Edition #2074
28 August 2025
Listen up, folks! Top news in West Oxfordshire includes Reform UK's migrant deportation plans, a controversy over asylum hotels, and a rail fare hike that's got locals riled up. Plus, we'll toast a centenarian RAF veteran and celebrate rhino birthdays at the Cotswold Wildlife Park.
Outro Music
Intros and Reform UK
Reform UK’s Zia Yusuf claims large-scale migrant deportation is feasible; Party plans to deport asylum seekers en masse and secure return deals with countries like Afghanistan and Eritrea.
Hotels for migrants
West Oxfordshire District Council opposes planning challenges for an asylum hotel despite pressure from the Epping case. Council leader praises communities’ support, rejects division and fear mongering.
Planning application
Housing development of 26 homes approved in Charlbury despite water supply concerns. Local residents and Charlbury Town Council expressed fears over water supplies, sewage, and lack of play facilities. Development will proceed with condition to address water issues.
Eynsham P&R
Jeremy Clarkson criticizes £5 million unused park and ride site in Oxfordshire, blaming mismanagement of taxpayers’ money; Oxfordshire County Council responds, promises opening by 2027
Mulberry Sch award
The Mulberry Bush School nominated for national charity award. Children’s charity stands alongside UK’s biggest in Children and Young People’s Charity Award 2025. CEO praises staff efforts and looks forward to November ceremony.
Riding death
Guy Avis, a lifelong trail hunter and local celebrity, died after falling from his horse during a meet near Stroud; he was 76 and well-known as the ‘singing secretary’ of the Heythrop Hunt; the coroner ruled his death accidental, caused by a horse refusing to jump a fence.
Poundland closures
Poundland to end online sales and shut 68 stores nationwide. Oxfordshire stores safe; loyalty scheme ends in September.Closures due to falling revenues and sale to investment firm.
Palestine Action
Man charged for role in sophisticated Palestine Action attack on RAF Brize Norton; £7 million damage caused; Co-accused await trial
School exam results
West Oxfordshire schools celebrated outstanding GCSE results; Bartholomew School’s quarter of grades were 8s or 9s; Over 70% of pupils at Woodgreen School passed maths and English.
Reflection
Societal divisions are highlighted; UK citizens protest against asylum seekers; Reverend Skinner encourages unity through Christian perspective.
Editor’s Choice
RAF veteran
World War II veteran Dennis Bishop celebrates his 100th birthday; Served as ground radio operator; Recognized by RAF Brize Norton with cake and well-wishes.
Rhino’s birthdays
Cotswold Wildlife Park celebrates second birthdays of rhinos Henry and Susie; Born within a week of each other in August 2023; Park hosts annual rhino month fundraising event this weekend.
Downton auction
The final sale of Hornton Abbey film props includes a £35,000 1925 Sunbeam car. The exhibition runs for a month before the concluding film’s September release. Oxfordshire NHS locations popularised in the series offer fans the chance to buy iconic props.
Rail fare prices
Rail fares set to rise by 5.8% next year. Oxfordshire MPs call for a freeze, citing increased season ticket costs. Commuters face higher prices amidst service worsening.
J D Vance pub ban
A Cotswold pub allegedly banned US Vice President J.D. Vance due to staff opposition, sparking public support and Nobel Peace Prize suggestions.
Care home top score
Carterton care home achieves maximum rating; MHA’s The Homestead scores 10 out of 10 on carehome.co.uk; Residents and staff celebrate success with pizza party.
Brewery awards
Brewery celebrates double medal win at World Beer Awards. Hook Norton Brewery in Oxfordshire received two prestigious medals for its Old Hooky and Hookey Best Bitter. Both beers will continue to be available year-round, with Old Hooky enjoyed internationally.
River status
Oxfordshire council to declare river a person for protection, two rivers already granted ‘personhood’, focus on sewage pollution challenges.