Unique Magazine October 2014

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C H E L T E N H A M 

Local community and business magazine 

for you. by you. 

Regent Street Special 

Pages 4 - 14 

October 2014 Edition 

Included 

in this 

month’s fresh 

magazine: 

Lily Gins Feature - Pages 5 

Tony Robinson Interview - Pages 18 & 19 

Cheltenham Local Hero - Pages 20 & 21 

Unique Fashion & Beauty - Pages 30 & 31 

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unique introduction 

“ 

inside... 

PAGE 5 

PAGE 6 

PAGE 10 

PAGE 13 

PAGE 15 

Welcome to October’s edition of Unique 

Magazine this being our sixth digital 

community magazine :) Thank you all for 

sharing September’s magazine on Twitter 

@UniqueChelt and for interacting with the 

magazine. 

We have got some massive features 

this month including Regent Street 

Businesses feature including Everyman 

Theatre, Earl’s & Co, Francesco Group 

and Alison Taylor. We also enjoyed a 

networking evening at the gorgeous Lily 

Gins cocktail bar, Lucas the manager 

looked after us all and the business 

owners in attendance. Our Features 

Editor Sarah Mckew @LadyMckew has 

interviewed Tony Robinson best known 

as Baldrick from Blackadder ahead of 

his starring role at The Everyman in The 

Hypochondriac which runs from 27th 

October till 1st November. The Everyman 

has kindly given us two tickets which are 

up for grabs on Page... 

Cheltenham Local Hero is starting to 

get exciting now with both nominees 

ready to be voted for, the winner will 

lily gins 

theatre 

sushi 

bridal 

magic 

PAGE 18 

PAGE 22 

PAGE 25 

PAGE 30 

PAGE 31 

Thanks, have a Unique month :) 

Steve 

” 

tony robinson PAGE 32 fashion 

local hero 

PAGE 34 benefits of unique 

coffee and cake 

montpellier house 

deca flooring 

be announced in Novembers edition of 

Unique. Please email your selection to 

steveunique@yahoo.co.uk, the winner 

will win a £50 voucher for a meal at the 

restaurant of their choice. 

If you are interested in advertising 

your business in Unique Magazine 

lease take a look on our website 

www.uniquecheltenham.co.uk to see the 

benefits you can get by working with 

Unique. Currently we have a Special Offer 

for 3 Months advertising for the cost of 2 

Months £150 in total (£225 RRP) Just 

take a look on the benefits page for the list 

of inclusions. 

Unique Cheltenham is a Community 

Magazine and we care passionately about 

Cheltenham and what is going on in its 

community. We want your Cheltenham 

stories and events please email stories to 


PAGE 36 

PAGE 38 

PAGE 40 

jobs 

what’s on 

sport 

http://www.uniquecheltenham.co.uk 

page 3

networking 

Networking Evening @LilyGins... 

Unique Cheltenham organised a networking evening for the 

businesses based in Regent Street, the event held at Lily Gins 

Cocktail Bar @LilyGins. Our aim was to get the business owners 

to chill out and have a relaxed chat with their neighbouring 

businesses. 

Quickly the evening of 3rd September 

came round and the clock chimed for 

7pm...what followed was a great evening 

full of amazing cocktail drinks and a wicked 

Absinthe cocktail from Lucas @Lily Gins, 

two platters of gorgeous sushi dishes 

from Emma & Toby from Kibou Sushi and 

Richard Parsons the close up magician 

carried out some brilliant close up magic. 

I then encouraged all of the business 

owners to take it in turns to talk about their 

business and this really helped everyone 

to get a better understanding and hopefully 

has created a couple of alliances in Regent 

Street. I then did a presentation on Unique 

Cheltenham and reiterated that we want to 

do features and stories on local busineses. 

Then we finished the evening with a couple 

more drinks...ouch and carried on with 

relaxed conversations. 

The cool businesses in attendance on the 

evening included Unique Cheltenham - 

hosting, Lily Gins, Earls & Co, Kibou Sushi, 

Everyman Theatre, Alison Taylor, Polygon 

Marketing, Cotswold Bride and Marmalade 

Soup who helped host the event with 

Sarah Mckew & I. 

So thanks again to the businesses that 

came along on the 3rd September, it was 

such a success that we will be holding 

these events in other area’s of Cheltenham 

Feature by 

Steven Taylor 

page 4 

http://www.uniquecheltenham.co.uk

Who’s up for Cocktails? But not the 

same regurgitated cocktails and drinks 

served in most bars. If you fancy 

something more sophisticated and 

different Cheltenham has the perfect 

venue. Lily Gins is located on Regent 

Street that oozes eccentricity. 

The theme that is echoed throughout is a 

London Victorian bordello and the concept of 

the bar is to engage with the customers and 

perform. The bar is the barman’s stage where 

they create and perform an exciting display of 

the cocktails. 

So you assume that because of the name they 

specialise in Gin, well yes they do but it is not 

just gin! It is Absinthe, yes the French anise 

flavoured spirit with a high volume of alcohol! 

Nicknamed the Green Fairy, Absinthe hasn’t 

been given good press as Lucas explains: 

Absinthe hasn’t been prepared properly, 

served as a shot of course you won’t feel clever 

after it! It has been given a bad reputation. 

We will refuse to serve it as a shot, it is either 

prepared properly or not at all. 

Lucas then says I have to try one of the 

cocktails, I protest as I was planning to try 

Absinthe in France at the Moulin Rouge a 

bucket list wish of mine for many years. He 

shakes his head and say nope try this and 

before I know it I have a cocktail glass in my 

hand, but this doesn’t look like Absinthe. It’s 

a Dappa Man a cocktail from their spectacular 

list of potions. It is dry shaked Pernod with 

pink grapefruit juice, lime juice, sugar syrup, 

egg white and mint leaves. The egg created a 

frothy texture and I am pleasantly surprised it 

does not taste how I thought. This is the point 

of no turning back, Lucas is on a mission to 

show me more. 

Absinthe is then traditionally prepared in 

a specially ordered old-fashioned water tap 

that costs £300 each from Holland. A sugar 

cube is placed on the top of again specially 

designed slotted spoon, placing the spoon 

over the glass with Absinthe, iced water at 

the correct temperature is poured over the 

sugar. If you want a quick drink here it will 

not get it, you will receive a unique service of 

skill and patience with a highly trained team 

of bar staff. 

But Gin and Absinthe aren’t the only things 

on the menu. Champagne cocktails, Martini 

cocktails and traditional cocktails with 

a twist. Lily Gins have carefully selected 

premium and rare spirits and liqueurs to 

take you on a journey and enjoy a tipple. 

There is passion in everything performed in 

Lily Gins and it makes every other bar look 

pretty boring. Join Lucas and the team for 

something different and enjoy a new way of 

thinking of cocktails. 

2a Regents Street, Ormond Terrace 

Cheltenham Gloucestershire 

GL50 1HR 


page 5

EVERYMAN THEATRE in Cheltenham 

You probably walk pass the Everyman 

and marvel at the traditional beauty of the 

building. Based in Regent Street this Grade 

II listed building has two stages, the 694 seat 

main stage and the 60 seat studio theatre, 

originally named The Richardson after Ralph 

Richardson. However until I got to meet 

the staff at the Theatre I didn’t know the full 

history and I am amazed and in ore of this 

wonderful place. 

Walking past during the day or evening the 

theatre is constantly buzzing. With famous 

faces performing on the stage and producing 

productions……this theatre is the heart of the 

community. In September 2011 the theatre 

underwent a major refurbishment costing 

£3,000,000 providing new seating, painting, 

plasterwork and artwork. Have you been yet? 

Wow it is an incredible transformation! But 

how much do you know about this important 

landmark in our town? 

Every summer holiday I would spend in 

Bournemouth I would stay at Lily Langtrys 

and as a little girl her life was intriguing. But 

I never knew she opened the theatre then 

called ‘The Opera House’ with a performance 

called ‘Lady Clancarty’ in October 1891. This 

for me was the start of an interesting journey 

through the Everyman Theatre. 

The building was designed by Frank 

Matcham when Cheltenham was without a 

theatre. Previous to the opening in 1891, 

Cheltenham’s Theatre was known as the 

Theatre Royal which was burned down. It 

was another 40 years before Frank Matcham 

was employed by influential businessmen to 

design and build the Theatre that now stands 

proudly in the centre of Cheltenham. 

After 22 years of touring productions and 

pantomimes ‘The Opera House’ started the 

first renewal and they have their first change 

of management. 7 years later Frank Matcham 

tragically dies of blood poisoning. 

In 1927 The Opera House institutes a 

partnership with the Theatre Royal Bath and 

they still stage performances today. Two 

years later the building is sold and plans 

were made to turn the opera house into a 

cinema, this would have be a tragedy. Luckily 

five years later The Cheltenham Theatre 

and Opera House Company buy back the 

building and save the Theatre with full time 

performances. 

page 6 


During the War the Theatre remains heart 

of the community by presenting a revue 

entitled ‘See You In The Shelter’ It was billed 

as the funniest and most topical comedy 

show touring. Keeping up the community 

morale, by 1946 the theatre is showing more 

prestigious productions, even Hollywood 

stars land in Cheltenham. In 1948 Richard 

Burton appeared in Dark Summer starting the 

lead of stars to perform there, even a young 

Roger Moore even makes an appearance! 

This is sadly short lived as the Opera House 

closes in 1955 and is leased until 1959 

when they close its curtains. An association 

is formed to help raise £3,000 to save the 

Theatre in June 18th by October 28th a new 

board of directors announce their plans to reopen 

the Theatre. Showing true community 

spirit to save our Theatre! 

1960 the theatre becomes the Everyman 

Theatre and re-opens its doors again. It 

continues to flourish successfully until the 

1980s when they close for two years to 

undergo a redevelopment in conjunction 

with the Regent Arcade. The Everyman reopens 

again but this time with the new studio 

theatre and the opening performance of ‘My 

Fair Lady’ is attended by Princess Anne and 

Captain Mark Phillips. 

The Theatre continued their success being 

a touring venue providing Cheltenham will 

the best pre and post West End plays and 

musicals and still continues to capture the 

imaginations of young and old audiences that 

visit the Theatre. 

I am happy to announce that I will be giving 

you behind the scenes features and reviews 

on performances at The Everyman Theatre 

and we will continue to share in the theatres 

120 year success. Theatre remains the heart 

of the community for all. 


page 7

Francesco Group Cheltenham 

...8th Birthday 

I am probably too bias to write 

this article on Francesco Group 

Cheltenham as the wonderful owner 

Lisa Walby is my hairdresser, along 

with Steph Wilde who colours my hair 

occasionally when I want random 

pink steaks put through. 

But seriously, it’s an absolute 

pleasure to write this on Francesco’s 

8th Birthday and wow what an 

amazing 8 years! The salon 

celebrated in style, with cocktails 

from Lucas at Lily Gins working 

his special magic and The Chip 

Shop Boys providing entertainment 

outside, as always with a crowd 

pleasing performance, not to mention 

the Clarins team from House of 

Fraser giving massages and all the 

staff on hand to put your hair up, give 

you a glass of bubbly and a goodie 

bag! 

And to top of this success Lisa is 

currently a Finalist in the British 

Hairdressing Awards! This alone just 

proves the passion and knowledge 

that is echoed through the salon. 

My First experience at Francesco’s 

was around 4 years ago going in 

following frustration of finding a 

hairdressers that actually cut my 

hair straight and that could actually 

advise! I sit in the chair and Lisa’s 

first question is what do you want to 

achieve with your hair? So after a 

long winded way of explaining I want 

long hair and it only ever stays one 

length, Lisa instantly states “Well for 

starters get rid of the layers”. Years 

later my hair grew at a rapid rate and 

at a long length! Hooray! The salons 

approach to honest and helpful 

advice has never stopped for their 

clients, they provide solutions and 

give you a new experience instead 

of dreading that your locks will be 

lopped without a care. 

So what’s the secret behind the 

success? “I am glad to be here and 

establish the business after 8 years” 

Lisa says “I love the buzz the salon 

has and I have a great team of 18 

now, welcoming back Stuart who left 

and has now returned and a few new 

faces. This year has been our best 

year yet!” 

page 8 


“This year has been our best year yet!” 

Lisa continued to explain The British 

Hairdressing Awards, ‘I love the 

awards, and I had to achieve 8 

photographs in total. I created styles 

that push the boundaries but of 

course we will adapt these to bring to 

the shop floor.’ Lisa will find out the 

results for her shoot in November, 

fingers crossed because it’s well 

deserved. 

I know how great the team and 

Lisa are and how hard they work, 

but I wanted to ask one of their 

clients before Lucas served more 

champagne. Wendy Woods has 

been coming to Francesco since 

January this year and has a cut 

and colour on her visits. ‘I had been 

with my old hairdresser for 28 years 

and I wanted a change, I came to 

Francesco Group and Vicky cuts my 

hair amazingly. It’s such a wonderful 

experience, I am staying here and 

not changing.’ 

Do I need to say anymore? 

Francesco Group have loyal, happy 

customers and they continue to grow 

as a team and a salon with Lisa 

fuelling the success and passion for 

hairdressing. 

At Unique Cheltenham we wish Lisa 

and team many more successful 

years making ladies and gentleman 

feel fabulous. 

Francesco Group Cheltenham 

4 Ormond Terrace, 

Regent Street 

Cheltenham, 

GL50 1HR 


page 9

18 Regent St, Cheltenham, 

Gloucestershire 

GL50 1HE 

01242 300161 

www.kibousushi.com 

A hidden little gem I had heard about 

in Regent Street prepares traditional 

and has claimed to provide ‘proper’ 

sushi in the centre of Cheltenham. As 

a sushi fan I have been enjoying the 

landing of Yo Sushi as most have but 

I have been summoned to try ‘proper’ 

sushi and as if I would turn down the 

opportunity to eat sushi. 

This small, intimate restaurant gives 

a warm personal feeling as you walk 

through the door and thank goodness 

I had booked! They are already 

turning people away, this I thought 

was impressive! I learnt that Kibou 

actually suggest a 2 hour service 

time. This is anything but a whizzing 

service of in and out quick fish. 

I am seated and given a menu and 

to my surprise it’s a small selection 

and I don’t feel overwhelmed by the 

choices. The staff were informative 

about specials and ingredients and 

everything was made fresh to order. I 

ordered one of my regular favourites 

the Edamame Beans….and I ask 

naively ‘what is the black salt?’ The 

waitress tells me that it is a Black 

Sea Salt from Hawaiian Lava. So I 

learn something new and enjoy. 

I ordered the Katsu Curry one of 

my favourites, and something I love 

making at home. The chicken was 

beautifully tender and the sticky 

rice was perfect, all presented in a 

traditional box. I love this extra little 

touch (plus I want some for home!) 

The special steak that they were 

offering was Terryaki Steak, this 

again lived up to recommendations, 

a mouth-watering tender steak with 

the rice was a perfect dish. 

So what about the traditional little 

pieces of sushi? The Hosomaki 

were perfect rolled and beautifully 

presented with a lot of love prepared 

in each roll. These have left a taste in 

my mouth for more. 

In true style as one must, I had to 

drink the Jasmine tea throughout my 

experience and what a difference. 

Kibou have been selective on 

their ingredients and made sure 

everything is an acquired taste. I 

have not tasted Jasmine like it…. 

so now I know I will become a snob 

to Jasmine teas in Chinese and 

Japanese restaurants. 

I highly recommended Kibou 

to anyone but book to avoid 

disappointment, and you won’t 

be left disappointed. This hidden 

gem is perfect for sushi lovers of 

Cheltenham. 

page 10 


BEFORE 

AFTER 

Alison Taylor runs a luxury Cosmetic skin 

clinic in Regent St - Registered Nurse 

Prescriber, Alison has been managing 

her own cosmetic clinic full time for 

8 years - that means thousands of 

treatments. Recently awarded the Save 

Face accreditation for excellence and 

professionalism. All referrals are word 

of mouth recommendations as Alison is 

unique in giving personal approach to 

treatments. She will see you all the way 

through your treatment path and being 

easily accessible in between. 

Alison offers a wide range of skin 

treatments and rejuvenation skin care and 

therapies ranging from Medi-grade facials, 

to Botox, Dermal Fillers, Platelet Rich 

Plasma treatments. A free consultation will 

help you decide which treatment is best for 

you and you will be confident that you are 

in safe hands. 

Contact Alison on 01242 234707 

WRINKLE RELAXING 

DERMAL & LIP FILLERS 

MICRO-NEEDLING 

SKIN PEELS 

SKIN TAGS 

MICRODERMABRASION 

FACIAL THREAD VEINS 

SKIN CARE 

EXCESSIVE SWEATING 

TREATMENT 

http://www.skindetox.co.uk/ 

18 Regent Street - Cheltenham - Gloucestershire - GL50 1HE. Tel: 01242 234707 


page 11

Celebrating 20 years 

in business.... 

Polygon Marketing, the Cheltenham–based 

PR and Marketing Company, is celebrating 20 

years in business and to commemorate the 

landmark, those who have played a part in 

the company’s success returned to the town 

for a reunion weekend. 

Established by Martin Allerton in September 

1994 to manage Gulf Oil’s McLaren F1 

motorsport sponsorship programme, Polygon 

has successfully diversified over its two 

decades and now works with clients across 

a range of industries. Its marketing support 

services for a varied range of clients includes 

brand development, PR, event management, 

promotions and media buying. 

“We are all very proud to have reached this 

landmark and hopefully the next 20 years will 

be just as enjoyable and varied,” comments 

Managing Director, Martin Allerton. “Every 

single one of those invited returned to 

Cheltenham for the celebrations, which says 

a lot about the business and its people. Life 

usually moves at such a pace that it has been 

immensely satisfying to stop, reflect upon our 

achievements and reminisce in the company 

of great friends about our many experiences 

together.” 

Polygon is currently involved in the 

organisation and promotion of a major 

forecourt industry Awards Ceremony and 

Gala Dinner, taking place at the Belfry Golf 

and Leisure Resort, Sutton Coldfield during 

October. 

page 12 


Cotswold Bride has been created with love, 

passion and dedication, to ensure all bridesto- 

be, and their families, can enjoy the search 

for the perfect wedding dress. As well the 

bridal dress they can also help with matching 

accessories, bridesmaid and flower girl dresses 

and Mother of the Bride/Groom outfits. 

It’s really important to Cotswold Bride that you 

feel relaxed and at home in the boutique, so time 

is taken not only to show you the dresses but to 

enjoy a glass of Champagne or orange juice, tea 

or coffee and learn more about you and your plans 

for your special day. 

Cotswold Bride understands that you are going on 

a journey, from the first time you visit the boutique 

right up until your wedding day. They join you 

on this journey, offering style advice, emotional 

support and basically anything they can do to 

make your experience a happy, memorable one 

that you will always cherish. 

The team are trained to understand what styles suit 

each body shape and have a good understanding 

of colours, how they complement each other 

and your skin tone and how to create the perfect 

palette, should you wish to mix a number of 

colours that all blend perfectly together. 

The owner of Cotswold Bride, Ali Chapman, 

created the boutique because she feels that 

everyone deserves to feel special when planning 

such a big event and she wanted to make sure 

that Cheltenham lead from the front in offering 

fabulous designer gowns at reasonable prices, a 

bespoke design option, a service that was special, 

professional and friendly and most of all a place 

you looked forward to returning to. 

It’s clear to see that Ali’s vision is shared by the 

entire team, as no matter which of the ladies look 

after you, the experience is always the same, 

friendly, relaxed and knowledgeable support. All 

the things you need most when choosing “The 

Perfect Dress” for what will be the best day of 

your life. 

Cotswold Bride 

3 Ormond Terrace, Regent Street 

Cheltenham, GL50 1HR 

Tel: 01242 260 640 

Email: info@cotswoldbride.com 

Web: www.cotswoldbride.com 


page 13

C 

alling all you gentleman who take 

pride in appearance and who love 

a pamper. Are you looking for 

something traditional with a hint of special? 

Well men of Cheltenham have you been 

to Earls & Co. yet? If you are looking for an 

old-style pamper look no further. 

After a success two years Jessica Earl 

showed Cheltenham that if you have an 

idea you can achieve your dreams. The 

young entrepreneur worked for Virgin 

Atlantic and left to open her own traditional 

barbers and whiskey bar. The youngest 

In-flight Beauty Therapist she took her 

high standards and customer service give 

Cheltenham something special. 

But Jess didn’t stop there, not only is Earls 

& Co a barbers, it has a champagne nail 

bar upstairs. So why not make it a couple 

pamper day? Maybe a massage? 

So what is so special about Earls? Along 

with your complimentary whiskey you can 

have a hot towel shave. The old fashioned 

close shave with a straight razor would 

you get at anywhere else? Surrounded with 

sophisticated oak and the Takara Belmont 

chairs and whiskeys from around the world 

every detail has been covered, it is hard 

not to be impressed. The list of services 

are just not shaves and haircuts, a shoe 

shine maybe, a mani. This is exactly what 

the modern man of Cheltenham needs, 

something unique where they don’t just 

sit in a chair and have a quick snip and 

back out again. It has a wonderful relaxed 

atmosphere with a team of experts on 

hand. 

But what about the lady in your life? Whilst 

you indulge how about you treat her after 

that Saturday shopping trip she dragged 

you on? Upstairs ladies can enjoy a glass of 

champagne whilst having nails painted. I was 

treated to a nail treatment and there is no 

doubt you are treated like a super star. My 

glass was topped up regularly and the girls 

where smiley and chatty, my only problem 

was what colour was I going to have? They 

treated you more than just another client. 

The interior is calm and cool with a classic 

retro feel including Audrey and Marilyn pop 

art, a girly haven to rest your feet and relax. 

Like downstairs they offer a range of beauty 

treatments from facials, waxing and tanning. 

This is truly a hidden gem located on 

Regent Street of luxury and pamper. If 

you have not yet tried Earls & Co you 

should not miss out for treatments for real 

gentleman and ladies. 

19 Regent Street, Cheltenham 

Gloucestershire GL50 1HE 

Telephone: 01242 257653 

Email: jessicaearl@earlsandco.com 

Email: info@earlsandco.com 

page 14 


Richard Parsons 

“Unique Magic Experience” 

I became fascinated with magic when a friend 

of mine Mark Vasey (also a member of The 

Magic Circle) showed me a card trick known 

many years ago. I had the same reaction of 

amazement and disbelief that I now get the 

privilege of seeing every time I go to an event 

to perform. I now entertain people with cards, 

coins, money, fire and other objects. Magic 

is popular again with magicians like Dynamo 

and others on our TV screens, and as a busy 

working performer I am booked for all sorts 

of large and small events such as weddings, 

corporate dinners & launch parties. 

Becoming a member of the world-famous 

Magic Circle is a career highlight as 

membership is granted through audition 

only. There are currently only about 1400 

members in the world. I have had many 

weird and wonderful experiences at events 

and been to many incredible venues and 

locations...a recent one that stands out is 

entertaining troops at 22 SAS headquarters 

near Hereford! 

If you are planning a Christmas party in the 

South West or London why not consider 

close-up magic to amaze your guests – I 

can entertain your staff before dinner, 

during cocktail drinks, or round the tables 

in between courses. You can find more 

information and watch a video on my website: 

www.gloucestershiremagician.co.uk or follow 

me on twitter: www.twitter.com/glosmagician 


page 15

page 16 



page 17

“ 

“ 

unique 

interview 

Interview with 

Tony Robinson – The Hypochondriac“ 

” 

Theatre Royal Bath has produced another masterpiece of comedy by adapting 

Moliere’s stage production of The Hypochondriac. Directed by Lindsay Posner 

one of the UKs greatest directors of comedy he has the turned this French 

production into a funny and up to date performance to not be missed. 

So for you who don’t know the play, it’s about a penny pinching Argan who is 

healthy, wealthy and obsessed by imaginary aliments. Completely confused as 

his wife is trying to fleece him whilst his lovesick daughter, her lover and astute 

maid attempt to help him. So who better to play this character? 

Tony Robinson joined me to discuss his role as Argan and the production 

being performed at the Everyman Theatre on the 27th October until 1st 

November. 

SM: Thank you for taking the time to talk to us at Unique 

Cheltenham. Congratulations on your role 

TR: Thank you 

SM: The Everyman Theatre is such a beautiful Theatre, do you like 

performing on stage there? 

TR: I love performing at the Everyman, there are a few jewel 

theatres in the UK and the Everyman is one of them. I have 

performed there many times and it’s wonderful to return. 

page 18 


SM: How did you find working with Lindsay Posner? Can you see 

his vision in what he wanted to achieve? 

TR: It’s very exciting to be part of his creativity, but it’s a bit hectic. 

He is currently working on two productions at one speed. So he is 

with us during the day before leaving us with the assistant director 

and going back to London to direct the Hollywood stars. It is a lot of 

fun. 

SM: Are you enjoying the role? What is your favourite part of the 

production? 

TR: Its early days yet and we are discovering the reactions from 

others, but the best part is the rehearsals for me. 

SM: Do you relate to any of the characteristics of the character you 

play? 

TR: What you mean am I a Hypochondriac? (He laughs) yes there 

is always something within yourself that is a hypochondriac. 

SM: What is it like doing comedy in front of a live audience 

compared to behind the camera on a set like Black Adder? 

TR: It is a different quality, you are playing off live action and you 

develop a relationship with the audience. You start to learn their 

reactions and it’s a lovely experience. You don’t have that in front of 

a camera. 

SM: What is next for you? 

TR: We are touring for 6 weeks and then we will be in the West 

End. I have just finished filming the 3rd series of Walking Through 

History and I am excited about a new programme exclusively done 

for Sky 3D called WW1 in 3D. 

It was fantastic to talk to Tony Robinson about this 

wonderful revue that is at the Everyman Theatre. 

Win two tickets to see ‘The Hypochondriac’ 

at the Everyman Theatre by answering this question: 

What was Baldricks catchphrase in Black Adder? 

Know the answer? 

Then email your answer to along with your name and contact number to: 


Good luck! 

The lucky winner will be announced on the 18th October 


” 

page 19

Please mention “Unique Memorials” 

to qualify you for a 5% Discount. 

page 20 

http://www.uniquecheltenham.co.uk/memorials

Everyone loves cake ! 

So at Let There Bee Cake 

my main mission is to 

create a cake you 

wont forget 

If you are interested in a bespoke cake, Please 

do contact me at the details below so we can 

discuss what you require. Please also take a look 

at the website to see the work I have done. 

Prices will vary depending on your design, 

for a rough idea you could visit my website. 

www.lettherebeecake.co.uk 

Mobile: 07837650447 

bella@lettherebeecake.co.uk 

@BellaBeeTewks 

http://www.uniquecheltenham.co.uk/cake.html 

page 21

unique’s... 

CHELTENHAM 

LOCAL 

HERO 

October’s Nominee’s 

Steve and Christine Syer form part of the Cheltenham Branch 

of the British Heart Foundation Fundraising Branch. 

They have volunteered for them for 28 years, starting about 18 

months after Steve received a heart transplant. 

Over the years, they were responsible 

for many fundraising events, including 

the Cotswolds Bike Ride, which they 

successfully ran for 22 years before it was 

handed over to the BHF Events team. 

During the years that they have been 

volunteering for BHF, they have helped to 

raise £1.7Million for the charity. 

Quite simply, they are a fantastic couple 

and take every opportunity to tell everyone 

how lucky they are that Steve is still here 

-30 years after his heart transplant. 

Steve is about to go back onto the 

transplant list – but this time, for his 

kidneys. 

The winner will be announced in 

Novembers edition of Unique Cheltenham 

and on our Twitter page @UniqueChelt 

Please email 


for your nomination of either : 

1) Helen Eade (Nominated in 

September’s edition) 

2) Steve & Christine Syer (Main picture) 

Voting starts from 1st October 2014 

The Winner will get £50 in vouchers 

towards a meal for two at a Restaurant of 

their choice 

Good Luck :) 

page 22

Wow... 

thank you for your input for 

Cheltenham’s Local Hero as the 

competition draws to an end. 

I would like to say that it is great to be 

able to say thank you to these 

genuine community focused people. 

Steve Taylor - Unique Publications Ltd 

page 23

Weddings - Portraits - Events - Commercial 

E: office@jonstanleyphotography.co.uk 

M: 07846900652 

P: 01242251580 

www.jonstanleyphotography.co.uk 

page 24 

http://www.uniquecheltenham.co.uk/photographer

http://www.uniquecheltenham.co.uk/coffeeandcake 

page 25

Cheltenham 

Furniture 

Assembly 

Cheltenham Furniture Assembly 

understand that in this busy 

modern world people just do not have enough hours in the day. 

We take the stress of assembling your flat packed furniture away 

from you, and do it quickly and expertly. 

We can assemble: 

Wardrobes, cabinets, tables, side boards, beds and more. 

Just give us a call and we will let you know 

• Reliable Local Service - 

All areas within a 10 mile radius of Cheltenham 

• At a time to suit your needs - 

Flexibility is key for our customers 

• Friendly, Polite & Professional Service 

Clean & Tidy workers we do not make or leave a mess 

• Fixed Pricing Available 

Charge by the hour - £40 First Hour and £30 per Subsequent hour 

“Rome wasn’t built in a day 

but your furniture will be” 

Cheltenham Furniture Assembly 

Call Steve on 07749 325043 to book you in today 

page 26 

http://www.uniquecheltenham.co.uk/furniture-assembly.html

Remembering Good Times, 

Accepting Tough Times too: 

Memory Stones 

A simple bag of three stones may be a useful way to have a 

really meaningful conversation with your children and help them 

to find a way of coping with all sorts of memories. Sometimes 

it can be hard to find a balance between the difficult memories 

which are often associated with a death by murder or manslaughter 

and happier, more positive memories. The three 

different stones can be used to convey a message in a special 

and safe way. 

The smooth pebble feels ordinary and fairly comfortable to hold in your hand. It is there to represent ordinary, 

everyday memories of the person who died. 

He always rang the doorbell when he came home from work even though he had a key. 

She always sang along with the adverts when they came on the TV. 

The rough rock feels sharp and painful to hold. It is there to represent the memories of difficult and hard 

times and also memories of the way that the person died. 

I remember some of the rows we had; we said some hurtful things to each other. 

When I close my eyes I can still see the picture in my head of how she must have looked. 

The gemstone looks and feels precious, shiny and polished. It is there to bring back memories of the 

really special times spent with the person who died. 

I’ll never forget that day on the beach when he tried to catch the frisbee in his mouth and got a face full 

of sand. He couldn’t stop laughing. 

I remember making a birthday cake in the shape of a car with her; it didn’t really look like a car but we 

thought it was brilliant. 

The first two stones can usually be found in a garden or park. Gemstones can be found at craft or gift 

shops. Encourage your children to hold each stone in turn and give examples of memories and events 

that they could attach to the different stones. You can also share your own. 

The secret is to try to find a way to hold the three stones in your hand – the rough alongside the precious 

and the ordinary – and to hold these three types of memories together in a way that they all find their 

place. The rough becomes no more important than the other two and in time can be described in ways 

that hurt less. 

Using this simple bag of stones can help break the conspiracy of silence that sometimes creeps in when 

tough stuff happens in families. When having a difficult day, the stones can also be a useful way to start 

a conversation, for example: 

Does the rough rock feel particularly sharp today? 

http://www.uniquecheltenham.co.uk/charity 

page 27

Hilary and Rob of Emmaus Cheltenham 

a unique approach to homelessness 

Tucked down Henrietta Street, 

behind the Brewery the Emmaus 

Charity Shop might look like any 

other, selling furniture, bric a brac 

and clothing. But did you know that 

this shop is part of an international 

movement that has a UNIQUE 

approach to homelessness? 

Emmaus Gloucestershire is one of 26 

communities in the UK providing homeless 

people with a place to live and work. 

The shop in Cheltenham is one of four in 

Gloucestershire that supports 23 formerly 

homeless people, called companions. It is 

UNIQUELY staffed - in return for board and 

lodging companions give up the right to state 

benefits and work 40 hours in the shops and 

furniture warehouse. 

We have a UNIQUE way of using the surplus 

that we generate – we give it to others 

who need it more than we do. This can be 

local charities, individual families in need, 

and international aid projects. Currently we 

are supporting homelessness services in 

Gloucestershire and several projects in India. 

It’s not about the money we generate and 

the excellent shops we provide in four 

communities, it is about changing lives. 

We have believe that in helping others we 

help ourselves, and that meaningful work 

restores dignity and inclusion in society. 

The perception of people who are homeless 

is that they are a drain on society, but the 

residents of Emmaus Communities turn this 

perception on its head. Not only do they work 

to support themselves, but they also work to 

help others. 

It is a UNIQUE and successful business 

run much like a co-operative. All goods 

are donated and are sold on at low prices 

with a high turnover of stock. We don’t 

sell new goods or pay for our stock. The 

people of Gloucestershire generously give 

their unwanted goods and larger items are 

collected free of charge. Emmaus rarely 

says no to goods offered and we dispose of 

the things we can’t sell in way that doesn’t 

damage the environment – last year we 

saved 415 tonnes from landfill. 

It is a UNIQUE business and successful 

business model. In 2011 UK research 

(Just Economics) forecast a Social Return 

on investment (SROI) of £11 for every £1 

invested. The savings to taxpayers for every 

companion living and working at Emmaus 

Gloucestershire is calculated to be £47,442. 

The first Emmaus Companion, living with 

the founder Abbé Pierre in 1948 in France 

helped to build temporary homes for those 

in need, first in the priest’s own garden, 

then wherever land could be bought or 

scrounged. He later said; “Whatever else 

he might have given me - money, home, 

somewhere to work - I’d have still tried to kill 

myself again. What I was missing, and what 

he offered, was something to live for.” 

It’s UNIQUE – but it works! It works because 

companions work 40 hours a week to make 

us independent and surplus generating. It 

works because the people of Cheltenham 

and Gloucestershire provide us with the 

goods to sell and come and buy from us. 

Most importantly it works because we work 

for others and make a difference to lives 

home and abroad. 

visit us at 19 Henrietta St Cheltenham GL50 4AA Tel: 01242 269734 

page 28 

http://www.uniquecheltenham.co.uk/emmaus

http://www.uniquecheltenham.co.uk/businesssecurity 

page 29

Regency House, Serviced Apartments and Reception 

Venue in Cheltenham 

Rent a meticulously restored Regency house overlooking Montpellier 

Gardens - or a two bedroom serviced apartment on Royal Parade. Luxurious, 

yet intimate and private accommodation, with all the comforts of a five star 

hotel in Cheltenham. Self Catering or Serviced - the Choice is Yours 

Corporate Events 

Indulge your visiting clients 

An inspirational meeting venue 

Functions 

Intimate Wedding Receptions 

& Birthdays 

01242 572 716 

info@stayinmontpellier.co.uk 

www.stayinmontpellier.co.uk 

page 30

Cheltenham’s NEW 

DECA 

DESIGN FLOORING 

Specialist suppliers of quality carpets and 

products, and a fully comprehensive design service. 

Exclusive stockists of the latest Cath Kidston, 

Hartley & Tissier, and Diversity ranges. 

t. 01242 375 016 

e. 

w. 

visit us at. 

33 Prestbury Road, 

Cheltenham, Glos, GL52 2PP 

http://www.uniquecheltenham.co.uk/carpets-and-flooring.html 

page 31

Unique Style 

Autumn Boots 

Get ready for that leaf kicking season... 

Fashion 

My favourite season is autumn and it’s fast approaching in 

Cheltenham, with the leaves falling and pumpkin spice latte back 

in Starbucks (Hooray). I am looking forward to wrapping in the 

chunky knits and wearing my new autumn boots! 

There are some great boots this season to suit all, here is my top 5 

available to see you through the season 

Black Tassel Cut Out Boot from New Look 

£27.99 

Tan Checked Lined Boots from New Look 

£29.99 

Jones Bootmaker Oosh Ankle Boots 

£89.00 

Slow Tan Flat Boot from Kurt Geiger 

£160.00 

Cuthbert boot at Russell & Bromley 

£235 

Sarah Mckew 

Fashion & Features Editor 

© Sarah McKew 2014 

page 32

Beauty 

Nail Colours for Autumn Days 

Continuing the Autumn feeling, here are my top picks for Autumn Nails…. 

Chanel £18 – Particuliere 

Essie £7.99 – Stylenomics 

Nails Inc £18 – Chelsea Square 

page 33

Local business directory 

FREE 


for you. 

by you. 

Benefits of the Premium Package 

1) Inclusion in Unique Cheltenham Digital Magazine which is shared, promoted, 

posted and tweeted on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn. Unique also actively 

encourages reader interaction with the magazine to encourage sharing the magazine 

with friends and family. 

2) Unique Cheltenham posts/tweets about your business every day of the working 

week. You just supply us with the scripts you want or testimonials and we will 

increase traffic to your website. 

3) Opportunity to attend and be a member of a networking meeting, includes free six 

month membership and once a month attendance (Worth £210) . Meet up with other 

business owners and build your network. (Subject to 3 month Advertising commitment) 

4) Business category listing on Unique Cheltenham website which includes a link to 

your website. Increase your web traffic and ranking. 

5) We encourage advertisers to use a Unique Reference Number for your customer 

to quote or specific Unique only Special offer so you can measure the success of your 

advert with Unique. 

6) Maximum of two same business types able to advertise in Unique, this will keep a 

level of healthy competition and high quality for customers. 

7) Unique carry out monthly Customer Satisfaction Surveys on two of your 

customers. Benefit of this is that it shows to your customers that you care about 

your levels of service and the results can be posted on our Testimonial Page. 

8) Customer Testimonial Page in Unique Cheltenham Magazine and Website. Added 

Kudos for your brand. 

Try Unique for only £75 per Month for all of these benefits or... carry on with 

same advertising and get exactly the same results! 

To advertise contact Steve Taylor 07731 899854 

page 34 

http://www.uniquecheltenham.co.uk/advertising-benefits

GLOUCESTERSHIRE 

Granite & Marble 

We are your local answer to work surfaces! 

Operating a 30 mile radius of Cheltenham we work hard to uphold our good 

reputation which has come through years of hard work. Visit our showroom 

to see our great range of high-quality products at competitive prices. 

Our staff are here to give you a friendly welcome and all the help you need. We offer 

comprehensive advice in simple language anyone can understand. We provide free of charge 

samples and within the Gloucestershire area we come out to measure and discuss your 

individual wishes. We can show you new ideas and love helping you find the right solution to 

transforming your kitchen or bathroom. 

We offer tea and coffee and help you feel at ease whilst you choose your products. Toilets, free 

parking and a single level ground floor suitable for wheelchair users. 

Thank you for viewing our profile. 

We look forward to working with you! 

Kind Regards 

Katy Newman-Miller, 

Company Director 

Call Gloucestershire Granite on 01242 460323 

http:// www.gloucestershire-granite.co.uk 

8a Landsdown Place Lane, Cheltenham, GL50 2JZ 

http://www.uniquecheltenham.co.uk/granite-and-marble.html 

page 35

page 36 

http://www.uniquecheltenham.co.uk/jobs

CHARTERED CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANTS 

Would you like: 

A free initial consultation 

Work on time, every time 

To make more profit 

To pay less tax 

Someone to sort all your paperwork 

An accountant who speaks plain English 

A referral incentive scheme - we offer credits against your invoices 

for your referrals. 

You would? Then please contact us. 

LNH Management Solutions Limited 

Swanbrook Business Park 

Golden Valley 

Visit our website 

Staverton 

www.lnh-management-solutions.co.uk 

Nr Cheltenham 

now and sign up for our 

Gloucestershire 

GL51 0TE 

FREE monthly tax newsletter 

01452 764018 / 07411 962418 

www.lnh-management-solutions.co.uk 

info@lnh-management-solutions.co.uk 

@LNH_Management 

http://www.uniquecheltenham.co.uk/accountants 

page 37

unique cheltenham 

events in October 

Selection of events and happenings in 

the Cheltenham Community: 

The Times Cheltenham Literature Festival 

3rd - 10th October 

The Hound of Baskervilles 

@Everyman Theatre 3rd-4th October 

The Devils Aquathlon 

@Sandford Lido 5th October 9am-12am £25 per entry 

The Dock Brief 

@Everyman Theatre 14th-18th October 

Chris Choir Gala Concert with Dame Felicity Lott 

@Christ Church Malvern Road 7:30pm 18th October 

£15 or £20 for tickets with proceeds going to charities 

The Cheltenham Oxjam Takeover 

@21 Club,Subtone, MooMoo & Frog & Fiddle on 18th October 

Halloween Fun Farm Trail 

@ Primrose Vale Farm Shop, Shurdington Road, 

Bentham 24th October - 2nd November 

The Hypochondriac starring Tony Robinson 

@Everyman Theatre 27th Oct - 1st Nov 

Please let us know if you have an event you want to advertise in our 

magazine, please email steveunique@yahoo.co.uk 

page 38 

http://www.uniquecheltenham.co.uk/cheltenham-news

networking 

Don’t Miss This Business People... 

Promote 

YOUR 

business 

every fortnight: 

Wednesday 06:45 - 08:30am 

Longford Inn, Gloucester GL2 9BE 

NEXT MEETINGS: 

8th October • 22nd October 

Unique Business Networking offers local business owners: 

#RealBusinessRelationships #RealBusinessSupport 

#RealBusinessIntroductions 

Costs: Only £10 to Visit including Full English Breakfast 

If you want to know more about Unique Business Networking 

Call Steve Taylor on 07731 899854, or just turn up at either venue with 

plenty of Business Cards, 60 Seconds elevator speech and a smile 

To book your seat click on http://www.uniquenetworking.co.uk 

http://www.uniquecheltenham.co.uk/unique-networking 

page 39

UNIQUE Cheltenham Sport 

Review on Cheltenham 

Well, they say a week is a lifetime in politics and 

it looks like the same to be a Robins fan at the 

moment. Unfortunately, the unbeaten record has 

gone out of the window with two defeats in quick 

succession - but there’s no need for Yates to 

push the panic button as yet. 

Thankfully Joe Hanks 87th minute equaliser 

against Dagenham & Redbridge prevented three 

defeats on the spin. 

Mark Yates spoke to BBC Gloucestershire after 

the game: 

“I’m pleased for the team and the supporters 

that they stuck with us and we managed to get 

that goal. We didn’t want to be talking about not 

scoring. 

“I think the key to it is the tempo that we started 

with was excellent, for 25 minutes, and then the 

tempo when they scored. That’s what we should 

be about - that’s what’s going to win us games. 

“I’m delighted we managed to get something 

out of the game, I thought it was the least 

we deserved, but the goal we conceded was 

disappointing. 

“The substitutes came on and made an impact. 

Zack (Kotwica) was excellent, Joe Hanks got the 

goal and Terry (Gornell) was part of the build-up 

for the goal.” 

Mark Yates young squad still look like they are 

onboard with his vision for football at Whaddon 

Road. Being in seventh place going into the final 

weekend of September is no mean feat when 

you consider the finances open to the Gaffer. 

The next three games look vital already in this 

promising season, firstly away to Burton Albion 

on Saturday 27th September who are currently 

in second place; followed by Wimbledon who 

visit Whaddon Road on Saturday 4th October 

currently sat in 10th place, with a trip to 6th placed 

Shrewsbury Town on Saturday on 11th October. 

page 40

Town F.C “The Robins” 

The next three games take on greater 

significance after the recent run of poor results. 

Hopefully the Robins faithful will turn up in great 

numbers to cheer on the lads still believing that 

come May next year we can return to League 1 

after a six-year wait. 

Written by Steve Taylor 

page 41


Your community, your magazine... 

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Email us with your news! 

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that you can trust 

We only feature businesses we trust. 

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Got an event? Let us know! 

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Take a look inside and get involved 

Please email your stories to steveunique@yahoo.co.uk 

MANAGE YOUR WEB PAGE, SEND US NEWS, FEATURES AND MORE AT... 

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Unique Magazine October 2014

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