Edition #2127: Pink Days & Green Schools - Witney's Colourful News
24 September 2026
Get ready for a colourful listen, as we delve into Witney's Pink Day preparations and the town's green school projects leading the news, and there's more to explore beyond this! Let's dive in!
🎵 Opening Theme
More 20mph Village Speed Limits
Oxfordshire County Council proposes 20 mph speed limits for villages around Witney. Changes aim to enhance road safety through traffic calming measures. Residents can respond to consultation by October 16.
Zebra Crossing for Station Lane
Oxford County Council launched a consultation for a new zebra crossing on dangerous Witney Road; The proposed crossing aims to improve safety for pedestrians, following multiple incidents; Local politicians and council leaders have voiced their support for the measure.
Two Short Stories - Police E-Bike & Road Closure
Police in Witney gain a new e-bike to improve community visibility, funded by council. Local road closed for essential works on November 16th.
Two Short Stories - Speed Checks & Van Seized
Motorists warned of targeted speed checks in Rhodes due to road safety concerns. Checks begin next week at problematic locations and randomly throughout the area. Police seize uninsured van in West Oxfordshire village after checks raise suspicion.
Driver in Hospital after Three Vehicle Crash
A driver was hospitalised after a three-vehicle crash near Oxford. Serious injuries resulted from the collision involving a BMW, Mazda, and van on Sunday evening. Road closures persisted overnight and into Monday morning.
Anger at High Street Planters
Oxfordshire County Council faces backlash after altering Witney High Street project, removing above-ground planters and tree planting despite public consultation, leaving business community disappointed with project’s current state
Reflection with Richard Bowler
Richard Bowler reflects on Moses’ role as intermediary between the Lord and the Israelites, drawing parallels with peacemakers in current conflicts; Moaning staff tested Moses’ patience much like complaints against leaders today; To help others effectively, one must have trust in the Lord and self-reliance.
Face Scanning Police Camera
Over 15,000 faces scanned in Witney; One arrested; Council chair applauds proactive policing.
£3M Council Reorganisation Bill
Oxfordshire taxpayers facing £3.3m debt; £328.5m spent on paused council restructuring plans; Councils hopeful for swift review conclusion.
School Celebrates “Green House” Building
School opens new green classroom block; Rob Shadbolt credits Charlie Maynard MP for attending; Building features sustainable design elements.
Raiders Take Cash and Jewellery
Cash and jewellery stolen in West Oxfordshire burglaries; Thames Valley Police revealed break-ins at homes in Charlbury, Enstone, and Chipping Norton; Officer Wesley Smith appealed for witnesses.
Liquidators Report Pub Director
A pub director was reported to insolvency service due to non-cooperation during liquidation process of The Crown Inn, Woodstock. £200,571 debt was owed to three creditors. Creditor claims total £87,462.01, surpassing initial estimation.
Donation Boost for Medical Care Charity
Oxfordshire Medical Group gets £200 donation for medical services; funds equipment and home-bound patient care; charity relies solely on donations
❓ Quiz
This week’s quiz questions, plus the answers to last week’s quiz.
Padel Courts Application
Planning application submitted for new paddle courts in Eynsham. 5 indoor paddle courts proposed, along with parking, cafe, and changing facilities. Facility to operate on pay-as-you-play basis with 2 staff on-site at peak times.
TV Star Set to Open Pumpkin Patch
Country Fire presenter Adam Benson opens pumpkin patch this October for Halloween family fun, featuring pumpkin picking, carving, and autumn-themed activities
Editor’s Choice - On This Day
King Stephen besieged Oxford Castle in 1142, attempting to capture rival monarch Empress Matilda. The three-month siege failed as Matilda escaped disguised in a white cloak on Christmas Eve.
📌 Noticeboard
Local notices and community announcements.
Chipping Norton Mop Fair
Mock Mop Fair returned to Chipping Norton, drawing large crowds with rides and festivities over three days. Event dating back 900 years offers historic insight, serving today as a community funfair.
Waste Redirected from Landfill
Oxfordshire diverts 350 tons of waste daily from landfill. M&M Waste Solutions’ Cassington plant handles this, recycling 97% of collected materials. Manager Simon Spurgeon emphasizes the extent of the operation.
Cameron Against Trail Hunting Ban
David Cameron criticises proposed trail hunting ban, calling it ‘completely wrong’; Ban backed by Government after 184,000 responses, but countryside alliance lists 27 policies negatively impacting rural communities; Poll shows Labour could boost rural vote by resetting relationship with rural residents
Blenheim Palace Offers Private Access
Blenheim Palace launches exclusive behind-the-scenes tours. New experiences offer access to unseen rooms and personalised itineraries, including private dining and champagne sunset views (starting at £250 per person).
Town Turning PInk
Witney prepares for its 26th annual Pink Day to raise funds for breast cancer research; the event honors its late founder, Jean Chatto; this year’s celebrations include a pink car parade and live music.
Best Area to Be a Gardener
West Oxfordshire named Britain’s 4th best place to garden, with 74 public gardens and high allotment provision. Conditions vary greatly across the UK. The Isle of Wight ranks 2nd regionally and 7th nationally.
Manor Declared among Best Hotels Worldwide
Estelle Manor near North Leigh declared one of world’s top 50 hotels; Ranked 43rd, it’s the highest ranked UK hotel outside London; Cotswold landmark offers celebrity-studded accommodation.
UK First: Hand-Reared Coucal Chicks
First greater kuchel chick hand-reared in the UK at Cotswold Wildlife Park; Striking skunk-like appearance, named Skunk; Two additional chicks named Badger and Bodger also successfully raised.
👋 Goodbye!
The closing sign-off, including volunteer credits and listener information.
📻 Radio Listings
This week’s radio programme highlights provided by TNF Soundings.
📺 TV Listings
This week’s audio described TV programme highlights provided by TNF Soundings.