Edition #2125: Sheep Theft & Water Woes

Opening Theme

Grants Awarded to Youth Organisation

Grants awarded to youth organisations by Witney Town Council. Nine organisations received funding for various youth-focused programs. Funding includes £5000 for a Scout group, £500 for sailing sessions, £2000 for cafes, and £1500 for summer activities for young people with learning disabilities. Aspire and hope after harm also received grants.

Merchant Navy Day Flag Raised

Merchant Navy Day flag raised at Witney Town Hall. Event honors merchant navy’s role during WW2. Attendees impressed by the day’s sentiment.

Firefighters Respond to August Blazes

Jill discusses a busy August for the Witney fire brigade with over 50 incidents. Witney freighters attended 51 incidents, including 17 outdoor fires. The station also provided support to neighboring stations and urged caution during hot weather.

Phone-Free Schools Initiative

Over 20 schools in Oxfordshire will become mobile phone-free zones. Funding for the initiative comes from the Thames Valley Police. The initiative aims to improve learning environments and safeguard pupils.

Prolific Burglar Jailed after Targeting Village Homes

Prolific burglar sentenced for a series of crimes in Oxfordshire. Alex Clifton received 29 months in prison for multiple burglaries and related offenses, including 8 house burglaries. He has 26 previous convictions and pleaded guilty to additional crimes such as fraud and resisting a police officer.

Elderly Person Shammed by Rogue Traders

Elderly victim targeted by rogue traders for £150 for driveway work. Police issued a warning about increased activity of scammers during warmer weather. Public advised to avoid doorstep agreements and seek multiple quotes from reputable sources.

Man Charged with Public Order Offences

A man has been charged with multiple public order offences in Oxfordshire. Ryan Bridge, a 45-year-old from Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, has faced charges including harassment through threatening behavior and racially aggravated assault. The incidents occurred between January and March 2026, leading to a CPS file and an upcoming court appearance in November.

Clarkson Angry Over Stolen Sheep

Jeremy Clarkson’s farm of easy care sheep stolen. Police investigating theft at Chadlington farm. Avid animal lover joins investigation.

Reflection with Hilary Ewing

Reflector discusses the season’s cooling temperatures. Upcoming Jewish holiday celebration: New Year and ten holy days culminating in Yom Kippur, followed by Sukkot. Bear Grills shares a bestseller audiobook about Jesus and his impact. Bear’s climb up Mount Everest post-parachute injury inspires listeners. The Greatest Story Ever Told draws from New Testament eyewitness accounts. Short chapters captivate readers and aid spiritual exploration for prisoners.

Thames Water Public Ownership Debate

Thames Water faces pressure for public control. A campaign calls for special administration due to its £20bn debt. A petition for public ownership passes debate threshold.

Burst Pipe Leaves Homes Without Water

Water supply disrupted in Witney. Bursting main pipe at Betty’s Meadow causes outage. Homes get water by afternoon.

Oxford United at Absolute Best in Win Over Foxes

Oxford United secures a 4-0 victory over Leicester City, marking a notable win for the season. Key players include Mark Harris with a brace, Mo Misanger, and Jamie McDonald. This victory after a previous defeat by Huddersfield Town puts Oxford United on 7 points after 4 games. Aaron Ramsay commended the team’s performance and adaptability in an away game.

Cotswold Classic Records

New male and female records set at Cotswold Classic Race. Jonathan Davis broke the male record by 3 minutes and 36 seconds. Natasha Roebuck set her female record by 48 seconds.

Editor’s Choice - Brightwell Gardens

Britwell Gardens highlighted as a therapeutic oasis for mental health recovery with organic gardens and open days. Britwell Gardens offers outdoor activities like gardening, cooking, and forging to support mental well-being. The 7-acre site has evolved since its introduction in 1994 and offers seasonal, diverse activities for local visitors.

Quiz

A quiz is conducted on historical events and facts from September of various years. A contestant answers questions regarding world history, treaties, significant events like the Great Fire of London, and American companies incorporated in 1998.

Noticeboard

Tim Evans passed away at age 89. Sandra Josephine Kemble passed away at age 80. Memorial services held for three individuals at St Mary’s Church, Black Bourton.

Formal Gardens Open to Dogs at Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace Gardens Open to Dogs for Autumn Season. Limited-time event from September 1st to October 4th. Dog owners can enjoy historic spaces with pets in various outdoor areas. Assistance dogs excluded from certain areas.

Royal Photography Show at Blenheim Palace

Final month major photography exhibition capturing British royal family’s relationship with photography running until September 27th at Blenheim Palace. The exhibition includes over 100 images from the Victorian era to present day, showcasing royal lives through formal portraits, candid moments, and family life. The exhibition started at Kensington Palace and is touring through Nomad Exhibitions.

Dinosaurs Are Forever Exhibition at Blenheim Palace

Dinosaurs Are Forever Exhibition showcases life-size skeletal sculptures at Blenheim Palace. J.J. Curbridge created the exhibition with Oxford University’s help. Articulated dinosaur skeletons can be repositioned for 3 months.

Free Entry to National Trust Sites

The National Trust offers free entry to historic properties across Oxfordshire, Berkshire, and Buckinghamshire as part of the Heritage Open Days festival. During the event, people can explore historic sites and learn about local stories shaping the area. Free entry to Gay’s Court, Charleston, Huendon Manor, Stow Gardens, and Aston Manor, along with various tours and events, is available.

Eatery Receives One Star Rating

Local restaurant given food hygiene rating. Inspectors visit and give A out of 5. Hygiene needs improvement. Requested staff to ensure safe food preparation.

Free Electric Blanket Checks

Residents offered free electric blanket testing in Oxford County. Tests scheduled for September and October across multiple locations. Bookings available through council office or by phone.

Hospital Patients, Praise, Privacy, and Dignity

Oxford University Hospitals praised for high patient care ratings in a national survey. Patients rated their care highly, especially privacy and dignity. Feedback points to a need for better post-hospitalization planning.

People Want to Live in a Strong Community

A national survey indicates that 75% of British residents would pay more for a strong community. The survey also reveals that 59% would vet neighbors before moving, while 94% see bad neighbors as the ultimate nightmare. Many admit to avoiding and helping neighbors due to nosy behavior, with party disruptions and nosiness being common complaints.

Goodbye!

Instructions for accessing digital audio content are provided. A reminder about service availability and a joke segment conclude the broadcast.

TNF Soundings Radio & TV Listings

A comprehensive schedule of talks, documentaries, and series on radio stations with content spanning a broad range of interests including local and international news, history, culture, and current events.