Witney Talking News

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]

[00:05:16]

Oxfordshire County Council elections imminent; voters to decide on 85% of local services; Polling day May 1st, results expected May 2nd.

[00:08:34]

A car crashed into a building in Ducklington, with occupants fleeing the scene; Police confirmed no injuries but shared a photo of the damaged car; Thames Valley Police seized the car and are investigating. A separate incident in Chipping Norton resulted in criminal damage to a car windscreen and house window. Charlbury Beer Festival returns on June 28, aiming to raise funds for community projects with the World Aunt Sally's singles championships taking place.

[00:11:54]

Ash Bresnan caught another monster mirror carp at Linear Fisheries, weighing ยฃ38. This is his second large catch in a month. Linear Fisheries is renowned for its carp, attracting anglers worldwide.

[00:13:34]

Carterton Connecter bus service saved. Oxfordshire County Council, West Oxfordshire Community Transport, and Carterton Town Council reach agreement. Service maintained till March 2026 with developer funding. Carterton Town Council addresses concerns, vows to support vulnerable residents.

[00:15:16] TNF Soundings Radio & TV Listings

[00:36:31]

EV charging station plans refused near Eynsham due to poor design. Decision made without committee, harming area character. Ancient Parish Council sought better integration.

[00:40:29]

-iconic Witney jewellery store closes after decades, marking owner Terry Lett's passing; sale offers 50% off all jewellery.

[00:43:25]

[00:44:56]

Carp theft at fishing lake prompts police search; Offenders defy fishery rules, banned; Police seek information on potential theft in Witney.

[00:48:43]

In 1941, RAF crews in Oxfordshire shot down a German bomber; the plane crashed, killing its crew; they were later moved to Cannock Chase, Birmingham.

[00:57:01] Intro Music

[00:57:21]

42 solar panels approved for village spa building despite concerns; Parish Council objected to ground-based panels citing conservation area regulations; Some residents supportive, others opposed due to aesthetics

[01:00:10]

Every Brilliant Thing, a play described as an antidote to depression, debuts in Witney. It follows a girl's list of happy moments for her mom, having premiered at Edinburgh Fringe and over 400 shows across 63 countries. Witney Mayor Owen Collins, who won the Shakespeare Prize along with play's author, supports the production.

[01:01:13]

American TV host Ellen DeGeneres is selling her Cotswolds home due to floods reportedly caused by climate change, despite moving there from the US before Donald Trump's 2024 election.

[01:04:19]

Glenn Lew, a retired fire crew manager, leaves Witney Fire Station after 32 years. His final day coincided with his 60th birthday on March 31st, 2023. Lew, praised as a 'pillar of the community,' received awards including the mayor's certificate of merit and was thanked by the station team.

[01:06:02]

St Mary's Church of England Primary School in Chipping Norton receives government funding to offer nursery places. Around 300 new or expanded school-based nurseries are set to roll out. The places will focus on areas with limited childcare options. Labour's Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson, and Banbury MP Sean Woodcock, support the initiative. Separately, Travellers set up camp in Carterton's residential Northwood Crescent, with local authorities working to resolve the situation.

[01:08:38]

Woodstock Primary School praised for inspiring inquisitive learning; Rated ' Outstanding' across all areas inspected; Children engage in mature discussions on global events and are well-prepared for the next stage

[01:09:57]

British footballer David Beckham built a greenhouse at his West Oxfordshire home for tropical fruit cultivation ahead of his 50th birthday.

[01:11:23]

Oxfordshire Council prompted to improve pothole repairs to secure government funding. ยฃ8.9 million earmarked, but 25% at risk if progress is not shown. Labour MP Sean Woodcock urges Council to 'up its game'.

[01:15:00]

Controversy over West Oxfordshire solar farm plan; Over 40 objections delayed decision; Lorry access and wildlife concerns raised

[01:18:47]

BFree Young Carers expanding into West Oxfordshire for first time in 30 years to support young carers. Charity currently works with 500 young carers yearly, offering emotional and social support. Expansion aims to reach more young carers struggling with stress and sleep problems.

[01:22:16]

Thames Water pumped nearly 300,000 hours of sewage into rivers in 2024. This has led to anger from MP Charlie Maynard, who criticizes the government's oversight. Thames Water promises record investment in its waste network.

[01:26:03]

Developers' plans for nearly 400 homes in Curbridge, near Witney, spark concern over overwhelmed healthcare and infrastructure. Residents claim their village is 'under siege', with 18 objections raised. NHS bosses warn of insufficient healthcare capacity.

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

[00:00:21]

A strategy to reduce hopelessness in West Oxfordshire by decreasing temporary accommodation dependance, approved by district council. Strategy aims for early intervention and increased accommodation options. Council strives to prevent homelessness before it happens.

[00:04:36]

Plans for an electric vehicle charging station near Eynsham, Oxfordshire face opposition, with 54 people and the parish council raising concerns about traffic, safety, and conflicting plans for cycling and pedestrian routes. An alternative site suggested is a section of the nearby park and ride.

[00:08:39]

Proposals for new village in West Oxfordshire met with local outrage over potential strain on NHS services and infrastructure. Locals branded the plan 'disgraceful', citing inadequate healthcare provision and poor road conditions. Concerns raised over increased traffic and flood risks.

[00:11:23]

71 homes approved despite 126 objections in Hook Norton; Locals worried about traffic, drainage, and infrastructure; Council chairman breaks tie to approve contentious scheme.

[00:14:16]

Plans proposed for new office units and flats at former motorbike workshop in Witney. Residents voice support and objection to development that aims to revitalize brownfield site and create jobs. Decision pending from West Oxfordshire District Council.

[00:15:42]

Oxfordshire's local government restructuring options discussed; single council or split into two proposed; councils set to submit interim plans

[00:19:37]

Oxfordshire's council tax is among the highest in England, due to a 4.99% increase without referendum. Over 50% of its budget goes to social care.

[00:21:12]

Witney celebrates twinning partnerships; French town Latouquet and German region Unterhashing honored; Residents involved urged to participate. Work starts on upgrading Lees Splash Park; New features added for summer enjoyment; Temporary footpath closure expected.

[00:23:11]

Cannabis discovered at local sports club; Member of public alerted police; Small amount seized, no arrests made

[00:24:55]

Mother's Day headstone surprise leaves family devastated; Headstone removed for another burial, no return date provided; Family feels let down, upset they couldn't leave flowers

[00:27:39]

Glycerol in slushies poses health risk for young children after study finds link to illness; Shake shop in Witney warns parents after 14 kids fell ill; Researchers call for revised guidelines considering age and consumption factors

[00:30:42]

Obit notices announced in Witney Gazette; 5 deaths in recent weeks, services and donations specified for each.

[00:33:09] Reflection

Dry weather continues into Easter in UK; March was driest since 1961; While enjoyed, some rain needed for gardens, though no April showers expected.

[00:37:41]

COVID-19 booster vaccinations reminded to seniors and vulnerable locals; St. Mary's choristers to perform Faurรฉ Requiem with ticket details provided.

[00:38:54]

A quiz covered various aspects of paper production history and composition. The participants learned that wasps inspired the creation of paper, wood cellulose is the primary component, Arabs introduced paper to Europe, and paper contains high water content.

[00:41:07]

River pollution discussed; Toxic rivers require reduced chemical footprint; Earthworms affected by chemicals in products.

[00:45:25]

Kipling's 'The River's Tale Prehistoric' recited; Thames' journey from Rhine shared; Earliest Cockney's impact on Thames

[00:48:04]

Environment Agency stepping up Thames Water inspections, revealing infrastructure non-compliance; Goal to quadruple inspections by 2025; Thames Water welcomes collaboration, plans infrastructure upgrades.

[00:51:21]

A local history quiz featuring the Tees River was presented. Participants were questioned on its tributaries and the fruit associated with a nearby river.

[00:52:52]

Yellow Submarine charity opened 3rd space in Witney for autism and learning disabilities support. Aiming to provide more opportunities with dedicated production area. Expansion expected to benefit young people and the community.

[00:54:54]

Hundreds participated in Ox 5 Run, raising ยฃ100,000 for Oxford Children's Hospital. The funds will provide play areas and medical equipment. Leo Bladon, 13, won the race for the second year, honoring his brother who underwent cancer treatment.

[00:57:00]

Fire station car wash fundraiser raised ยฃ700 for firefighters' charity and the Samaritans. Event held on March 22, involving car washing, barbecue, and support from firefighters and volunteers. Funds to support mental health and wellbeing of UK fire service personnel and former members.

[00:58:38]

Epilepsy awareness campaign: Carterton's Stacy and Eva Pope raise funds for charity on Purple Day, Eva's condition inspires others.

[00:59:52]

Oxfordshire has an unlicensed crocodile population with 2 cornets crocodiles recorded. Reportedly kept privately, these reptiles pose potential danger. Campaign group Bornfree revealed over 2700 dangerous wild animals licensed in Britain, with many more unlicensed.

[01:01:19]

Oxfordshire library managers nominated for UK award. Jake Tilling (Witney) and Karen Seymour (Hook Norton) recognised for improving health outcomes in communities through 'Making Every Contact Count' programme. Libraries considered vital hubs for health support.

[01:02:58]

Apollos Clothing Company named Community Organisation of the Year for providing free clothing to hundreds of families, despite limited resources; charity assists over 1000 people; awards hosted by Witney Mayor Councillor Owen Collins

[01:07:12]

Knitted Easter-themed postbox topper delights Witney residents; Created by Witney Pins and Needles group; Part of a nationwide trend honouring local communities.

[01:08:11]

Remember these instructions for returning memory sticks, our service depends on it. The Witney Gazette provided tonight's stories, along with technical support from Peter B and Alison, Vigil, Dorn, and Jill.

[01:09:20] Outro Music

[01:09:46] TNF Soundings Radio & TV Listings

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] Introduction + homes

Housing scheme for 78 homes refused due to strong local opposition, Council ignores residents' concerns about development's scale and impact, Spitfire Homes' representative fails to address objections

[00:05:05] Loans for houses

Council launches loan scheme for empty homes; Targeting 1128 long-term vacant properties; Aiming to tackle housing crisis and revitalize neighborhoods

[00:08:48] Cookery classes

Oxfordshire nurseries offer cookery classes for toddlers; Classes aim to instill lifelong cooking enjoyment for well-being; Toddlers use mini kitchens, learn basic skills, and take homemade treats home.

[00:11:03] Memory loss help

Oxfordshire NHS launches new service supporting individuals worried about memory loss. Those concerned can access a one-to-one advisor through GP referral. The service assists in memory strategies and planning for the future, benefiting those with mild cognitive impairment or waiting for memory clinic appointments.

[00:12:46] Road resurfacing

Road surfacing programme begins in Oxfordshire; ยฃ740 million for 100 roads; Aims to improve roads for years while minimising disruption.

[00:15:55] GWR trains

Rail services in Oxfordshire face criticism due to punctuality and cancellation issues. Great Western Railway and Chiltern Railways rank below average in passenger satisfaction. Both scored 84 out of 100, with complaints and delays above industry averages.

[00:18:38] Best village

Wootton, an Oxfordshire village, named 16th best in the UK for its scenic landscapes and stylish pub; Telegraph praises its ancient church and community spirit; Village's proximity to Blenheim Palace enhances its appeal as a tranquil retreat.

[00:20:37] Littering problem

Oxfordshire residents urged to combat littering habit, with over 65% of littering drivers discarding food waste; young drivers most likely to litter, with nearly a third of 18-24 year olds admitting to doing so. Research commissioned by National Highways supports the Great British Spring Clean.

[00:22:10] Reflection

[00:26:51] Editor's Choice

17th Century Paper Cutouts Discovered

[00:28:59] Quiz + noticeboard

[00:34:59] Screening test for babies

A new screening test in Oxford detects pre-eclampsia earlier, potentially saving mothers and babies from life-threatening complications. Up to 8% of pregnancies are affected by this pregnancy complication, leading to small birth weight babies or organ damage.

[00:37:36] Housing benefit freeze

Housing benefit freeze will hit children, warns new report. Children's poverty expected to rise due to increasing housing support shortfalls. Over 900,000 children anticipated to be affected.

[00:39:43] Firm supports childrens school

Oxford firm Knights volunteers at Mulberry Bush School for trauma-affected children. Staff regularly help with gardening and painting. Their efforts appreciated by school staff.

[00:41:45] NHS staff survey

Majority of Oxfordshire NHS staff struggle with conflicting demands; Musculoskeletal problems reported; Trust outperforms national averages in eight areas

[00:43:15] Hedge planting project

Volunteers create native hedge at Leafield village hall car park for environmental and safety improvements, attracting diverse wildlife and involving a wide age range of participants.

[00:45:15] Scheme for authors

A new initiative promotes local Oxfordshire authors in independent businesses. This scheme, one in 200 UK, launched initially at four locations across the county. Its founders aim to help authors overcome barriers to self-publishing.

[00:46:56] Smash and grab crimes

Smash and grab crimes up in Oxfordshire, targeting unattended vehicles with visible valuables, police urge precautions to prevent thefts.

[00:49:13] TVP awards

Over ยฃ203,000 granted to community groups by Thames Valley Police to tackle antisocial behaviour and vehicle crime, benefiting 17 projects. Successful applicants will attend a presentation event in Milton Keynes on May 2nd.

[00:51:13] Firefighter remembered

Sub Officer John Witney remembered 38 years after fatal acetylene cylinder explosion; Remembered at Oxfordshire fire station; Recall prompts new safety procedures.

[00:54:29] Two Short Stories

Number plate thefts rising in Chipping Norton area; used for fuel thefts; Police warn residents to secure plates. Man in his 80s hospitalised after serious three-vehicle crash; Articulated lorry involved.

[00:56:05] Driver avoids ban

51-year-old driver avoids disqualification for failing to stop after collision, fined ยฃ515 and loses 7 points on license, crash on B4636 in August last year

[00:57:26] DWP payment changes

DWP benefit payment dates altered due to Easter bank holidays. Payments moved to 17th or 20th April for those due on 18th or 21st April. Payment dates will return to normal on 23rd April.

[00:58:23] Conclusion

Listening options detailed; Postage reminders given; Credits acknowledged.

[01:00:39] TNF Soundings Radio Listings

[01:10:20] TNF Soundings TV Listings

Television programmes for the week starting Saturday 29th March and ending Friday 4th April 2025 compiled by John and read by Diane. Nadia makes a butter bean pie, lifeboat crew saves a surfer, BBC 2 spends evening with Eric Clapton.

[01:23:34] tnf-soundings_cabin-conversations-about-easter-egg-hunts_2024-10-15

Easter origins traced back to Anglo-Saxon goddess Eostre; Proverb 'Don't put all your eggs in one basket' originated centuries ago; Queen Victoria and Prince Albert hid eggs for their children, popularising Easter egg hunts.

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

[00:00:22]

Two men convicted for gold toilet theft from Blenheim Palace; Michael Jones found guilty of burglary, Frederick Doe of money laundering; Toilet's value estimated at ยฃ2.8 million, insured for ยฃ4.75 million.

[00:05:56]

Developer submits plans for 470 homes in Witney despite Parish Council opposition; Concerns raised about pressures on local services and sewage issues; Proposal seeks to meet district housing delivery target.

[00:09:45]

Oxfordshire Council confirms safety improvements for deadly Barnard Gate junction on A40; Right turns banned, new central reservation planned; Changes follow 2012 fatal crash, residents' petition.

[00:13:00]

Police sergeant guilty of gross misconduct for speeding at 130 mph on A40 in Oxfordshire; Risked injury or death; Keeps job after receiving final written warning

[00:15:59]

Court upholds ยฃ300 million loan approval for Thames Water; Critics urge special administration for better customer service; Loan to stabilise finances without bill hikes, focusing on network improvements

[00:19:32]

Windrush Leisure Centre celebrated its 50th anniversary with a free open weekend. Activities included swimming, fitness classes, and a roller disco. Thousands attended to mark the milestone.

[00:21:26]

Local woman Ashton Winkler Hughes, from Long Hanborough, quit smoking after 20 years with help from Oxfordshire County Council's stop smoking service. She encourages others to do the same on No Smoking Day. Since quitting, she has noticed improved skin, saved money, and no longer has the urge for cigarettes.

[00:24:42]

Blenheim Palace to recreate vintage photo for 75th anniversary. Public invited for unique photo opportunity on April 1. Competition offers afternoon tea and tickets for Christmas 2025.

[00:26:34]

Oxford Hospital reduces emissions, switches to portable nitrous oxide cylinders, aims to save 30 tons of CO2 annually.

[00:29:03]

MP reveals plan to step down after two years as district councillor, will donate entire ยฃ4200 council allowance to local charities, praised parish councils for community work

[00:32:14]

A delayed footpath connecting Witney retirement communities finally built after years of campaigning; Construction stalled despite being planned before Richmond Villages' completion; Councillor Thomas Ashbury's advocacy aided residents in pushing county council for footpath.

[00:33:55]

Zoo tickets for Cotswold Wildlife Park being sold in an online scam; Police warn public about reduced-price tickets being advertised on Facebook; The park has reported the scams and is working with Facebook to remove them.

[00:35:27]

[00:41:12]

[00:43:15]

Nine local residents died last week, with services scheduled for eight. Angela Griffiths, a long-time Witney taxi driver, will have a wake at the snooker club after her private funeral. David Smith, a former Witney blanket maker, will have a thanksgiving service at St. Mary's Church.

[00:45:46]

The West End of the Cotswolds topped the list of prettiest villages in the region; Conijnast selected villages based on aesthetics, pubs, and country walks; Astel, Burford, and Broadway are notable entries.

[00:48:19]

Communities fight flooding with grants in Oxfordshire. Up to 25,000 available for local projects to reduce flooding impact. Climate change prompts drive for proactive measures.

[00:51:59]

Blenheim Estate donates ash trees to Ireland's hurling sport amidst ash dieback threat. The gift amounts to potential 5000-10000 hurleys, benefiting manufacturers like Star Hurley in Kilkenny. Blenheim also supports cricket bat production.

[00:55:26]

Motorcyclist Keith Botley died in head-on crash on A3400; Collision involved Suzuki GSX 600 and Jaguar XF; Thames Valley Police appealing for witnesses with dash cam footage

[00:57:09]

Cosy Cotswolds pub earns top TripAdvisor rating; praised for excellent food and historic decor; locals hail it a must-visit.

[00:58:21]

Parish clerk Graham Hill found deceased at home; Cause of death determined as bronchopneumonia and immobilsation following spinal fracture; Inquest scheduled for May 13th

[01:01:04]

A charity firewalk event for visually impaired supporters is taking place in Chipping Norton. Participants will walk barefoot across fire to raise awareness and funds. The event is organized by the Rotary Club of Witney.

[01:02:47]

Crocodile Zoo celebrates 14th birthday. Originally opened in Oxfordshire with 8 crocodiles, it now houses over 100 across 20 species, many endangered. Founder Sean Foggart aims to raise awareness and inspire future conservationists.

[01:04:13]

The Witney Talking News discussed handling returned memory pouches from listeners; thanked contributors; announced upcoming programme highlights; and wished listeners well.

[01:05:38] TNF Soundings Radio & TV Listings

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

[00:00:22]

Plans for 78 homes in Freeland face Council refusal next week due to public objections over lack of infrastructure and environmental concerns.

[00:04:02]

Lack of transport links hinders West Oxfordshire's growth; MP proposes rebuilding railway to link Witney, Carterton, and Oxford; Critics argue rail link is expensive and unnecessary.

[00:09:44]

A baseball bat fight between a man and a teenager led to an armed police response in Witney. The teenage boy suffered a serious head injury. Police believe it was a targeted attack among people known to each other.

[00:11:58]

Witney woman Chloe Bignall will run the London Marathon in memory of her mother who died of a rare cancer, raising funds for sarcoma research; Chloe was heavily pregnant when her mother died, and the cancer was initially misdiagnosed; Chloe and her partner Murren will run the marathon despite having never run more than 10km.

[00:15:34]

Graffiti offenders wanted after offensive damage in Witney; Salesperson appeals for witnesses; Residents noticed recent offensive graffiti in Haseley Lane and Abbey Pishonds

[00:19:31]

Blenheim Palace celebrated World Wildlife Day, showcasing its diverse habitats, highlighting native honeybee preservation, and protecting bat species like the rare lesser horseshoe. During lake dredging, the team relocated water voles for safety.

[00:21:04]

Lucy Marshall, 65, completed a charity challenge after battling nine brain tumours, raising funds for The Brain Tumour Charity. Her journey included surgery, immunotherapy, and overcoming complications like meningitis and COVID pneumonia.

[00:24:10]

West Oxfordshire Council unveils new plan for sustainable development; Focuses on net-zero carbon and affordable housing; Public transport and infrastructure investment prioritised

[00:27:19]

[00:31:07]

Over 100 home plans near Chipping Norton set for approval despite objections; Residents worry about traffic, wildlife, and infrastructure; Developer argues for need of affordable homes.

[00:34:16]

Oxfordshire County Council forms new link with Royal Navy Warship HMP Diamond; Affiliation confirmed at Blenheim Palace event; Link aims to promote understanding and collaboration between naval officers and Oxfordshire representatives.

[00:38:20]

Oxfordshire homes dispute: Developers' 5-home plan quashed despite villagers' support; Council rejects despite backing to help elderly, saying it goes against rural character; Inspector sides with council, cites inaccessible location and design issues.

[00:41:04]

Prolific thief relieved to be jailed for stealing from supermarkets, confessing hunger drove him to crime, sentenced to 12 months for 6 thefts and cannabis cultivation.

[00:44:05]

Several funerals announced in local news; services held at various churches and crematoriums. Widow with macular degeneration to speak at support group meeting. Various listening alternatives offered.

[00:47:18]

[00:56:56]

Oxford United staged a comeback with two early goals before weathering a late Norwich City attack to earn a draw in a Championship playoff. Josh Sargent opened the scoring for Norwich after just five minutes. Mark Harris equalized thirteen minutes later. United's defense held firm despite some late pressure, with Jamie Cumming making a crucial save in the 90th minute.

[00:58:51]

Whitneytown Band placed second in regional brass band contest; Their performance of 'I Daedalus' received praise; They thanked organisers and will next compete in Stevenage.

[01:00:16]

The newsreader thanked contributors and announced the end of the edition. No significant news stories were covered.

[01:01:09] TNF Soundings Radio & TV Listings