Edition #2052
20 March 2025
Starting with the eye-watering £2.8 million gold toilet theft, we delve into the developer clash over 470 homes in Witney, and the controversial speeding of a police sergeant. Plus, hear about our local hospital's emission-reduction plans, and a charity firewalk event.
Intro Music
Two men convicted for gold toilet theft from Blenheim Palace; Michael Jones found guilty of burglary, Frederick Doe of money laundering; Toilet’s value estimated at £2.8 million, insured for £4.75 million.
Developer submits plans for 470 homes in Witney despite Parish Council opposition; Concerns raised about pressures on local services and sewage issues; Proposal seeks to meet district housing delivery target.
Oxfordshire Council confirms safety improvements for deadly Barnard Gate junction on A40; Right turns banned, new central reservation planned; Changes follow 2012 fatal crash, residents’ petition.
Police sergeant guilty of gross misconduct for speeding at 130 mph on A40 in Oxfordshire; Risked injury or death; Keeps job after receiving final written warning
Court upholds £300 million loan approval for Thames Water; Critics urge special administration for better customer service; Loan to stabilise finances without bill hikes, focusing on network improvements
Windrush Leisure Centre celebrated its 50th anniversary with a free open weekend. Activities included swimming, fitness classes, and a roller disco. Thousands attended to mark the milestone.
Local woman Ashton Winkler Hughes, from Long Hanborough, quit smoking after 20 years with help from Oxfordshire County Council’s stop smoking service. She encourages others to do the same on No Smoking Day. Since quitting, she has noticed improved skin, saved money, and no longer has the urge for cigarettes.
Blenheim Palace to recreate vintage photo for 75th anniversary. Public invited for unique photo opportunity on April 1. Competition offers afternoon tea and tickets for Christmas 2025.
Oxford Hospital reduces emissions, switches to portable nitrous oxide cylinders, aims to save 30 tons of CO2 annually.
MP reveals plan to step down after two years as district councillor, will donate entire £4200 council allowance to local charities, praised parish councils for community work
A delayed footpath connecting Witney retirement communities finally built after years of campaigning; Construction stalled despite being planned before Richmond Villages’ completion; Councillor Thomas Ashbury’s advocacy aided residents in pushing county council for footpath.
Zoo tickets for Cotswold Wildlife Park being sold in an online scam; Police warn public about reduced-price tickets being advertised on Facebook; The park has reported the scams and is working with Facebook to remove them.
Nine local residents died last week, with services scheduled for eight. Angela Griffiths, a long-time Witney taxi driver, will have a wake at the snooker club after her private funeral. David Smith, a former Witney blanket maker, will have a thanksgiving service at St. Mary’s Church.
The West End of the Cotswolds topped the list of prettiest villages in the region; Conijnast selected villages based on aesthetics, pubs, and country walks; Astel, Burford, and Broadway are notable entries.
Communities fight flooding with grants in Oxfordshire. Up to 25,000 available for local projects to reduce flooding impact. Climate change prompts drive for proactive measures.
Blenheim Estate donates ash trees to Ireland’s hurling sport amidst ash dieback threat. The gift amounts to potential 5000-10000 hurleys, benefiting manufacturers like Star Hurley in Kilkenny. Blenheim also supports cricket bat production.
Motorcyclist Keith Botley died in head-on crash on A3400; Collision involved Suzuki GSX 600 and Jaguar XF; Thames Valley Police appealing for witnesses with dash cam footage
Cosy Cotswolds pub earns top TripAdvisor rating; praised for excellent food and historic decor; locals hail it a must-visit.
Parish clerk Graham Hill found deceased at home; Cause of death determined as bronchopneumonia and immobilsation following spinal fracture; Inquest scheduled for May 13th
A charity firewalk event for visually impaired supporters is taking place in Chipping Norton. Participants will walk barefoot across fire to raise awareness and funds. The event is organized by the Rotary Club of Witney.
Crocodile Zoo celebrates 14th birthday. Originally opened in Oxfordshire with 8 crocodiles, it now houses over 100 across 20 species, many endangered. Founder Sean Foggart aims to raise awareness and inspire future conservationists.
The Witney Talking News discussed handling returned memory pouches from listeners; thanked contributors; announced upcoming programme highlights; and wished listeners well.