Edition #2085: Roadworks, Remembrance, and Red Arrows
13 November 2025
This week's community news highlights West Oxfordshire's housing consultation, controversial glamping site plans, and local businesses facing challenges. Plus, a celebration of local sporting achievements.
Opening Theme
Council Seeks Public Views on Future Housing Plans
West Oxfordshire council launched public consultation on potential housing, employment, and infrastructure sites till Dec 22; Residents can influence final choices before decisions made; Around 23,000 new homes needed by 2043.
Public Invited to Have Their Say on West Oxfordshire Local Plan
Public sessions announced for local plan; West Oxfordshire seeks views on housing and business growth locations; Events held across district in November and December
Decision Nears on Charlbury Glamping Site Plan
Controversial camping site plan in Cotswolds faces decision next week; Locals and conservation groups raise concerns about impact on woodland and wildlife; West Oxfordshire District Council recommends refusal, citing insufficient biodiversity plans
Hair Salon in Witney Goes into Liquidation
Metres Hair salon liquidated with £189k debt, including £38k to HMRC. Founder Luke Meda owes £2.4k to his former company. Salon rebranding continues trading despite liquidation.
Much Meats in Witney Collapses Under Heavy Debt
Massive debt cripples Oxfordshire abattoir; Family racks up £12m trying to save business; Company enters administration after creditors’ petition
Leafield Death and Local Police Cases
A pensioner was found dead after possibly being deceased for a month; advanced decomposition prevented precise cause of death determination; coronary artery disease suspected. Police arrested a man for drug driving after allegedly finding drugs on him; he was also driving with a revoked license. Sentencing of two men involved in a £600,000 drug shipment was delayed due to one defendant’s illness.
Reflection – Autumn, Gardening, and Spiritual Growth
Two Short Stories
Youths causing disruption at Marriott’s Walk Shopping Centre in Witney prompts Thames Valley Police to increase patrols, with specific individuals identified. Sales assistant for police confirms rise in reports leading to enhanced security measures. Separately, residents warned about doorstep scams after incident in Carterton.
Boxing Hare in Swerford Named Top Cotswolds Sunday Roast
The Boxing Hare pub in Swerford receives top UK honors for its Sunday roast. Only South Oxfordshire representative, it offers luxurious, Michelin-starred dishes in a cosy atmosphere.
Cafe 1863 Wins County Award
1863 cafe in Witney wins county’s best cafe award and progresses to national finals, recognition based on public vote and mystery shoppers; Cafe part of art centre hosting various events, open Monday to Saturday.
Pilot Appointed New Voice of Red Arrows
A new pilot, Squadron Leader St Roberts, has been appointed to the prestigious role of Red 10 for the Red Arrows. Born in Germany, he brings extensive experience to the position. As Red 10, he will provide commentary and safety supervision, also coordinating the team’s calendar and photo chase duties.
Tribute to Kevin Mills, Beloved Husband and Father
Devoted family paying tribute to father killed in Oxfordshire crash; Kevin John Mills, 49, remembered as loving husband and father; Fund created for grief-stricken family.
Tribute to Beloved Wife of Brewery Boss
A limited edition beer was brewed to honor Joe Clark, wife of Hook Norton breweries managing director, who died of a brain tumor at 58. A motorbike enthusiast, the beer ‘one for the road’ benefited Warwickshire Air Ambulance. Her spirit lives on, her legacy remembered by family and friends at local pubs.
Quiz – Food and Drink Edition
This week’s talking newspaper includes a food and drink themed quiz. Last week’s quiz answers were given before the new questions were asked. The article after the quiz discussed a speed camera delay.
Speed Camera Delay Frustrates Local Councillors
Speed camera delay criticized as unreasonable; Oxfordshire County Council pushes installation from Sept 2025 to Summer 2026; Critics call for immediate action to enhance Witney High Street, despite temporary pause for Christmas trading.
Two Short Stories - Local Burglaries Reported
Burglars struck Cotswold villages, West Oxfordshire homes targeted November 5; Cash and jewellery stolen, another burglary unreported; PCSO appeals for witnesses and CCTV footage
Editor’s Choice – On This Day
The St. Bryce’s Day Massacre occurred in Oxford on November 13th, 1002, resulting in the deaths of Danish inhabitants. Ethelred’s charter described the event, which involved the burning of St. Michael’s Church. Excavations in 2008 revealed Viking skeletons, with evidence supporting Ethelred’s account.
Noticeboard – Birthdays and Deaths
Town Council Adds Extra Support for Community Buses
Town council boosts funding for community buses in Witney; £2500 to keep services running for vulnerable residents; Support comes amidst rising costs and limited alternative funding.
Family Raises Nearly £900 with Halloween Haunted House
Family raised £900 for cancer research through Halloween haunted house display. Target was initially £100 but they raised nearly ten times that amount.
Remembrance Day Service and Grave Tour in Witney
Remembrance Day marked in Witney with service and grave tour. Over 100 attendees honoured war memorial, including MP Charlie Maynard and mayor Andy Bailey. Special guided tour at Tower Hill Cemetery revealed local servicemen’s stories.
Drivers Face Five Days of Road Disruption in Crawley
Road closure in Crawley for maintenance works, affecting multiple roads for five days, causing disruption to motorists.
Chipping Norton Fireman Retires after 21 Years
Fireman retires after 21 years of service; Chipping Norton’s Watch Manager David Cuthbert leaves; Station thanks him with a mix of sadness and gratitude.
Retired Oxfordshire Fire Engine Donated to Ukraine
An old Oxfordshire fire engine is heading to Ukraine; 1500-mile journey starts next week; Donation comes amidst ongoing Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian oil refineries.
Children Grow School Dinners
Children at Aston and Coat Primary School cultivate crops for school meals and local shop. They learn about sustainability and food sources. Their DT lessons use produce like squash and pumpkins.
Witney Swimmers Shine at Regional Championships
Swimmers from Witney District Swimming Club showcased their talent at the southeast winter short course open regional championships, with Annalise Alfred winning medals across breaststroke events; despite stiff competition, she placed high among juniors in 50m (5th), 100m (9th), and 200m (8th) breaststroke.
Goodbye!
Chapter summarizes various local announcements about listening options, return procedures, contact details, credits, and a concluding joke. No significant news events or issues discussed.
TNF Soundings Radio Listings
Newsreader discusses upcoming radioplays and documentaries for the coming week. Key programmes include The London Jazz Festival, World War II-themed broadcasts, Desert Island Discs with Tim Berners-Lee, and various murder mysteries.