Edition #2064
19 June 2025
We begin with tributes to fallen firefighter Jenny Logan, followed by a thief's sentence for Blenheim Palace's toilet theft. Listen also to house price surges, a villainous mansion plan, and a warning to dog owners about river swimming.
Intro Music
Intro & firefighter funeral
Thousands paid respects to fallen firefighter, Jenny Logan, in Bicester funeral; Logan and colleagues died fighting blaze; Rugby union club praised Logan’s commitment and passion for the sport
Golden toilet theft
Thieves sentenced for Blenheim Palace toilet theft, Mastermind receives four-year jail term, Co-conspirator gets 27 months
House prices
House prices in West Oxfordshire have risen by 84% since 2005, outpacing national averages and making home ownership more difficult for locals. Politicians react, calling for initiatives to support residents and reviewing local plans.
Conversion of disused church
Freeland village aims to buy and renovate a former Methodist Church into a community hub; Over £50k pledged before official appeal launch; £70k more needed to meet the deadline in 3 weeks
Damage and theft to property
Vandalism at country estate caused thousands of pounds in damage; Malicious act included pouring maze into tractor’s fuel tank; Arson attack and graffiti also reported
TVP officers in trouble
Two Oxfordshire police officers face dismissal over watching a colleague’s sex tape without consent; PCB allegedly kept and showed videos of PCA, a woman who hadn’t consented; Public hearing set in Thames Valley Police headquarters.
Objection to new mansion
conserved group opposes American millionaire’s plan for luxury mansion in West Oxfordshire village; 42 objections raised, citing harmful impacts on conservation area; Burkell’s representative argues design fits historic precedence.
An Oxfordshire woman died near a level crossing. Rosalind Butt, aged 38, suffered multiple injuries. Full inquest set for October 8th
Dogs in rivers
Witney dog owners urged to prevent pets from swimming in open water due to potential environmental harm from flea and tick treatments. Imperial College London warns chemicals in certain treatments can harm aquatic life. Council asks owners of treated dogs to refrain from swimming in Witney Lake and Country Park.
Sex Attack
A man jailed for sexually assaulting an 18-year-old in her Witney home, climbing through her window drunk. The victim, who didn’t know him, was terrified and suffered mental health and financial impacts. The attacker pleaded guilty after initially denying the offense.
OCVA interview
OCVA development officer Jamie Hewitt discusses the Connected Communities Fund supporting local grassroots projects; Fund benefits Witney Talking News with new USB readers and software; Jamie highlights impacts of the fund and application process for future projects.
Editor’s Choice
Three local residents passed; WTN mourns Brenda Smith, a former editor. Quiz covers Father’s Day, historical novels, longest day. Local honours list announced, David Beckham knighted.
Help for Heros bike ride
Francie Kane, daughter of Victoria Cross recipient Robert Henry Kane, prepares for Help for Heroes bike ride in his memory. The ride commemorates Battle of Arnum where Mr. Kane refused medical treatment despite being wounded. Over 100 riders will participate in the 250-mile route following Allied forces’ footsteps.
Beckham’s Battle
David Beckham wins neighbor dispute over £6 million Cotswolds estate; Plans for agricultural barn approved despite initial opposition; Barn to be constructed with steel frame, timber cladding, measuring 10m by 5m
Poundland Closures
Poundland addressed store closure rumours, no announcements yet despite speculated 100 stores at risk including six in Oxfordshire. Job losses feared.
Best Pub Garden
The Trout Inn at Tadpole Bridge, Buckland, near Barringdon featured among the UK’s top beer gardens. It was praised for its scenic views by travel experts Muddy Stilettos. This recognition highlights the pub’s charm while promoting local tourism.
RAF personnel aided Cotswold Wildlife Park; Tasks included cleaning animal enclosures and planting trees; Mental health benefits and team bonding
Library staff awards
Local library managers won national award for health initiatives. Jake Tilling and Karen Seymour from Witney and Hook Norton libraries won the Libraries Connected National Awards 2025 for their Making Every Contact Count program. Their efforts have improved health and well-being services at Oxfordshire libraries.
Noticeboard
Birthday wishes to listeners; Multiple musical events over the weekend; Green Walks Initiative promotes safe countryside exploration
TNF Soundings Radio Listings
This week’s TNF Soundings covers a wide range of radio programmes, including dramas like ‘Secrets and Lies’ and ‘One Week in Gaza’, as well as documentaries and quizzes. Key events include a look back at Quadrophenia, Desert Island Discs appearances by Norma Percy and Brian Cox, and discussions on historical developments after World War II.