Edition #2097: Nursery's End, Floods Resolved & Flag Fallout
19 February 2026
This week, we dive into major flooding resolutions in Buttercross Lane and its expensive aftermath. We'll also discuss the bitter closure of Broadwell Nursery and the dramatic price drops at pub properties across Oxfordshire. Later, be ready for some debate over Oxfordshire flag removal costs.
Opening Theme
Development’s Flooding Ends
Flooding issue resolved in Buttercross Lane after county council installs new drainage. Residents relieved but costs fall to taxpayers. Questions remain about approval process and responsibility.
Broadwell Nursery Closes
Broadwell Preschool in Witney closes after 52 years due to financial unsustainability, leaving local parents devastated and seeking alternative childcare options.
Pub Sale Price Drop
The sale price of The Maybush pub in Curbridge has dropped to £1,100,000 after six months without a buyer. It was previously priced at £2,500,000. Despite the price reduction, the pub has been named a favourite rural boozer of 2025.
Pub Price Is £550K after Auction Collapse
Cotswold pub, The Black Horse, back on market after auction collapse; Sold for £550,000; History dates back to 1800s, praised by critics
Oxfordshire Flag Removal Costs
Council spends £16,584.98 removing 404 flags from lamp posts at £41 each, Council refuses to disclose removal contractor’s identity claiming commercial sensitivity, Public warned not to put flags on highways
Dangerous Driver Banned after Fatal Crash
A reckless driver using Snapchat caused a fatal crash, killing 2, injuring 5. The driver, Liberty Mitchell, was sentenced to 6 years and 8 months imprisonment for causing death and serious injury by dangerous driving.
Reflection with Hilary Ewing
Andrew Mountbatten arrested on suspicion of misconduct, first such arrest since 1554, implications of Epstein files’ revelations
Two Short Stories - Dangerous Driving & Pothole Repair
A driver was arrested for dangerous driving after causing serious injury in a crash; Additionally, they were charged with assault, criminal damage, and drug possession; This incident occurred after a reported disturbance at a Travelodge in Witney.
Oxfordshire’s Military Past Unearthed
Military history exhibition in Oxfordshire showcases nearly 2000 years of military heritage; Opening March 21st, it features items never before displayed; Museum hopes visitors will be inspired by Oxfordshire’s military past.
Car Park Stay Times Reduced
Stay times at West Oxfordshire car parks shortened due to public consultation feedback; Council retains free parking, reduces long stay allowance from 12 to 10 hours; Changes aim to discourage commuter parking and improve access for local workers and shoppers
Blue Cross Shop in Property Sale
Property changes in Witney High Street; Blue Cross animal charity building put up for sale with redevelopment potential; 1.2 million sought for freehold with annual rent of £62,000.
Discount Brand on Brink of Closures
Store closure fears for UK discount brand due to administration; Over 1100 jobs at risk countywide; Aldi offers 500 apprenticeships in Oxfordshire
Solar Farm Plant Report Has Been Submitted
A £800mn solar farm, Botley West, awaits final decision after inspection report submitted. The project’s scale and rural impact sparked local concerns, with West Oxfordshire District Council representing residents’ voices.
Quiz
A general knowledge quiz covering global capitals, literary figures, historical events, biblical stories, and animal folklore.
£500K Public Toilet Revamp
West Oxfordshire District Council plans to invest over £500k to upgrade public toilets. Six toilets to close by end of March, focusing improvements on most used sites. Modern gender-neutral facilities and contactless payment options planned.
Ancient Woodlands Threatened by Housing Bid
Campaign groups challenge 4th approval of Cotswolds homes plan in ancient woodlands; High Court has quashed previous plans; Legal challenge aims to prevent bad development in protected landscape.
Editor’s Choice - On This Day
Gypsy woman found murdered in Oxfordshire in 1887; her husband arrested and later hanged for the crime; children sent to live with philanthropist.
Bus Assault Investigation Launched
Sexual assaults on Oxfordshire NHS bus; Woman in her 30s assaulted teens; Thames Valley Police seeking witnesses and footage
Sewage Overflowing with Paper
Sewage overflowing with toilet paper advisory issued for North Leigh, West Oxfordshire; RAF Hodge discovered the issue while walking his dog; Thames Water notified but yet to comment.
Garden Centre Raises Thousands for Guide Dogs
Charlbury Garden Centre raised £1000 for Guide Dogs charity via Christmas model village donations. Volunteers and customers contributed equally.Oxford Guide Dogs Branch receives photo for their efforts.
Police Have Your Say Event Well-Attended
Oxfordshire police praised high attendance at North Leigh community event despite snowfall; Event proved successful with meaningful dialogue leading to updated policing priorities; Despite severe weather, officers continue patrols to maintain community safety.
Goodbye!
TNF Soundings Radio Listings
Radio listening guide features adaptations of classic plays and novels, documentaries, comedy shows, and special programs marking anniversaries. Alan Rickman stars in Rope, a play about two arrogant students who believe they have committed the perfect murder. Secrets and Lies, a documentary drama, reveals photographer Ernest Withers’ role in the civil rights movement while also working for the FBI.
TNF Soundings TV Listings
A weekly schedule of TV programmes compiled by Richard and read by Lisa, focusing mostly on the Olympics. The schedule includes various genres such as drama, reality shows, documentaries, and soap operas. The content is largely focused on entertainment and informative programmes without any major news or incidents.