Edition #2062

Pet Rehoming Centre

The Blue Cross pet rehoming centre in Burford opens to public on June 18th. Two tours offered, one at 10 am, one at 2 pm, showcasing cattery, kennels, and horse unit. Free entry, sales proceeds benefit Blue Cross.

Campaigners Question Independance

Water campaigners question independence of water regulation review; Lead advocates lose faith, seek resignation of chair; Critics cite consistent sewage pollution and rising bills.

Noticeboard & Editor’s Choice

The extinction of the dodo led to the decline of the tambalacock tree on Mauritius, but the trees have started regenerating after clearing of invasive species.

Best Place to Work in Catering

Thomas Franks, an Oxfordshire-based catering company, ranked among the UK’s top 10 places to work by The Sunday Times. The family-owned business employs over 3000 people globally, prioritizing local food sourcing and staff training. Additionally, the company’s foundation has partnered with 300 charities to deliver over 3 million meals worldwide.

Families & Carers Dementia Aid

Families urged to explore dementia support options to help loved ones live safely and independently; Campaign led by Alzheimer’s Society aims to raise awareness of early diagnosis; SGN offers free services to aid those living with dementia.

TNF Soundings Radio & TV Listings

Intro Music

Last Week’s Quiz

A quiz with varied questions was answered; Participants struggled with music-instrument-related inventions; London’s largest park was correctly identified.

High End Guitars Sold

A mystery donation of six valuable guitars in mint condition fetched £12,660 at auction in Witney. The instruments, favoured by artists like Bob Dylan and Elvis Presley, were anonymously donated to an Oxfam shop. The donation was made by an unknown benefactor who potentially knew the guitars’ worth.

Two Village Stories

Oxfordshire’s Chadlington beer festival, held annually for over two decades, attracted locals and tourists alike with 27 beer varieties and diverse entertainment. The event featured music across multiple genres, activities for children, and a cinema room. Meanwhile, a Cotswolds hotel, the Double Red Duke in Clanfield, was named among the best in the area by an independent newspaper, earning praise for its dog-friendliness and seasonal amenities.

Tributes Paid to Award Winning Hotellier

Mary Rouse, hotel and restaurant owner, passed away at 85. Over 25 years, her West Oxfordshire farmhouse won numerous awards, attracting global tourists. Born in Oxford, she contributed significantly to local communities before her death, leaving behind a large family and donations to animal sanctuary.

Two RAF Brize Norton Stories

Paratroopers from Brize Norton leave for NATO training; Exercise Swift Response aims to enhance rapid deployment and collaboration with NATO allies; Second story highlights cadets’ visit to RAF Brize Norton, learning about RAF life and facilities.

This Week’s Quiz

A general knowledge quiz covering medical terms. Questions focused on cow stomach parts and ear bones. No explicit outcome or reaction to results mentioned.

Food Bank’s New Chair

Food Bank faces funding crisis due to declining donations. The chairman of Witney and West Oxfordshire Food Bank warns that the charity may have to purchase food from wholesalers to meet increasing demand. Over 5,000 people, including 2,291 children, rely on the food bank each year.

Support Needed with Learning Disabilities

Gig Buddies programme seeks volunteers for people with learning disabilities. The scheme pairs individuals with volunteers sharing similar interests to enjoy social activities together. Dawn Wiltshire, a consultant with Oxfordshire charity My Life, My Choice, which runs the programme, emphasises the positive impact of helping people with learning disabilities and autism get out and socialise.

Fears Public will Foot Water Fine

Tories fined record-breaking £122M for Thames Water’s environmental breaches; Campaign groups question if shareholders or customers will foot the bill; Calls for water industry shake-up after fine.

Solar Farm HGV Traffic

Solar farm project near Witney receives approval with revised HGV route, addressing local safety concerns. Originally proposed route through narrow lanes and steep bends deemed unsuitable by Councillor Sarah Meysey, who advocated for an alternative route. 45 objections against the scheme, with 11 supportive.

Police Warning About Drones

‘Police warn of criminal use of drones. Thames Valley Police issue alert after drone spotted in Ledwell area. Residents advised to report suspicious drone activity.’

Two Crime Stories

Arrest made after property damage in Carterton; Suspected drug offender chased down Witney High Street; Police deal with antisocial behaviour and burglary in West Oxfordshire.

Deaths

Five local residents died recently. Dates and ages announced. Community condolences offered.

Council Delay Planning Decision

Proposed housing development in Charlbury beauty spot sparks controversy; Delayed due to objections over environmental impact and concerns about its sustainability; Developer argues need for affordable housing, while opponents urge protection of ancient woodland

World Bee Day Activities

Children visited a care home as part of World Bee Day celebrations. The Generations of Change initiative united generations for environmental learning. Margaret Stewart, a 92-year-old resident and former teacher, enjoyed interacting with the children while teaching them about bees.

Corrs Blimey

“The Cause” to headline Nocturne Live Festival at Blenheim Palace on June 21st. The Irish pop legends, having sold over 40 million albums, return to the palace after their 2016 performance. This year’s lineup also includes Gary Barlow, Richard Ashcroft, and Shalamar.

Get Involved in Nature

Oxfordshire residents invited to participate in wild challenge for 30 days in June, promoting mental well-being and nature appreciation; Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust encourages involvement with daily activity suggestions and facts; Initiative aims to cultivate mindfulness and environmental care.

Council Run Buses

Oxfordshire MP calls for council to run bus services to improve options for passengers; Decade-long decline of bus miles prompts new bill offering transit authorities greater control; Local party members differ on support for council’s current transportation policies.

Reflection: Marmite

Exploration of Marmite’s divisive brand presence, discussing its marketing inception and impact, tying into societal divisiveness using Donald Trump and biblical teachings.

Outro Music

Splash Park Open Again

Witney’s upgraded splash park reopens; Children enjoy new features; Park now wheelchair accessible and open daily until 6 PM.

Goodbye

Postal issue warning issued; Memory stick return instructions repeated; Broadcast listings mentioned