Edition #2059

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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