Witney Talking News

Witney Talking News

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Witney Talking News episodes

  • Edition #2060
    A tense tale of scams dominates as locals fall victim to text message fraud, while celebrations and achievements abound in Witney's events, arts, and sports, amidst historical revelations.

    ๐Ÿค– Titles and summaries were generated with AI assistance and may not be fully accurate.
    ๐Ÿ™‹ The audio recording is produced entirely by our volunteer team.

    Chapters

    [00:00:00]

    DWP scam warnings issued in Oxfordshire due to rising text message frauds, Victims conned into clicking malicious links, Reported cases prompt public awareness warnings by Thames Valley Police

    [00:00:55] Intro Music

    [00:01:16]

    A German choir, Cor Intact from Cologne, will perform in Witney alongside the local VoiceBox choir on May 31st. The concert will feature a diverse selection of songs. Tickets are ยฃ10 with free entry for under 16s.

    [00:02:19]

    A centuries-old Roman villa near Witney, once the largest in England, is found to have been built by local British farmers adopting Roman lifestyles; Romans left Britain in 440 AD but their influence lingered in the villa's luxury; The villa, now open to public, was once mistakably known as a burial ground.

    [00:12:55]

    Burford celebrated its 50th Levellers Day marking the anniversary of the 1649 executions. A Celtic rock band and debate commemorated the Leveller soldiers' sacrifice for civil rights. The town's annual parade reflected on its historical ties to the movement.

    [00:14:20]

    Gymnasts from Carterton Club excelled at Regional Championships; Emily wins 1st place in Range and Conditioning, Evie scores consistently in Floor and Vault; Both gymnasts' performances reflect months of hard work.

    [00:15:32]

    Thames Water faces demands for senior staff sacking due to sewage pollution. Former punk rocker Field Charney criticizes company's bonuses and performance. Campaigners urge government intervention.

    [00:19:18]

    A firefighter died while saving lives in a major fire at Bicester, her family pays tribute; Critics object to Europe's largest proposed solar farm in West Oxfordshire citing environmental concerns

    [00:27:20]

    Woodstock marked the 80th anniversary of VE Day with a 1940s-themed festival. The event aimed to honour War World II's end, boost visitor numbers to the town's independent shops and museums. Separately, an exhibition commemorating Operation Varsity, the largest single day airborne operation, opened at the Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum.

    [00:30:08]

    Merrifield House Nursing Home, in Witney, named one of the top 20 care homes in the southeast based on resident and family reviews. The award recognizes the home's high standards of care, facilities, and value. This accolade aids families in choosing care homes amidst increasing demand.

    [00:32:46]

    Eurovision contestants Remember Monday will play in Oxfordshire festivals this summer, following their debut performance in Basel. Despite finishing 19th, they received no public votes but are overwhelmed by fan love. They have a UK tour and more festivals lined up.

    [00:34:52]

    The veteran, David Serbot, reflects on the 80th anniversary of VE Day, honouring the sacrifices made in World Wars and recent conflicts. He critiques nationalism and self-centered policies, highlighting the need for unity and peace. Christians are called to love neighbours and promote reconciliation.

    [00:41:00]

    Three-day shopping festival in Oxfordshire offers variety for all ages, featuring children's activities, creative workshops, and more; organisers celebrate local artisans and family entertainment; festival runs June 20-22 with varied hours and ticket prices.

    [00:44:10]

    A local rugby club received ยฃ500 for accessibility initiatives, aiming to make sports like rugby more inclusive for young people with ADHD and autism.

    [00:45:18]

    Girl Guides members share their experiences; Barbara Youngs recalled contrasting meeting locations. Aldi Greenwood earned numerous proficiency badges and the Queen's Guide Award. Hazel Clark maintained a 64-year friendship formed through guides.

    [00:46:58]

    Frederick Doe avoids jail for his role in the 'Golden Toilet Heist' at Blenheim Palace despite conspiracy conviction. His suspended sentence heard amidst cheers from supporters. Doe says he was exploited by true perpetrators.

    [00:50:34]

    [00:54:31]

    Witney marks 45 years of twinning with French Lake 2K and 35 with German Unterhaching. The celebrations included a ceremony at Witney Corn Exchange and visits to local amenities. The mayor emphasized the importance of these partnerships amidst global unrest.

    [00:56:15] TNF Soundings

    [01:19:24]

    Historic D-Day railway carriage returns to service after 50 years. Originally used by Winston Churchill, it's been restored to its original glory. It will operate on scenic journeys in South Devon this summer.

    1 hr 22 min
  • Edition #2059
    Listen up! Topping our headlines this week, a councillor clash over Oxfordshire's housing crisis. Plus, a dramatic Costa crash in Carterton, villagers rally for their beloved pub, and kittens saved from a pub bin! Stir in some politics, local showdowns, and inspiring events โ€” there's a lot to bite into.

    ๐Ÿค– Titles and summaries were generated with AI assistance and may not be fully accurate.
    ๐Ÿ™‹ The audio recording is produced entirely by our volunteer team.

    Chapters

    [00:00:00]

    [00:00:22]

    Labour councilor assigns blame for housing shortage; Tory councillor refutes in Oxfordshire blame game; Battle over solutions, including abandoned garden village and local resistances.

    [00:04:36]

    A car crashed into a Costa Coffee shop in Carterton, injuring three. The incident was shocking and surreal, with an air ambulance landing nearby. The community rallied to support those affected.

    [00:06:57]

    Oxfordshire villagers petition millionaire pub owner to repair and reopen dilapidated community pub. Over 480 signatures gathered in a week. Pub left derelict for three years, breaking hearts and windows.

    [00:11:41]

    Primary school children staged a peaceful protest in Combe against plastic pollution. They marched through the village to raise awareness about environmental issues. The school praised the children's initiative and hailed them as young change makers.

    [00:13:44]

    New Conservative leader in Oxfordshire calls for clearer policies after election losses; Walker, the new Tory group leader, backed Badenoch but stressed need for specific policies; Conservatives to focus on local issues despite losing seats to Lib Dems

    [00:16:31]

    Changes made to village recreation ground plans; Third tennis court, lighting, and improved facilities proposed; Dog exercise area replaced by community orchard

    [00:18:25]

    West Oxford council approved controversial housing development despite local objections and concerns from council members. After initially deferring decision, committee approved 104 homes in Chipping Norton despite issues like poor footpath links and sewage works condition. Council under pressure due to lack of five-year housing supply.

    [00:22:00]

    Residents of Southern Down Care Home enjoyed a day out shopping for plants at B&Q as part of their gardening club. They chose plants for Holmes courtyard, expressing joy for the opportunity to make decisions outdoors. The day was thoroughly enjoyed by all participants.

    [00:23:33]

    Abandoned kittens found in pub bin; Bramble and Pebbles nursed back to health and adopted; Blue Cross reports rising pet abandonment.

    [00:26:19]

    A stalker spent over two years harassing his former partner with 22,000 messages and 700 voice notes. Despite repeated warnings, William Griffiths was jailed for three years and given a restraining order.

    [00:28:10]

    The Moreton Show returns in September with traditional agriculture displays and family entertainment. This historic annual event, first held in 1949, promises motorist stunts, livestock shows, and children's activities. The Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Society and Sotwell Farm Park are among the participants.

    [00:30:20]

    An inquest is set for Benjamin Gladman who died when his Ferrari crashed into a tree on a back road in Wallingford. Former Prime Minister David Cameron was first on the scene and tried to save Gladman's life alongside his security team. The crash happened on January 25th.

    [00:31:44]

    Cyclist delighted after stolen bike recovery; Thames Valley Police reunite her with bike found in London; Bike marking database aided return

    [00:34:10]

    Farmers warned of electrical hazards during harvest; SSEN urges prioritising safety; Campaign focuses on danger to individuals and families

    [00:35:36]

    Residents settle back into renovated Shipton care home; New amenities encourage social engagement; Future events planned to involve local community

    [00:37:48]

    West Oxfordshire families experienced emergency services at Witney's first 999 event, gaining safety knowledge and career inspiration on May 10th, with plans for the event's return next year.

    [00:39:31]

    A retired talking newspaper editor reflected on their experience working as an election clerk and school exam invigilator, noting these roles would be challenging for visually impaired individuals. The editor then discussed a feature article about employment barriers faced by visually impaired people

    [00:40:24]

    [00:55:15]

    [00:58:18]

    Multiple deaths reported in Witney; funerals scheduled for various dates and locations. Community mourning following losses of elderly and middle-aged individuals.

    [01:01:10]

    Life-size silhouettes commemorate VE Day at Blenheim Palace; Royal Navy, Army, Air Force among figures; Artist Dan Barton reflects on remembrance and celebration.

    [01:04:40]

    Former soldier Ted Valley celebrated his 105th birthday near VE Day, recalling his time in Antwerp during World War II. Despite facing adversity, Valley maintained troop morale with humor, even landing him in trouble. Post-war, he settled in Witney, retiring in 1985.

    [01:06:58]

    British veteran recounts horrifying discovery of piles of concentration camp victims on VE Day; He and a chaplain buried survivors days later; Belcher among thousands cared for at Manchester veterans home since 1945.

    [01:09:40]

    Cotswold Wildlife Park supported endangered binturongs on World Wildlife Day. The park exhibited these 'bear cat' species, which are Critically Endangered due to rainforest loss. Since introducing a pair in 2018, the park has successfully bred binturongs.

    [01:11:19]

    Witney Talking News thanked contributors and volunteers. Upcoming highlights and well-wishes were shared.

    [01:12:11]

    [01:12:27]

    1 hr 35 min
  • Edition #2058
    Join us for an episode filled with remembrance and celebration! We'll delve into the VE Day commemorations honouring local RAF veteran Dennis Bishop, explore the Liberal Democrats' historic victory in Oxfordshire County Council elections, and share updates on the RAF Parachute team's first display. Plus, the story behind a massive tire dump fire in Broadwell that kept firefighters busy for hours!

    ๐Ÿค– Titles and summaries were generated with AI assistance and may not be fully accurate.
    ๐Ÿ™‹ The audio recording is produced entirely by our volunteer team.

    Chapters

    [00:00:00] Intro Music

    [00:00:20] VE Day pt1

    VE Day commemorations honour local RAF veteran, Dennis Bishop, who recalls fallen friends and urges unity. 80-year-old flew from RAF Brize Norton in Airbus A400M during preparations for VE Day flypast.

    [00:03:31] VE Day pt2

    A formation of aircraft will fly over Buckingham Palace on VE Day. 27 aircraft from 99 Squadron will participate, with precise timing. Nicola Lofthouse, the squadron's commander, emphasizes the importance of remembering the historical event and honoring those who served.

    [00:04:50] RAF Parachute team

    RAF Parachute team performs their first public display of the year. The Falcons, UKโ€™s premier military team, jumped from an RAF Atlas A400M at 10,000 feet. They entertained schoolchildren and guests at RAF Brize Norton in Carterton.

    [00:06:34] Fly tip blaze

    Massive tire dump blaze in Broadwell kept firefighters busy all day; Large pile of disused tires ignited, unknown cause; Smoke reduced but fire remains contained, householders warned.

    [00:08:23] Lib Dem victory

    Liberal Democrats secure historic majority in Oxfordshire County Council elections, winning 36 seats; Conservative seats halved to 10, Labour maintains 12; Liz Leffman, Lib Dem leader, elated and plans clean air initiatives, better public transport, and sustainable policies.

    [00:11:23] Low poll turn-out

    Low voter turnout in Oxfordshire elections attributed to apathy and hot weather. Average turnout 35.6% with some seats below 20%. Liberals disappointed in government changes.

    [00:13:06] TWU upgrades

    Thames Water faces scrutiny over sewage works upgrades, with locals questioning inflated costs; Campaigners argue company is passing on neglect-induced expenses to households; Company defends expenses, citing increased operating costs and need for infrastructure investment.

    [00:16:20] US group bid for TWU

    A US private equity firm KKR's acquisition of Thames Water faces criticism in Parliament. Lord Seรฉchard raised concerns about KKR's record and its potential impact on Thames Water's customers. KKR aims to reduce Thames Water's debt while assuring customers no asset sales or breakup are planned.

    [00:19:49] Reflection

    Pope Leo elected as new leader of Roman Catholic Church; Cardinals debate and vote on successor; Anglican Church considers new Archbishop of Canterbury

    [00:24:04] Editor's Choice

    "Pocket parks" transform small, unused urban spaces, as seen in Birmingham's 4 new green spaces. The National Trust works with communities to create these vibrant spaces. Oxfordshire has at least one pocket park created from an old, overgrown site.

    [00:28:08] Quiz

    ๆœจๅ…ฐ่Šฑไธบ่‹ฑๅ›ฝๆœ€ๅค่€็š„ๆ ‘;ๅฎƒไฝไบŽๆ ผๅขๅกžไผฏ็ˆตshire;ไธŠๅ‘จ็š„้—ฎ็ญ”็”ฑๆž—ไธšไฟกๆ‰˜ๅŸบ้‡‘่ฎพๅฎš.

    [00:32:14] Noticeboard

    The Whitnicker reads eight death notices; notable birthdays and a heatstroke warning issued by Thames Valley Police.

    [00:36:25] Transplant games

    Kidney Care UK continues partnership with British Transplant Games in Oxfordshire; Games bring together over 1000 transplant recipients; Event positively impacts younger participants and raises organ donation awareness.

    [00:39:47] London marathon

    Marathon runners raise ยฃ10,000 for Mulberry Bush charity. Four runners completed London Marathon amidst global news chaos. Funds to support children affected by trauma.

    [00:42:28] Penguins visit home

    Penguins visit Carterton Care Home for International Penguin Day; Residents delighted by Pringle and Widget's presence; First penguin visit for MHA homes, but animal visits are common.

    [00:43:52] Children visit care home

    Children from Windrush Primary School helped Witney retirement village residents be active on National On Your Feet Day. They walked together, chatted, and had a picnic. Both residents and staff enjoyed the event despite finding the children's energy challenging.

    [00:45:09] Solar park completion

    A 20-acre solar park completed near Woodstock generates more green energy than the UNESCO World Heritage site consumes. This marks Blenheim Estate's first major renewable energy project, aiming to achieve net-zero emissions by 2027. The park provides sheep grazing and school visit opportunities.

    [00:46:24] Solar farm objections

    Solar farms controversy erupts as community opposes largest project in Europe; Group argues panels belong on roofs, not farmland; PM announces plans for solar panels on new homes, but Botley West project remains undecided.

    [00:48:11] Cornbury horse trials

    Equestrian event returns to Oxfordshire; 5-day Cornbury House Horse Trials in September offers dressage, cross-country, and show jumping; Local produce market and farm-to-table event highlight featured

    [00:49:03] Oxford United

    Oxford United finished the season with a comeback draw against Swansea City, securing a 93rd-minute equaliser despite being behind three times. The team's resilience and fighting spirit were praised by manager Gary Rowett, who acknowledged that their season had been a rollercoaster.

    [00:52:21] Charlbury walking map

    Charlbury's new walking map encourages visitors to explore its countryside, scenic spots, and independent businesses; The map guides pedestrians on circular routes around notable landmarks; Oxfordshire Community Rail Partnership aims to inspire sustainable travel choices.

    [00:55:40] 55th wedding aniv

    A Carterton couple marked their 55th wedding anniversary at Homestead care home. Sheila O'Ddwyer, living with Alzheimer's, celebrated with her devoted husband John. They reflected on their love story, from meeting in Dublin's Metropol ballroom to settling in Witney, with three children.

    [00:57:00] Police operation

    Operation Pandilla targeting County Lines dealers yielded 95 arrests and over ยฃ69,000 cash seized. It involved multiple police forces and resulted in weapon and drug seizures. The initiative was praised for its collaborative effort across policing borders.

    [00:58:58] Two Short Stories

    Death of racing stable assistant sparks inquest, Thomas Chaytor found dead in his bedroom, Full inquest to be held in June

    [01:01:28] Conclusion

    [01:03:33] TNF Soundings Radio Listings

    [01:12:53] TNF Soundings TV Listings

    BBC Audio Described programmes for week starting 10 May 2025, featuring rugby, Doctor Who, nature documentaries, and more.

    [01:26:28] tnf-soundings_poem-grandmas-house_2025-02-28

    1 hr 29 min
  • Edition #2057
    Join us for a touching tribute to Altambala, a construction worker remembered on International Workers' Memorial Day, and celebrate the incredible journey of 10-year-old Mimi who cycled from London to Paris. Plus, hear about the struggle against unseen women's homelessness in Oxfordshire and the fight to protect Oxfordshire's pharmaceutical jobs.

    ๐Ÿค– Titles and summaries were generated with AI assistance and may not be fully accurate.
    ๐Ÿ™‹ The audio recording is produced entirely by our volunteer team.

    Chapters

    [00:00:00] KSI Surprises 10 Year Old Girl

    10-year-old Mimi Ward cycled from London to Paris raising funds for Dravet Syndrome UK; She surprised by YouTube KSI for her achievement; Mimi preparing for another challenge of running 2 kilometers daily in May.

    [00:02:04] Construction Work Death Remembered

    Construction worker Altambala remembered on International Workers' Memorial Day. Killed in 2008 at Witney's Marriott's Walk shopping centre, he was commemorated with wreaths and daffodils. Locals pay tribute alongside mayor and council leader.

    [00:03:39] Women Among Hidden Homeless

    Women's homelessness in Oxfordshire goes unseen and under-met, charity says. Women makeup 60% of temporary accommodation but face different challenges. Appeal launched for additional ยฃ700,000 to meet female residents' needs.

    [00:07:02] Vital Pharmaceutical Jobs

    Oxfordshire's Liberal Democrat MPs called for government protection of the UK's pharmaceutical industry due to potential US tariffs; They fear job losses and economic harm from such tariffs; The MPs urged for a dedicated task force to safeguard pharmaceutical jobs and companies.

    [00:10:08] Care Home Chef Shock

    Care home chef Debbie Watlington Pope is shocked and honoured by nomination for national Care Catering Award; Recognized for dedication and skill in cooking deserts and pastries

    [00:11:50] TNF Soundings Radio & TV Listings

    [00:38:23] RAF Falcons At Brize Norton

    RAF Falcons to start 2025 season with display at RAF Brize Norton. After months of training and safety checks, they received public displays authority. They plan to demonstrate new maneuvers nationally and internationally.

    [00:39:51] MP Slams NHS Dental Staff Shortages

    NHS dental staff shortages in Witney leaving 57% of residents without care, cost and lack of practitioners cited as key issues, MP calls for practical steps to increase capacity.

    [00:44:03] Sergeant Balances Family Life

    An RAF sergeant shares challenges of balancing military duty and family life; Mother of two handles daily routines alone; Military-linked nursery praised for support and facilities.

    [00:45:56] Home Residents Gardening

    Residents of Bryce Meadow Lodge started a gardening project to grow cress for their egg sandwiches. They successfully harvested and enjoyed the homegrown vegetable, making a small but significant contribution to their routine.

    [00:47:17] Two Celebrity Stories

    Beckham's plans for Cotswolds home cause neighbor discontent; New barn addition among latest proposals; Value of estate estimated at ยฃ6 million

    [00:49:16] Reflection

    The pope's funeral attracted global audiences and marks beginning of conclave on May 7; David Harper discusses process, personal connection to a potential new pope; Remembering Pope Francis' values

    [00:53:54] This Week's Quiz

    [00:55:39] Nursery's Grand Day Out

    Toddlers from RAF Brize Norton's nursery visited RAF base, sat in cockpits, explored aircraft as part of Military Child Month.

    [00:56:55] Two Short Items

    Meet emergency service workers at family day event in Witney on May 10th; Visitors can learn life-saving skills and explore vehicles; Event aims to celebrate heroes and raise awareness of their vital services.

    [00:59:15] New Shutters for Village Shop

    A community fundraised for new shutters for a village shop after two burglaries in 2024. Over ยฃ5,000 was raised for security upgrades. The shop's director praised the community's support.

    [01:00:34] Badenoch Criticises Wasteful Projects

    Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticized wasteful projects during Oxfordshire visit; She pledged to regain trust over potholes and acknowledged election defeat; Badenoch warned against voting for right-wing rival Reform, saying it would keep Liberals in power.

    [01:03:05] Goodbye

    [01:04:22] VE Day Events

    Witney Town Council announces commemoration events for VE Day 80th anniversary. Events include ceremonial town cry, afternoon tea with 1940s music, and community singing. Residents and visitors invited to join.

    [01:07:22] Intro Music

    [01:07:45] Farmers Shared Concerns

    Farmers in Witney worried about inheritance tax changes; 25 meet with MP to raise concerns; MP vows to support farmers, challenge government policies

    [01:11:24] Dogs Invited To Explore Gardens

    Dog owners can explore Blenheim Palace gardens with their pets in May. The grounds are dog-friendly from May 6 to May 31. Visitors can enjoy formal gardens, walled gardens, and drinking stations for dogs.

    [01:13:11] Outro Music

    [01:13:37] Green Light to Convert Barn

    Green Light for Barn Conversion into Children's Home in West Oxfordshire. Plans approved for Peach Care Home Services to use building in Brize Norton as home for 13-18 year-olds. Parish council had concerns about location due to limited amenities and lack of engagement opportunities.

    [01:17:05] Editor's Choice

    Woodland ranger Joe Middleton's daily life involves protecting and preserving ancient woodlands in Devon and Somerset; Key priorities include ensuring trees' survival for hundreds of years and maintaining healthy ecosystems; Middleton finds joy in people enjoying nature while dealing with issues like fly-tipping.

    [01:22:18] Baby Fox Rescued

    Baby fox named 'Boots' rescued after getting tangled in construction netting. The 6-7 week old had injuries but is recovering under close care. Complications may arise up to two weeks.

    [01:24:03] Victory over Sunderland

    Oxford United secures Championship survival, beating Sunderland 2-0; Coach Gary Rowett credits team unity; He prepares to run London Marathon for charity on club's awards night.

    [01:26:03] Go-ahead for Walking and Cycling Plan

    Oxfordshire approves cycling, walking plans for Woodstock, Chipping Norton; Hundreds of improvements planned by 2035; Council aims to encourage sustainable travel choices among locals.

    [01:28:07] Deaths

    Local obituaries announced in Witney Gazette. Several Witney residents remembered including former Royal Oak landlord Gary Duffy. No ages provided for some individuals.

    [01:29:08] Overly-Bulky Flats Refused

    Plans for retirement flats in Woodstock rejected due to excessive bulk, causing potential parking issues and harm to neighbors. Residents and Woodstock Town Council voiced objections.

    [01:32:07] Last Week's Quiz

    1 hr 34 min
  • Edition #2056
    Join us for a packed episode filled with local news and stories! We kick off with Oxfordshire County Council's plans for new homes and community spaces in Aston, then dive into history as we explore the impact of highwayman John Radley on 19th-century punishments.

    ๐Ÿค– Titles and summaries were generated with AI assistance and may not be fully accurate.
    ๐Ÿ™‹ The audio recording is produced entirely by our volunteer team.

    Chapters

    [00:00:00] Intro Music

    [00:00:23] Intro & New homes

    Oxfordshire County Council plans to build 12 new homes in Aston, comprising 9 market rate and 3 affordable homes; The scheme includes community facilities, but no public comments have been submitted yet; The project aims to provide mixed housing types, community spaces, and improved access.

    [00:02:37] Plans to convert shop

    Plans to convert a shop into a home approved for Witney's historic Corn Street; Ground floor retail unit to become a 2-bedroom apartment; New gardens, parking with electric vehicle charger to be added.

    [00:04:39] Two Short Stories

    Defibrillators installed in three Co-op stores; Oxfordshire partnership ensures life-saving equipment's readiness; Community fundraising and engagement credited by Mid-Counties Co-operative.

    [00:07:02] Two More Stories

    Caravan fire prompts police appeal in Leafield; Unrelated suspected arson attack reported in Faringdon the previous Friday; No injuries or arrests made for the Leafield incident

    [00:09:28] Planning applic Freeland

    Villagers oppose developer's plans for 60 homes in Freeland, fearing traffic congestion, wildlife displacement, and infrastructure strain. 74 objections raised, with concerns about bats, birds, and the dark skies. Supporter sees it as sustainable growth, scheme proposes play areas, orchards, and allotments.

    [00:13:01] Objections to new homes

    Over 40 locals object to housing plans on former football club site

    One objector claims the land was stolen from the community
    Supporters argue for more homes and better use of space

    [00:15:33] Reflection

    Church attendance surged among youth, especially during Easter, with similar trends seen globally. The Bible Society survey reflects this. The funeral of Pope Francis is to be held on Saturday.

    [00:20:03] VE Day exhibition

    A new exhibition marks the 80th anniversary of VE and VJ Day in West Oxfordshire Museum, focusing on local stories and experiences, including the harrowing experiences of Oxfordshire residents serving in the Armed Forces. The exhibition runs until November 18th and is accompanied by a series of events, including a VE Day celebration and a talk on post-VJ Day Eastern Asia.

    [00:22:59] Mortorcycle stories

    Motorcyclist critically injured in A361 crash near Cotswold Wildlife Park. 44-year-old man from Northamptonshire remains hospitalized. Police halt another motorcycle for traffic violations at McDonald's in Witney.

    [00:25:03] Grant for charity

    My Vision Oxfordshire receives ยฃ1000 boost for community engagement projects supporting visually impaired persons; Funds will help provide social groups and befriending services; Goal is to connect people with sight loss to activities and ensure independence despite challenges.

    [00:29:11] Ambulance efficiency

    Ambulance service trials maintenance model to reduce downtime; Collaboration with Ordnance Survey to analyze telemetry and spatial data; Aim to minimize unplanned repairs and improve ambulance efficiency.

    [00:32:15] Quiz

    The quiz covers local history this week, with questions challenging listeners' knowledge of ancient Greeks, geography, and dates.

    [00:33:44] Palace kitchens

    Blenheim Palace offers visitors a tour of its original kitchens; visitors step back in time to experience life as servants in November 1896; the tour coincided with the launch of an ambitious ยฃ12 million roof restoration project.

    [00:36:46] Palace restoration

    Blenheim Palace's ยฃ12 million restoration project highlights roof repairs on World Heritage Day; Aim is to preserve UNESCO site for future generations; Project will create first-ever temporary rooftop view platform

    [00:39:44] Good news

    The Veil of the White Horse and West Oxfordshire ranked high for business startups, with West Oxfordshire scoring 8.98/10 for strong survival rates and high-speed internet. The Cotswolds was named the UK's best photogenic landscape alongside Lake District and Cornwall, earning a popularity score of 32.0.

    [00:42:54] Pub awards

    Five Oxfordshire pubs shortlisted for national Best Pub award. Nominees span Thame to Witney, showcasing local hospitality. National competition highlights pubs' significance across the UK.

    [00:44:59] Editor's Choice

    In 1818, highwayman John Radley and accomplices assaulted and robbed Thomas Hankinson. Radley was hanged, marking a shift in punishments for animal theft. Between 1735 and 1952, Oxford Jail carried out 100 confirmed executions, mostly for highway robbery, arson, and murder.

    [00:47:04] Noticeboard

    Fifteen deaths reported in Witney, including a man who died suddenly while skiing in Italy; Noticeboard also marks local resident's birthday; Visually impaired voters' arrangements for upcoming elections detailed.

    [00:53:59] Gastropub sale

    Historic Lamb Inn pub sold for nearly ยฃ700,000. Dating back to the 18th century, this West Oxfordshire pub has new owners aiming to preserve its charm while introducing new elements. The former owners expressed pride in its strong reputation and excellent reviews.

    [00:56:47] Pupils praised by OFSTED

    OFSTED praised pupils' exceptional behaviour at Hailey Church of England Primary School. Inspectors rated the school 'good' after finding exemplary classrooms with trusting environments. The head teacher attributed this to staff dedication.

    [00:58:33] Kaleb Cooper in UK list

    Caleb Cooper, star of Clarkson's Farm, makes UK's most powerful under-30 list; Cooper's global fame prompts wider awareness of farming issues; Popular TV show enters fourth season, fifth already filming.

    [00:59:58] RAF welcomes ambulance crew

    AMS and RAF personnel strengthen medical ties in joint visit;

    The South Central Ambulance Service visited RAF Brize Norton;
    Co-responder program fosters collaboration between services.

    [01:01:09] Care homes

    After 5 months, residents from flood-hit Prebendal House return home from Penhurst Gardens care home following flooding concerns subsiding. Lyne Elliot, Penhurst Gardens manager, was pleased to host them, valuing their presence. Residents at Southern Down Care Home visited Enstone Garden Club's flower show, leaving them inspired and uplifted.

    [01:03:58] Police seize car

    Police seize car due to repeated antisocial driving in West Oxfordshire. Thames Valley Police received multiple reports over four days. Car was impounded as a financial deterrent.

    [01:05:30] Conclusion

    [01:07:01] TNF Soundings Radio Listings

    [01:15:11] TNF Soundings TV Listings

    This week's TNF Soundings includes schedules for audio-described TV programmes. Highlights include Women's 6 Nations, FA Cup semifinals, Doctor Who, and new episodes of Casualty and Grace. Sundays offer London Marathon coverage and a Grace series finale, while Monday brings secrets of supermarket buyers and Trump's first 100 days

    1 hr 29 min

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