement in Gloucestershire, at least for the moment. The health4schools programme, for instance, will continue to completion.’

‘I’m also pleased that Kraft have agreed to co-operate with the new task force that we are setting up in Cheltenham to respond to this situation. We understand why they are proposing their own move but their endorsement of Cheltenham as a world-class headquarters location would be very valuable indeed.’

Holiday Inn Express Cheltenham Helps Young People in Business

2010-05-24T03:16:00.001-07:00

The good news is that the latest unemployment figures show Gloucestershire is doing better than the national average. Figures from Jobcentre Plus show the unemployment rate for the South West has decreased by 2.8 percent compared with a national decrease of 2.2 percent (Dec 09 – Jan 10). However, the bad news is the number of young people out of work in South Gloucestershire has gone up from 2.9 to 4.5 percent since the recession took hold. Currently, 4.3 percent of 16 to 18-year-olds are not in work, education or training in the district. With this is mind, it is now even more important to help the next generation of business people integrate into our local industries.
The Holiday Inn Express Cheltenham has volunteered to support the young people of Gloucestershire looking to develop in the hospitality industry. Recent activities include work placement schemes that develop the pupils of Cheltenham’s National Star College. The alliance has generated work placement programmes spanning over 5 weeks for students who may not have access to the same work experience opportunities because of their capabilities. The 5 week programme integrates students into all areas of the business, from kitchen duties to sales and marketing.

A new initiative called ‘Graduate Challenge’ has been launched by the University of Gloucestershire and Gloucestershire First, designed to nurture local talent and keep it within the county. The programme has been funded by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) to sustain employment growth amongst young people since the recession. The programme offers recent Higher Education graduates living in Gloucestershire who are either out of work, or working fewer than 16 hours a week, the opportunity to apply for one of 150 work placements in the county. This hotel in Cheltenham is proud to support the county’s own local graduates by providing paid work placements for a year to budding hospitality students. “One year experience in our industry is so valuable for any candidate,” says Kimberley Hatherall Sales & Marketing Manager Holiday Inn Express Cheltenham, “…in such a competitive job market young people are too often turned away by employers. Actually they have valid, passionate and fresh ideas to bring to any business – such talent needs to be sustained within the local business community.” The Holiday Inn Express Cheltenham is keen to support the Graduate Challenge within Gloucestershire during 2010.

Gloucestershire Business United, the new initiative to stimulate local business activity, was celebrated at the Holiday Inn Express Cheltenham who hosted the launch of the scheme. Key speakers during the event highlighted different ways local businesses could grow by working together. A significant note was made to the importance of employing locally to stimulate the regional economy, of which the Holiday Inn Express Cheltenham is extremely proud to contribute to.

Dennis Taylor to Play at Pockets Snooker Club in Cheltenham

2010-05-24T02:30:00.000-07:00

17 July 2010, Pockets Snooker Club, 7.30pm

Pockets Snooker Club is hosting yet another event for snooker lovers. Dennis Taylor will be coming to Cheltenham to play at Pockets Snooker Club on Saturday 17 July, giving you the chance to play a frame against the 1985 world champion. Dennis will be performing some of his trick shots, signing autographs, and of course, you will be able to get your photograph taken with him. Only 100 tickets available at £20 each (you have to be a member of Pockets Snooker Club to attend). VIP ticket which includes a frame of snooker with Dennis Taylor costs £50.

Pockets Snooker Club is Cheltenham's largest snooker and pool club which opened its doors after a grand refurbishment in February with Jimmy White as their VIP guest. Membership costs £20 per year. The club boasts 8 full size snooker tables, 5 American pool tables, large screen TV, fully licensed bar and much more. Opening times 11am – 11pm, 7 days a week, table rates for snooker or American pool is £6 an hour.

Ladies Keep Fit Classes for September 2010

2010-05-14T06:54:00.000-07:00

A brand new keep fit classes for ladies only will start this September. Essential4Fitness is an exercise to music program for all fitness levels. All movements can be adapted to suit the individual. Essential4Fitness aerobics class will be held at Balcarras School, in the gymnasium on a Monday evening at 7pm-8pm from 13 September 2010. Membership is £4.99 for 12 months entitling you to discounts with major retail outlets in Cheltenham, view members only pages, a weekly progress report with a password protected page. Each class is then £4, payable in blocks of 4. This is a beginners/returners class and will be lots of fun. To join online go to www.essential4fitness.co.uk.

Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2010 Reviews

2010-05-10T05:45:00.000-07:00

CRAIG CHARLES Park Campus, 28 April 2010
BBC6 DJ and well known Red Dwarf Star, Craig Charles, put on his favourite selection of funk and soul music to welcome in the Jazz Festival. His DJ set at Park Campus on 28 April, brought a large crowd, who were able to dance and jive to the classic tunes from the 60s and 70s as well as newer artists. His enthusiastic start: “Let’s tear the roof off,” was embraced by the crowd as everyone got to their feet. His music choice was enjoyed by all with a variety of eras and sounds and good sounds from the decades. Craig’s lively spirit was brought through to the crowd and really contributed to the lively atmosphere. He also brought to the stage The Craig Charles Fantasy Funk Band, which with the help of his radio listeners, formed last year and will be performing at both Glastonbury and the Big Chill festival this year. The evening ended at 2am with everyone leaving after being truly funked out.
Rebecca Waters

ELAINE PAGE, Cheltenham Town Hall, 29 April 2010
For the first time in her career Elaine Paige also known as ‘The First Lady in Musical Theatre’ chose to perform a jazz set in place of her trademark theatre songs, and what a jazz artist she turned out to be. She performed many classic jazz songs with all the professionalism and passion she shows in her famed West End concerts and shows. She looked particularly stylish in a sparkly blouse, skinny black jeans and feisty heels as she walked on stage to perform her first song. She opened with the classic ‘All That Jazz’ and like a true jazz artist she strutted and bopped about the stage injecting real passion into the performance. Her stage presence and power seemed to shrink the venue so the performance took on a more personal and intimate feel even against the Town Halls grand surroundings. Her set list compromised of many favourite Jazz songs from her childhood, as her parents were keen jazz fans. She dedicated the song ‘Blue Skies to her father in memory of singing the tune together when she was a child. Elaine Paige put on an excellent performance and looked incredibly at ease as a jazz artist. I would thoroughly recommend seeing her in concert if you like powerful vocals, excellent stage presence and a sense of humour. She may be the first lady of musical theatre but for tonight, she was the first lady of jazz.
Steven Potter

IMELDA MAY, Cheltenham Jazz Arena, 29 April 2010
The first to play the 2010 Jazz Arena was sassy songstress Imelda May. A seated encounter made for a lack of energy in the arena but Imelda made up for that with her bubbly spark. She performed title track Love Tattoo as the first from the 2008 album along with Big Bad Hansom Man and an array of others. Smokers Song was a highlight and got people going with its on cue chuckles, put on perfectly. Knock 123, a song about after-life love was performed like a lullaby; the beautiful ballad broke up the lively set list. Imelda has the ability to play true to her rockabilly recordings, adding a little extra so you know she's authentic. The bluesy single Johnny Got A Boom Boom went down a storm. Her covers included an unexpected Tainted Love which added some spice to an already spectacular performance. Teasers for the forthcoming album included Pullin' The Rug flaunting funky bass lines, and a gospel inspired tune that lead to a vocal focused serenade, in which the feisty front woman playfully challenged the audience in echoing her hums. It's no wonder she was back following high demand and she was more than thankful to be here, she said: "I want to thank the organisers for welcoming us, and the support they give to all kinds of bands, big and small. This is such a fantastic festival that they put on every year. It's lovely to be back, thanks for having us again."
Rose Churchill

THRILL COLLINS, Cheltenham Budvar Stage, 29 April 2010
Festival goers got a taste of the local talent when Thrill Collins took to the stage on the opening night of the festival and all new Budvar stage.
Despite the rain Thrill Collins received a hefty response out of the audience with the spirit of the 80s and 90s! Jazzing up songs by the likes of the Backstreet Boys, Christina Aguilera, Peter Andre and Dolly Parton they forced the festival spirit into everyone. Cindy Lauper's Girls Just Wanna' Have Fun put a bop in everyone’s bonnet early into their set and followed through with Shaggy's It Wasn't Me, performed with a humorous swagger. Killing In The Name Of (the kiddie version!) by Rage Against The Machine, last year’s Christmas number one, was a surprising choice but certainly didn’t fall short of entertaining. Mocking the summer weather that was vacant for the evening, Mysterious Girl was an amusing and enjoyable addition to the set list. Englishman In New York originally by the police and Lionel Richie's Hello toned down the jokes which exposed a serious side to the Cheltenham trio. The funky Thrill Collins was on top form, their unique interpretations and witty comments had everyone laughing and no-one left before the end. The Prince of Bel-Air theme tune closed the first night on the Budvar stage, though I'm not sure jazz lovers of Cheltenham really knew where it came from. Thrill Collins could jazz up or dust down just about anything. They don't tag themselves 'Cheltenham's best band' for nothing, and for free.
Rose Churchill

TRIO VD, Cheltenham Town Hall, 30 April 2010
According to the Jazz Festival brochure Trio VD are ‘one of the UK’s most thrilling live bands’ which I certainly agreed with after the first track. They are a young band who are uncompromising, exciting, raw and powerful and are here to destroy any preconceptions of jazz you may already have. Don’t get me wrong Trio VD won't be to everyone’s taste and would no doubt be written off as simply aggressive noise by some people but for me it was the most intense spectacle of jazz fury I have ever witnessed and I would certainly see them again. By incorporating contemporary electronica, alternative rock and improv they have created some of the freshest sounds in the jazz scene that has allowed them to rapidly make a name for themselves. If you are a jazz fan or see yourself as an open-minded music lover I cannot tell you how important it is that you see this band. If you need to know how intense this band is someone actually fainted at the back of the hall and lead to a rather grumpy looking gentleman shutting one of the doors with a look of utter distain on his face. Trio VD has really hit upon the primal instinct of jazz improvisation, With break-neck drumming, jagged guitars and raw saxophone sounds Trio VD have taken jazz and totally re-molded it into something extraordinary which I like to call brain melting jazz.
Steven Potter

MC3 ORGAN TRIO, Budvar Stage, 30 April 2010
This year’s Budvar Brewed Jazz Competition Winner MC3 Organ Trio took to the Budvar stage in their own set to showcase their explicit talent. Despite their slightly odd nature, and the strange faces they pulled whilst playing, this band showed their audience exactly why they’d won the competition. Using some experimental techniques they produced some fascinating jazz and funk rhythms. With one of the members being a Birmingham Conservatoire Jazz graduate and another soon to follow, you can easily tell why this band made a huge impression on the judges. Playing their lengthy numbers such as DIRTY RAT and FIVE BAR SHORT they blended the unusual sound of an organ into funky jazz beats. They also did their own cover of Charlie Mingus’ GOODBYE PORK PIE HAT which went down well. MC3 Organ Trio managed to charm their audience with their unusually long-lasting beats and wonderful solos yet at the same time kept it fresh and new. Having recently toured with award winning saxophonist, Tony Kofi, this trio more than showed they deserved their own spotlight this time. Medals should be awarded to them for their ability to play their instruments with confidence and style. Matt Chandler, the guitarist, played some great guitar improvisations which complimented the songs perfectly. Cheltenham Jazz Festival’s Budvar Stage is definitely hearing the best of the rising jazz stars out there, the MC3 Organ Trio is without a doubt one of those bands.
Katherine Bayly

ERIC BIBB, Cheltenham Jazz Arena, 30 April 2010
Country Blues artist Eric Bibb started off his UK tour at the Jazz festival on Friday night. His appearance brought along a full house of fans into the Jazz Arena. His new album Booker’s Guitar was the main focus of his set with many of his songs being from the album. Eric Bibb said: “Booker’s Guitar is a series of songs which tell stories about certain times and places. It’s a tribute to music and musical heroes. I write songs, which to me have the feelings and the feel of those times and places.” With all of his passion and soul in his music Eric Bibb really connected with the crowd. His unique acoustic guitar playing and his classy American feel really enabled you to engage with the songs. The sound of his voice, so natural and beautiful really enables you to feel at ease and calm. The soul within his music really gives you an appreciation for his work and style. He performed the title single from the Booker’s Guitar album, which is a true story based on the finding of Booker Whites guitar. The individuality and uniqueness to his voice enchanted the audience and the way in which each song tells a story really allowed you to get involved. Bibb collaborated with Grant Dermody, a talented harmonic player, who is also featured on the new album. The harmonica and Bibb’s country American blues really complimented each other creating a passionate musical atmosphere throughout the arena. He excited to an overwhelming cheer from an audience who really did see a spectacular show.
Rebecca Waters

DAVE HOLLAND, Cheltenham Town Hall, 30 April 2010
The great collaboration between jazz bassist Dave Holland and flamenco guitar maestro Pepe Habichuela brought the heart of Spain to Cheltenham, in their first performance outside of Spain. Dave Holland said: “We’re so happy to be here. It’s such a special moment, as it only began a few years ago with small concerts in Spain and now we’re here performing in front of you all. We’re so happy to be able to share this with you.” The pair, along with 2 percussionists and guitar player played a selection of traditional Spanish tracks including a Tango and a Fandango. Dave had written his own Spanish inspired pieces, including Joy Ride and The Whirling Dervish. Dave’s talent on the double bass enabled him to transform the songs with his unique style and create a very individual sound. Throughout the performance Spain was brought into the hearts of the crowd with Pepe’s flamenco style. His passion and soul within the music really allowed him to captivate the audience. Both Dave and Pepe had written their own individual pieces to perform as well as performing together as a band. Joy Ride, composed by Dave Holland, brought traditional Spanish flamenco together with contemporary jazz to create a unique sound and style. Together their work created a new musical atmosphere with the crowd being swept away with the culture of the sounds. Dave Holland and Pepe Habichuela and their band are recording their first album Hands, which will be due for release in June.
Rebecca Waters

CATTLE MARKET, Budvar Stage, 30 April 2010
Cheltenham saw the return of last year’s successful Budvar Brewed Jazz Competition Winner, Cattle Market, to this year’s Jazz Festival. Claiming they hadn’t performed in nine months and this was a reunion gig for them, no-one could have expected what was to come. As the seven piece band, who formed at Bristol University, kick started their slot with DANCE OF THE CLUBFOOTED written about Bristol University’s middle class population, the whole atmosphere under the tent lifted. Playing high spirited jazz with a twist, this band had everyone’s feet tapping and bodies swinging. Introducing bongos played by an astrophysicist, Elliot Sefton-Nash, and a trumpet dual in their last song, Cattle Market’s music is as mad as their name. You’ll definitely start to agree after hearing some of their song names; BOOZE AND ONIONS and YOU’RE ONLY A PRIEST WHEN YOUR GIRL’S AROUND. Producing a sound loud enough to be that of a full orchestra, Cattle Market’s young members are wizards of jazz, combining bongos, trumpets, saxophones, drums, double bass and keyboard to make enthusiastic eccentric Latin jazz. Ending on a high and with a huge crowd, the band did something peculiar and exited each instrument one by one before bringing the whole band back together again for a big finale. Cattle Market is the making of a great band with their fun style and crazy titled songs they definitely gave the audience a good show.
Katherine Bayly

MEGAN HENWOOD, Budvar Stage, 30 April 2010
Crowds were pleasantly surprised as BBC Radio 2’s Young Folk Musician of the Year 2009 took to the brand new Budvar stage, opening the Jazz Festival’s second night. Megan Henwood’s Joni Mitchell infused music shows she’s a 21-year-old with something to say. Her long red hair and hippy style clothes gave her audience an insight into her music before she’d even struck the first note. Opening with her debut single WHAT ELLIOT SAID Megan demonstrated straight away the beauty in her vocals. The simplicity of the guitar next to such a raw voice captured the crowd instantly. As people hushed and turned to the stage, she played three numbers including SHAPE AND COLOUR and MAKING WAVES. Each song had a point to make; one was about appreciating the “pretty things in the world” as Megan described it. The other was a protest song. For a timid person, her vocals were soothing and relaxing yet powerful. They were perfect songs for a festival and some sunshine in the late afternoon. With only herself and a guitar, Megan more than interested the crowd; she held their attention with her melodic and memorable tunes. The basis of her music lies in the folk tradition leading to you being able to hear her influences seeping through, such as the likes of Bob Dylan and Nick Drake. However she produced perfect summertime music and if this performance is anything to go by, Megan Henwood has many a great thing ahead of her.
Katherine Bayly

MICHAEL PARKINSON MUSIC NIGHT - SINATRA, Cheltenham Town Hall, 30 April 2010
The world famous BBC Concert Orchestra coupled with the John Wilson Big Band came together to celebrate the life and work of singing and acting legend, Frank Sinatra. The night also included a narration of Sinatra’s life from TV icon Sir Michael Parkinson who introduced each song and entertained the audience with various trivia from Sinatra’s colourful and sometimes controversial life. Three incredible Sinatra tribute artists sang us through the most memorable and famous songs of his career including Swinging Down The Lane, New York New York and of course My Way. The acts were without a doubt as close to the real thing as you can get. Special guest star included Buddy Greco, onetime member of the famed Rat Pack who treated the crowd to some of his favourite Sinatra classics and closed the evening with an emotional rendition of My Way that raised hairs and hearts throughout the audience. This was a truly glamorous and splendid affair the arrangements of Billy May and Nelson Riddle were breathtaking and the orchestra themselves really gave each song the class and emotion that Sinatra put into every one of his performances. For a Frank Sinatra fan this was truly an amazing evening and a once in a lifetime experience, but then what do you expect, in the words of Frank Sinatra himself; it’s all or nothing at all.
Steven Potter

KIT DOWNES TRIO, Cheltenham Town Hall, 1 May 2010
Kit Downes Trio is a tight unit consisting of Kit on piano, Calum Gourlay on Bass and James Maddren on drums. They have been attracting much acclaim within the jazz community for a while now and their set at the Cheltenham Jazz festival proved that the praise is much deserved. Opening their set with the song Jump Minzi Jump, the Kit Downes Trio demonstrated a perfect balance of subtly and dramatic temperament with an undercurrent of funk. But it was the gentler songs such as Golden and Brixton which shone the brightest. Kit gets by with the minimal of notes, and often the songs boast a lot of spaces but are always fluctuating in tempo.
The diversity was electric though and the change of pace provided by the upbeat song Tambourine showed the different sides that the band had clearly developed. It is evident that the players have a unique synergy and a keen interest in exploring other places within the music. James Maddren was a highlight with his often subtle but impressive playing which was often the most exciting parts. The group often attracted applauds due to their impressive improvisation as well as their compositions
Ashley Russell

NIKKI YEOH TRIO, Cheltenham Town Hall, 1 May 2010
Postponed after technical difficulties at the Town Hall in 2009, Nikki Yeoh and special guest John Surman return to perform an especially composed set for Cheltenham Jazz Festival.
And it was well worth the wait. Drawing on Surman’s idea for a representation of the seven sins, Yeoh wrote some magnificent material using the ideas of scenarios over the emotions themselves, so as not to glorify the misdemeanours. Heavy, slow drumming set a sluggish pace which really captured sloth, with a listless bass line and Surman’s sax setting a clumsy scene the high pitch of the piano wove perfectly in-between. Envy was a highlight of the set, where it initially sounded to represent a secret envy which eventually warped into a raging jealousy. Bad Cake was composed for gluttony, flaunting a funky rhythm but slowing the pace with timid clarinet and high keys giving the essence of shame. Throwing in a track for love through an old composition, Dance Of The Two Small Bears was powerful, passionate, and playfully executed with the trio of keys, drums and bass. The final sin of lust conjured the image of a 80s burlesque nightclub, We-Hey captured lust in the form of funky soul. The music managed to, like the latter, set the scene of its trait. You could hear the presence of yearning and desire. The eight song set gave every sin a vice, and Yeoh’s amazing talent for writing and capturing a scene really shone through. Surman was praised highly by onlookers who couldn’t get enough of his sax and clarinet collaboration.
Rose Churchill

PHANTOM LIMB, Cheltenham Jazz Arena, 1 May 2010
The bluesy southern soul of Phantom Limb, with its gospel essence was a pleasurable addition to the jazz festival line up. Opening with Good Fortune from their first album, a tender guitar solo and powerful vocals made a great introduction to their unique sound. A hint of folk was present in Tumbling Down, where Yolanda Quartey and her backing vocals harmonised perfectly making an ear inviting group effort. The intro to Run was carried by gentle bass lines and beautiful guitar, whereas Waiting Around To Call really flaunted the commanding vocals of Quartey and was delivered with authority over the other songs. Don’t Need To Say Goodbye was a new track played for the jazz festival, and will appear on the new album, being recorded in June. Its truthful lyrics and pounding bass made for a catchy song, and confirmed that Phantom Limb are far from exhausting their creative abilities. A faultless cover of Angel Of Death, originally by Hank Williams was the slowest song of the set, with Grieving for Show following, treating the audience to some more new material. All the time onstage Quartey and her band looked like they were thoroughly enjoying the experience, playing a 13 song concert. The harmonic vocals and gospel enthused Withering Bones, played towards the end, has appeared on every album and was a great choice to start the winding down of the show.
Rose Churchill

THE DESTROYERS, Cheltenham Jazz Arena, 1 May 2010
There were high expectations at the lunchtime slot at the Jazz Arena on May 1st, as the much hyped 15-man band the Destroyers took the stage. Though they stand out from the other acts at the Jazz festival due to wider musical influences and a stranger sensibility, they were nonetheless welcomed with great enthusiasm. The Destroyers aim was apparent from the first song, they were there to have fun and create an atmosphere of mischievous intent. Armed with catchy choruses and a kooky sense of humour, they fired through different genres effortlessly. The fusion of different musical influences combined with Mario Bava tinged stories of lab mice, coffins, eternal youth and the current state of the economy made for a schizophrenic but well structured performance which while cleverly constructed gives a chaotic impression. Their influences ranged from Balkan folk, jazz, and Celtic music among others. The band members may have found it hard at first to get the audience to truly get into the spirit of things, but it didn’t take too long. The silliness was infectious and the jokes won over the audience who I’m sure walked away a lot happier.
Ashley Russell

WAITING FOR KATE, Budvar Stage, 2 May 2010
Bristol band Waiting for Kate had everyone up and dancing by the Budvar Stage with their ska inspired beats despite the chilly weather. The six piece band kicked off with their lively number TRIP THE LIGHT oozing the energy and tempo needed to get the crowd going. Despite problems with the sound adjustments and being heckled by four years old demanding them to perform more songs, the band played on in true style. Their current single LOOSE GOOSE proved a massive hit with the audience regardless of the repetitive lyrics and chord structure. This didn’t matter though as the ska trumpet, saxophone and strong bass line produced a great beat to dance along to. Gaining a huge crowd, Waiting for Kate dared to perform a cover of Dizzee Rascal’s DANCE WITH ME after allowing the audience to vote on what they would like to hear. This raised more bums off seats and had people singing along and wolf whistling at the lead singer whilst he rapped away. Everyone enjoyed this set from the young to the old. A triumph and fantastic performance from Bristol’s Waiting for Kate.
Katherine Bayly

STU BROWN’S RAYMOND SCOTT PROJECT, The Daffodil, 2 May 2010
Formed in 2008 as a 100th anniversary tribute to celebrate the birth of Raymond Scott (an unknown name to many), this sextet released their debut album TWISTED TOONS: THE MUSIC OF RAYMOND SCOTT in November 2009. The sextet kick started with the first of many zany and eccentric songs RECKLESS NIGHT ON BOARD AN OCEAN LINER. Instantly feet were tapping and heads were bobbing. In SUICIDE CLIFF, trumpeter, Tom MacNivan, brought to life the 1940s feel with the sound of the trumpet mimicking the sound you hear on the old records. The sextet’s reworking of THE PENGUIN allowed Stu Brown to show off with a drum solo. He was astounding to watch and made it look so simple. His calm composure and speed made it surreal.
Katherine Bayly

JIM LOCKEY AND THE SOLEMN SUN, Cheltenham Budvar Stage, 2 May 2010
Hot tipped quartet Jim Lockey and The Solumn Sun graced the all new Budvar stage for a set not-so jazz but welcomed none-the-less! The popular band attracted other local acts to enjoy the festival, The Divine Secret and The Echoes braved the rain and were spotted in the audience supporting their peers. Lockey and co played a tight set, mixing some old and much loved songs with new ones, due for release on their forth coming album, Atlases. Crossing country folk with punk their creative tunes belong in the mainstream, freshening up some genres that can tire of the same old sounds. Waitress, out for free download in May, Caskets and Bibles, and battles were just a few played, and Cheltenham fans sang to every one. Battles and Machines were in there as well, echoing their distinctive sound. Joe Summers of the band said: “I’m surprised we got the gig, I don’t know how jazz we are so it’s something different! We hope you enjoy it.”
The chilled vibes of Morning Wake Up suited the atmosphere in the stage, with machines telling the true tale of the music industry and struggling musicians. They rounded up with The Boat Song, a melodic track that really flaunted the Lockey’s brilliant vocal tone. Apart from a few swear words the set was family friendly and received a great audience reception, from those watching admirably and those just enjoying the free music.
Rose Churchill

FRINGE MAGNETIC, Jazz Arena, 2 May 2010
Led by trumpeter Rory Simmons, ten-piece Fringe Magnetic, lit up the dark jazz arena with their vibrant and hugely experimental set. With a silent audience, the band took to the stage and started with a song called EYEBALL expressing lively and vivacious beats sounding somewhat like music from a cartoon. Onto their next song EMPTY SPACES, where they were joined by Norwegian vocalist, Elisabeth Nygaard, the band displayed much darker tones to their music. Using their unique experimental style, this song stood out like a sore thumb from anything else on the jazz scene. It blended sweet yet wailing vocals with sincere and haunting music. This ten-piece produced fantastic sounds by combining what seemed like a range of songs together and making it work as one. Their songs merged classical music with a strong jazz basis which held the audience’s attention in a still silence. Later on in the set, Fringe Magnetic was joined by another vocalist, Andrew Plummer. Things got a little too strange when he performed his song FIRE DOWN BELOW breaking all rules of jazz in terms of the music and singing. His persona was as odd as his vocals which wiped out any conventions as soon as they introduced someone who sounds like he should be in a death metal band. For any other band, this would have been a disaster but for Fringe Magnetic it was expected and praised. The audience showed their appreciation throughout with massive rounds of applause so they must be doing something right. They’re breaking the boundaries for jazz and introducing some interesting and amazing improvisations to the scene. Who could argue with that?
Katherine Bayly

CUONG VU, Town Hall Pillar Room, 2 May 2010
Cuong Vu walks into the room with a modest look on his face and a small welcoming smile for the audience. The shy guy places himself on the stage. No hello or introduction is done, nothing. He picks up his trumpet and plays the first of many songs. His bass player, Luke Bergman, and drummer, Ted Poor follow suit. The music that followed was mesmerising. For such a reserved person as Cuong Vu it was crazy to see him perform songs infused with elements of rock. Using distorting, delay and echo effects on his trumpet as well as the bass guitar, he produced a grunge jazz sound. Taking a quick glance around the room, I see people in all directions rocking their heads backwards and forward to the rock drum beat. Whilst his music is infused heavily with rock, somehow it’s also relaxing. Cuong Vu’s trumpet playing and crashing symbols of the drums lead me to feel like I was in a dream-like state. Ironically, it was tranquillity. Although lacking immensely on audience interaction, leading to an unawareness of what the songs were called and to a deficit in entertainment on that part, the innovative young star still entertained. It was interesting to watch as the trio created half a rock gig, with the bass player and drummer rocking out, whilst Cuong Vu and his trumpet jazzed it out on the other side. Showing his appreciation, Cuong Vu repeated many nods and thank you’s as the crowd clapped, whistled and screamed bringing the enticing set to a close. He ended by finally introducing himself and thanking his audience: “My name is Cuong Vu and thank you so much for coming.”
Katherine Bayly

JB JAZZ AND BLUES BAND, Jazz Arena, 3 May 2010
Nearly a full arena and the JB Jazz and Blues Band walk onto the stage, unphased, with their swing suits, broad smiles and the same style and elegance you can find in their music. Starting the gig off with the jazz standard Louis Jordan’s 1944 classic IS YOU IS OR IS YOU AIN’T MY BABY, instantly feet along my row were tapping to the beat causing my seat to rock with them. The pianist, John Beckingham, filled the arena with his Louis Armstrong inspired voice and fantastic sounds as his fingers glided over the keyboard. The old swinger and saxophonist, Roger, was clicking his fingers and swinging along to the songs keeping the old girls in the audience entertained. Covering classics from the Blues song ROUTE 66, I’M IN THE MOOD FOR LOVE and the comic number FEETS TOO BIG, the JB Jazz and Blues Band showed their true colours. Half way through the set they introduced a special guest, Jo Faulkner, who had a wonderful voice. She sang numbers such as Ella Fitzgerald’s BEI MIR BIST DU SCHOEN and DREAM A LITTLE DREAM OF ME which only added to how superb this band was. Finishing up with the bubbly classic Lewis Prima’s JUMP JIVE N WAIL, John thanked the audience with a simple: “We hope you’ve liked it as much as we have”. Roger, on the other hand, gave them one last laugh by introducing John: “On piano, on vocals, on benefits!” I don’t think I’ll ever tire of seeing this band perform.
Katherine Bayly

KIM CYPHER, Budvar Stage, 3 May 2010
One of Gloucestershire’s best female saxophonists and her band, the Kim Cypher Band, had people off their seats and up dancing as they played their classic funk and jazz beats. Kim Cypher thanked the audience for braving the cold weather and coming to see them, and invited them to come and join them by the Budvar stage for a bit of dancing. However, this audience didn’t need an invitation. After the first note had been played of the funk classic REGGAE WOMAN people were clapping along and dancing to the beat. Playing a range of covers from Grover Washington’s SOULFUL STRUT played with Joss Stone’s DON’T YOU WANNA RIDE lyrics to the Blues classic Aretha Franklin’s DOCTOR FEELGOOD, this band had everything they needed to entertain their audience. The band is made up of five fantastic musicians and a soulful singer with an immensely powerful voice designed for the music she sang. She had the passion and emphasis to make the songs mean something as well as making them great to hum along to. Kim Cypher asked the audience to participate at one point getting them to clap the drum beat out. The audience did this with no complaints and everyone was pumped with energy. The atmosphere under the tent immediately lifted with the band’s funk music filling the air. There were smiles on faces all round as small children gathered by the stage and danced next to the adults. A great gig by none other than Gloucestershire’s Kim Cypher Band.
Katherine Bayly

TOMMY CHARLES TETRAPHONIC, Budvar Stage, 3 May 2010
Undefeated by an unenthusiastic audience The Tommy Charles Tetraphonic played classic jazz songs generated to unwind. By the Budvar Stage the afternoon sun was sadly sprinkled with light rain but the band soldiered on and played a soothing set of some good old fashioned jazz sounds. With the majority of the festival showcasing experimental jazz, it was great to see a band play some traditional music. With a piano, drums and saxophone, this band created great unwinding jazz. Their set list included their own (quite long) songs like ROAD SONG and SAUSAGE AND SALAD as well as covers like Disney’s SOMEDAY MY PRINCE WILL COME, giving the children in the audience something they could recognise. The band also covered the upbeat jazz standard SISTER SADIE with huge confidence gaining a better reaction. Although their audience seemed unengaged with the music, the band looked like they had a good time. Perhaps not the most interesting band to watch on stage but they do know how to create good jazz to chill out to.
Katherine Bayly

TUBELORD, Jazz Arena, 3 May 2010
Enter the four piece rock band Tubelord. Four young lads from Norbiton. Four young lads who make fantastic rock music. With dedicated fans in tow, Tubelord rocked out the jazz arena with a sound similar to other rock bands out there. It took me a while to figure out why everyone was so obsessed with these guys, and then I saw it. None of the other bands have the charisma. The personalities that trickled out of this band made for a very amusing gig. With conversation topics between songs going from a guy who blagged his way in for free to whether Iron Man 2 was any good, it made for great entertainment. It’s not very often that you see an incredible band perform that also have the charm to go with it. Singing songs from their Myspace page, such as their latest single STACEY’S LEFT ARM and old favourites NIGHT OF THE PENCILS and PROPELLER, it wasn’t long until people were singing along with them. Their performance was bursting at the seams with energy and enthusiasm which gave the audience every reason to be doing the same. This group has more to offer than the average rock band, their high speed performance united with vocal harmonies, violent guitar riffs and catchy lyrics mean you’ll be humming the tunes in days to come. This band is not an amateur rock band; they are a rock band. With an ever-growing fan base, Tubelord are definitely ones to go and see if you get the chance.
Katherine Bayly

LLUIS MATHER, Cheltenham Town Hall, 4 May 2010
Chosen by Dave Holland from the top students on Birmingham Conservatoire’s jazz course, The Lluis Mather quartet played a great set in the pillar room on the bank holiday. As winners of the 2009 ensemble prize, they received this headline slot as their reward and really made the most of it. Dissention, their opening piece was a laid back but eerie, and lead by saxophonist Lluis Mather who holds terrific talent in both playing and composing. A tense theme ran throughout the performance, and was created by some thrilling compositions. Catch It, Bin It, Kill It stood out among the arrangement, with its sinister sound and a faster pace the track was just loud enough to be intimidating, and big enough to captivate. Following the first half, withering symbols blew up into huge, epic jazz music walls. The group picked up an excellent response from the audience for their edgy songs, Mather’s quirky style is what got them the award in the first place, and will hopefully bring them back in 2011.
Rose Churchill

MATT CALVERT, Cheltenham Playhouse Theatre, 4 May 2010
A live audience with Matt Calvert was especially chosen by guest director Jamie Cullum’s for the festival. Calvert played a narrative acoustic to a series of short stories, and was joined by the up and coming British piano, reeds and percussion player Ivo Neame, and Ben Bryant on Vibes and percussion. The theme of story-telling jazz was a fresh addition to the festival, with its visual tales including the 1906 Dreams Of A Rarebit Fiend, one of Edison Manufacturing’s most popular film releases. The music itself was in perfect sync with the films, with impressive and realistic tech noises mimicking what could be seen on screen. The Motorist, a fantasy in which a motorcar drives around the rings of Saturn was a highlight of the five stories. It was easy to forget the music was being played live, and when bought away from the screen and back to reality it was exciting to realise the soundtrack was on stage. The story of Isabella and her dance with death set an awkward atmosphere which was brought alive by the music. The Theatre, animated by Hattie Newman was a quirky little film where Calvert and his team partly improvised, which if they hadn’t noted beforehand, it would have went unnoticed which just amplified their gift in playing along to the screen.
Rose Churchill

Outboys at The Cotswold Inn

2010-05-10T04:25:00.000-07:00

15 May 2010, The Cotswold Inn, 8.45pm, admission free

The Outboys will be performing at The Cotswold Inn on 15 May 2010. The event starts at 8.45pm, admission is free.

So, who are the Outboys? Formed originally in 1978, a group of quirky teenagers originating from Cheltenham in Gloucestershire, England formed a band called Dijkstra. Two drummers and many jams later, the band eventually evolved into a four-piece guitar orientated pop act known as British Shoes. The Outboys were to eventually emerge in 1981 with the addition of Cheltenham legendary drummer, Micky Clark (ex-9.30 Fly, The Curtains & DeckChairs). The sound was distinctive, original and hard to pigeonhole. For those of you who (are old enough to) remember the heady days of the late seventies and early eighties, the band could best be described as a cross between early Talking Heads, The Cure, Echo & The Bunnymen and Joy Division.

In 1982, they all gave up their day jobs, moved to London and played more or less as professionals for two years. The band released a couple of singles which were played by, and reviewed with moderate cynicism, by John Peel and recorded material for an album in 1983. Sadly, due to 'management conflict' the album was never officially released. From 1982 thru 1984, the band toured extensively, playing on average 3-4 nights per week in and around the London area as well as further a ield building up an avid core fan base. Although the band never formally split up, it became less of priority from 1986 onwards and remained more or less inactive for 12 years.

The Outboys 're-formed' once or twice in the late 90's for the occasional show. (The Outboys write and play music that is inspired by their own lives, feelings and experiences ultimately the darker side of our lives, often with a healthy dash of cynical humour thrown in to add flavour. Outboys are currently featuring songs fro the cd End of the Show-DNA released worldwide in 2008 and new music from the forthcoming CD "Death of the Blues" For more information visit www.myspace.com/outboys

Sugarhill Festival Is Looking for Bands to Audition This Sunday

2010-05-05T11:33:00.000-07:00

9 May 2010, Vodka Revolutions bar, 1pm

Sugarhill Festival, Swindon, is hitting Cheltenham on its continued search to find local artists, bands to perform along some great headline acts including The New Young Pony Club. Sugarhill Festival has already booked a number of Cheltenham based bands including legendary beat boxers DUKE, Divine Secret, Rufio Summer, Screaming 88’s and Reign of Fury.

Sugarhill Festival has teamed up with Vodka Revolutions bars in the search for local performers throughout the Southwest. The festival will be hitting Cheltenham offering the chance for local talent to perform on one of their stages alongside professionals and headline acts. Selected performers will be featured in the festival programme, marketing materials and online features.

Auditions start at 1.00pm at Vodka Revolutions, Cheltenham, Clarence Parade, Cheltenham. They are looking for not only artists/bands but also performers over all genres including comedy, theatre, dance, cabaret and much much more. To get involved please email Claire@sugarhillfestival.com. Performers/bands will be asked to perform for 15 minutes in front of a panel of judges made up of Sugarhill Festival organisers and industry professionals from Cheltenham.

They are also looking for a LIVE audience, so if you fancy spending the afternoon helping judges find some great local talent come on down to Vodka Revolutions from 12.30pm, with free entry, Sugarhill Festival will also be handing out free merchandise!

Sugarhill Festival based in Swindon, Wiltshire, will be returning on Saturday 31st July 2010 as a one-day festival with overnight camping facilities. As well as the main stage and amazing array of bands, there will be some new editions to the camp. The Sugarhill Festival will be bringing you an acoustic venue, late nigh cabaret, EKTOS 20 year reunion dance tent and will be giving you the best in comedy and literature from its new home.

Children will be kept entertained in our dedicated kids area, set alongside the Sugarhill garden area. Various workshops and craft activities will also take place throughout the day.

Headline acts include The New Young Pony Club, Duke, The Alfonz, CHE, Rufio Summers, Napolean in Rags, Divine Secret, The Screaming 88’s, Dress to Kill, Sleeping with Giants, Reign of Fury, Becca De La musique, Theo Altieri and many many more

Tea tents, local food areas and of course the opening of the Sugarhill local pub will ensure you are comfortable within these amazing surroundings. More information and tickets for the festival are available from www.sugarhillfestival.com

Martin Horwood wins backing of animal rights campaign

2010-05-05T11:27:00.001-07:00

Cheltenham's Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate Martin Horwood has won the backing of a leading animal rights campaign.

Protecting Animals in Democracy sent a questionnaire to each of the three main parties’ candidates in Cheltenham, and as a result have decided the endorse Martin as the best voting option in Cheltenham to protect millions of animals from cruelty.

Martin said: “I'm delighted by this endorsement. I wasn't in the Commons when the hunting ban was passed but I gather it took hundreds of hours of parliamentary time. I can't believe my Tory candidate really thinks it is worth re-opening all these arguments again“.

The Supper Club at D-Fly

2010-05-05T11:22:00.000-07:00

7 May 2010, The Buzz Venue, D-Fly

To celebrate Cabaret week hosted by The Everyman Theatre and the Jazz Festival, Cheltenham's very own The Lollipop Lounge are producing a Friday night live supper club in the Buzz Venue at D-Fly Cheltenham. The Supper Club will recreate a traditional cabaret club with lively and upbeat Jazz, on the hour cabaret performances, cocktails, bar food, sit down tables and much more. As a pre-club venue The Supper Club will open from 9pm - Midnight on Friday 7th May with £5 entry tickets on the door or in advance from http://www.iristickets.co.uk/portal/event/16898
For more information visit D-Fly at www.dflycheltenham.co.uk
Cotswold Style will be on hand to take pictures so a chance to dress up cabaret style!

Jonathon Porritt backs Martin Horwood

2010-05-02T04:01:00.000-07:00

Cheltenham-based environmentalist Jonathon Porritt has pledged his support for Martin Horwood’s re-election campaign. This comes after the Cheltenham Green Party voted to not stand a candidate against Martin in light of his excellent record on environmental issues.

Jonathon is one of Britain's leading environmentalists, a former director of Friends of the Earth and founder of environmental think tank Forum for the Future. In 1997 he was appointed as the first chair of the government advisory body, the Sustainable Development Commission, a post from which he stood down in 2009.

Jonathon said ‘I wholeheartedly endorse the decision of the Green Party in Cheltenham to stand down in favour of Martin Horwood, our Liberal Democrat MP. Martin is an excellent local MP, with an impressive track record on environmental issues, both locally and nationally. I shall certainly be casting my vote for him on May 6th ‘.

Martin and Jonathon opened together the Springbank wind turbine.

The Venue Jazz Club at The Wheatsheaf Inn, Leckhampton

2010-05-02T03:54:00.000-07:00

Tuesday May 4th 2010 – The Jayne Steele Quintet
Jayne Steele brings with her Dutch Lewis on his stunning saxes and all manner of woodwind,Dayne Cranenburg on upright bright white bass,Trevor Davies on guitar, lastly with Ian Russell on drums.Having worked together for almost ten years they offer their own unique and accessible take on a wide range of familiar jazz standards.Jayne's voice, described as 'velvet', will sing such beautiful ballads as A Love Affair to Remember, whilst her version of St Louis Blues has been likened to the wolloping sound of the legendary Bessie Smith.For a musical night of fire, passion, love, loss.. all the stories of jazz, come and join her.

Tuesday May 18th 2010 – Zanzibar
Zanzibar is an exciting quartet who have discovered fantastic tunes from the Tropicana movement in Brazil in the late 60s. This, coupled with firm roots in post bebop modern jazz, makes for a great evening's music. The band features Billy Woodman on piano, Carlos Alvarez on flute and soprano sax, Mike Waite on bass and Mark Bharucha on drums and percussion.

Tuesday June 1st 2010 – The Armstrong Simkins Quartet
The welcome return of cornettist Dennis Armstrong and pianist Pete Simkins for an evening of swinging, foot-tapping music inspired by the Chicago and New York jazz scenes of the 1920s and 1930s. Dennis and Pete are joined on this occasion by the experienced Chris Pearce on clarinet and saxes and by the talented Rachel Hayward on banjo and guitar.

Tuesday June 15th 2010 – The Peter Gill Swing Band
Another evening of ratpack inspired, easy and light-hearted swing jazz with Peter who is as usual joined by Mike Cypher on drums, Mike Croshaw on guitar, Wayne Elliot on bass, Patsy Gamble on saxophone and Suzy Jacoby on vocals.

Bark in Pittville Park

2010-05-02T03:12:00.000-07:00

27 June 2010, Pittville Park, 10am - 4pm

For the second summer running Pittville Park in Cheltenham will be turned into a haven for all dogs and their owners thanks to Gloucestershire County Association for the Blind. Bark in Pittville Park, sponsored dog walk and family day out is taking place on Sunday 27th June from 10am - 4pm. Dog owners (and members of the public who don't own a dog) can help raise money to help blind and visually impaired people by entering a sponsored 5km walk around the whole of Pittville Park.

Lucy Gooding, Community Fundraiser for GCAB says "We are inviting anyone whether they have a dog or not to enter the walk and help raise sponsorship. GCAB help and support over 3,000 blind and partially sighted people throughout the whole of Gloucestershire. We receive no Government funding so sponsored events like this are vital to help carry on the services we provide.

As well as the sponsored walk there are a wide variety of activities going on throughout the day. They include a fun dog show judged by local Vet Brad Cooper. Brad will also have a stand which pet owners can visit to ask him any questions they have. There will also be 2 displays from Paws for Thought Dog display team who recently performed on the Alan Titchmarsh show on ITV. Local dance group, Dance tech are coming along to wow the crowds with some great dance moves. You can also have a ride in a tethered hot air balloon, bouncy slides and buy some tasty refreshments.

If you are interested in taking part then please contact Lucy on 01242 246 110 or email her on barkinpittvillepark@glos-blind.co.uk

New for Cheltenham - The Women's Business Club

2010-05-02T03:06:00.000-07:00

The UK's leading support and networking organisation for women is launching a new club in Cheltenham.

Hosted by expert trainer and coach Jacky Leonard, The Women's Business Club will be held at lunchtime every month at Mercure Cheltenham Queen's Hotel in Cheltenham. The next meeting is on Thursday May 20th.

Jacky is very excited about hosting The Women's Business Club. She is hoping as many women as possible from the Cheltenham area will become involved to help grow and move their businesses forward.

The Women's Business Club is a professional, membership-based company that works to empower and encourage women to reach their full potential in business. For more information, or to book a place, telephone 01903 244434 or go to www.thewomensbusinessclubs.com.

Cheltenham Family History

2010-05-02T01:59:00.000-07:00

Family history research has become an increasingly popular pastime in recent years. Millions of people are searching for their roots and devote hours of their free time to this fascinating hobby.

Cheltenham4u's Cheltenham Family History section is here to help you with your research. You can connect with other Cheltenham researchers by leaving a message on our Cheltenham family history message board, share the results of your research with others by submitting your family history stories, or introduce your Gloucestershire ancestors by sharing their photographs.

Our most recent family history story I Didn't Know I Belonged in Cheltenham submitted by one of our readers just shows what kind of surprises awaits you on this journey through time. If you came across an interesting story in your family history research, don't forget to share it with others.

Cheltenham Jazz Festival Fringe

2010-04-20T07:43:00.000-07:00

22 April 2010, The Frog and Fiddle

Alexander John Live at The Frog and Fiddle with support from The Tom Hollister

This free event is part of the Fringe Festival Blues to kick start the Cheltenham Jazz Festival Fringe. Alexander John brings Delta Blues, slide guitar and vocals that are as hot as VOLCANIC ASH! leaving you 'happily stranded south of the deep Mississippi swamp lands'. A Blues night sliding out across this fab music venue and with rave reviews 7 / 10 from his Muddy Waters Album. With support from the Tom Hollister Trio - a vibrant powerhouse of blistering original material, fusing rock and blues for the soul. - Got to get me some mo' Blues at this not to be missed Cheltenham Jazz Festival Fringe Blues Night.

More information at:
http://www.alexanderjohn.com
http://www.tomhollistertrio.com
http://cheltenhamfestivals.com/jazzfringe/
http://cheltenhamfestivals.com/jazzfringebrochure

Cheltenham MP Delighted at Lib Dem RSS Commitment and Issues Election Challenge

2010-04-16T09:21:00.001-07:00

Martin Horwood, Cheltenham’s MP since 2005 and Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate for the town, has welcomed the specific Liberal Democrat manifesto commitment which will spell the end of the South West Regional Spatial Strategy that currently threatens green land around Cheltenham.

After co-writing the party’s policy on this issue which was confirmed by the Lib Dem conference last September this position has been re-affirmed in the party’s manifesto published today. The manifesto states ‘Liberal Democrats will abolish the Infrastructure Planning Commission and return decision making, including housing targets, to local people.’

Martin said ‘I am delighted that this explicit commitment to return housing targets to local control is in the manifesto in black and white. This means the end of the South West Regional Spatial Strategy and its unsustainable housing targets for Cheltenham and means that we can start to tackle homelessness without destroying the countryside.’

Martin has also challenged other candidates in Cheltenham to openly state their views on reforms that will help to restore public trust following the scandal over politicians’ expenses.

Martin has taken part in DEMREF 2010, the non-party election web initiative that allows voters to compare the reform policies of their candidates. He believes that all candidates should put themselves forward for voter scrutiny in this way, in the interests of openness and accountability. The campaign focuses on issues such as reform of the electoral system, fixed
term parliaments and reform of the House of Lords.

"Voters want to know where we stand on reforming politics following the expenses scandal that has seriously damaged public trust," Martin said. "I challenge my fellow candidates to take part in DEMREF 2010 so that the voting public can scrutinise our views and make an informed choice about which of us has the best policies for cleaning up politics."

DEMREF 2010 asks candidates for their views on fixed-term parliaments, free voting, the electoral system, open primaries, voting age, recalling MPs and House of Lords reform. There is also space for candidates to put forward their own favoured reforms.

Hop on the Boogie Bus on Wednesdays

2010-04-16T09:06:00.001-07:00

The Boogie Bus has been launched by Boogie Lounge night club. If you are planning a night out on Wednesdays and you're studying at University of Gloucestershire, Boogie bus is an ideal mode of travel. Starting on Wednesday 21 April the bus will depart at 10pm from Park Place/The Park (near Park Campus) and arrive at Boogie Lounge at 10.10pm, it will then move on to Albert Rd (near Pittville Campus) where it will depart at 10.30pm. Next point of pick up is St. Paul's Rd (near Francis Close Hall Campus) where it will depart at 10.45pm. The bus will then arrive at Boogie Lounge at 11pm. The bus will then return to Albert Rd again and pick up at 11.20 to arrive at Boogie Lounge at 11.30pm.

Bus fare is £5 and it entitles you to free entry to Boogie Lounge and a free drink up to £2.

What's on at Boogie Lounge This Week:
MONDAY Stuudent Promoters Night, Drum N Bass. Ska, Electro, Live Artists.

WEDNESDAY Student Night, Funkasino

THURSDAY Acedemia Brand New Indie Pop Funkasino
FRIDAY Discofunk + Retropop, 80s Night coming soon!

SATURDAY I Love Disco

Cheltenham Chamber Orchestra Concert

2010-04-16T08:59:00.000-07:00

15 May 2010, St. Andrew's Church, Montpellier

Cheltenham Chamber Orchestra will perform on 15 May 2010 at St. Andrew's URC in Montpellier. This is the last concert to be given by the Chamber Orchestra before their appearance at the Cheltenham Music Festival in July. The programme includes music by Rossini, Dvorak, Ligeti and Beethoven. The conductor on this occasion is Toby Purser and the orchestra is led by George Ewart. Tickets are available from Cheltenham TIC. The performance starts at 7.30pm

Paddy Ashdown launched Cheltenham MP's campaign

2010-04-10T09:38:00.000-07:00

Current Cheltenham MP Martin Horwood was first off the starting blocks with a campaign launch just hours after the announcement of a General Election on 6 May. Former Lib Dem leader Paddy Ashdown launched Martin's campaign at St.Andrew's United Reformed Church in Montpellier.
Gordon Brown visited the Queen on 6 April to request a dissolution of Parliament, firing the official starting gun for the 2010 General Election campaign. Parliament was officially dissolved and all current legislation either completed in less than a week or lost. Martin launched his campaign at 7.30pm on 6 April at a public meeting to be addressed by his old friend Lord Ashdown. Martin worked as a young member of Paddy's leadership campaign team back in the 1980s. Paddy's visit follows other high-profile visits to the key marginal in the last year by Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg, shadow chancellor Vince Cable and shadow home secretary Chris Huhne.

Experts predict that boundary changes that come into effect at this General Election will make Cheltenham a close two-horse race between Martin and the Conservative candidate. Amongst the minor parties UKIP, Labour and the Official Monster Raving Loony Party are expected to field candidates but Cheltenham Green Party have voted to back Martin. Martin's campaign has also received a boost from the recent high-profile defection of leading Tory councillor Klara Sudbury.

Martin said: "We're getting a fantastic response on the doorstep and it's great to be getting support from across traditional party divides. This will be a close race between me and the Conservatives and they are obviously spending huge amounts of money here on top of their local election expenses. But you don't win this kind of campaign in the last few weeks. You win it with five year's hard work campaigning for local NHS services, for local public transport, local jobs and the local countryside."

"Nationally-funded Tory leaflets are trying to confuse people into voting Tory as the only way to vote against Labour. The truth is that in many parts of the UK it is the Lib Dems who are defeating Labour - from Edinburgh to Cardiff, from Newcastle to Bristol. To vote against a Labour government, you have to vote against Labour MPs in places like those cities and Lib Dems will doing that in their millions. But here in Cheltenham, Labour were defeated years ago. The reason the Tories want everyone to vote Conservative here is because they're scared that we will spoil their plan for another one-party majority and their rich backers are terrified of Lib Dem plans to clean up politics and crack down on tax breaks for the very rich. Every extra Lib Dem MP is another voice for deeper reform and a fairer Britain."

Cheltenham Rock School

2010-04-10T09:31:00.000-07:00

23 - 27 August 2010, Dean Close School

Once again, Cheltenham music promoters, Beyond Eternity are presenting a week-long Rock School for 11-19 year olds in the town.

The course which runs between 23rd & 27th August takes place at the Prince Michael Hall, Dean Close School, Cheltenham and is open to all serious musicians between 11 and 19 years old whether they’re into rock, pop, funk, punk, jazz or hip hop.

The programme of workshops, seminars and practical sessions covers all aspects of musicianship. Performance skills, forming and running a band, effective self promotion, recording and production will all be covered over the course of the week.
.
Tutors include many of the town’s well known musicians and local music industry insiders, all hoping to give budding musicians the head-start they are looking for.

At the end of the week all their efforts come together in a performance where each participant has the chance to showcase their new skills. It’s a week where young people’s confidence and competence is nurtured and new friendships forged.

There is a charge to attend the course to cover tuition and materials but Peter Gill and Beyond Eternity Promotions are offering some sponsored places to make the course accessible to young people who face financial barriers, but move fast - the deadline for applying for these is May 1st (this date is earlier this year as the week was sold out by June last year and is looking to sell out similarly this year).

For further information on the course, sponsored places or to make bookings, contact Peter Gill at Beyond Eternity Promotions on 01242 587776.

Children at Amberley Ridge School got an Eggceptional Surprise

2010-04-10T09:27:00.000-07:00

The children at Amberley Ridge School received special treatment this Easter, when the Holiday Inn Express Cheltenham and local charity Well Child donated over 50 Easter eggs and chocolate goodies to the school. The hotel also provided a real life ‘Fluffy Chicken’ to deliver the chocolate treats. Well Child, a regional charity supporting sick children and their families, were pleased to be part of the initiative.

“The children thoroughly enjoyed the day. It was great to see them so excited, especially when Charlie the Chicken delivered all the chocolates,” says Jason Hiley, General Manager. “We believe it is important to work closely with the community, not just supporting local businesses but our neighbours too.”

Amberley Ridge School hosted the day, and ensured classes of all ages received a visit from Charlie the Chicken. The donation was for the children who might have otherwise been excluded from the Easter celebrations and as a thank you for the dedicated work of the teachers at the school.

Cheltenham Carnival and Fun Day

2010-04-10T09:16:00.000-07:00

15 May 2010, Montpellier Gardens

The Cheltenham Carnival & Fun Day in aid of LINC have now received the official go-ahead from Cheltenham Borough Council and now gearing up for what is going to be the biggest community event of 2010 so far. The Cheltenham Carnival & Fun Day are set to now go ahead on Saturday 15th May 2010 starting at 10am all day, with the actual carnival procession from 4.30pm – 5.30pm around the streets of Cheltenham.

This is a Cheltenham community event that will combine of three main parts:

1) The Carnival FUNDAY happening at Montpellier Gardens - 10.00am - 4.00pm.
A large area dedicated to all things community, performance, children and much much more including:

- The PLAY development centre housing a children’s village including arts and crafts, play ranger kit, bouncy castles, face painting, a chill out area for mums and much more.
- A large outdoor performance space dedicated to workshops and performances from a large number of Cheltenham based groups
- Circus workshops
- A large staged performance marquee housing a number of Cheltenham based bands and DJs including the one and only CHIP SHOP BOYS
- Food and traders village area and much more!
Tickets for all day are Adults £5.00/Children£2.50/Family Ticket £12.50 for LINC Charity available at www.lincfund.co.uk or on
the day!

2) The Cheltenham CARNIVAL Procession -4.30pm - 5.30pm - to take part please visit http://www.cheltenhamcarnival.co.uk/ - FREE

3) The evening concert in aid of LINC - 5.30pm - 10.30pm - a night of festivities including an family concert from Counterfeit Abba, traditional carnival music and a special after party at D- Fly. Tickets for all concerts and after party (over 18s only) Adult £8.00/Children £4.00 tickets available on the day or from www.lincfund.co.uk

Renaissance Voices at St. Mary's Church, Charlton Kings

2010-04-10T09:08:00.000-07:00

24 April 2010, St. Mary's Church, Charlton Kings

Musica Vera, conducted by Oliver Mason, sings unaccompanied music from the Renaissance, sacred and secular. Major Pipework (Recorders) will also play music from the same period. The concert starts at 7.30 pm. Tickets are £8.00, to include refreshments, at the door, or from Cheltenham Tourist Information Centre, 77 Promenade, Cheltenham, Tel 01242 522878. Proceeds to Vale Wildlife Hospital & Rehabilitation Centre.

Activities for Children This Easter

2010-03-27T12:33:00.000-07:00

6 - 16 April 2010, various locations

Youngsters have no reason to be bored during the Easter holidays, as there will be a full programme of fun and entertainment. The play and sports development teams at Cheltenham Borough Council have designed the holiday programme for all local children to enjoy from 6 to 16 April 2010, in a variety of locations around the borough.

The Play Zone holiday scheme at Balcarras Sports Centre, for 6 -15 year olds, will be running for a full working day, 8.30am - 6pm, with half day sessions also on offer. Places at this venue can be pre-booked by calling 01242 774408. For the same age range, Rowanfield Infant School will also run the scheme from 10am - 3.30pm on a first come, first served basis. Offering arts and crafts, sports, wii games, a DVD zone and day trips, Play Zone sessions are fully supervised and different prices apply.

The play and sports rangers will also be touring a number of local parks, offering free of charge outdoor activities to all ages, also including a new 'under 5s' play area. Councillor Andrew McKinlay, cabinet member for sport and culture said: ''Throughout the school holidays, we always make sure that there is a package of fun for children so that they are kept busy and entertained. All activities are low in cost, sometimes even free, so that they are accessible for all.''

In addition to Play Zone, the ever popular Sport Zone is back. The Sport Zone road show will run from leisure@cheltenham, 6 - 9 April and then from Christ College from 12 - 16 April, 9.30 - 12.30. Including cricket, football, basketball and athletics, the sessions are geared towards youngsters aged 8-13 years, again different charges apply.

Sport specific camps are also returning and these allow young people to develop a number of sports skills under the guidance of experienced coaches. This year's camps include cricket, squash, basketball and football. The football camps include involvement from Cheltenham Town FC coaches.

Tom Sparks, sports development officer at the council said: ''We have a great package of play and sports activities for children this year, which will encourage them to have fun and make new friends. When designing the holiday schemes, we always work hard to make sure there will be something that appeals to every child.''

Take a look at the full Easter holiday programme which includes all pricing and booking details. Alternatively, call the play and sport information and booking line on 01242 774756.

George Edward Lodge Exhibition at Nature in Art

2010-03-25T09:32:00.000-07:00

30 March 2010 - 9 May 2010, Nature in Art, Twigworth

In recent years Nature in Art have assembled a collection of work by some of the most influential wildlife artists of the 20th century, including JC Harrison, Charles Tunnicliffe, David Shepherd and Peter Scott. The next exhibition of the series focuses on work created by George Lodge and also coincides with the 150th anniversary of his birth.

The chairman of the George Edward Lodge trust described Lodge as having "left behind his unparalleled stamp on the natural world through his work, records and diaries". Lodge was a keen naturalist and falconry was his favourite sport, and whilst he lived in London he would often be seen walking with a hawk on his fist. This interest was strongly reflected in many of his paintings. He was a very versatile artist and would paint in both watercolour and oils and he was still painting works for book illustration well into his nineties.

The exhibition will include paintings and drawings by George Edward Lodge, but also some of his sketch books, tools, a few falconry items and examples of some of his published books. To compliment the show there will be a falconry evening on April 29th 2010 (please call 01452 731422 for more details, must be prebooked).

Easter Children Activities at Nature in Art

2010-03-25T09:22:00.000-07:00

Nature in Art will be running a series of Arty activities during the Easter holidays. All sessions are two hours long either 10:30am-12:30pm or 2:30pm-4:30pm, and are a good way to have fun developing creative skills and making new friends.

Saturday 3rd April 2010 - East Rabbit Cany Cone and Easter Egg Hunt
Use lots of different materials to create a rabbit candy cone. Then take part in Easter Egg quiz to win some chocolate which can be taken home in your special cone. Adult supervision required for quiz which will take place half an hour before the end of the session.

Tuesday 6th April 2010 - Cool Coasters
Decorate cermaic coasters using specialist paints and transfers. They will make a great present or just make a tea break a bit more fun!

Wednesday 7th April 2010 - Fantastic Fabric Photo Album
Personalise your very own photo album by decorating the cover using fabric paints, pens, foam, gems and other fantastic material.

Thursday 8th April 2010 - Perfect Piggy Bank
Decorate a ceramic piggy bank using specialist paints and transfers. The piggy bank measures 7.5 cm high so you'll be able to save plenty of pennies!

Friday 9th April 2010 - Creative Collage
Look at collage pictures made by artists then create your own pictures using different methods. Use bubble wrap, material, paints, leaves, wax resist and different papers to name a few.

Activities must be prebooked, please call 01452 731422. All children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. For more information and a booking form visit www.nature-in-art.org.uk or call 01452 731422.

Guinness Village at the Brewery for Cheltenham Gold Cup Week

2010-03-10T11:27:00.000-08:00

16 - 19 March 2010, The Brewery

There will be free live music and entertainment at the Brewery every night of the races, from 5-9pm. With seven restaurant/bars to tempt you with cuisines from around the world there really is something for everyone.

Cheltenham's favourite festival is nearly upon us and racing fans from all over the world are counting down to the greatest event in the National Hunt calendar. Now one of Cheltenham's most popular venues for pre and post racing entertainment, The Brewery prepares to celebrate this great week. The whole centre will be transformed into an "Irish Village", with Guinness promotions and offers available in many outlets.

Each day (Tuesday 16th - Friday 19th March) from 5pm until 7pm funky, contemporary Irish band 'The Roving Crows' will provide free entertainment in a marquee under the Cupola Tower, and afterwards in Après Bar from 8.30pm 'til late. This four piece band has its roots firmly in traditional Irish music and is guaranteed to get your feet tapping. Between 7.00pm and 9.00pm a change of tempo is offered by local ska/jazz/skiffle band Thrill Collins. Robbie, Andrew and Tristan are all Gloucestershire lads and are making a name for themselves fast as Cheltenham's Best BandT.

All the bars and restaurants - Chiquito, Nandos, Frankie & Benny's, Prezzo, Après, The Real China, and Mango - will be entering into the spirit of the 'Craic'. You can enjoy breakfast at some outlets plus lunch before the racing, with evening entertainment and dining later on. There will be evening street entertainment including comedy bouncers and fire jugglers. Watch the racing live on the biggest screens in Cheltenham at Après and with Ladbrokes just around the corner, and Ladbrokes staff on hand with betting slips and the latest odds, you'll find everything you need for an unforgettable 2010 Gold Cup Festival at The Brewery.

The Brewery in Cheltenham is a stones throw from Boots corner via the Lower High Street (turn right just before Tesco Metro) or you can park in the NCP in St Margaret's Road. For updates visit http://www.thebrewerycheltenham.co.uk/.

Three Bonzos and a Piano at Bacon Theatre

2010-03-09T13:19:00.000-08:00

7 May 2010, Bacon Theatre

Original members of the legendary sixties band the Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band are appearing as Three Bonzos and a Piano at the Bacon Theatre in Cheltenham on Friday 07 May.

Having appeared with members of Monty Python, the Beatles, Eric Clapton, the Kinks and The Who as well as having their own Top 5 hit with 'Urban Spaceman', the band is said to be the "musical missing link" between The Goons and Monty Python. Indeed, in 1967 and 1968/9 they featured as the "house band" on "Do Not Adjust Your Set", a fore-runner of Monty Python, with Michael Palin, Eric Idle and Terry Jones, as well as the young David Jason. Their humour was undoubtedly influential. Vivian Stanshall's legacy is well-known and is celebrated by the Three Bonzos. As well as having a great past, they also have an extremely exciting present and future - their new CD having just been released, they are very much a contemporary proposition! The original members involved are Roger Ruskin Spear, Rodney Slater and Sam Spoons.

The show promises to be a diabolical mayhem from the largest number of Bonzos still playing together anywhere on the surface of the earth. Born in a distant art school past somewhere in the sixties, Three Bonzos And A Piano unleash their Bonzo Dog classics with energetic zip and palaver. Ali Baba’s Camel, Hunting Tigers Out In India, Big Shot, Trouser Press, The Sheik of Araby, Monster Mash, Can Blue Men Sing The Whites?, The Head Ballet and many, many more – including some great new numbers. Robots, smoke, unsuitable medical technology, ancient theatrical props, the kitchen sink and the audience (you get to join-in!) all combine to re-create the atmosphere of those formative years of the Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band at such legendary venues as The Tiger’s Head, Catford. Addictive stuff! You have been warned!

The performance starts at at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £15.00, students £10.00. For more information visit www.bacontheatre.co.uk/content.php?TSID=19727

New Production by St. John's Players

2010-02-28T13:14:00.000-08:00

I'LL BE BACK BEFORE MIDNIGHT!

9th - 13th March, St John's Hall, Churchdown

The next production by St. John's Players of Churchdown is 'I'll be back before Midnight!' It is a thriller by Peter Colley, first produced in Canada. Under the direction of John Knowles the play is perhaps best described as a horror movie, live on stage, with several heart stopping moments keeping the audience on the edge of their seats until the final curtain.

John came across the play via a friend who knew someone in the recent Canadian revival. The play was performed in England some years ago with Dennis Waterman heading the cast. St. John's cast includes society stalwart Jenny Morgan, together with Andy Willcocks, Alan Wollaston and Julie Duly. The plot begins when Greg Sanderson rents an old farmhouse to help his wife Jan recover from a breakdown. However not long after they arrive things start to happen which begin to unnerve them. Things become a nightmare for everyone.

The players pride themselves on very successful productions and this promises to be no exception and anyone who sees the play is asked not to reveal who dunnit! The play runs at St John's Hall Churchdown from 9th - 13th March and tickets can be obtained from Pam Stock on 01452 857371.

Holiday Inn Express Cheltenham Pioneers Free Hot Breakfast

2010-02-20T12:40:00.000-08:00

2 March 2010, 10.30am – 12.30pm, Holiday Inn Express Cheltenham

Despite a time when food options for weary travellers are being downsized, all Holiday Inn Express properties across the country are planning to provide guests with a superior, more balanced breakfast thanks to the introduction of the brand's new Express Start® Breakfast Bar, with the Holiday Inn Express Cheltenham being one of the first in the Gloucestershire region. The signature hot breakfast bar rollout began in early January with more than 20 properties per week receiving installation. All 240 hotels will be complete by March 31, 2010, representing the fastest food and beverage implementation in the hospitality industry.

Despite hectic schedules and tighter travel budgets, business travellers have declared breakfast a must when it comes to starting the day off right. According to a survey conducted on behalf of Holiday Inn Express, an astounding 70 percent of business travellers would rather conduct business during a sit-down breakfast as opposed to cocktails over dinner.

As part of the value for money offering, the Express Start® Breakfast Bar now offers guests new hot items like bacon, sausage and eggs on a rotating basis. In addition, it has kept its existing guest favorites like its signature hot pastries and lighter continental selection. And in keeping with the brand’s desire to meet the taste and nutritional preferences for all guests, the breakfast bar will continue to offer fresh fruit, assorted yogurts, cereals, breakfast breads and a variety of coffee and herbal tea options.

Jason Hiley, General Manager of the Holiday Inn Express Cheltenham Town Centre Hotel says, “We are proud to be one of the first in the region to rollout the free hot breakfast option for our guests. No other hotel in the area, including Travelodge and Premier Inn, is able to offer travelers the same start to the day. Our competitor hotels in Cheltenham will continue to charge their guests for a hot breakfast.”

This Cheltenham hotel aims to launch its hot breakfast offering by the beginning of March 2010, before the Cheltenham Gold Cup. The hotel also offers free breakfast for meeting room bookers. Cheltenham locals and businesses will be invited to a free breakfast event 2nd March 10.30am – 12.30pm to mark the rollout. For more information about the forthcoming Free Breakfast Launch Event visit www.hiexcheltenham.com.

The Express Start® Breakfast Bar is just one in a series of system wide brand innovations from Holiday Inn Express designed to create meaningful upgrades to the stay experience. Further improvements to this Cheltenham hotel include a redesign of the 24 hour bar and coffee lounge area to enhance the overall food and beverage experience. Together, all of these initiatives create a comfortable and smart environment for Holiday Inn Express guests while traveling for business or leisure.

Cheltenham Carnival & Fun Day

2010-02-18T10:44:00.000-08:00

15 May 2010, Montpellier Gardens

The Cheltenham Carnival is a town event looking to strenghten, inspire and bring together the communities within Cheltenham. The Cheltenham Carnival will aim to combine all aspects of drum, dance, calypso, costume, steel pan, samba, sound systems and street arts including street theatre and performance art within a traditional street carnival.

It will be held in Montpellier Gardens. The Carnival Fun Day will be running from 10am to 4pm, featuring a large area of entertainment including workshop, stalls, activities and live music. At 4.30pm The Cheltenham Carnival procession will start. At 5m Fun Day will re-open for an evening of entertainment until 10pm. The Carnival Fun Day & Evening programme will have a small admission charge. More information and full programme of events will be released on 1st March.

For more information about the event visit http://www.cheltenhamcarnival.co.uk/.

Meet Your MP Martin Horwood in Cheltenham This February

2010-02-15T13:08:00.000-08:00

Jimmy White at Pockets Snooker Club

2010-02-07T14:13:00.000-08:00

20 February 2010, Pockets Snooker Club, 60-62 St. Georges Place, 7.30pm

Cheltenham's largest snooker and pool club will be opening its doors after a grand refurbishment on 20 February with Jimmy White as their VIP guest. Jimmy will be playing snooker with eight of the club's members (there is a chance to buy a ticket to play him). He will be signing autographs and you can also have your picture taken with him.

All you need to do to see Jimmy White play, or possibly even have a game of snooker with him, is to join Pockets Snooker Club (membership costs £20 per year). The club boasts 8 full size snooker tables, 5 American pool tables, large screen TV, fully licensed bar and much more. Opening times 11am – 11pm, 7 days a week, table rates for snooker or american pool is £6 an hour.

February Gigs in Cheltenham

2010-02-04T15:27:00.000-08:00

REGULAR NIGHTS:

FRIDAYS
Open Mic at Fiery Angel
Pete Josef at D-Fly
SUNDAYS
Open Mic at The Cotswold Inn
THURSDAYS
Chris Cundy feat. Guests at D-Fly
THURSDAYS
Open Mic with Jam Head at Hogs Head
WEDNESDAYS
Open Mic with MonkeyJam at Slak Bar
Steve Franks at D-Fly

05 February 2010
The Suspectors, Yours, Too Far Fallen at 2pigs
Last Man Standing at Exmouth Arms
Andrew James + Dressed to Kill at The Front Rooms
The Tubby Blues Show with The Jay Tamkin & After the Storm at The United Services Club

06 February 2010
Off the Cuff comedy night at 2pigs
Blues Business at The Bayshill
Featherstone at The Cotswold Inn
Swift Manoevre & Support at The Front Rooms

07 February 2010
JB2 at The Kilkenney Inn, Andoversford
Hambling & lloyd at The Rising Sun Hotel, Cleeve Hill

08 February 2010
Mint Modays: Thrill Collins at The Front Rooms

09 February 2010
Bex & Steve Franks at John Gordons Wine Bar

10 February 2010
Damon Brown Quintet & Leon Greening at D-Fly
New Music Night: Waiting for Kate (Acoustic) at The Front Rooms
Otis Mack & The Tubby Bluesters at The Norwood Arms

11 February 2010
Flynn's Open Mic Night at The Front Rooms

12 February 2010
Judder's Masked Valentine's Ball at 2pigs
Cancel Silence (Robert Brian) + Howii at The Front Rooms
Deep Roots at Frog & Fiddle
Boys in the Wood, Vital Organz, Rufio Summers + Support at Frog & Fiddle

13 February 2010
Outboys at The Cotswold Inn
Roving Crows at The Front Rooms
Papa Burgundy at The Front Rooms
Otis Mack Solo at The Suffolk Arms
Johnny Duff Country Rock Band at The Victory Club

14 February 2010
JB2 at The Kilkenney Inn, Andoversford

15 February 2010
Mint Modays: Jelly Bean Rebellion at The Front Rooms

16 February 2010
Bex & Steve Franks at John Gordons Wine Bar
Jam Band at The Bayshill
JB Jazz & Blues Band at The Venue

17 February 2010
New Music Night: Deb Jones showcase night at The Front Rooms

18 February 2010
Flynn's Open Mic Night at The Front Rooms
Alone + Easy Target, One Two Three & In, Mexico Falls at 2pigs
Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra at Town Hall

19 February 2010
Screamin' 88's, What teh night brings, Snog the Dog at 2pigs
Orgasmatron at The Wheatsheaf

20 February 2010
Otis Mack & The Tubby Bluesters at The Kings Head, Bishops Cleeve
Bex & Steve Franks at John Gordons Wine Bar
Carl Sinclair, Belcasino at The Front Rooms
Waiting For Kate, Captain Accident & The Disasters at The Frog and Fiddle

21 February 2010
Bangers N' Mash Birthday Bash at 2pigs
Barbara Dickson at Town Hall

22 February 2010
Mint Mondays: Effects Of Alcohol at The Front Rooms

23 February 2010
Bex & Steve Franks at Jolly Brewmaster
Jam Band at The Wheatsheaf
Showcase Night at The Front Rooms

24 February 2010
New Music Night at The Front Rooms

25 February 2010
Flynn's Open Mic Night at The Front Rooms

26 February 2010
The Producers at The Wheatsheaf

28 February 2010
Jazz Jam at The Wheatsheaf

Art Courses at Nature in Art, Twigworth

2010-02-01T04:32:00.000-08:00

March - December 2010, Nature in Art, Twigworth
Would you like to learn some new? Have you got creative talent just waiting to be unleashed? Why not enroll in an art course at Nature in Art, Twigworth. Courses run between March and December and the topics range from Encaustic (wax) Art, Writing in Response to Nature, Japanese Brushwork, Origami, Graphite & Coloured Pencils, Pastels, Mixed Media, Drawing and Painting Animals, Silk Painting, Botanical Art, Watercolour, Stained glass, Woodcarving, Card Craft, Calligraphy and more. If you would like more information, please e-mail enquries@nature-in-art.org.uk or call 01452 731 422.

Andy Pennington Remembered

2010-01-26T06:58:00.000-08:00

Cheltenham MP Martin Horwood has paid tribute to Andy Pennington, local councillor, campaigner and assistant to Nigel Jones, on the tenth anniversary of Andy's tragic death. Andy was killed on 28 January 2000 in the attack in Nigel Jones's constituency office, which also left Nigel himself badly injured.

'The last time I saw Andy was at a meeting of the local Alzheimer's Disease Society' said Martin. 'I was then working for the charity's national office and came back to Cheltenham to meet with the local branch who I knew well. Andy was at the same meeting, supporting yet another good cause and briefing everyone on the local political situation. He was his usual irrepressible self. He worked really hard for the local community and although he was an effective campaigner and politician, he never stopped being a real human being.'

'I remember hearing about the attack on the news and the awful realisation that it had been in Cheltenham and that someone had been killed. At first, they didn't say who and it could have been any number of people that I knew. When the details emerged, it sounded more and more nightmarish. I'm pleased that Andy's courage in those terrible moments was later recognised with the George medal. Nigel was very lucky to escape with his own life, although he has had to live with the memory of the event and the loss of such a close friend and colleague ever since.'

'All MPs now have to take care in the layout of their offices. The new Cheltenham office is no different and I hope we now have all the precautions in place that we need to ensure the safety of everyone there.'

Take Up Slot Car Racing with Dowty Slot Car Club

2010-01-21T05:09:00.000-08:00

Slot racing is the quickest indoor sport and as with any sport, it takes time and practise to get to the top. The Dowty track has a lap length of over 46 metres and is the longest four lane track in the country. It has a large variety of bends and long and short straights. If you can learn to drive around this track you should be able to tackle any other track. We have club cars and controllers that you can borrow but they are very basic, and it is best to buy your own as soon as possible. If you have any questions or problems the club members will be glad to help you out.
GETTING STARTED
Controllers
The controller is your only link to the car. Even though there is only a thin wire connecting you to the car you will find that after a while you can ‘feel’ what the car is doing on the track. An electronic controller will cost from £90 upwards, but you can adjust the controller to suit the car and your driving style. It is important to learn to set your controller up for the car during practise. Usually you have a few laps before a race starts to make sure it is OK.

Braking Probably the most important adjustment to start with. The car will be easier to drive if you turn down the braking because it gives more room for error. When you have learned to drive consistently you will find that you will be quicker around the track with more brakes, because you will be able to go at full speed on the straights for longer. Some motors brake very well and the braking will have to be turned down to make them drivable.

Ohms or resistance. This allows you to adapt the controller to different types of motors. Generally the more power the motor has, the lower ohmage the controller needs to be set at. This has different terminology for different controllers, but the easy way is to think of it as the ‘go-faster’ knob because as you turn it up the car will go faster for any given setting of the trigger.

Choke. This makes the motor easier to drive by slowing the acceleration slightly, therefore is the ‘go slower’ knob.

Cars
Your first car should be a 1/24th production car. They are the cheapest cars that we race, motors are relatively slow and the cars are fairly stable. There is a club shop with everything necessary for a club car. A new one will cost about £45 for the parts, although there are usually second hand ones for sale. It is probably better to get someone to build the first one for you, although if you can use a soldering iron, they are not too difficult. Dave can build a ready-to-run car for £60

We also race 1/24th saloon which is the same as 1/24th production but with a faster motor and a different body, but you can just change the body and race that car. The good motor will cost over £50, so a complete car will cost £85 - £100 or ready-to run for £20 on top of that price
Your second car should be a 1/32nd production car. These use the same motor as the 1/24th production, but in a smaller chassis. 1/32nd scale is the same size as you race at home (Scalextric, Ninco etc). An r-t-r will cost £62.50 because the 1/32nd scale chassis is dearer than the 1/24th

The fourth class is 1/32nd saloon. These are much more complicated chassis but the motor is the same as the 1/24th saloon. If you want a new top of the range one it will cost £300, but again there are usually second- hand ones around for about £50 upwards, or you can change the body on your 1/32nd production car and race that.

Driving
Driving a slot car is similar to driving a real racing car. To get to the top you need to go as fast as possible on all parts of the track. You need to brake as late as possible for each corner without coming out of the slot, carry as much speed as possible through the corner and accelerate as soon as possible onto the straights. It is best to stay in the slot because you will lose at least 2 or 3 seconds every time you come off. It takes a long time to learn these skills and you shouldn’t get too disheartened when the existing club members go much faster than you to start with. Watch the best drivers to see how they do it. It may help to hold your controller and pretend you are driving their car to see where they are braking and accelerating.

The track
The track is cleaned and ‘gooped’ every few months. When it has just been done the grip is good, but after a while dust sticks to the track surface and reduces the grip. This is why the track is less grippy at the start of the night and the tyres need to be cleaned several times early in the evening. You will find that you may need different settings on the controller when the track is grippy than when it is slippery and you have to adjust your driving to suit the track conditions.

Moving on
Eventually you may want to go to try racing on other tracks. You will find that experience on other tracks will help at Dowtys as well. The first step is probably the Cotswold Challenge. Dowty & Swindon clubs race on each others tracks on alternate months throughout the year.
After that is the Southern 32 which is a one day meeting on a Sunday at various tracks around the southern half of the country including Dowtys. Some of the tracks are quite close, although others are a long way away. The nearest are Oaklands Park (in Birmingham), Dudley and Swindon. Classes raced are 1/32nd production in the morning and a team race for 1/32nd saloon cars with sports car bodies in the afternoon.

The next step up is the British Open Championship. There are classes for Premier drivers, Main Grade and Novice so although you will be competing against the best drivers in the country, you will have different finals and trophies at the meetings. There are 6 rounds in the 1/32nd scale BOC and four rounds in the 1/24th scale BOC, spread all over the country and the meetings take two days. You would need more cars for this and they are expensive. You also need to stay overnight somewhere which will add to the cost.

Then there is the 1/32nd production weekend, which uses the 1/32nd scale production car for individual races on the 8 lane Nationals track. The club team race is also held on this weekend.
Finally there are the 1/32nd & 1/24th national finals which are 3 day meetings, also held on the nationals track, and at the top is the world championships which was held in England last year, but can be anywhere in the world, and is held over 9 days of racing.

I would recommend that you wait at least a year before you attempt anything other than club racing, Cotswold Challenge, a few of the closer Southern 32 rounds, although production at the 1/32nd nationals would be good experience. You would already have a car for that and you are only racing against other novice drivers.

Before you try anything more than the Cotswold Challenge & Southern 32 you will need to be able to do your own car preparation and repairs. Club members will always be willing to help you, and may even lend you cars, but time is usually tight at meetings and if they have any problems of their own they will want to do that work first.

There are several slot racing web sites. The best ones are http://www.slotracing.oxyhost.com/ which lists dates and venues for races, race reports, and there are pages of hints for building cars, tracks, lap counters, controllers. The other main site is http://www.bscra.fsnet.co.uk/ which has all the rules for the various classes as well as links to the main suppliers of slot racing bits and other sites. Both are worth checking so you can get an idea of what is involved.

The results of the club nights, best times and a history of the club can be found on http://www.cheltenham4u.co.uk/community/dowtyslotcarracing.asp

We hope you enjoy your racing .

If you decide to race at Dowtys you will have to join the Dowty Sports & Social Society. At the moment the cost is £20 for one year, although that may go up in 2010. There is no membership fee for the slot car club, but adults pay £4 per week or £10 per month and juniors £2/week. This covers the cost of hire of the room, maintenance of the building, track, the club cars and controllers. We encourage everyone to join the British Slot Car Association as well. The fee is £19 for adults and £9.50 for juniors.

Meet Your MP Martin Horwood in Cheltenham This January

2010-01-20T06:39:00.000-08:00

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 19 January 2010
Martin is sitting in Flood and Water Management Bill Committee stage sessions from 10.30 – 13.00 and 16.00 – 19.00
1.30pm
Martin is meeting Faye Hatcher from BBC Radio Gloucestershire at 1.30pm to help with her ‘Day in the life of an MP’ piece, which will be broadcast across Gloucestershire to give people an insight about what goes on in Parliament.

Wednesday 20 January 2010
At 1pm, Martin is meeting up with the Shark Trust, local media and a young constituent, Jake Batty, to celebrate the work he has done in alerting politicians to the plight of sharks having their fins removed in UK waters following a school lesson on the issue, which has been recently halted by the government. This will be taking place in committee room 13.

Thursday 21 January 2010
Martin is sitting in Flood and Water Management Bill committee, on its last day, from 9.00 – 10.30 and 13.00 – 17.00. Martin is hoping to raise important issues such as water affordability and insurance worries with the Minister in the new clauses he has tabled, which will be reached if time permits in the committee.

Friday 22 January 2010
6:45pm
Martin will be visiting Whaddon Bowling Club in Whaddon Road and meeting members to discuss a rent increase on their premises which could jeopardise the club’s future.
7:30pm
Cheltenham and District Samaritans will be holding their AGM at their office in Back Albert Place. Martin will be attending and the guest speaker will be Detective Chief Inspector Paul Hurley, on his role as a Hostage Negotiator and also as a trainer for ASSIST.

Sunday 24 January 2010
2:00pm
Martin will be attending a meeting of Friends of Nowder (http://friendsofnowder.org/) at the Friends Meeting House in Cheltenham.

Monday 25 January 2010
10:00am
The Heritage Lottery Fund have arranged a constituency visit so that he can find out more about their work in Cheltenham. Martin will be visiting Cheltenham Lido and meeting Julie Sargent, the Chief Executive of the Lido as well as representatives from the Heritage Lottery Fund so that he can see the work that has recently been carried out there.

Tuesday 26 January 2010
6:00pm
Martin is speaking at an energy security debate entitled ‘Keeping the lights on: separating fact from fiction on energy security’ in committee room 17 as part of his role as Shadow Environment Minister, alongside Labour and Conservative spokespersons.

Thursday 28 January 2010
5:00pm
Cheltenham College have invited Martin to speak to sixth form Politics students.

Friday 29 January 2010
7:45pm
There will be a screening of ‘The Cove’, a film about protecting whales and dolphins and the hunts that take place in Japan, at the Guildhall in Gloucester. This event has been endorsed by Ric O’Barry, an activist involved in the film, and Andy Ottaway from Campaign Whale will be attending the screening. Martin will be there and will say a few words, as he has been active in Parliament on this issue. Please see http://www.thecovemovie.com/richardobarry.htm for more information about The Cove and contact Paul Smith at Paul.Smith@metron.co.uk for more information about the screening.

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

Deep Roots Music Night at The Frog & Fiddle

2010-01-14T01:44:00.000-08:00

12 February 2010, 7.30pm - 11.30pm, The Frog & Fiddle

Deep Roots is a new live music night that promotes artists that have a roots approach to music, supporting a number of genres (Acoustic/Indie/Hip Hop/Folk/Reggae/Funk).

Rather than being genre specific, Deep Roots aims to explore genres and build a reputation for always bringing something fresh to its audience. Deep Roots is supporting artists with original tracks that have an edge, don’t expect your typical rock gig. All artist will get involved in a lively jam session toward the end of the night.

WHO'S ON

Boys in the Wood (Acoustic/Folk/Reggae)

Vital Organz (Live Roots UK Hip Hop)

Rufio Summers (Indie/Acoustic)

Charlotte Coupland (Acoustic/Folk)

Hats Off To The Big Man

Tom HillDJ Senz/Nick Beats

Price: £3/£2.50(Students)/£2 Live Music Society

Cheltenham MP Urges Bigger, Bolder Floods Bill

2010-01-05T08:39:00.000-08:00

Cheltenham MP Martin Horwood, who is Liberal Democrat floods spokesman, has called on the government to strengthen its 'timid' legislation on flooding. He and Lib Dem colleague Roger Williams have tabled the first 14 amendments to the government's Floods and Water Management Bill which is due to start detailed consideration in the House of Commons soon.

Martin is the only Gloucestershire MP to table any amendments.

The amendments cover water bills, flood defences, insurance and planning. New Clause 1 would give the Secretary of State powers to introduce 'social tariffs' for water bills, to help the least well-off customers just as similar special tariffs currently help energy customers. New Clause 2 would set up an extra fund for flood defences paid for by diverting extra profits from water companies. New Clause 4 would tackle many of the issues Cheltenham people have raised with Martin over insurance - including punitive premiums and excess charges, imposed even when new flood defences had been put in place. New Clause 6 would force ministers to act on making new homes in flood risk areas flood-resilient while New Clause 8 would effectively give local authorities the power to refuse planning permission to new developemnst in flood risk areas.

Martin commented 'Many of these amendments tackle issues that Cheltenham constituents have brought to me over the years since our floods in 2007. I called for more first hand accounts last year and I'll be taking this opportunity to put the concerns of Gloucestershire centre stage during the passage of the bill. I'm very grateful to everyone who responded. Many of these issues are still outstanding. Although the normal pattern is for government to use its majority to refuse such opposition amendments, it can then substitute its own on the same subject or the minister can make policy statements that address the issues. This is an important way to put pressure on government to achieve real change. These are issues that haven't been tackled in this timid little bill so far. Two and a half years after the floods that devastated Gloucestershire, we expected better. I really hope the government listens to the evidence of peoples' real experiences and understands that these problem need to be tackled.'

The first day of the bill's committee stage is on 12 January with an initial scrutiny stage on 7 January.

Cheltenham MP Meets Yorkshire Boss

2009-12-17T05:07:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-16T09:45:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-13T04:29:00.000-08:00

December Gigs in Cheltenham

2009-12-11T10:02:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-02T09:12:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-25T10:44:00.000-08:00

PHOTOS FROM CHELTENHAM CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH-ON 2009

VIDEO FROM CHELTENHAM CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH-ON 2009

Red Lemons Performing at The Front Rooms

2009-11-24T10:40:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-23T09:18:00.000-08:00

Cheltenham Connect Christmas Craft Fair

2009-11-19T07:47:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-18T05:58:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-17T02:37:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-16T04:26:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-16T04:08:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-14T09:13:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-11T07:51:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-10T06:45:00.000-08:00

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