Edition #2108: Duke's Speeding Drama and Development Debates
14 May 2026
Kick off with heated discussions about political alliances following the West Oxfordshire District Council elections. Tune in to hear about speeding woes from a famous Duke, local fury over council controversies, and more. Plus, find out why a chicken farm proposal is causing such an uproar and how a firefighter's epic cycling challenge is making waves.
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
Labour and Partners Discussing Joint Leadership After Council Poll
Talks about ongoing discussions for a possible multi-party alliance after the West Oxfordshire District Council election, with voter turnout higher than previous elections.
Botley West Solar Farm Decision Sparks Fresh Row
MPs Miller and Moran urge transparency after being excluded from decision-making process regarding the Botley West solar farm scheme
Sports Club Revamp Set to Be Completed Soon
A £12mn revamp of West Witney Sports and Social Club will complete in May, featuring new changing rooms, social spaces, and accessibility improvements. The project aims to enhance grassroots sports and improve energy efficiency.
Potholes “Big Issue for Voters” Says Counsellor
This chapter discusses potholes as a major issue for voters after district council elections held earlier this year.
Hundreds Object to Plans for Major Chicken Farm
Hundreds oppose chicken farm plans; Residents cite environmental concerns.
Duke Fined for Speeding 30 MPH Over the Limit on Road
Duke of Marlborough fined for speeding at 80 mph over the limit; faces trial for strangulation offenses against estranged wife.
Council Fury as Resident Ruins Prettiest Street in UK
Martin Dina, a resident of Bibury, faced criticism from locals and the council after plans for an outdoor fireplace and underground car park were submitted without prior consent, allegedly ruining Rosemary Cottage’s historic charm.
The Witney Festival of Food and Drink returns this weekend with a packed programme of events supporting St Mary’s Church.
Reflection with Hilary Ewing
Reflection on Ascension Day; Astronauts’ faith journey on Artemis 2 mission; Prime Minister faces leadership challenge.
Reflection (Thanks)
A visitor shared insights, followed by two brief news updates.
Two Short Stories - Firefighter Cycles Coastline & Youth Funding Available
Firefighter embarks on UK coastal cycling challenge; £20k youth grant announced by Witney Town Council.
Town Council Announces New Mayor Following Vote
Councillor Jane Doughty assumes role of Mayor for Witney after being voted in by fellow councillors.
Two Short Stories - Council of Europe Flag & No Mo May Campaign
Witney town Council raised the Council of Europe flag to celebrate international cooperation, following a community request; they also backed the No Mo May campaign to help pollinators.
Road Speed Limit to Drop after Fatal Crashes
Ostrich County Council proposes a 40 mph speed limit on parts of the A361 after fatal crashes.
Quiz
A quiz round recapping previous answers and introducing new questions; a report on policing efforts in Oxfordshire involving cannabis arrests and seizures; and a court case regarding poaching offenses on private land.
Brownlee Attempts World Record in West Oxfordshire Biathlon
Olympic athlete Johnny Brownlee aims to break a world record in the Weekend Warrior Challenge at Super Tri Blenheim Palace, joining thousands of amateur athletes.
Albert Einstein lectured briefly at Oxford University before fleeing Nazi Germany; hotel guests’ stay ruined by rowdy hen party.
Clarkson-Backed Choir Wows Judges
Maidstone Farmers Choir, founded by Jeremy Clarkson, advances to Britain’s Got Talent semifinals after receiving a golden buzzer from Amanda Holton.
Blenheim Set to Host Third Sustainable Fashion Show
Blenheim Palace to host sustainable fashion show featuring over 70 looks from 10 designers made with recycled materials, organized by Harwell Collective
Two Short Stories - Kings Award & Horse Trials
Oxfordshire firm wins King’s Award for Enterprise; Major equestrian event returns to Cotswolds this autumn.
Circus and Three Course Feast Back for the Summer
Circus dinner show ‘Fool’s Delight’ returns this summer with live performances and a three-course feast inspired by William Blake’s ‘The Tiger’.
Baby Binturong Melts Hearts at Reptile Zoo
A baby Binturong, nicknamed Wookie, has captured hearts at a reptile zoo in Brize Norton.
Goodbye!
Information on accessing Witney Talking News services; Credits for contributors; A joke about a boring sermon.