Edition #2072
14 August 2025
Intro Music
Idiotic Carpark Development
Petition launched against converting Witney car park into housing, sparking debate among local councillors. Over 1000 people oppose the plan, citing concerns about reduced parking spaces and negative economic impact. Council committed to retaining free parking and exploring alternative solutions.
Businesses Speak Out
Plans to revamp Witney Town Centre spark concern among traders; Witney Chamber of Commerce criticizes car-friendly proposals; Council assures support for market growth despite challenges.
Shoezone to Reopen
Shoe Zone to reopen in Witney with new brands after mass closures due to waste cost increases from October’s budget.
New Syrian Brunch Spot
New Syrian brunch spot Moon Coffee thrives in Witney; Opened in May, it’s been praised for authentic Levant flavors; Over 75 five-star reviews showcase its popularity.
Palace Pollinators
Blenheim Palace honored for pollination efforts. The palace and Rouse Honey received ‘Bees’ Needs Champion’ award for transforming the estate into a pollinator sanctuary. Over 50 acres converted into diverse habitats, attracting 11 declining bird species and over 740 wild bee colonies.
Hidden Palace Temple
“A hidden palace temple is to be restored at Blenheim Palace, once obscured by overgrown shrubbery. Grade 2 listed, it dates back to the late 18th century. Now, head gardener Andy Mills is unveiling its glory, restoring views of the lake and reopening its garden route.”
Palace Home for Charity
Blenheim Palace partners with charity Against the Grain to provide educational opportunities for young people with special needs. The charity will use a trauma-informed approach on the palace’s grounds. Co-founders Jack and Kizzy Horse expressed gratitude for the opportunity.
Wedding Venue Objects
Grade 2 listed wedding venue Crowell House opposes nearby solar farm plans due to potential water contamination risks; Owners worry about battery storage facility’s impacts on sole water supply; They welcome sustainable energy projects but express concerns about possible business disruptions.
Reflection
Editor’s Choice
Quiz
A talking newspaper reads general knowledge quizzes aloud to visually impaired listeners; Bridget’s quiz covered collective nouns and word origins, with some changes in spelling and meanings; The quiz ended with questions on Hadrian’s Wall and other notable walls.
Noticeboard
Six deaths were recorded this week; David Henry Cross, 91, and Edith Mary Rose, 97, were among the oldest. Funerals scheduled at various churches and crematoriums. Famous birthdays approaching: Napoleon, Princess Anne, Madonna.
Draymen Back in Saddle
Shire horses resumed traditional beer deliveries for Hook Norton brewery; Team led by head coachman Nicholas Carter; Brewery one of only two still using horse-drawn dray.
Award-winning Pub Soul & Indie Festival
An award-winning pub in Witney hosted a free soul and indie music festival. The event featured a lineup of DJs and a pop-up record store. The pub, known for its celebrity patronage, held the festival in its outdoor ‘Bear Garden’.
JD Vance Staying in Cotswolds
US Vice President J.D. Vance summer holidays in Cotswold; Rents £8000 a week manor near Jeremy Clarkson’s farm; Hidden behind 15ft wall, guarded by secret service agents.
Villagers on Crazy Lockdown
Villagers experience lockdown as US Vice President JD Vance arrives in Cotswolds for holiday; Residents barred from entering Dean village; Vance’s motorcade spotted earlier.
Youth Organisation Grants
Youth organisations in Witney receive £20,000 grant; Funds allocated to projects promoting inclusivity and youth development; Successful applicants include various scout groups, guides, and community organisations.
20mph Signage Costs
Oxfordshire spent £3.5 million on 20 mph signs with £3.8 million remain unspent. The scheme was applauded as successful by the cabinet member but criticized as an ‘expensive mess’ by the opposition leader due to insufficient traffic calming measures.
Cogges Farm Beer Fest
Hornton Abbey Farm hosted a successful beer and cider festival with over 1000 attendees, featuring craft beverages and live music performances. The event was held at the historic farm, which is known for its role in the ITV series Hornton Abbey.
Farm Attraction Among Best
Fairytale Farm in Chipping Norton ranks among the world’s top 10% of attractions; Three new attractions unveiled, including crazy golf and a playground for under 4s; Farm owner Nick Leicester credits visitors’ positive feedback for the achievement.
New Cocktail Lounge
New cocktail lounge, The Barn, opens in Witney; Offers 2 for 1 deals on classic cocktails; Goes down a storm after successful opening weekend.
Goodbye
Ways to access Talking Newspaper editions; Reminder on postage and contact details; Acknowledgements to contributors and volunteers.