Edition #2075
4 September 2025
Join us for a gripping episode as we delve into Witney's mayor taking a stand against divisive protests, the Bishop of Oxford condemning Farage's immigration stance, and a brave team of locals putting out a deliberate football club fire. Plus, we cover Pub closures, rewilding white storks, and an extraordinary 1254-mile walk for Alzheimer's.
Intro Music
Mayor on Asylum Hotels
Witney’s mayor speaks against divisive protests around asylum seeker hotels. He argues most refugees arrive legally and contribute to the economy. Local council supports welcoming approach.
Farage Deeply Disturbing
Bishop of Oxford condemns Nigel Farage’s immigration policy as deeply disturbing, calling it an attempt to exploit fear for political gain, while Farage proposes deporting 600,000 asylum seekers and expanding detention centres.
Heros Prevent Fire
Quick thinking residents form a team to put out a deliberately started fire near Carterton football club, potentially saving nearby houses. The fire could have spread due to dry conditions. A water supply from nearby allotments aided their efforts. The fire brigade praised their actions, while Thames Valley Police are investigating the cause.
Save The Great British Pub
Local pubs face closure threats due to conversion plans. Woodman Inn in North Leigh could be lost forever if planning application is approved. Campaign to save the historic pub gains support from neighbouring landlords.
Clarkson’s Pub Neighbour For Sale
Pub rival to Jeremy Clarkson’s ‘Farmers’ Dog’ up for sale at £850,000; Historic Cotswolds inn has changed names and ownership multiple times; Property comes with planning permission for eight shepherd’s huts.
White Stork Rewilding
White storks returning to Oxfordshire after 500-year absence; Project aims for 50 breeding pairs by 2030; Scheme involves support from Cotswold Wildlife Park and other partners.
Marathon Fundraiser Aged 80
An 80-year-old man nominated for JustGiving award after completing solo 1254-mile walk for Alzheimer’s Research UK. David Enza, driven by personal loss, raised £42,000 and inspired others.
Hosepipe Ban Impact
Thames Water’s hosepipe ban led to significant water savings; Over 1450 leaks fixed and 34,000 smart meters installed; Ban to continue due to below average rainfall and warm weather
Council Business Boost Grant
West Oxfordshire District Council introduces business boost grant to aid growth, adaptation, and future planning, funded by the Future England Prosperity Fund. Grant aims to support rural businesses in strategic investments, promoting environmentally friendly practices and creating new job opportunities. Total allocation is £25,000, with applications opening September 15th and closing on the 26th.
Crepes
A crepe shop, Alex’s, opened in Woodstock after successful mobile business; The Sopilniks, a husband-wife duo, catered large-scale events before securing a permanent location at Park View; The shop offers year-round traditional French-style crepes and marks a milestone for the family-owned business.
24 Hour Swimathon
The Witney Penguins swimming club is hosting a 24-hour charity swim to celebrate its 50th anniversary and raise funds, including for Yellow Submarine, a charity supporting those with learning disabilities and autism; The event aims to raise £1,000, half of which will support club funds and the other half Yellow Submarine; Members of the public are encouraged to participate as swimmers or volunteers.
Noisy Pilot Crackdown
Oxford Airport cracking down on noise pollution from pilots; Stricter guidelines implemented for experienced and learner pilots; Airport aims to reduce noise over nearby residential areas.
GP Surgery Closing
A GP surgery branch in Carterton is closing due to lease expiration, merging with Bampton Medical Practice’s main site 4 miles away. Patients will switch to Burford Surgery instead, effective February 2026.
Firefighter Wins £100000
Local firefighter wins £100,000 on TV game show with seconds to spare; Outperformed professional quizzers answering questions on various topics; Plans to use winnings for dream holiday with wife
Officer Danger Driving
A police officer avoided jail after causing serious injuries in a car crash; Victim’s life severely impacted, requiring round-the-clock care; Officer sentenced to suspended prison term, community service, and driving ban
Manslaughter Court Date
Man and woman accused of killing company boss to appear in court for first time; Gary Murat found dead at his home in July; Accused face charges of manslaughter, robbery, and poisoning.
Editor’s Choice
After 40 years, the Combe Courier newspaper is set to retire, leaving its 700 readers in Combe without local news. Volunteers band together to launch Combe Connect, a 28-page magazine with online archives, ensuring vital community information continues.
Quiz
Historical quiz covers events in September, including Great Fire of London and David sculpture unveiling. Local quiz involves school-related questions. No winners declared.
Deaths
Alex’s Big Feastival
Alex James’ festival attracted 20,000 music fans, celebrating Britpop with legendary acts like Blur and Oasis. The event featured a debut Britpop classical show, expected to tour the country. The musician farmer was delighted with the enthusiastic response.
Mercedes Best In Show
Mercedes 500 K special roadster won best in show at Salon Privé Concours. The car’s rarity and beauty secured the win, impressing judges and enthusiasts alike, with 60 cars competing.
Greek Food & Vegan Beer
Greek food and vegan beer enjoyed at free festival. The Little Ox Brewery in Freeland hosted a free brewery open day with DJ music and Greek Suvlaki. The event, attended by the founder Ian Hemingway, preceded Oktoberfest celebrations.
Cotswold River Football Match
A century-old tradition of playing football in the river continued in Cotswold River. The annual match between Broughton Rovers’ teams took place despite chilly water. The men’s team won 21- after a late goal.
Goodbye
The Witney Talking News wrapped up their latest edition, thanking the Witney Gazette for articles. Key contributors are thanked for their work in bringing this week’s news to listeners.