The Bid Zone

Ahead of Sunday, we wanted to share and celebrate the incredible women who are shaping Cheltenham’s town centre driving innovation, strengthening our business community, and helping our town thrive. Here at Cheltenham BID, we are proud to have a team and board enriched by strong, imaginative women whose leadership and dedication every day.

Meet the incredible woman behind the BID and the brilliant contributions each one brings:

Our Brilliant Team

Francesca Inman – Chief Executive
This dynamic leader bringing expertise in safer streets, crime reduction and community partnerships.

Caitlin Harvey – Marketing & Communications Manager
Our digital marketing expert with a passion for storytelling, collaboration and creating meaningful engagement across Cheltenham.

Kelly Richardson – Head of Marketing and Events
A passionate advocate for local businesses and community growth who brings energy, warmth and creativity to everything she does.

Hannah Ward – Events Manager
A driving force behind Cheltenham’s event programme, committed to making the town an exceptional place to live, work and visit.

Our Inspiring Board Members

Claire Hester – Board Member (John Lewis & Partners)
Leading community projects and ensuring Cheltenham’s retail heart remains vibrant.

Bridget Redmond – Board Member (Willans LLP)
A community-focused leader driving initiatives that support success across Gloucestershire.

Demelsa Coleman – Board Member (The Brewery Quarter)
A marketing powerhouse driving footfall, awareness around her brilliant Brewery Quarter, one of the town’s key destinations.

Rowena Hay – Board Member (Cheltenham Borough Council)
A lifelong champion for Cheltenham, with 24 years at the council and 35 years as a magistrate, dedicated to the town’s continued development.

Helen Howe – Board Member (Lumiere Restaurant)
A passionate business owner whose creativity, experience and resilience make our town stronger, brighter and more connected.

💜 To all the women of Cheltenham BID thank you.

Your leadership and creativity make our town stronger, brighter and more connected.

Are you a local small business owner interested in shaping the future of Cheltenham’s town centre?

Cheltenham BID is governed by a Board of Directors and managed by a small staff team. Following recent changes to our Articles of Association, we are creating two new Board positions to represent smaller independent businesses in our area that are under the £15,000 ratable value threshold.* 

About the Role:

How to apply:
Please submit a brief resume along with a covering email or letter including:

Expressions of Interest to info@cheltenhambid.co.uk

Deadline: 6th March 2026

*Please note- A voluntary contributor is a business that supports the BID through voluntary contributions rather than the standard BID levy. To be eligible, your ratable value must be under £15,000 and your business must be within the Cheltenham BID boundary. 

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

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

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

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

Co-CEO and Head of Programming at Cheltenham Jazz Festival, Ian George said:  
“We’re thrilled to be collaborating with DEYA Brewery, bringing two Cheltenham institutions together to create an unforgettable Festival experience for our audiences. From the DEYA Arena stage to the Big Top to our PAC programme, it’s going to be a birthday celebration to remember as we celebrate turning 30 years young with music, community and of course, great beer.” 

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

The full Festival line-up will be announced on 10 February at 10am.  

Tickets go on general sale 4 March and 25 February for Members. All tickets available from cheltenhamfestivals.com/jazz 

The local authorities across Gloucestershire have jointly commissioned the Gloucestershire Business Land and Premises Survey to inform the process of preparing and reviewing local plans. Local plans provide for sustainable development and economic growth and need to identify land for development to deliver the homes, jobs and services needed and includes policies against which planning applications are considered. They provide the basis for what, where and when development can happen.

This survey will help us to understand the views of businesses within Gloucestershire about their future growth potential and premises requirements.

It seeks to understand the suitability of your existing premises, whether you might need to expand or are considering moving to new premises. The councils are interested in hearing from businesses across all sectors and sizes who rent or own at least one business premises or who may want to take on premises in the foreseeable future.

The Survey will take approximately 10 minutes to complete. It is being managed by consultancy Iceni Projects on behalf of the Gloucestershire local authorities. Your response is important to us so that we can plan for suitable and sustainable employment land and premises and ensure that businesses across Gloucestershire can thrive and prosper.

All responses will be treated as fully confidential and non-identifiable. Information provided will be held securely and will be used solely for the purposes of the work as stated.

Complete the Survey

In December we invited all BID retail and hospitality businesses with shopfronts to take part in this year’s Christmas Window Competition. This was a chance to showcase your creativity, show off your shop, spread festive cheer, and get featured on Cheltenham BID’s social channels!

We’re thrilled to finally reveal our third, second and first place winners! A huge thank you to every business who took part — the creativity, effort and festive spirit on display was next level. You truly helped make our town sparkle this Christmas!

Winners were chosen based on total engagement across the BID’s Instagram posts, with extra love given to comments, shares and saves to celebrate the most meaningful interactions.

Massive congratulations to:

The competition on our BID Instagram page Cheltenham BID (@cheltbid) reached 12,282 people, had 13,303 people engage, with 457 new followers. We believe this will have inspired people to visit Cheltenham, your shops and experience the festivities.

In addition to this brilliant coverage of your windows across BID Instagram, we:

Day4 SG

With twinkling lights, artisan markets, an enchanting undercover ice rink and entertainment for visitors of all ages, The Festival Town gets an extra sparkle this festive season.

From late November through into the New Year, local residents and visitors to the Regency town of Cheltenham can enjoy an enticing mix of shopping, dining and entertainment. Alongside traditional Christmas favourites like the annual pantomimes, Cheltenham Ice Rink in Imperial Gardens and Christmas markets, there’s a packed calendar of events to look forward to.

Here are some of the highlights:

Festive events Christmas in Cheltenham officially begins on 22 November with free festivities at The Brewery Quarter Christmas Launch Party and Pittville Pump Room Christmas Lights Switch On. With live music, family entertainment, a visit from Father Christmas and even a flurry or two of snow, it’s the ideal way to get the celebrations started.

The magical Cheltenham Ice Rink returns to Imperial Gardens from 21 November–4 January with a new look and even more themed sessions. This wheelchair-accessible covered rink is the perfect place to make memories with family and friends, whatever your age and ability – including non-skaters who can watch the action from the comfort of the café with a hot drink and delicious, sweet treats.

There are special sessions for Little Gliders (ages 3–5), Relaxed Glides for skaters with SEN, Student Nights and Grown-Up Glides for adults. And new for 2025 are themed music nights, Patch sessions where experienced skaters can show off their skills, and character sessions for little ones featuring their favourite superheroes and princesses.

Cheltenham is world famous for its horse racing, and there are three exciting events to choose from this festive season. The November Meeting on 14-16 November is racing ultimate weekender, commencing with Countryside Day on the Friday, before diving into Super Saturday and finally Carnival Sunday, a community celebration of racing, music, and family fun. The Christmas Meeting on 12–13 December kicks things off with family fun on the Saturday, including a visit from Santa himself. And the New Year’s Day Racing is the perfect way to blow away any cobwebs, with entertainment, food and drink alongside the thrilling race action.

Just outside Cheltenham, you can take an enchanted walk in search of Excalibur on the Spectacle of Light trail at Sudeley Castle in Winchcombe. The gardens and grounds of this historic castle are illuminated with thousands of gleaming lights, with ‘The Court of King Arthur’ as this year’s theme.

Or go back in time to the Golden Age of rail travel with a ride on the Gloucestershire–Warwickshire Steam Railway. Their popular Santa Express family trips are selling fast, but you can also take a relaxing scenic day trip from Cheltenham to Broadway on board their Mince Pie Specials after Christmas.

Theatre and live entertainment

A trip to the panto is a real Christmas tradition, and this year the Everyman Theatre puts a hilarious spin on Robin Hood and His Merry Men, featuring local legend Tweedy the Clown. And there’s more silliness and sparkle at the Playhouse Theatre, where Dick Whittington sets out from Gloucester to find fame and fortune in London.

You can also enjoy a classic Dickens Christmas or head out on an underwater adventure with The Little Mermaid, both at the Everyman. And the much-loved seasonal ballet The Nutcracker transports visitors from the Bacon Theatre to the mythical Land of Sweets.

One new family show not to miss for 2025 is Santa – The Visit at the Centaur at Cheltenham Racecourse. This brand-new event, created by Strictly Come Dancing star Craig Revel Horwood, sees Santa leaving the snowy North Pole behind to head to Cheltenham on a special mission.

Or adults can party the night away at Deck the Hall, a festive set by legendary DJ Chris Moyles at Cheltenham Town Hall. Expect 90s and 00s anthems, Christmas classics and feel-good favourites.

Christmas markets and independent shopping Cheltenham’s historic Promenade sees the return of its Christmas markets this winter. The Christmas Gift Market from 20–23 November features 40 chalets selling homewares, gifts and plenty of tempting seasonal food and drink. That’s followed by a traditional Arts and Crafts Market from 11–23 December, where you can shop for glassware, jewellery, pottery and artworks created by local artisans while you keep warm with a steaming cup of mulled wine.

There’s also The Suffolks Christmas Market on 30 November, taking place in this charming neighbourhood just outside the town centre. As well as stalls from designers and makers there will be tasty street food, carol singing, kids’ entertainment and a special guest appearance from Father Christmas.

You can also shop for unique gifts in Cheltenham’s independent boutiques – Montpellier and The Suffolk’s are great places to browse, with plenty of delicious cafés and restaurants to refresh and refuel in. You’ll find many High Street favourites in Cheltenham too, including John Lewis.

Travel and accessibility

A trip to Cheltenham makes an ideal festive day out. It’s easily accessed from Bristol or Birmingham in less than an hour by train, or it’s just over two hours from London. There’s ample free parking at Arle Court and Cheltenham Racecourse Park and Rides too, with regular buses into the town centre. Or why not make a weekend of it with a festive weekend break in one of Cheltenham’s stylish hotels?

For more inspiration for things to do, where to eat, drink and stay in Cheltenham this Christmas, visit www.visitcheltenham.com/christmas

What’s on in Cheltenham at Christmas 2025?

20–23 November: Christmas Gift Market on Cheltenham’s Promenade

21 November–4 January: Indoor ice skating at Cheltenham Ice Rink

21 November–30 December: Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle

22 November: Free launch events at The Brewery Quarter and Pittville Pump Room

22 November–23 December: Santa Express with GWSR

28 November–11 January: Robin Hood and His Merry Men panto at The Everyman Theatre

28 November–3 January: The Little Mermaid at The Everyman Theatre

30 November: The Suffolks Christmas Market

4 December–3 January: A Dickens Christmas at The Everyman Theatre

11–23 December: Christmas Arts & Crafts Market on the Promenade

12 December–3 January: Dick Whittington panto at The Playhouse Theatre

12–13 December: The Christmas Meeting at Cheltenham Racecourse

19–24 December: Santa – The Visit at The Centaur

19 December: Deck the Hall – Chris Moyles festive DJ set at Cheltenham Town Hall

21 December: The Nutcracker at the Bacon Theatre

1 January 2026: New Year’s Day Racing at Cheltenham Racecourse

We’re delighted to share that Cheltenham BID has received a fantastic result for its renewal ballot, with local businesses voting in support of continuing for another five years.

A BID is by business for business, and the mission is to transform the investment into visible positive change right across the town. Cheltenham BID wants to create a vibrant place that attracts customers, brings businesses together for a stronger collective voice and raise the profile of the town and the variety of businesses we support.

The ballot result speaks for itself, with an overwhelming 82% voting “yes” to continue supporting Cheltenham BID’s vision.

Francesca Inman, Chief Executive of Cheltenham BID said. “Thank you to all the businesses that voted. This result gives us a clear mandate to continue delivering for the town. We’ll stay focused on the practical things that make a difference day-to-day, while working together to keep Cheltenham moving in a positive direction”

In the next term, we’ll be focusing on four strategic pillars to enhance Cheltenham’s town centre, and this includes:

Thank you for your vote of confidence and commitment. Let’s make the next five years truly remarkable – One Town and One Vision!

A beautifully designed pride of lions that has captivated the community will be going under the hammer to raise funds for a new state-of-the-art cancer centre in Cheltenham.

Thousands have followed the Lions at Large Trail, discovering majestic lion sculptures decorated by artists and displayed across Gloucestershire’s iconic landmarks and everyday spots. All 32 large lions, alongside three little lion cubs, will be looking to find their forever homes at the upcoming Auction hosted at Gloucester Cathedral.

The Pride will be auctioned on Thursday 9th October, the evening will be overseen by auctioneer Stuart Maule from Harper Field Auctioneers and Valuers. The funds raised will support Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity’s Big Space Cancer Appeal; helping to build a state-of-the-art cancer care facility at Cheltenham General Hospital.

Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity Head of Income Generation, Charlie Homer, said

“We’ve been absolutely blown away by the response to Lions at Large this summer. It’s been incredible to see so many people out exploring, sharing stories and making memories.”

The trail has brought colour, community and joy to Gloucestershire – and all for a very important cause. We are hugely grateful to everyone who has played a part; our presenting partners, sponsors, schools, community groups and volunteers, your support has made this experience truly unforgettable.

Now we are looking ahead to the auction – where the pride can make its biggest roar! This will be the key moment to raise funds and we’d love to see as many people getting involved as possible. It promises to be a really special evening and we can’t wait to find out where each lion will make its forever home.”

The starting price for each sculpture is £3,000 with proceeds supporting the hospitals charity. Online bidding will be available in the weeks leading up to the auction, for anyone wanting to get their paws on a unique piece of art.

Two of the stunning sculptures on display – The Tyger sponsored by Ontic and Look for Stars sponsored by Mason & Stokes – have been designed by local artist Janine Smith. “Each of my lion designs have very personal and poignant meanings, which I hope supports the amazing cause behind the Lions at Large Trail. The Tyger, a tiger striped lion, honours William Blake’s poem and the incredible Oncology Team who treated my Dad over 15 years ago. I wanted it to stand out, just like the outstanding cancer care he received.”

“Look for Stars is a celestial tribute to cancer support networks and the hope they bring. Inspired by quotes from Martin Luther King Jr. and Oscar Wilde, it reflects the message of The Big Space Cancer Appeal; finding hope and beauty, even in difficult and challenging times. Whether that be for the person diagnosed, their families and loved ones, or the incredible NHS staff.”

“Being part of the trail has just been magical. I’ve loved seeing how it has brought together people of all ages and filled the community with pride. Now, as the auction approaches, this is what it’s all been building towards. I’ve become so attached to my designs, but more than anything I hope they raise as much as possible for the charity. Knowing that something I created could truly help people would mean the absolute world.”

You can see Janine’s designs at the Lions at Large Roarsome Reunion. For one weekend only the entire pride, big and small, will be together at Cheltenham Racecourse on the 4th and 5th October. It is your last chance to snap a selfie with the lions, pick up exclusive merchandise and enter the raffle to win an overnight stay in a lion lodge.

Dr Jessica Bailey, Clinical Consultant Oncologist and Clinical Lead for Oncology at Gloucestershire Hospitals, said “We’ve been overwhelmed by the incredible community response to the Lions at Large Trail. Seeing families, friends and colleagues out enjoying the trail has meant the world to us. As the lions now go to auction, we are so grateful to everyone taking part.

Our team is dedicated to delivering outstanding cancer care for patients across Gloucestershire and beyond. With the plans for the new centre, we are all so excited to create a space that truly reflects the exceptional care and support we strive to provide every single day. Every single bid at the auction will help bring us one step closer, helping to make a real difference for local patients and their families for years to come.”

To find out more about the Lions at Large Auction, which can be joined in person or online, visit: https://lionsatlarge.co.uk/events/auction/ For media enquiries, please email Bethan Packer on bethan.packer@nhs.net or call 07400561516.

Cheltenham’s much-loved Elephant Mural mosaics on Grosvenor Place South have received a welcome restoration, bringing a vibrant piece of the town’s public art back to life.

Created in 1993 by Cheltenham-based artists Tim Turton and Nick Robertson, the five mosaic panels capture a quirky moment in local history when three elephants caused chaos as they made their way down Albion Street. The five panels are pieced together with over 90,000 individual tiles, was originally crafted with the support of mosaic artist Trevor Caley, following the team’s success in a public art competition.

The sequence of five mosaics retells the tale:

The newly refreshed panels now bring colour and character back to the walkway between Grosvenor Place South and the High Street, this is a perfect reminder of Cheltenham’s creative spirit and love of storytelling.

Fran Inman, Cheltenham BID Chief Executive, said:

“These mosaics are part of Cheltenham’s cultural DNA. As a BID, we’re committed to enhancing the town centre environment for residents, businesses, and visitors. Restoring the Elephant Mural is just one example of the improvements we’ll continue to deliver as we look ahead to the next five years.”

Artists Tim Turton and Nick Robertson added:

“It’s fantastic to see the mosaics restored and enjoyed again. We wanted to create something that captured a unique moment in Cheltenham’s history, and we’re delighted that the panels remain such a talking point more than 30 years on.”

A spokesperson from Roxy Lanes said:

“The mosaics have been carefully repaired and cleaned, significantly improving their appearance and enhancing this key access route through the alleyway to the High Street for public use.

As a BID levy paying business, we are committed to playing an active role in our community and are pleased to support initiatives that preserve local heritage and contribute to the ongoing enhancement of our town’s public spaces.”

Whatever the truth behind the tale, the restored mosaics mean Cheltenham’s elephants will keep raising smiles for years to come.

Can you spot the mistake that has been there for 30 years? Send us your answer and if you are right you will be entered into a prize draw to win a £50 Cheltenham BID Gift Card: Elephant Mosaics – what’s wrong!

We know that rising business rates and operational costs continue to be a challenge for many businesses in Cheltenham. To help us understand the impact on Cheltenham businesses and represent your concerns, we’re inviting local businesses to take part in a quick survey. Your insights will help us highlight key concerns and work towards meaningful solutions.

Please take 2 minutes to complete this short survey to have your say.

Create your own user feedback survey

Thank you for your time!

Your responses will help us better understand the challenges businesses face and inform discussions with key stakeholders.

This year, Cheltenham Music Festival celebrates 80 years of performances, innovation and global influence. Join them in celebrating this milestone as they honour the past and embrace the next 80 years of musical brilliance. You can explore the full festival programme here.

As part of Cheltenham BID’s sponsorship of Cheltenham Festival’s …around town programme, we’re thrilled to offer two lucky BID businesses, or their employees, the chance to win a pair of tickets to one of these fantastic events:

Friday Night is Music Night 80 Years of Spying in Cheltenham – Friday 11 July, 7pm, Cheltenham Town Hall

BBC NOW Celebrate 80 years of Cheltenham Music Festival – Saturday 12 July, 7.30pm, Cheltenham Town Hall

There are two separate prize draws, one for each event – so you can enter for the tickets you’d most love to win!

Friday Night is Music Night
BBC NOW

Cheltenham Festivals has once again curated an incredible line-up of world-renowned artists alongside rising stars for this year’s Cheltenham Jazz Festival. You can explore the full festival programme here.

As part of Cheltenham BID’s sponsorship of the Festival’s …around town programme, we’re thrilled to offer three lucky BID businesses, or their employees, the chance to win a pair of tickets to one of these fantastic events:

Soul Jazz Summit with the BBC Concert Orchestra – Friday 2 May 2025, 18:00, The Big Top
Curtis Stigers – Saturday 3 May 2025, 17:30, Cheltenham Town Hall, Main Hall
Beverley Knight – Sunday 4 May 2025, 17:30, The Big Top

There are three separate prize draws, one for each event – so you can enter for the tickets you’d most love to win!

Soul Jazz Summit
Curtis Stigers
Beverley Knight

Register Your Interest in Hosting a ‘Little Lion’

Cheltenham and Gloucester is set to roar with excitement this summer as The Pride of Gloucestershire Trail takes over the town from July to September.

This unique public art trail will feature a pride of over 30 large Lion sculptures, beautifully designed and painted by local artists, celebrating Gloucestershire’s rich history, culture, and diversity. The Pride of Gloucestershire Trail also includes a “Cub Club” – a pride of little Lions lovingly created by local schools and community groups.

This is a fun, free, and family-friendly event. Streets, parks, and open spaces will dazzle with their vibrant colours and surprising designs. Helping to bring together our community to explore and feel pride in their local area.   

Once the trail is over, the pride will reunite for a fantastic farewell weekend. The little Lions will return to their forever homes at the local school and community groups who created them. The large Lions will then be auctioned to raise funds for Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity.   

We are inviting Cheltenham BID businesses to host one of these adorable little Lions in their window or storefront.

Hosting a Little Lion provides a fantastic opportunity to:

What’s involved:

Lion Specifications:

To express your interest in hosting a Little Lion, please contact Carrie Smith, Lions at Large Project Manager, at carrie.smith12@nhs.net by the 5th February 2025. Please note that registering your interest does not guarantee that you will be selected to host a Lion. 

Photo credit Anna Lythgoe photography

A pilot aimed at tackling graffiti tagging in Cheltenham town centre is entering its second phase as work to clean areas identified as being graffiti hot spots starts.

The Cheltenham Business Improvement District (BID) has worked with key stakeholders including Cheltenham Borough Council, the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC), Gloucestershire Constabulary and local community policing teams to map areas impacted by graffiti as part of a new pilot launched in September. The pilot will also be working closely with the police cadets and the Cheltenham Civic Society.

Funding of £15k was secured from the Home Office by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, and the first phase begun with the appointment of EcoClean Environmental chosen for their passion for a cleaner Cheltenham and their expertise in the removal of graffiti. This phase also included a mapping and data gathering exercise of the impact of graffiti on town centre businesses and council owned buildings, grade 1 and 2 listed buildings and other public areas.

Entering the second phase marked a significant milestone in the pilot as work to remove tagging began early in the new year. Using a variety of specialist solutions, equipment and techniques to remove the graffiti without causing damage to the underlying surface or having any negative environmental impact.  

Fran Inman, chief executive at Cheltenham BID, said: “We’re really excited to have entered the next phase of the pilot having worked closely with our partners to map and gather data during the first phase.

“The pilot is designed to make people feel safer, enhance community engagement, and encourage economic growth by maintaining clean and attractive public spaces, whilst also encouraging individuals to report issues or concerns to help sustain these improvements.”

Cllr Izaac Tailford, cabinet member for waste, recycling and public realm said: “Graffiti grot spots and tags are a visual blight on our town. They’re often offensive and persistent in nature and undermines the sense of pride we have for our town. The clean up of graffiti comes at a significant cost and drains valuable resources.

“Entering this next phase of the pilot restores the beauty of our regency town, working with our partners, we’re encouraging residents to take action and report graffiti to help us maintain the vibrancy of our town for everyone.”

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner, Nick Evans said: “Tackling graffiti may seem trivial, but it isn’t. It’s criminal damage and makes people feel less safe when they’re walking around. That’s why I’m so pleased that we have been able to fund this scheme, tackling anti-social behaviour and making it clear that we have real pride in Cheltenham.”

Inspector Steve Benbow from the Cheltenham Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “The police can’t tackle graffiti alone which is why I’m pleased that we’re part of the partnership approach.

“Joint working allows us to identify areas which are being targeted by graffiti and work together with colleagues to restore the area.

“My team supported in the initial phase of this scheme and will continue to do so throughout. Graffiti is criminal damage so PCSOs and officers will work to identify and robustly deal with anyone found to be committing offences.”

The final phase of the pilot will be the roll out of graffiti removal across all mapped areas.

We encourage everyone to report graffiti issues they come across, as this helps us keep the town looking its best.

Help tackle graffiti by reporting online: www.cheltenham.gov.uk/report-graffiti

Cheltenham celebrated the opening of a new Christmas Market on the Promenade on Saturday 20 November, bringing huge crowds to town.  There was a feeling of festivity amongst the crowds, as visitors perused the stalls enjoying the variety of products, with the smell of mulled wine and cider in the air.

Christmas market on pedestrian area. Wooden chalets with medium gathering of people looking at a stall.
Cheltenham Christmas Market and Christmas Lights switch on Picture by Mikal Ludlow Photography Tel; 07855177205

This is the first year Cheltenham Business Improvement District (BID) has worked with Market Place Europe to bring a new Christmas market to town. Market Place Europe are one of the country’s largest operators.  They run the Belfast and Glasgow Christmas markets and are very excited to be in Cheltenham this year.

Open every day until 19 December, the market offers a great selection of gifts, food and drink.  From handmade wooden and personalised ceramic Christmas decorations to winter boots and handmade cotton clothing, there’s something to suit all tastes and budgets.  Food from around the world includes exotic burgers, German sausages and Gluhwein, crepes and Belgian waffles, mead and gin, Hot chocolate and chocolaty treats.

Fir covered archway leading into Christmas fmarket with Waterstones book shop in the background.
Cheltenham Christmas Market and Christmas Lights switch on Picture by Mikal Ludlow Photography Tel; 07855177205

Keen to offer trading space for locals too, Market Place Europe ran a competition called Pitch Perfect, giving one lucky new business an invaluable opportunity to showcase their products to new audiences.  Cheltenham based trader Soup Cans were the delighted winners.  Selling gender neutral clothing, all their Tee’s and Sweatshirts are Fair Trade Certified, organic and 100% cotton.

Abi Walker, owner of Soup Cans said: ‘I usually sell online so this is an amazing opportunity to get my products in front of people so they can feel the quality. The fact that I design all the clothing, which is organic and ethically made, makes a real difference to shoppers.

People have been so interested in the story behind my business.  My ethos is to stop labelling people – labels are for soup cans!’

  • Cheltenham Christmas Market and Christmas Lights switch on Picture by Mikal Ludlow Photography Tel; 07855177205
  • Cheltenham Christmas Market and Christmas Lights switch on Picture by Mikal Ludlow Photography Tel; 07855177205

Belinda Hunt, BID operations manager said: ‘This is the first time the BID has brought this market to Cheltenham.  We’re delighted with the response from the public and enjoyed seeing all the happy faces on Saturday.  We have coach parties booked to come from Wales, Manchester and the Midlands so are looking forward to welcoming locals and visitors from further afield to the Cheltenham Christmas market.”

The market runs from Monday – Wednesday 10am -7pm, Thursday – Saturday 10am-9pm and Sunday 12-6pm.

Are you looking for job where you can make a real difference to the town you work in? 

Would you like to help shape the future of Cheltenham?

If the answer is yes, then we’ve got the perfect job for you.

About Cheltenham BID

A BID is a Business Improvement District and there are more than 300 of them in towns and cities across the UK. BIDs are business led bodies formed to improve a defined commercial area. They are not-for-profit organisations, funded by businesses, for the benefit of businesses.

Cheltenham BID was established in August 2016 and in July 2021 we were successfully voted in by the businensses we support for a second fire-year term.

Since 2016 we have brought new and exciting events to Cheltenham, worked with partners and stakeholders to increase visitor numbers and launched our Tidy Up Cheltenham campaign.

Throughout the various lockdowns, we supported more than 600 businesses, helping them access grants, guiding them through reopening processes, providing social distancing stickers and que management support.

Take a tour of our website to read more about what Cheltenham BID has achieved, how we support the BID businesses and what our plans are for the future.

About the role

As the BID Communications Assistant, you will be required to deliver effective communications across a range of platforms to ensure that BID businesses, stakeholders, partners, and the public are fully informed about BID activities and opportunities.

This would include posting relevant and engaging content on the BID’s two accounts across all social media channels, updating the BID and Cheltenham Gift Card websites and responding to customer enquiries.  There will be an element of copywriting articles for the monthly BID newsletter and some press releases. It will be important to work closely with Marketing Cheltenham, sharing content and updated business information with them.

To find out more

To find out more about the role, the salary and working hours you can download a full job description.

How to apply

Please send your CV and a covering email to belinda@cheltenhambid.co.uk no later than 5pm on Thuirsday 25 November 2021.

The BID’s ambassadors can honestly say their role is varied.  No day is ever the same as they go about their tasks.

We currently have two ambassadors who between them cover shifts over seven days a week.

Phil Cook joined the team on 1 October 2017.  Since then, he has reported and acted on more than 350 cases of anti-social behaviour ranging from flyposting and littering to drug and alcohol related violence.  He has cleaned stickers and graffiti from more than 180 public realm facilities such as lampposts, road signs, utility and post boxes. 

Phil said: “We work very hard to try to keep our town looking tidy and it is a never-ending task, with graffiti, fly-posting, littering and fly-tipping. This problem isn’t Cheltenham specific; it is a generic problem across the country, the difference is that Cheltenham has the BID ambassadors to help tackle it. If we can’t deal with it, we report it to somebody who can.

“It is not my favourite part of the job, but it is all part of what we do and who we are. Dealing with it does directly support the businesses and the local economy, because such antisocial behaviour can impact on visitor numbers and it’s important that the town looks welcoming”.

Phil recognises how important the public realm work is in helping Cheltenham to be a friendly and welcoming place, but prefers the daily contact with managers, owners and staff of the businesses.  Whether it’s delivering newsletters, hearing about their plans, sharing information about various BID projects or listening to the specific issues facing them, Phil’s enthusiasm to help the businesses means he is often their first port of call when seeking advice.  

Jo-Anne Hale is the newest addition to the team. She was thrown in at the deep end, starting as we went to ballot in June.  She had to quickly understand the history, operation and proposed future strategic direction of Cheltenham BID as she responded to specific queries about the balloting process and the team’s role in supporting BID zone enterprises.

At the same time, she was learning about the myriad of day-to-day issues that crop up for BID businesses, such as roadworks, parking issues, graffiti, antisocial behaviour, and the impact of new building works and how the BID helps with those issues.

Jo-Anne has also taken on the task of administering the popular Cheltenham gift card scheme.  She ensures that orders are sent out promptly and has given numerous participating businesses who have new staff, a refresher on how to accept the cards. 

Jo-Anne said: “Being a BID ambassador continues to be an exhilarating ride and I’m enjoying the varied mix of practical and administrative challenges arising each day, as well as the opportunity to interact with a wide range of business representatives. “

In the past few months, Phil and Jo-Anne have been visiting both old and new BID businesses to introduce themselves.  They have already built up some very positive relationships as they hear about the issues facing different types of businesses in the aftermath of the pandemic and highlighting specific ways in which individual businesses can benefit financially from belonging to the BID. 

Jo-Anne said: ‘Knowing that we’re mutually supported in our business endeavours is a morale boost in itself and the BID zone businesses’ positive influence on the town’s future will be much amplified as we work collaboratively to improve our prospects.’

The BID ambassadors are the eyes and ears of the town and the BID. They are ‘here to help you’ so please give them a friendly wave as they go about their day-to-day work.

The Board of Cheltenham Business Improvement District (BID) is pleased to announce the appointment of Heath Gunter as their new Chief Executive.

Heath takes up the new role following the BID’s successful renewal ballot in July, which saw an overwhelming ‘yes’ vote from businesses in the town in support of a second five year term. Mr Gunter will be responsible for leading the work of the BID which will see a further £2.8m invested in the town centre over the next five years.

Heath brings a wealth of experience to the BID having worked in a number of senior positions in the events industry, including the Mike Burton Group and Cheltenham Racecourse.  Over the past eight years, Heath has headed up the Commercial department at Cheltenham Ladies’ College which included launching the CLC Venues & Events brand and also being part of the multimillion pound redevelopment of the CLC Health and Fitness Centre. 

Alex Rose, Chair of Cheltenham BID said: “I am delighted that Heath has agreed to head up Cheltenham BID, it’s a huge coup for us to have him as our CEO.

It’s taken some time to find the right person after a really challenging year but following a successful reballot, I know the BID will deliver for its members over the next five years with Heath at the helm.

Myself, the Board, Belinda and the Ambassadors are very excited for the future.”

Heath Gunter said: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining Cheltenham BID as its new Chief Executive at what is a really exciting time for the town. Having worked in Cheltenham and Gloucestershire for the past 15 years, I know what a special place this is and just how important a thriving town centre is to our economy and the community. I’m looking forward to working with businesses and colleagues – both old and new – over the next five years to really make a difference and build on the tremendous work that the BID has delivered in its first term.”

In July, the BID secured its second term with a yes vote totalling 86% from the more than 300 businesses (a 46% turnout) that responded to the ballot and a 90% yes vote by rateable value.

During its first five years the BID, under the leadership of Kevan Blackadder who sadly passed away in January, established several annual events including Light Up Cheltenham and the Big Wheel, the Around Town programmes that bring Cheltenham’s famous Jazz, Music, Science and Literature Festivals onto the town’s streets and an enhanced Christmas Lights switch on and Christmas market.

As well as events the BID has been a vital support for businesses, facilitating partnerships, providing guidance, representing and championing town centre businesses and delivering cost saving initiatives. They have been responsible for initiatives such as BID in Bloom and Tidy Up Cheltenham which have both enhanced the look of the town centre for residents and visitors. Their Ambassadors have also facilitated partnerships and played an important role in welcoming visitors to the town centre

The BID’s second term runs through to 31st March 2026 and will see delivery focused on four priority areas: business support, marketing & promotion, town centre events and townscape enhancements.

With the overwhelming support of the BID businesses Cheltenham BID has been voted in for a second term.

There is now an exciting opportunity to lead and shape the future of Cheltenham as the Chief Executive of the BID.

We are looking for someone who will be responsible for the strategic leadership and management of the Cheltenham BID, leading a forward-thinking organisation to drive continuous improvements, innovation, and growth.

Do you have experience of working within complex partnership situations across public, private and third sectors? Are you an inspirational leader who can build relationships with a variety of stakeholders and motivate a team to deliver outstanding results?

Cheltenham BID’s activities over the past five years have had a positive impact on the businesses and the town centre as a whole. As Chief Executive you will bring a fresh vision and deliver the strategic objectives laid out in the BID Business Plan, which you can download here.

Applications close Friday 13th August.

Cheltenham Business Improvement District (BID) is delighted to announce that it has been successful in securing the votes required for a second term, having received the overwhelming backing of businesses in the town.

The BID’s second term will now commence on 1 August 2021 and run through to 31 March 2026 and will see a further £2.8m invested in Cheltenham town centre.

The BID secured its second term with a yes vote totalling 86% from the more than 300 businesses (a 46% turnout) that responded to the ballot and a 90% yes vote by rateable value.

The BID will immediately commence work on delivering the priorities set out in its new Business Plan which focuses on four key areas – Business Support, Marketing & Promotion, Town Centre Events and Townscape Enhancements.

Originally created in 2016, the BID was voted in to represent and support over 600 levy paying businesses in the town centre and went on to invest over £2.1 million into the town over the course of its first term.

During its first five years the BID established several annual events including Light Up Cheltenham and the Big Wheel, the Around Town programmes that bring Cheltenham’s famous Jazz, Music, Science and Literature Festivals onto the town’s streets and an enhanced Christmas Lights switch on and Christmas market.

As well as events the BID has been a vital support for businesses, facilitating partnerships, providing guidance, representing and championing town centre businesses and delivering cost saving initiatives. They have been responsible for initiatives such as BID in Bloom and Tidy Up Cheltenham which have both enhanced the look of the town centre for residents and visitors. Their Ambassadors have also facilitated partnerships and played an important role in welcoming visitors to the town centre.

As part of the renewal ballot the BID zone has been extended and will now include an additional 250 businesses which will benefit from its support. 

Alex Rose, Chair of Cheltenham BID says, “I’m delighted to have a successful reballot, it speaks volumes about the work the BID does. I’m proud to have been part of the BID for the last five years and am hugely grateful to Belinda and the BID team as well as the Directors who all give up their time for the BID. We also can’t forget the enormous role our friend and colleague, former Director Kevan Blackadder, had in forming the BID and in leading so much of our success during the first term.”

We’ve learned a lot, overcome some major challenges and I look forward to seeing the BID deliver for its members and the whole of Cheltenham over the years to come.”

Belinda Hunt, Operations Manager at Cheltenham BID says, “Everything we have done over the past five years, particularly in the last 18 months, has been done to support BID businesses and Cheltenham as a whole.  We are so looking forward to extending that support to a larger number of businesses.

On behalf of the BID staff, I’d like to thank everyone for their support and encouragement.”