Edition #2077
18 September 2025
Business struggles and tax increases hit West Oxfordshire, a spy case goes cold, policing policies debated, and a community pub triumphs. Plus, a massive hosepipe ban, a new exhibit at Blenheim Palace, and Witney Feast draws large crowds despite bad weather.
Intro Music
A Mighty Row Brewing
Businesses in West Oxfordshire face significant tax increases, leading to closures; Recent closures include Cotswold Sewing Centre and Witney Lighting due to rising costs; Row brewing among businesses over high business rates and proposed tax increase on large shops
Spy Case Charges Dropped
Charges dropped in spy case against Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry; Disappointing decision follows lack of sufficient evidence; Politicians express concern over potential Chinese espionage threat
Policing Boss Criticised
Policing boss criticized for urging public to intervene in shoplifting; Concerns raised about potential dangers; Debate continues over risk vs responsibility.
Nearly £10,000 Per Month
Massive monthly costs for disused car park, with £9531 spent each month on security, lighting, and fencing; Conservative party criticizes Liberal Democrats for wasteful spending; Park and ride opening delayed until 2027 due to infrastructure issues.
£2000 Raised in 24h Swim
Witney Penguins Swimming Club raised £2000 in a 24-hour swim event. Over 500km swum by 100 participants, aged 8- adults. Funds for club’s 50th anniversary and local charity Yellow Submarine.
Biggest Funfair Draws Crowd
Witney Feast returns with large crowds despite atrocious weather. The almost 800-year-old event featured Golden Gallopers service, family afternoon, and traditional fairground attractions.
Supported Living Facility Saved
A supported living home in Chadlington was saved from closure by community backing, including support from actress Dame Joanna Lumley. Residents faced distress after a closure threat, but a charity purchase saved the facility. The charity plans to refurbish the home and maintain its vital community service.
Battle of Britain Anniversary
The Union Jack was raised in Witney to commemorate the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain. The event marks a victory over the Luftwaffe and a crucial moment in World War II history. The town’s mayor and councillors attended the ceremony.
Community Village Pub Success
A communitysaved pub in Stonesfield celebrates its second anniversary after raising £455,000 to prevent closure. It has since become a thriving village hub hosting various events and supporting local groups. The pub’s success was recently acknowledged by a poem from the poet laureate.
Hosepipe Ban Extended
Hose pipe ban extended despite heavy rain; Thames Water cites low rainfall and groundwater levels; Residents urged to conserve water to prevent further restrictions.
Display of MI5 Story
A new display at Blenheim Palace marking the 85th anniversary since MI5 relocated there during WWII highlights the crucial role of women who worked at the site for around 8 years. The exhibition, Women of Wartime Secrets, running until September 30th, focuses on daily life, work, and leisure activities of these women. Visitors can engage in a code breaking activity and learn about prominent figures like Anthony Blunt.
One Show Thanks Community Champion
Local hero Nicky Clargo honoured on BBC One show; Finance manager from Freeland recognised for raising over £100k for Oxfordshire Mind and Hospice; Thousands benefit from her community work, including mental health support and walking group.
Editor’s Pick
AI summarizes Witney Feast history; Microsoft invests £200M in UK AI; Local tradition evolves from church commemoration to fun fair.
Quiz
A quiz covering recent historic events was answered, with the next one focused on President Trump’s UK visit. The quiz was about the name of his wife, his previous visit year, overnight stay places, the countryside meeting venue, and the party leader who boycotted the state banquet.
Noticeboard
Six people passed away in recent weeks according to obituaries in the Gazette. Their families and friends are remembered. Witney Macular Group welcomes back Susan Griffiths for touch tours of Oxford Museums on September 25th.
Reflection
The U.S. president’s state visit causes a stir amidst high security concerns. Radio 5 sparked discussion over meal suggestions for the banquet. It inspired reflection on meaningful meals and relationships.
Grants to Improve Community Transport
Oxfordshire council awards £64,572 for community transport; Four organizations to receive grants; Daybreak expands dementia services with £25,000 award.
Pioneering Leukaemia Research
Pioneering research into high-risk leukaemia begins at Oxford Uni. Supported by Kaia Foundation, it aims to discover why blood cells transform into aggressive leukaemia and develop personalized targeted therapies. Coinciding with childhood cancer and blood cancer awareness month, it honours Kaia Patel who died at age five.
3 News Items
Thames Valley Air Ambulance charity funding appeal due to public unawareness; RAF Brize Norton tightens security after paint vandalism; Aldi donates 16,600 meals to hungry Oxfordshire families
Angler Lands Personal Best
Angler Cian Clark broke personal records at Linear Fisheries with two massive carp catches, weighing 34lbs 6oz and 38lbs 8oz respectively. This follows Mark Rokins’ record-breaking catch of a 49lbs 10oz carp in the same complex last weekend.
Councillor Worried About 20mph Speed Limit
Councillor opposes blanket 20 mph speed limit proposal in Carterton. Michelle Mead fears move will harm town’s traffic flow. Controversy extends to Brize Norton, where speed limit discussions also underway.
Rural Crime Falls by 1/3
Rural crime decreases significantly across West Oxfordshire and surrounding regions; Thames Valley Police’s task force and partnerships contribute to 36% reduction in first quarter of financial year.
Maternity Service to be Investigated
Investigation launched into UK maternity care, focusing on Oxford University Hospitals. Report aims to prevent future tragedies but acknowledges past incidents have been ‘devastating’. Trust cooperates with inquiry.
Boats Keep Hitting Sunken Range Rover
A sunken Range Rover has caused multiple collisions with boats on the Thames for eight months; Oil leaks are polluting the river; The incident was initially reported to Thames Valley Police, but recovery efforts have been delayed