Witney Talking News

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Edition #2106: Controversies, Charity Heroes, and Fox Rescue Drama

30 April 2026

The titles and summaries on this page were generated with AI assistance and may not be fully accurate.
The audio recording is produced entirely by our volunteer team.

Opening Theme

High Street and Market Square Delivery

Witney High Street is due for improvements including new seating areas, trees, resurfacing, extended pedestrian space, improved accessibility for disabled people, changes to traffic arrangements

High Street Revamp Faces Skepticism

A High Street revitalisation scheme in Witney faces business concern due to lack of economic benefits, traffic disruption and cost increase.

Cogges Manor Farm Hosts Immersive History Day

An immersive enactment day at Cogs Manifarm offers visitors a glimpse into Anglo-Saxon life complete with authentic music, dancing, and guided tours.

Home Office Ends Asylum Hotel Policy

The government has refused to reveal information about the Witney Hotel’s asylum seeker status; Border Security Minister Alex Norreys announces closures of 12 hotels, including two in Oxfordshire.

Witney Honours St. George’s Heritage

Flag-raising event held in Witney to mark St. George’s Day

St. George’s Day Celebrations Bring Community Together

People celebrated St. George’s Day in Witney with various activities, games, music, food, and workshops.

Church Backs Flag Ban Order

A church leader supports Oxfordshire County Council’s decision to ban England flags due to allegations of intimidation.

Environment Agency Investigates Polluted Village Stream

An investigation into river pollution was launched after a village stream turned brown with potentially unsafe levels of bacteria.

Reflection with David Harper

A Methodist preacher reflects on his name and its impact, also discussing a book about names influencing children’s lives. He recounts his birthday trip to Germany and shares insights from the biblical figure of David.

Screws Placed in Roads Cause Danger

Screws placed in local roads pose serious safety risks; Thames Valley Police warn residents and appeal for information.

Police Apprenticeship Proves Valuable Career Path

A Thames Valley Police officer shares her journey from force cadet to mental health team officer through an apprenticeship scheme.

Travis Perkins Staff Complete 200 Km Charity Challenge

Colleagues from Travis Perkins completed grueling endurance challenges totaling 200 kilometers to raise nearly £3000 for Alzheimer’s Society.

Teacher Conquers 270 Km Sahara Marathon for Charity

Ultra runner Leslie Bablock completes 270km desert marathon raising £5600 for charity; she dedicates run to former students.

Editor’s Choice: Oxford May Day Dawn Concert

Celebration of Oxford’s May Day traditions, including singing of a historic hymn atop Magdalen Tower and revelry in town.

Quiz

Last week’s quiz answers revealed Vienna as home to the Spanish Riding School, Hook Norton brewery with three notable shire horses, and Woody Motherwell winning last year’s Grand National. Bridget also answered who wrote ‘Warhorse’ and named the horse family members. This week’s quiz focuses on May-related topics.

Noticeboard

Listed seven death notices with funeral details for Ian James Douglas Broadbridge, Pamela Cooper, Kenneth Andrew Johnson, John Rolf, Mary Smith, Una Poole, and Morris Warsop.

Tributes Paid to Shelley Hallam

Tributes paid to Shelley Hallam, aged 60, who died in hospital six days after a crash involving a Mini Cooper and Honda Jazz. A woman has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

Motorcyclist Remembered as Loyal Family Man

Motorcyclist dies in road crash while attempting bend; inquest finds inexperience factor likely.

Drink-Driving Crash Leads to Ban

Nicola Mansell banned from driving for 17 months after crash while over drink drive limit.

Urgent Rescue Reunites Fox Family

Four additional fox cubs found after urgent search; Mother fox rescued but four others initially overlooked.

Goodbye!

Details on accessing talks online and via phone, postal guidance; acknowledgements for article contributors and volunteers.

TNF Soundings Radio & TV Listings

This week’s TNF Soundings features upcoming dramas like ‘Hardy’s Women’ and ‘Miknight’s Dream’, a docu about the general strike in May 1926, an exploration of women’s cricket reunion, and various programs commemorating notable figures.