Cheltenham BID are continually working with the businesses to make sure you are the first to hear about the best vacancies in town…
03/10/2018 Full-time Sales Consultants at India Jane Please email your covering letter and your CV to L.hill@indianjane.co.uk.
03/10/2018 Part – time Chef at Flynn’s Restaurant. Please job description here and how to apply.
03/10/2018 Part- time sales assistant at Dubarry of Ireland, Montpellier.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
• Assist in increasing sales and ensuring efficiency
• Ensuring that standards for presentation and customer service are met and maintained
• Dealing with and responding to customer requests, issues and/or complaints
• Assisting in development and organisation of displays, promotions and events
• Evaluating competition through visiting other retailers; gathering information such as style, quality of service and visual merchandising
• Maintain awareness and observation of Fire and Health & Safety regulations.
• The employee will be expected to carry out any other duties that are within the scope, spirit and purpose of the job as requested by the line manager.
• As duties and responsibilities change, the job description will be reviewed and amended in consultation with the employee
Ideal candidate will have:
• Experience in Fashion Retail (2 years minimum)
• Willingness to take responsibility and show initiative
• Experience or interest in Equestrian and Sailing lifestyle
• Fluent English; skilled in oral and written communication (Other languages are bonus)
• Working knowledge of PC operations, with proficiency in Microsoft Office
CV’s should be sent to kkenny@dubarry.com
05/09/2018 Linea 35.5 hours at House of Fraser, Promenade. Please apply by emailing your CV to cheltenham@hof.co.uk.
05/09/2018 Evening wear/Issa 24 hours at House of Fraser, Promenade. Please apply by emailing your CV to cheltenham@hof.co.uk.
05/09/2018 Biba 30 hours at House of Fraser, Promenade. Please apply by emailing your CV to cheltenham@hof.co.uk.
05/09/2018 Max Mara 6 hours, Sunday only at House of Fraser, Promenade. Please apply by emailing your CV to cheltenham@hof.co.uk.
05/09/2018 MDN 20 hours, 5 x 4 hours at House of Fraser. Promenade. Please apply by emailing your CV to cheltenham@hof.co.uk.
05/09/2018 Linea and MDN, Part Time hours at House of Fraser, Promenade. Please apply by emailing your CV to cheltenham@hof.co.uk.
05/09/2018 Handbags, 6 hours, Sunday only at House of Fraser, Promenade. Please apply by your CV to emailing cheltenham@hof.co.uk.
05/09/2018 Lingerie, 6 hours, Sunday only at House of Fraser, Promenade. Please apply by emailing your CV to cheltenham@hof.co.uk.
05/09/2018 Athletic Leisure, 12 hours, 3 x 4 hours at House of Fraser, Promenade. Please apply by emailing your CV to
05/09/2018 Beauty, 6 hours, Sunday only at House of Fraser, Promenade. Please apply by emailing your CV to cheltenham@hof.co.uk.
05/09/2018 Beauty, 20 hours, 5 x 4 hours at House of Fraser, Promenade. Please apply by emailing your CV to cheltenham@hof.co.uk.
05/09/2018 Home, 8 hours at House of Fraser, Promenade. Please apply by emailing your CV to cheltenham@hof.co.uk.
05/09/2018 Home, 2 x 6 hour Sunday only positions at House of Fraser, Promenade. Please apply by emailing your CV to cheltenham@hof.co.uk.
05/09/2018 Men’s Barbour, 30 hours at House of Fraser, Promenade. Please apply by emailing your CV to cheltenham@hof.co.uk.
05/09/2018 Men’s Accessories, 35.5 hours at House of Fraser, Promenade. Please apply by emailing cheltenham@hof.co.uk.
05/09/2018 Men’s Howick, 35.5 hours at House of Fraser, Promenade. Please apply by emailing your CV to cheltenham@hof.co.uk.
05/09/2018 Men’s Contemporary, 16 hours, 4 x 4 hours at House of Fraser, Promenade. Please apply by your CV to emailing cheltenham@hof.co.uk.
05/09/2018 Men’s Formal Wear, 30 hours at House of Fraser, Promenade. Please apply by emailing your CV to cheltenham@hof.co.uk.
05/09/2018 Men’s Ralph Lauren, 35.5 hours at House of Fraser, Promenade. Please apply by emailing your CV to cheltenham@hof.co.uk.
23/08 2 Assistant Store Manager positions available at Tiger, Regent Arcade with full training being offered if suitable candidate applies. Very competitive salary. Please read Job description and how to apply here.
23/08 Christmas Consultant positions available at Pandora, Regent Arcade. Please see Job description and how to apply here.
23/08 6HR Sales Assistant at Thortons, Regent Arcade. Flexible hours- to include weekday mornings/afternoons and cover the store in the absence of management. Please see Job description and how to apply here.
21/08 Full Time Travel Expert at STA Travel, High Street with proven sales experience and extensive travel experience. 37.5 hours a week, including weekends. Apply here.
20/08 Education and Community Manager, 24 hours per week with some room for negotiation on contracted hours, Everyman Theatre, Regent Street. Please see Job description and Job application. Returned forms to be send to hr@everymantheatre.org.uk
20/08 Assistant Manager, 48 hours per week. Permanent position. Competitive salary, negotiable dependant on experience at Harry Cook, Montpellier. Contact Sarah at enquiry@harrycookcheltenham.co.uk or 01242 236857
17/08 Bar Team members, Part time and Full time, John Gordons Montpellier a successful and independent retailer of wines and spirits and bar in Montpellier, Cheltenham. We are currently recruiting for hardworking members for our team. Experience of working in hospitality, cafes or bars. Good customer service essential and product knowledge of wines and spirits preferred, but not essential, as training will be given to the right candidates. WSET training available. Shifts include working days and evenings, weekends and Bank Holidays. Please state your preference if you are applying for Full or Part-Time in a cover letter and send your CV and covering letter to hello@johngordons.co.uk.
06/08 Lead Artist, 40 Hours at Charlotte Tilbury, John Lewis. A lead artist is a true brand ambassador who lives and breathes our values. Combining artistry and commerce – our lead artists drive targets through building lasting customer relationships and showcasing exceptional artistry. A lead artist has a track record of delivering results at retail artist level and can lead by example and coach retail artist teams to succeed – Apply here.
02/08 Sales Consultant Part Time at Beards, Promenade. Candidates must have a background in the luxury goods sector, preferably in selling fine jewellery with a high level of client service and building relationships – Please see the Job Description and send your CV and a covering letter to vanessa.davenport@beards.co.uk
02/08 Senior Stylist at Laura Leigh Hair and Beauty, Clarence Street. They are looking for an enthusiastic and creative individual with a passion for hair. Ideally 5 or more years qualified experience – To apply please send a copy of your CV and a covering letter yo Laura at lauraleighhairdressing@yahoo.com
1/08 Sales Consultant Full time at Martin and Co Jewelers, Promenade the ideal candidate will have 2-3 years of experience and a proven sales ability in the luxury goods arena. Whilst specific retail experience of fine jewellery and watches is an added benefit, a positive attitude and friendly manner is a must – Please email your CV to info@martin-and-co.com
27/07 Customer Host, 12 hours a week at White Stuff, Promenade – Pop in and ask for Andrea or Alice or call 01242 576241.
27/07 Weekend Customer Host, 6 hours at White Stuff, Promenade – Pop in and ask for Andrea or Alice or call 01242 576241.
23/07 Supervisor, 24 hours a week at Radley, Promenade – Send your CV to Victoria cheltenham@radleyandco.com or contact 01242 244543
23/07 Customer Consultant ,Permanent, 8 hours a week at The Body Shop, Regent Arcade – Apply here
23/07 Style Consultant,12 hours a week at Phase Eight, Promenade – Contact Felicity at 01242 528898
23/07 Shift Supervisor FOH, 40 hours per week on a competitive hourly rate at Harry Cook Free House, Montpellier.
Training available internally, as well as external qualifications available up to NVQ Level 5. Progression opportunities available, following a structured career pathway. Candidate must be flexible to work during weekends and evenings, as well as some day times. This is a permanent position – Contact Sarah at enquiry@harrycookcheltenham.co.uk or 01242 236857
23/07 Kitchen Assistant, 20 hours per week on a competitive hourly rate at Harry Cook Free House, Montpellier.
To assist with cooking, cleaning, and general running of a small kitchen. No experience necessary, full training will be given. This is a permanent position – Contact Sarah at enquiry@harrycookcheltenham.co.uk or 01242 236857
If you are BID business and have vacancies that you would like us to advertise please contact maria@cheltenhambid.co.uk .
Crowds came from far and near to enjoy the second Cheltenham Street Chilli Fiesta and brought the sunshine with them.
The highight of the day was the ‘Clash of Titans’ chilli eating contest. Last year’s runner up, Dave Hover, was hoping to see off the competition this year. However, it wasn’t to be as Shena Waseem (aka UK Chilli Queen), who came to Cheltenham from London especially for the event, took her 28th chilli eating crown. Miss Cheltenham, Katy Van Hemelryk, was there to present her with her prize of a hamper filled with chilli goodies.
Visitors to the free event, held in Cambray Place, picked up some of the country’s finest chilli products.
If you missed the event, here’s some of the best pictures from the day.
Chilli eating competition
picture by Mikal Ludlow Photography
Matt Rudman is the owner of Cheltenham Martial Arts which has been on Winchcombe Street since April 2018.
Formerly an electrical engineer, Matt’s ultimate goal was to teach martial arts and equip people with the self-confidence to develop personally. He began teaching for a Gloucester-based martial arts school and built up the Cheltenham branch, which he bought as a business in 2013. Since then, he has rebranded it and grown it into the successful entity it is today.
Matt has a passion for helping people to build their confidence through personal development. In his experience, martial arts gives people the ability to accomplish goals they never thought they could. He has developed Mindset Explosion; a series of live interviews with other businesses, focusing on personal development. You can find them on You Tube.
Matt believes that it’s important for businesses to work collectively to ensure that the local commercial community thrives. “If we work together, we can grow together,” says Matt. He wanted to become a BID Board Director because he wants his work to have a lasting impact and thinks it’s particularly important for small businesses to get the support they need.
When it comes to BID activities, Matt realises the importance of being inclusive and says events like the Christmas lights switch on and Light Up Cheltenham all help to build a better community. He said: “Although it’s not just about footfall, I did like seeing the streets crowded when the new Christmas lights were switched on.”
Cheltenham’s Street Chilli Fiesta will return to Cambray Place on Saturday 2nd June from 10am, bringing more than 15 chilli produce specialists to town.
Last year’s fiesta saw hundreds of people enjoying the heat as they selected some of the country’s best chilli based jams, chutneys and marinades.
The popular ‘Clash of the Titans’ chilli eating competition will be back, bringing tears to the contestant’s eyes – it’s not for the faint-hearted and is open to adults only. Starting with mild and flavourful, working up to volcanic, contestants will have to munch their way through chillies of varying levels of heat.
Once again, visitors will be able to buy a wide range of chilli themed products, from chilli cheese and chocolate to live chilli plants and artwork. The Chew Chew BBQ will also be back serving delicious hot food.
The event is being organised jointly by Chilli Fest UK and Cheltenham Business Improvement District (BID), who are keen to use different parts of the town for events. Kevan Blackadder, BID Director said: “Cambray Place is a great place for us to hold events. The Jazz Festival …Around Town stage was really popular and we held the Street Chilli Fiesta and Street Football events there last year, which brought new custom to many of the businesses in Cambray Place and this end of the High Street.
“We want people to see the diversity of businesses in this area of the town.”
Cheltenham Borough Council and Gloucestershire County Council are planning a further substantial investment on High Street. The estimated £1.8m project will see the Strand and the pedestrianised section of Cambray Place resurfaced.
The uneven paving and replacing tarmac will go and a new drainage system will be installed. The aim is to make this area a more attractive destination and encourage greater linkage with the rest of High Street, with initial work due to start in the autumn.
Funding from the European Regional Development Fund will also be used to add trees and planting. The improvements will link directly with those made last year when £1 million was invested into the stretch of High Street between Rodney Road and Cambray Place.
Improvement to our town’s public realm is a priority for the BID and we are supporting the project by representing the interests of business in a stakeholder group, which also includes representatives from Sainsbury’s and The Union Project.
Cheltenham Borough Council already has a project team in place and has commissioned Willmott Dixon, an independent construction and property services company, to undertake an initial study into the works which will draw on the outline designs already in place to confirm the phasing plan, programme and budget. As with the first phase, it will be a priority to keep access to all frontages open and to minimise disruption.
As plans develop, they will be shared with the local businesses. Thought is already being given to the potential impact the work will have and businesses operating in the vicinity have been involved with initial consultations and will be contacted again soon to identify any issues and explore possible solutions.
The project team will also be continuing its work with businesses to protect the atmosphere and physical appearance of the town centre by minimising vehicle use for deliveries in pedestrian areas at sensitive times. Look out for more information in future newsletters.
Cheltenham Borough Council is asking businesses to have their say on the way street trading licences are issued.
The current policy is under review and aims to:
- prevent the obstruction of the streets by street trading activities;
- sustain established shopkeepers in the town;
- maintain the quality of the townscape and add value to the town; and
- encourage inward investment.
The policy specifies locations around the town that have been deemed appropriate for street trading. The policy has revised these locations taking into account the changing nature of the public realm and retail offer.
The changes also include revisions to the appearance of the stalls or vehicles so that the council will generally not permit trading units where the unit fully, or substantially, blocks lines of sight to established retailers in the vicinity. Any street trading operation that negatively impacts public access by walking, cycling or public transport will not be encouraged.
All BID Businesses are being encouraged to give their feedback on the policy, and full details can be found at https://bit.ly/StreetTradingConsultCBC
News of the benefits of being a BID business is spreading and we have had several businesses join the BID as voluntary members.
We’d like to welcome The Beehive, Badlands Records, The Logical Utilities Company, Showcase and Cocoa Couture to the BID community.
The Beehive, a vibrant, friendly pub serving classic pub food and great Sunday roasts, is based in Montpellier. They hold events throughout the summer and are rated one of the top 6 real ale pubs in Cheltenham.
Badlands Records is an independent music store founded in 1986 by avid music fans Philip and Steven Jump. They specialise in classic and indie rock and Bruce Springsteen and Bob Dylan releases and have a huge array of cds, vinyl, boxsets, magazines, merchandise and posters of every genre.
Founded in 2009, The Logical Utilities Company has become the UK market leader in energy consulting and support services. They are driven by sharing in this success and are working with the BID to help businesses improve their bottom line through a transparent approach to utility supply.
Established in 1992 by John and Heather Pannett – Showcase is a family business run by enthusiastic people who have combined their love of Dance, Costume and Theatre to create a Dancewear and Fancy Dress department.
British bridal boutique Cocoa Couture was established in 1970 with an ethos is that every bride should feel beautiful, happy, comfortable and above all confident on her special day. Cara Wagstaff’s expert skills and vision have seen the creation of some of the most beautiful dresses worldwide. Every dress is lovingly hand crafted by their dedicated team of experts in their Cheltenham Atelier.
Voluntary members pay the same levy as non-voluntary members and are entitled to all the same benefits, such as the discounted bus travel, free social media training, discounted attendance at seminars etc.
As voluntary members, these businesses are not able to have a representative on the BID board and may not vote at an Annual General Meeting.
A new event run by Cheltenham BID will see landmark buildings in the town centre lit up in a way they have never been seen before.
Light Up Cheltenham will take place in the February half-term holiday. It will be launched on Saturday February 10th by spectacular street theatre drumming group Spark!, who have been a massive hit in towns and cities across the UK and beyond.
The fun kicks off at 5pm on Saturday February 10 when the group play on the new public space at The Brewery Quarter next to the Cosy Club.
This will then be followed by a parade through town, stopping off in the pedestrian Promenade, and culminating with another performance by Spark! at the Quadrangle at 5.45pm.
The floodlights will be seen for the first time that evening on The Municipal Offices, the Queens Hotel, Boots, the Brewery Quarter and the Town Hall. Many other buildings that are lit throughout the year will also be joining in the fun and using the same two-colour theme lighting throughout the week.
Already signed up are Martin & Co, The Bank House, HSBC, United Services Club, Moo Moo and Fever nightclubs and three buildings in the Promenade, 131, Knight Frank and Cotswold Transport Planning.
There will also be romance in the air on Wednesday February 14th when the main buildings turn red for Valentine’s Day
BID Director Kevan Blackadder said: “We want to bring some colour and fun to Cheltenham town centre in what can be one of the quietest months of the year in towns and cities across the country.
“We would love to see people come into town in the late-afternoon and early evening; taking pictures in front of the buildings, sharing them on social media and maybe even some proposals on Valentine’s Day when the buildings will change colour to red in celebration of the day.
“Our shops, restaurants, bars and leisure facilities will also be involved. Join us and help us to put the spotlight on Cheltenham.”
Many other buildings that are lit throughout the year will also be joining in the fun and using the same two colour theme lighting throughout the week.
The map includes venues involved in the Light Up Cheltenham event. Click on the numbers to view more information on the venues.
Cheltenham landmarks will be floodlit from Saturday February 10 to the following Sunday February 18 in a way never seen before.
Take photos at each floodlit site and share with #LightUpCheltenham and tag the location. We look forward to seeing your photos!
Some of Cheltenham’s best-loved independent retailers are coming together for a major sale this month.
The BID has brought together nine businesses for Cheltenham’s Independents Sale from 11am to 4pm on Sunday January 28 in the Princess Hall at Cheltenham Ladies College.
Some shops will cut as much as 75 per cent off the normal price of some goods. Admission to the event is free.
Last year, more than 500 shoppers attended the BID’s Boutique Sale and picked up some great bargains.
Women’s and men’s clothing, shoes, jewellery and travel goods will all be available this year.
The businesses taking part are: Beards, Bodega, Boutique 3, Enekes, James of Montpellier, Keith Scarrott Shoes, Love It, Sandra Dee and The Union Project.
Sophie Scarrott, director of Keith Scarrott Shoes, said: “It’s a great opportunity for us to get together in one place and offer some fantastic savings. We’re looking forward to welcoming both regular and new customers.”
Newcomers to the event this year are women’s wear specialists Bodega and Love It, luggage and leather goods supplier Enekes and luxury lingerie retailer Sandra Dee.
Cheltenham Ladies College
Kevan Blackadder, BID Director, said: “The BID aims to support the town’s businesses in many ways, and that includes our independents.
“They aren’t able to run one-off sale events in the same way that some national retailers do, and we wanted to give them this opportunity. We’ve been delighted with the response and have signed up some great names.
“There is the added attraction that the event is being held in the iconic setting of Princess Hall at Cheltenham Ladies College this year. For anyone who hasn’t been able to visit the college before, that will be a great experience as well.”
The event was entirely fashion-based last year but has been broadened this year for the benefit of both the BID businesses and their customers.
The event enables the businesses to make extra sales on a Sunday in January when many would not normally be trading.
Our Ambassadors have had a positive impact on the town, from making coach visitors feel welcome to ensuring rubbish is collected. They have arranged for leaves to be cleared from pavements and helped businesses take advantage of our projects.
Now you have the opportunity to make Cheltenham a better place to live, work and visit.
If you are passionate about Cheltenham and want to feel that the work you are doing is meaningful, we would like to hear from you.
You need to be fit, able to work flexible hours, like working with people, enjoy being part of a team, willing to put your own thoughts forward and happy to follow instruction.
More details can be found on the job description here. If, after you’ve read this, you would like to apply please email Belinda Hunt at belinda@cheltenhambid.co.uk with your CV and a covering note telling us why you want to be a Cheltenham BID Ambassador and why you think you’d be good at it.
See what our Ambassadors do on a day to day basis and what they have achieved.
A new gift card has been launched by Cheltenham BID that recipients can spend at a huge range of town centre businesses.
The Cheltenham Gift Card can be spent on almost anything, anytime, anywhere in the town centre.
More than 60 of our businesses have already signed up to accept the card, with shops, restaurants, bars, cafes and clubs all involved.
All will benefit from the fact that whenever anyone buys this card, the money will stay in Cheltenham. With similar schemes elsewhere there is also evidence of additional spend, with cardholders spending more than the card’s value.
Kevan Blackadder, Director of Cheltenham BID, said: “The card is available at any sum from £10 to £500. Customers can use it in one go or in several visits to different businesses over a number of months.
“We’re expecting the cards to become a popular birthday present or a simple way to say thank you for a good turn. We also think they will help take the pain out of Christmas shopping, with all the signed-up businesses benefitting.
“We’re asking larger companies to use the Gift Card to honour long-service achievements or reward excellence. What better way for them to show their support for both Cheltenham and their staff?”
The Cheltenham Gift Card can be bought online at a dedicated website – www.cheltenhamgiftcard.co.uk – or from either the Ultimate Party Shop in Regent Street or Wild Beer in Cambray Place.
Sue Clingan, owner of the Ultimate Party Shop, said: “We are thrilled to have been asked to play such a crucial part in this scheme. Being great believers in promoting the ‘Shop Local’ ideology and encouraging independent businesses and the town centre to thrive, we think this initiative will really succeed at doing both.”
Mat Tilley, manager of Wild Beer, said: “Being one of the first businesses to offer a point-of-sale in the town gives us a great reason for more people to not only visit us, but to also cross-promote the local businesses in Cheltenham.”
Stickers will be displayed in the windows of the businesses that accept the card.
The BID will also promote the card as a great gift for people who live elsewhere but have relatives or friends in Cheltenham. They will be able to go online, order the Cheltenham Gift Card and have it sent to a local address.
It can be used like any debit card and users can check the balance on the card at any time on the website.
Are you a BID business that has not signed up for the card? Go to https://cheltenhamgiftcard.co.uk/get-involved to book a visit from the BID team. We’ll call round and have you set up in five minutes.
The winner of the BID’s competition to find Cheltenham town centre’s best Christmas window display is gift shop Vinegar Hill on The Promenade.
Judges were impressed by their winter scene featuring polar bears skating, sledging and generally having fun in the snow.
Hotel Chocolat and jewellers Martin & Co were also commended for their displays in the competition run by Cheltenham BID.
Businesses of all kinds were encouraged to enter by using the hashtag #festivefacade on social media and there was a great response
Vinegar Hill director Debbie Austin said: “We’re delighted to have been named as the winners. Christmas is such an important time for us and it’s all about ensuring we’re giving our customers what they want.
“Our visual merchandiser Claire Sosna-Bowd came up with the display but the window also reflects the passion of the whole team.”
BID director Kevan Blackadder said: “One customer left the shop during the judging and said she loved the display because it carries on into the whole shop. She was absolutely right.
“We also liked the variety in the Hotel Chocolat display over two levels and the wonderful traditional decorations on both sides of Martin & Co’s building. We had 10 finalists, all of whom have helped brighten up Cheltenham throughout the run-up to Christmas.”
The other finalists were: Cath Kidston, James of Montpellier, Laura Leigh Hair & Beauty, Monrose, Neal’s Yard Remedies, Pia and White Stuff.
Emma Durrant of Monrose and her window
The BID partnered with SoGlos, the county’s online lifestyle and entertainment magazine, for the competition. SoGlos will make a promotional video of the winner to allow them to showcase their business.
SoGlos group publisher James Fyrne, who was also part of the judging panel, said: “We were delighted to partner up with the Cheltenham BID #FestiveFacade competition, and it was great to see the local businesses bringing Christmas Cheer to the town through their windows.
“We look forward to providing the prize of a promotion for the winner, Vinegar Hill, in the new year.”
We are really pleased with the response we’ve had from BID businesses to the Launch of Christmas in Cheltenham event. Belinda Hunt, BID operations manager, said: “We’ve been delighted to introduce new lights to so many different parts of the town centre this year.
“As well as the new motifs, we’ve added extra lights to the trees on The Strand, The Promenade and Montpellier.”
The BID made a significant investment in bringing new lights and more entertainment to the Street Party which saw the town come to life on Saturday November 25. In partnership with Cheltenham Borough Council, we also played a major part in overseeing the installation process, working closely with the contractors at each stage.
Clem Fraser, Store Manager of Cavendish House said “The lights look amazing. We have had so many compliments from our customers this evening”.
New features include a 3D sculpture at Boots Corner, attractive new motifs along the full-length of High Street, motifs and tree lights on The Promenade and a new LED Christmas Tree on Montpellier Terrace Roundabout. The Brewery Quarter also unveiled their new light display,
As part of the festivities, the BID ran a competition for a family of five to ride with Santa in his horse drawn carraige. The family were transported in style from High Street, down The Promenade and into Montpellier.
The traditional Christmas theme in Montpellier saw people enjoying a rock choir, victorian opera singers and the Salvation Army Band as they followed a live Nativity. Meanwhile, people were singing and dancing along to music in The Brewery Quarter.
Among those to praise the new displays was Margaret Cavanagh, of Neal’s Yard Remedies, who said: “What a triumph. The lights are really beautiful, there was a wonderful atmosphere in the town, everyone loved them.”
The BID plans to work with the council to improve the lights display still further in future years.
Terri Brewster, Chair of Cheltenham BID, said: “Improving the Christmas lights was highlighted as a key requirement of the town’s businesses when the BID was being set up.
“We see 2017 as the first step to further significant improvements next year and beyond as the town centre’s transformation is completed.”
Cheltenham BID has published its annual review for 2016-17.
The eight-page report looks back at our achievements over our first 12 months from August 1, 2016. It also details many of the projects we aim to introduce for our businesses over the coming year.
In each of our five main project areas – town centre events, marketing and promotion, business support, parking and accessibility and public realm improvements – we have outlined the work done so far and what we are planning to do next.
The BID’s Ambassadors have been delivering the annual review to all our businesses in recent days, along with a survey so that you can have your say. We want your opinions on what we’ve done so far, what you think of what we’re proposing and any ideas you may have for the future.
To read the full report, click here.
If you’ve not had the survey delivered or received it electronically, please email belinda@cheltenhambid.co.uk and we’ll get one to you.
The green bike and art bike trail has people talking about Cheltenham. Hanging from trees, suspended from balconies, displayed in shop windows, dominating roundabouts – the bikes are everywhere.
Visitors to the town are asking “What’s it all about?” Well, it’s to celebrate The Bloor Homes Cheltenham Festival of Cycling, as the Tour of Britain comes to Cheltenham. Stage 7, the penultimate stage of the UK’s biggest free-to watch sporting event, will finish at Imperial Square on September 9.
The Cheltenham Festival of Cycling is running a competition to see who is the best bike spotter, to enter residents or visitors need to snap a picture of themselves with one of the zingy bikes or bike art, dotted around the town. Use the hashtag #BikeSpotter and let the Cheltenham Festival of Cycling know on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.
It’s a great opportunity for businesses in Cheltenham to promote themselves to an anticipated 25,000 visitors – and the media. Shops are being encouraged to decorate their windows in the ‘green bike theme’ and bars, cafes and restaurants are preparing to serve ‘green bike’ themed goodies.
As well as the green bike and art trail, there’s a free to enter treasure hunt. Eleven bikes will have a letter tagged to them. Families can take part in the treasure hunt whilst they follow the bike trail around town. Ending at the Wilson, participants are asked to hand in their form and pick up a small prize. To take part, download your form here.
If you can’t get to the finish line, don’t worry you won’t miss out. You can see the race on a big screen on The Promenade near Prezzo and L.K. Bennett whilst browsing round the Street Market.
Cheltenham businesses are coming together to support the town’s first Street Chilli Fiesta.
From 10am on 3rd June, Cambray Place will be the hottest spot in town when up to 15 traders, all specialising in some form of chilli produce, lay out their stalls.
There will also be a ‘Clash of the Titans’ contest to see who can eat the hottest chilli.
Our Operations Manager, Belinda Hunt said: “Local businesses are really pleased that the BID is looking at this area as a venue for events.
“It’s great to see how many establishments are getting into the spirit of things. The nearby butcher and deli are creating some special chilli sausages for the event and one of the local pubs is even having an unusual beer brewed.”
Wild Beer have some special additions to their menu; BBQ chilli chicken wings and chilli dogs. A chilli beer will be on tap to go with the culinary creations, with tasting sessions of the locally crafted brew throughout the day. The BBQ chicken wings will be on the menu in the bar from the Thursday.
The Butcher’s Block in Grosvenor Terrace, already well known for their BBQ packs, are working on some hot and spicy sausage recipes, and refining their rubs and marinades.
Farmhouse Deli on The High Street will have chilli sausages, sausage rolls and cheeses to add to their extensive range – whether hot or not – for people to snack on or take home.
Gelateria Amelia’s range of 44 home-made ice creams and sorbets will keep everyone cool and refreshed throughout the day.
The Breeze Radio’s Craig Wright will on the scene to liven up the day and compere the chilli eating contest.
The line-up of events for Cheltenham BID’s Cheltenham Cocktail Week in May has been confirmed.
The week, which runs from Monday May 15 to Sunday May 21, will see many of the town’s best-loved bars, pubs, clubs and restaurants coming together to celebrate the wide array of cocktails available in Cheltenham.
From the launch night, with rum cocktails from Cuba at Smokey Joes, through to a Champagne tea party at new Montpellier venue Door 4 on Saturday afternoon, there is something for everyone.
Venues across the town will also be selling The Fountain of Youth, a new gin cocktail specially created for Cheltenham Cocktail Week.
Jamie Campbell has created the Fountain of Youth cocktail
The BID is running the week with the support of Pernod Ricard UK.
The full line-up of events is confirmed as:
Monday May 15: Havana Rum Tasting Experience – cocktails, food and live music from blues and rock band The Desperados UK. 7pm, Smokey Joes, Bennington Street.
Tuesday May 16: A Night with Gin –create your own G & T plus a free “The Fountain of Youth” to the first 40 customers. 7pm, Lily Gins, Regent Street.
A Night with Martell, the Fourth Course – tasting menu plus pairing of the Martell Cognac Range. 7pm, Montpellier Wine Bar, Montpellier Street.
Wednesday May 17: Malt Match – the finest single malts paired with the finest craft beers. 7pm, Wild Beer, Cambray Place
Thursday May 18: The Art of Blending – taste grain whisky and single malts from the Highlands before making your own whisky to take home. 7pm, John Gordons, Montpellier Arcade.
Friday May 19: Friday night is Vodka night – bespoke Absolut creative cocktails on offer with free Welcome Cocktails for the first 100 guests. 8pm, Under the Prom, The Promenade.
Saturday May 20: An Afternoon Tea with Perrier Jouet – your favourite Champagne paired with an afternoon tea. 2pm, Door 4, Montpellier Walk.
The events at Lily Gins, Under the Prom and Wild Beer are free. There are charges at other events where welcome cocktails and food or music are included. All events are being offered on a first-come, first served basis. Booking can be made via Eventbrite at bit.ly/CocktailEvents or on the Cheltenham Cocktail Week Page on Facebook.
Trade events will also be held to teach Cheltenham’s bartenders and bar staff new skills at venues including The Clarence Social and The Bierkeller.
BID Director Kevan Blackadder said: “The range of events we have lined up certainly caters for all tastes and it will also be a week when the town’s bar staff can refine their skills with help from expert mixologists.”
Ingredients of The Fountain of Youth: 50ml Beefeater Gin, 50ml Apple Juice, 20ml Lillet Blanc, 20ml Lemon Juice, 10ml Green Chartreuse, 1 Egg White (Optional), Angostura Bitters. The venue that sells the most glasses of The Fountain of Youth will be given a private behind-the-scenes tour of the Beefeater Distillery in London.
For the Method, see our video on the Cheltenham Cocktail Week Facebook page. Training can be provided on request from Jamie Campbell – contact campbell_jamie92@msn.com
Listening to businesses is what we do at the BID. Some of you have experienced circumstances beyond your control that you think could put you in line for a rates rebate.
You’ve told us how convoluted the process of appeal can be; that it’s difficult to find out how to register for the Check, Challenge, Appeal process and complete the myriad of forms necessary to start the process.
Well not only have we listened, but we’ve started to take action. The BID is working with a professional organisation specialising in helping businesses to find out if they are entitled to make a challenge and the best way to go about it.
Commercial Property Advisors Ltd will make an initial assessment of your property, advise you if there could be savings to be made and guide you through the process. They work on a no win, no fee basis so if you’re not eligible for a rebate or discount, you don’t pay them. The BID has negotiated an exclusive rate for BID businesses who make a successful claim.
Commercial Property Advisors Ltd will be in touch with all the businesses they think could benefit from their services but in the meantime, if you are interested in finding out more please email Belinda at belinda@cheltenhambid.co.uk.
Love hot chillies and think you have eaten the very hottest?
A new event coming to Cheltenham in June will put that to the test at a family street fiesta with a difference.
Up to 15 chilli producers will have stalls in Cambray Place from 10am to 5.30pm on Saturday June 3rd in an event we have jointly organised with Chilli Fest UK.
As well as a huge range of chillies, there will be chilli sauces, chilli cheeses, chilli olives, a chilli BBQ and even a chilli artist.
The hottest chilli eating contest will be open to adults only and will take place at 2pm.
Organiser Alex Mustang, of Chilli Fest UK, has been running similar events all over the UK for more than seven years and is delighted to be coming to Cheltenham for the first time.
“We have many chilli fans, from the curious to the extreme enthusiast who follow us all over the country,” he said. “I am positive that the people of Cheltenham will come out in force to support this event and take part in this debut chilli fiesta.”
We are keen to bring new events to different parts of the town. Our Director, Kevan Blackadder said: “Markets are normally held on The Promenade or Long Gardens and the Festivals focus on Montpellier Gardens and Imperial Square.” He said: “We want to start using areas like Cambray Place for more events both because it’s a good location and because it will help bring extra custom not only to businesses in Cambray Place itself but also to that end of High Street.
“I’m sure the pubs and cafes on Cambray Place and High Street will be doing a roaring trade in cool drinks after the chilli eating competition.”
This is also a great opportunity for other local businesses to get involved, making special chilli themed products available on their menus.