Faringdon- edge of the Cotswolds. Oxford 17 miles, Witney 14 miles, Burford 12 miles, Cirencester 21 miles
News and Views
Click Contact us to tell us your views, opinions and observations about local issues.
Do tell us Good News as well as being critical and please express any negative views without being rude, insulting or malicious.
Do tell us Good News as well as being critical and please express any negative views without being rude, insulting or malicious.
Archive of Talking points/News and Views from 2002.
Poster Notice Board
Films at the Regent cinema, concerts, regular activities, Citizen Advice+++
click to see current event posters
Films at the Regent cinema, concerts, regular activities, Citizen Advice+++
click to see current event posters
Longcot Village Green concerts 25/7/21 - 14/6/21
.......on the village green at 2.30pm and 5pm. Admission free.
Bring your own rugs, chairs and refreshments and come and enjoy some socially distanced live music for clarinet sextet in the Clarinet Collective’s second pair of concerts on the green! In the programme for this year are classics by Mozart, Beethoven and Gounod, also popular favourites including Runaway Rocking Horse and the Dambusters March.
Each performance will last approximately 50 minutes and will be played without an interval. ADMISSION FREE with a collection in aid of the renovation of the St. Mary’s bell tower roof, which is in urgent need of repair. In line with current government requirements places are limited and must be booked in advance.
Please email victorialmedcalf@gmail.com to make your reservation. Email contact details will be required on booking.
Faringdon Virtual Gardens Open - 14/6/21
First launched last year, Faringdon Virtual Open Gardens returns for 2021, giving Faringdon residents the chance to share images of their green spaces.
Spread the joy of gardening, send in photos of your garden so we can compile them to make a virtual tour of Faringdon’s gardens.
Small or large garden, a single bloom, window box or allotment, we would love to see what you are growing!
Get the whole family involved, it would be great to see photos from Faringdon’s Junior Gardeners, it could be cress grown in a tub, a growing sunflower, a picture made from flowers and leaves or even a mud pie!
Send your photos to adele@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk by the 31st of July 2021
Faringdon Virtual Open Gardens 2021 - Faringdon Town Council
Faringdon Community Bus Schedule - 3/6/21
See www.faringdoncommunitybus.co.uk/timetable61.htm
Walking and cycling guides- 3/6/21
I've just seen the walking and cycling guides in the Budgens car park. Very nice!
Mary Beck
Queens award for Voluntary Services - 2/6/21
We are extremely humbled and proud to announce that the Farcycles team has been awarded the Queen's Award for Voluntary Services 2021!!
This award also includes a special designation for 2021 for organisations who have provided impactful support to the community in response to the pandemic last year.
South Oxfordshire MP, David Johnston said “I visited Farcycles last year and was very impressed with their innovative model. I am absolutely delighted that they have received a Queen’s Award for Voluntary Services.The Queen’s Awards are very prestigious awards and this is welcome recognition for a local community asset that people in Faringdon very much value and something we need more of across Oxfordshire and beyond.”
We wish to give special thanks to all our Farcycles friends and to everyone involved with supporting Farcycles since its inception. We have undertaken some great projects over the last few years and have help developed a strong community of cyclists of all ages within, and around the Faringdon area.
Thank you, everyone!
Queen's Award for Voluntary Service (dcms.gov.uk)
OCF is seeking to award grants, between £5,000 and £25,000 - 30/5/21
Tackling the causes of homelessness or to support move-on housing. These will be funded from our Community Resilience Fund, set up during the pandemic. Rough sleepers were brought into emergency accommodation during the last year’s various lockdowns.
As this provision comes to an end, OCF is keen to support work that prevents a return to the streets and encourage grant applications that give longer-term support, rather than immediate relief.
Find out more and apply now>> ( https://e-oxfordshirecommunityfoundation.org/1OSY-7DVV9-LUB5YT-4G91HN-0/c.aspx )
We will fund ongoing core costs, project or programme work, and ongoing running costs that provide a demonstrable contribution towards tackling the causes of homelessness or the provision of move on housing or support. We may allocate a grant of up to £75,000 for a collaborative bid.
More information about these priorities and preferred outcomes and beneficiaries is available on the grants application page. Early applications are encouraged. Please do contact us ( ocf@oxfordshire.org ) if you have any questions.
Litter Pick Mon 31st- 29/5/21
Just a thought, but I've heard that the litter in the area behind the car park for Folly Park is building up. It was flagged by the town council, but perhaps we could have a quick litter pick there and tidy it up in the meantime.
I was going to suggest this Monday, meeting at 10.30 in the car park, I'm hoping that if we there are a few of us, we should get it done in an hour. It would be our first 'organised' pick but everyone would still be doing it at their own risk. Bring suitable clothing, footwear and equipment and have a read of the safety guidelines before coming along.
RSVP Bethia.Thomas@whitehorsedc.gov.uk we still need to be in a group of under 30 meeting outdoors.
THE COTSWOLD CHALLENGE ONLY 3 DAYS TO GO - 29/5/21
Are you a budding artist; a clever designer; a closet writer; an innovative inventor or a young entrepreneur in the making?
Then why not enter THE COTSWOLD CHALLENGE?
Categories to enter are: Art & Design; Creative Writing: Innovation and Entrepreneurial Thinking.
It’s FREE to enter and there are big cash prizes to win as well as a few extra goodies thrown in.
Top prize is £500!
What would you do with a cool £500? A new mobile phone or some new clothes? Or put it towards something you’ve always wanted, but couldn’t afford?
Who can enter? Any student who is in Year 11, 12 or 13 and attends a school or college in the Cotswolds or Swindon.
The celebrity judges this year are: Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen; Arron Crascall; Adam Henson and Dom Joly.
Closing date is: 9pm on Tuesday 6th July.
Winners will be notified on 27th July.
To enter from Tuesday 1st June, go to: www.thecotswoldchallenge.com.
Watch this informative video made by Kay Ransom Photography to find out more:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zw0xRRKJcuc.
Chowle Farm Auction – disappointing news - 26/5/21
Dear friends,
Thank you so much for your support for the project.
The auction just closed and the land was sold for £116,000, so we were outbid by a huge margin.
We're so sad about the result but so glad that you were so amazing in your response. Raising £59,000 in just a few days was truly spectacular.
It's certainly heartening to know that there are so many people who care so much for wildlife that they're willing to help a little community, sometimes from the other side of the world! We'll do what we can to work with the new owners to protect the site.
We will close the crowdfunder in a moment and your fantastic pledges will be refunded. The crowdfunder site says that refunds should be processed within 5 working days, so please keep an eye out.
Thanks again for your support. It's made us all the more determined to do what we can to make our little patch of the world greener.
Best wishes,
"Greener Great Coxwell"
Plant Sale Sat 29th, Sun 30th- 25/5/21
Saturday 10.00 - 4.00 p.m.
Sunday 12.00-4.00 p.m
Usual mix of fruit, veg and flowers
My charity is “Help for Heroes”
Fernham Rd. Almost opposite entrance to F.C.C.
Val Hudspeth
Midsummer Trash and Treasure Giveaway 19th June - 25/5/21
Outside houses in Faringdon.
Clear out your loft and take part,
and/or come and take away something useful free.
No clothes please
REUSE AND RECYCLE
Details on https://fb.me/e/1riXEqyKj
Email trashandtreasure@btinternet.com to be included on the map. No charge for this
ART UNLOCKED!- 25/5/21
Faringdon Art Society is embracing release from lockdowns with a series of workshops designed to encourage aspiring artists and re-ignite existing artists’ enthusiasm.
Basic drawing techniques, learning the secrets of 3D perspective and discovering the vitality of impressionistic watercolour are themes being explored.
Art tutor George Boyter will be in the picturesque village of Little Coxwell on 10 July 2021 to guide both beginners and those who need to pick up their drawing tools again.
Sheila Isabel Irigoyen Zozaya - artist, architect and urban designer - will lead a workshop in September covering the pesky issue of managing 3D perspective. At a location of interest yet to be revealed, participants will have the opportunity to produce a village scene that ‘looks right’!
Vibrant cascading watercolour techniques will be shared by Catherine Beale in early October. Catherine has exhibited with the Royal Watercolour Society, Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolour and is a member of Society of Women Artists. This should be a fun and colorful day for all involved!
Everyone is welcome but numbers are limited – http://www.faringdonartsociety.co.uk/upcoming-workshops.html
Scam Phone calls - 25/5/21
Scam phone calls about disconnecting internet are happening again. If you receive a call like this, hang up. If they haven’t withheld their number, you may want to contact your provider to get the number blocked. You can report scam calls to Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud and cyber crime reporting centre through their website (https://www.actionfraud.police.uk), or give them a call on 0300 123 2040. Deaf or hard of hearing callers can use the textphone number 0300 123 2050. Name supplied
Update - greener Gt Coxwell - 22/5/21
Dear friends, Thank you so much for your generous support for Greener Great Coxwell.
We're excited and daunted about the project, and we're humbled and heartened by the wonderful generosity you've shown.
It looks like the auction is going ahead on Wednesday, so we're speeding away with preparations. If we're not successful your pledges will be automatically returned. We're about to head down to the ancient woodland adjacent to the site to keep drumming up support and, with offline pledges, we're over half way there now.
If you're able to keep sharing and spreading the word, we'd be grateful!
With thanks and best wishes to all, Greener Great Coxwell
For more details see: https://www.greatcoxwell.com/.../4394.../great_coxwell_1.pdf.
To pledge support go to: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/greener-great-coxwell
Greener Great Coxwell Appeal - 21/5/21
Help Greener Great Coxwell (the Great Coxwell sustainability group) save part of the Chowle Farm (Faringdon Business Park on the A420) as a green space for conservation and wildlife.
We are raising £60k to purchase the site and turn it into a haven for nature and protect it forever.
For more details see: https://www.greatcoxwell.com/.../4394.../great_coxwell_1.pdf.
To pledge support go to: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/greener-great-coxwell
£400k + Community Infrastructure Levy for Faringdon - 21/5/21
Faringdon will receive some funding called CIL from the new developments coming to the town. The funds are set to be in excess of £400,000
Please get in touch if you have any ideas or comments.
You can email or call the Town Clerk: sally@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk 07711 424484
Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) - Faringdon Town Council
Help for Families - 21/5/21
I am reaching out to you today to tell you about the Covid Support Grant that is available to offer financial support to families in need as we ease out of lockdown. The past year has been difficult for everyone and we know that there are many families and households who are struggling to afford food and to pay their household fuel bills.
If you are aware of any families in your communities that are struggling, please ask them to contact the Community Hub. We can refer them into one of our advice centres who can offer support in the form of advice, supermarket vouchers and direct payment of utility bills.
Our contact details are: • Tel: 01235 422600 or • Email: communityconnectors@southandvale.gov.uk
They can also get in touch with advice centres direct, their contact details are:
• Citizens Advice (South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse) – 0808 278 7907
• Vale Community Impact (Vale of White Horse) – 01235 765348
Emily Knight
Re bus stops. - 21/5/21
Coxwell St has no junction with Park Road, the Fire Station stop is in Station Road.
I suspect that the Fire Station and other emergency services, not to mention other large vehicles having objections to buses staying for longer than the time it takes to drop and pickup passengers in Coxwell St. The road is very narrow there and the bus would block the road.
Greenwitch
New Town Mayor - 21/5/21
After serving many years as town mayor, Mike Wise stood down. The new Mayor is Kiera Bentley and the deputy is Liz Swallow.
`The rest of the meeting was largely about finding members and chair for the various committees, outside organisations ( eg Community Bus and Twinning ++)
Various policy documents - standing orders, complaints procedure, freedom of information ++ were confirmed as needing no amendments.
One councillor has stood down so there is now a vacancy
Ed
Bus stops when Market Place is closed- 20/5/21
Closure of Faringdon Market Place 22nd June until 1st August 2021 (24/7)
Faringdon Market Place will not be accessible between 22nd June and 1st August 2021 and during this time, buses on Services S6 will need to turn from Coxwell Street directly into Park Road.
Buses to Oxford will wait their time at the last stop in Coxwell Street and buses to Swindon will wait their time at Faringdon Fire Station bus stop, this includes the morning journey on Service 806 to Cirencester College.
ServiceUpdatesArticle | Stagecoach (stagecoachbus.com)
Le Tour de Farcycles July 17th - 20/5/21
See details on Poster Board
Advertise on this website - 20/5/21
Things are opening up, thank goodness.
I expect many organisations in the town are planning events for the Summer- hope so
I'm more than happy to post details on this website so please do send the information and maybe a poster via Contact us.
As far as am aware the Whats On is the only online list of events for Faringdon. It is in date order, so easy to look ahead at what may be happening in town.
It wholly relies on organisers to send me the information. It costs you nothing and is available to everyone without having to sign up (like Facebook etc).
Also, If you are a business or a club please would you check your entry on this website as I fear that many entries are out of date.
THANKYOU
Keep Faringdon Tidy/ Clean Poster Competition - 18/5/21
Design an eye poster to help promote our anti-litter campaign
Please send your designs to adele@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
Closing date 21st June 2021
Open to children up to 12 years old
Newsletter - 18/5/21
From David Johnson MP
New Community Lottery to launch in the Vale of White Horse next month - 18/5/21
The White Horse Community Lottery will launch in June with a special virtual event.
Organisations from the district's voluntary and community sector will be invited by the council to
attend the event on Monday 14 June to find out how they can benefit from income raised ...
You can see details on our website by clicking the link below, or pasting the web address into your browser.
https://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/vale-of-white-horse-district-council/new-community-lottery-to-launch-in-the-vale-of-white-horse-next-month/
British Legion Anniversary - 15/5/21
15 May 2021 marks the 100th anniversary of the Royal British Legion.
To mark the event the Faringdon and District branch of the RBL will be hosting a stall at the market.
Special anniversary pins will be available for donations.
Sports Grant deadline 21/5- 13/5/21
Applications for grants of £2,021, for clubs or organisations that intentionally use sport to deliver wider social outcomes and build stronger communities, are closing next Friday 21st May 2021.
Funding for this grants round has been made available from Made By Sport, a charity that raises awareness of the power of sport to change lives, and raises funds for organisations doing just that. This funding aims to create something which will leave a long-lasting, positive legacy for the future of young people.
Find out more and apply now>> ( https://e-oxfordshirecommunityfoundation.org/1OSY-7D81O-LUB5YT-4FS65U-0/c.aspx )
Made By Sport grants are for sports clubs or organisations working within the sport for development sector, which are able to demonstrate that the COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected them, either operationally or financially, and which require funding to save, resume or adapt their activity. More information about who can apply, and preferred outcomes and beneficiaries is available on the grants application page.
If you have an eligible project, please do consider applying, or contact us ( ocf@oxfordshire.org) if you have any questions.
Best regards, Simon Barnard Community Impact Analyst
British Legion 100 year anniversary- 12/5/21
See picture of display board next to Costa
Planting and Painting grant from Town Council - 11/5/21
You can see if you're eligible on Painting and Planting Grant - Faringdon Town Council
Deadlines for applications are
• 30th June 2021
• 29th September 2021
• 24th November 2021
.• 30th March 2022
This is available for business and property owners ( I assume residential) in and around the Market Sq. ( see Bursary-zone-1.png (680×480) (faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk)
.......on the village green at 2.30pm and 5pm. Admission free.
Bring your own rugs, chairs and refreshments and come and enjoy some socially distanced live music for clarinet sextet in the Clarinet Collective’s second pair of concerts on the green! In the programme for this year are classics by Mozart, Beethoven and Gounod, also popular favourites including Runaway Rocking Horse and the Dambusters March.
Each performance will last approximately 50 minutes and will be played without an interval. ADMISSION FREE with a collection in aid of the renovation of the St. Mary’s bell tower roof, which is in urgent need of repair. In line with current government requirements places are limited and must be booked in advance.
Please email victorialmedcalf@gmail.com to make your reservation. Email contact details will be required on booking.
Faringdon Virtual Gardens Open - 14/6/21
First launched last year, Faringdon Virtual Open Gardens returns for 2021, giving Faringdon residents the chance to share images of their green spaces.
Spread the joy of gardening, send in photos of your garden so we can compile them to make a virtual tour of Faringdon’s gardens.
Small or large garden, a single bloom, window box or allotment, we would love to see what you are growing!
Get the whole family involved, it would be great to see photos from Faringdon’s Junior Gardeners, it could be cress grown in a tub, a growing sunflower, a picture made from flowers and leaves or even a mud pie!
Send your photos to adele@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk by the 31st of July 2021
Faringdon Virtual Open Gardens 2021 - Faringdon Town Council
Faringdon Community Bus Schedule - 3/6/21
See www.faringdoncommunitybus.co.uk/timetable61.htm
Walking and cycling guides- 3/6/21
I've just seen the walking and cycling guides in the Budgens car park. Very nice!
Mary Beck
Queens award for Voluntary Services - 2/6/21
We are extremely humbled and proud to announce that the Farcycles team has been awarded the Queen's Award for Voluntary Services 2021!!
This award also includes a special designation for 2021 for organisations who have provided impactful support to the community in response to the pandemic last year.
South Oxfordshire MP, David Johnston said “I visited Farcycles last year and was very impressed with their innovative model. I am absolutely delighted that they have received a Queen’s Award for Voluntary Services.The Queen’s Awards are very prestigious awards and this is welcome recognition for a local community asset that people in Faringdon very much value and something we need more of across Oxfordshire and beyond.”
We wish to give special thanks to all our Farcycles friends and to everyone involved with supporting Farcycles since its inception. We have undertaken some great projects over the last few years and have help developed a strong community of cyclists of all ages within, and around the Faringdon area.
Thank you, everyone!
Queen's Award for Voluntary Service (dcms.gov.uk)
OCF is seeking to award grants, between £5,000 and £25,000 - 30/5/21
Tackling the causes of homelessness or to support move-on housing. These will be funded from our Community Resilience Fund, set up during the pandemic. Rough sleepers were brought into emergency accommodation during the last year’s various lockdowns.
As this provision comes to an end, OCF is keen to support work that prevents a return to the streets and encourage grant applications that give longer-term support, rather than immediate relief.
Find out more and apply now>> ( https://e-oxfordshirecommunityfoundation.org/1OSY-7DVV9-LUB5YT-4G91HN-0/c.aspx )
We will fund ongoing core costs, project or programme work, and ongoing running costs that provide a demonstrable contribution towards tackling the causes of homelessness or the provision of move on housing or support. We may allocate a grant of up to £75,000 for a collaborative bid.
More information about these priorities and preferred outcomes and beneficiaries is available on the grants application page. Early applications are encouraged. Please do contact us ( ocf@oxfordshire.org ) if you have any questions.
Litter Pick Mon 31st- 29/5/21
Just a thought, but I've heard that the litter in the area behind the car park for Folly Park is building up. It was flagged by the town council, but perhaps we could have a quick litter pick there and tidy it up in the meantime.
I was going to suggest this Monday, meeting at 10.30 in the car park, I'm hoping that if we there are a few of us, we should get it done in an hour. It would be our first 'organised' pick but everyone would still be doing it at their own risk. Bring suitable clothing, footwear and equipment and have a read of the safety guidelines before coming along.
RSVP Bethia.Thomas@whitehorsedc.gov.uk we still need to be in a group of under 30 meeting outdoors.
THE COTSWOLD CHALLENGE ONLY 3 DAYS TO GO - 29/5/21
Are you a budding artist; a clever designer; a closet writer; an innovative inventor or a young entrepreneur in the making?
Then why not enter THE COTSWOLD CHALLENGE?
Categories to enter are: Art & Design; Creative Writing: Innovation and Entrepreneurial Thinking.
It’s FREE to enter and there are big cash prizes to win as well as a few extra goodies thrown in.
Top prize is £500!
What would you do with a cool £500? A new mobile phone or some new clothes? Or put it towards something you’ve always wanted, but couldn’t afford?
Who can enter? Any student who is in Year 11, 12 or 13 and attends a school or college in the Cotswolds or Swindon.
The celebrity judges this year are: Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen; Arron Crascall; Adam Henson and Dom Joly.
Closing date is: 9pm on Tuesday 6th July.
Winners will be notified on 27th July.
To enter from Tuesday 1st June, go to: www.thecotswoldchallenge.com.
Watch this informative video made by Kay Ransom Photography to find out more:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zw0xRRKJcuc.
Chowle Farm Auction – disappointing news - 26/5/21
Dear friends,
Thank you so much for your support for the project.
The auction just closed and the land was sold for £116,000, so we were outbid by a huge margin.
We're so sad about the result but so glad that you were so amazing in your response. Raising £59,000 in just a few days was truly spectacular.
It's certainly heartening to know that there are so many people who care so much for wildlife that they're willing to help a little community, sometimes from the other side of the world! We'll do what we can to work with the new owners to protect the site.
We will close the crowdfunder in a moment and your fantastic pledges will be refunded. The crowdfunder site says that refunds should be processed within 5 working days, so please keep an eye out.
Thanks again for your support. It's made us all the more determined to do what we can to make our little patch of the world greener.
Best wishes,
"Greener Great Coxwell"
Plant Sale Sat 29th, Sun 30th- 25/5/21
Saturday 10.00 - 4.00 p.m.
Sunday 12.00-4.00 p.m
Usual mix of fruit, veg and flowers
My charity is “Help for Heroes”
Fernham Rd. Almost opposite entrance to F.C.C.
Val Hudspeth
Midsummer Trash and Treasure Giveaway 19th June - 25/5/21
Outside houses in Faringdon.
Clear out your loft and take part,
and/or come and take away something useful free.
No clothes please
REUSE AND RECYCLE
Details on https://fb.me/e/1riXEqyKj
Email trashandtreasure@btinternet.com to be included on the map. No charge for this
ART UNLOCKED!- 25/5/21
Faringdon Art Society is embracing release from lockdowns with a series of workshops designed to encourage aspiring artists and re-ignite existing artists’ enthusiasm.
Basic drawing techniques, learning the secrets of 3D perspective and discovering the vitality of impressionistic watercolour are themes being explored.
Art tutor George Boyter will be in the picturesque village of Little Coxwell on 10 July 2021 to guide both beginners and those who need to pick up their drawing tools again.
Sheila Isabel Irigoyen Zozaya - artist, architect and urban designer - will lead a workshop in September covering the pesky issue of managing 3D perspective. At a location of interest yet to be revealed, participants will have the opportunity to produce a village scene that ‘looks right’!
Vibrant cascading watercolour techniques will be shared by Catherine Beale in early October. Catherine has exhibited with the Royal Watercolour Society, Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolour and is a member of Society of Women Artists. This should be a fun and colorful day for all involved!
Everyone is welcome but numbers are limited – http://www.faringdonartsociety.co.uk/upcoming-workshops.html
Scam Phone calls - 25/5/21
Scam phone calls about disconnecting internet are happening again. If you receive a call like this, hang up. If they haven’t withheld their number, you may want to contact your provider to get the number blocked. You can report scam calls to Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud and cyber crime reporting centre through their website (https://www.actionfraud.police.uk), or give them a call on 0300 123 2040. Deaf or hard of hearing callers can use the textphone number 0300 123 2050. Name supplied
Update - greener Gt Coxwell - 22/5/21
Dear friends, Thank you so much for your generous support for Greener Great Coxwell.
We're excited and daunted about the project, and we're humbled and heartened by the wonderful generosity you've shown.
It looks like the auction is going ahead on Wednesday, so we're speeding away with preparations. If we're not successful your pledges will be automatically returned. We're about to head down to the ancient woodland adjacent to the site to keep drumming up support and, with offline pledges, we're over half way there now.
If you're able to keep sharing and spreading the word, we'd be grateful!
With thanks and best wishes to all, Greener Great Coxwell
For more details see: https://www.greatcoxwell.com/.../4394.../great_coxwell_1.pdf.
To pledge support go to: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/greener-great-coxwell
Greener Great Coxwell Appeal - 21/5/21
Help Greener Great Coxwell (the Great Coxwell sustainability group) save part of the Chowle Farm (Faringdon Business Park on the A420) as a green space for conservation and wildlife.
We are raising £60k to purchase the site and turn it into a haven for nature and protect it forever.
For more details see: https://www.greatcoxwell.com/.../4394.../great_coxwell_1.pdf.
To pledge support go to: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/greener-great-coxwell
£400k + Community Infrastructure Levy for Faringdon - 21/5/21
Faringdon will receive some funding called CIL from the new developments coming to the town. The funds are set to be in excess of £400,000
Please get in touch if you have any ideas or comments.
You can email or call the Town Clerk: sally@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk 07711 424484
Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) - Faringdon Town Council
Help for Families - 21/5/21
I am reaching out to you today to tell you about the Covid Support Grant that is available to offer financial support to families in need as we ease out of lockdown. The past year has been difficult for everyone and we know that there are many families and households who are struggling to afford food and to pay their household fuel bills.
If you are aware of any families in your communities that are struggling, please ask them to contact the Community Hub. We can refer them into one of our advice centres who can offer support in the form of advice, supermarket vouchers and direct payment of utility bills.
Our contact details are: • Tel: 01235 422600 or • Email: communityconnectors@southandvale.gov.uk
They can also get in touch with advice centres direct, their contact details are:
• Citizens Advice (South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse) – 0808 278 7907
• Vale Community Impact (Vale of White Horse) – 01235 765348
Emily Knight
Re bus stops. - 21/5/21
Coxwell St has no junction with Park Road, the Fire Station stop is in Station Road.
I suspect that the Fire Station and other emergency services, not to mention other large vehicles having objections to buses staying for longer than the time it takes to drop and pickup passengers in Coxwell St. The road is very narrow there and the bus would block the road.
Greenwitch
New Town Mayor - 21/5/21
After serving many years as town mayor, Mike Wise stood down. The new Mayor is Kiera Bentley and the deputy is Liz Swallow.
`The rest of the meeting was largely about finding members and chair for the various committees, outside organisations ( eg Community Bus and Twinning ++)
Various policy documents - standing orders, complaints procedure, freedom of information ++ were confirmed as needing no amendments.
One councillor has stood down so there is now a vacancy
Ed
Bus stops when Market Place is closed- 20/5/21
Closure of Faringdon Market Place 22nd June until 1st August 2021 (24/7)
Faringdon Market Place will not be accessible between 22nd June and 1st August 2021 and during this time, buses on Services S6 will need to turn from Coxwell Street directly into Park Road.
Buses to Oxford will wait their time at the last stop in Coxwell Street and buses to Swindon will wait their time at Faringdon Fire Station bus stop, this includes the morning journey on Service 806 to Cirencester College.
ServiceUpdatesArticle | Stagecoach (stagecoachbus.com)
Le Tour de Farcycles July 17th - 20/5/21
See details on Poster Board
Advertise on this website - 20/5/21
Things are opening up, thank goodness.
I expect many organisations in the town are planning events for the Summer- hope so
I'm more than happy to post details on this website so please do send the information and maybe a poster via Contact us.
As far as am aware the Whats On is the only online list of events for Faringdon. It is in date order, so easy to look ahead at what may be happening in town.
It wholly relies on organisers to send me the information. It costs you nothing and is available to everyone without having to sign up (like Facebook etc).
Also, If you are a business or a club please would you check your entry on this website as I fear that many entries are out of date.
THANKYOU
Keep Faringdon Tidy/ Clean Poster Competition - 18/5/21
Design an eye poster to help promote our anti-litter campaign
Please send your designs to adele@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
Closing date 21st June 2021
Open to children up to 12 years old
Newsletter - 18/5/21
From David Johnson MP
New Community Lottery to launch in the Vale of White Horse next month - 18/5/21
The White Horse Community Lottery will launch in June with a special virtual event.
Organisations from the district's voluntary and community sector will be invited by the council to
attend the event on Monday 14 June to find out how they can benefit from income raised ...
You can see details on our website by clicking the link below, or pasting the web address into your browser.
https://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/vale-of-white-horse-district-council/new-community-lottery-to-launch-in-the-vale-of-white-horse-next-month/
British Legion Anniversary - 15/5/21
15 May 2021 marks the 100th anniversary of the Royal British Legion.
To mark the event the Faringdon and District branch of the RBL will be hosting a stall at the market.
Special anniversary pins will be available for donations.
Sports Grant deadline 21/5- 13/5/21
Applications for grants of £2,021, for clubs or organisations that intentionally use sport to deliver wider social outcomes and build stronger communities, are closing next Friday 21st May 2021.
Funding for this grants round has been made available from Made By Sport, a charity that raises awareness of the power of sport to change lives, and raises funds for organisations doing just that. This funding aims to create something which will leave a long-lasting, positive legacy for the future of young people.
Find out more and apply now>> ( https://e-oxfordshirecommunityfoundation.org/1OSY-7D81O-LUB5YT-4FS65U-0/c.aspx )
Made By Sport grants are for sports clubs or organisations working within the sport for development sector, which are able to demonstrate that the COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected them, either operationally or financially, and which require funding to save, resume or adapt their activity. More information about who can apply, and preferred outcomes and beneficiaries is available on the grants application page.
If you have an eligible project, please do consider applying, or contact us ( ocf@oxfordshire.org) if you have any questions.
Best regards, Simon Barnard Community Impact Analyst
British Legion 100 year anniversary- 12/5/21
See picture of display board next to Costa
Planting and Painting grant from Town Council - 11/5/21
You can see if you're eligible on Painting and Planting Grant - Faringdon Town Council
Deadlines for applications are
• 30th June 2021
• 29th September 2021
• 24th November 2021
.• 30th March 2022
This is available for business and property owners ( I assume residential) in and around the Market Sq. ( see Bursary-zone-1.png (680×480) (faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk)
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Police and Crime Commissioner election 2021 Matthew Barber (Conservative) - 267,404 Laetisia Carter (Labour) - 175,123 John Howson (Liberal Democrats) - 110,072 Alan Robinson (Independent) - 77,210 |
The Pursuit of Love.... Sun 9th BBC1 9pm - 9/5/21
.... 1920s Oxfordshire....
Nancy Mitford was a frequent visitor to Faringdon House, and the character Lord Merlin (Andrew Scott) is essentially our very own Lord Berners!
In other words, not to be missed....
Bowls- The club is reopening - 8/5/21
If you have ever fancied taking up bowling then this is your opportunity.
Faringdon Bowling Club will be open each afternoon over the Spring Bank Holiday Weekend, 28th – 31st, May, for you to come along to have a go. There will be a number of activities including a Family Fun Day on Monday 31st, May. You’re invited to bring a picnic.
Bowls is a game for all ages so everyone is welcome. Coaching and equipment will be provided. You just have to wear flat soled shoes/trainers
For further details please contact our Club Secretary, Trevor Durrant Tel: 07851 875818 or email trevor.durrant1@ntlworld.com
Faringdon Bowling Club, Gravel Walk, FARINGDON, SN7 7JN
Annual Town Meeting 5th May - Town Council- ONLINE- 4/5/21
Reports for the meeting and the Agenda can be found on the link below.
faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk (scroll down the Home page. Look under meetings)
There are many things being researched/discussed by FTC- I'm hoping there will be updates in the various reports or verbally
Tesco recycling point at Tesco in Faringdon - 3/5/21
Tesco to launch UK’s biggest network of recycling points for soft plastic - Tesco PLC
Tesco has begun rolling out soft plastic recycling points to 171 stores in the South West of England and Wales with plans to roll out to all large stores nationwide. This will be the first time that the UK has had a network of collection points of this size dedicated to the collection of soft plastic. Most councils don’t collect soft plastic from homes for recycling and it therefore often goes to landfill.
The collection points will enable customers to return all their previously unrecycled soft plastic, regardless of where they bought it,
including cling film, pet food pouches and crisp packets
to recycling points at their local store, rather than having to throw it away.
Once collected, the old soft plastic is sent for recycling where it is washed, sorted and processed before being turned into new packaging. It will be used into pack items such as food, household and beauty products.
The roll out follows an extremely successful 10-store trial where customers responded positively, returning more than 10 times the expected amount of plastic. The material has already been used to produce food-grade packaging for a selection of Tesco cheeses.
The most common items to be returned during the trial were:
Training in First Aid for Youth Mental Health- 3/5/21
Free training is being offered being offered by Activate training in First Aid for Youth Mental Health.
The attached flyer for full details.
It will be delivered by a registered nurse and is fully certified, so attendees will receive a certificate upon completion of the course stating that they are a qualified Youth Mental Health First Aider. Activate are offering 2 sets of course dates and times in the near future to cater for different needs. The whole course is delivered and assessed online.
When enrolled to the course the participants are sent a link to join the course on MS Teams where they will be part of live delivered sessions, with some short tasks set between lessons.
Each lesson lasts a maximum of an hour.
Late afternoon May course: All sessions delivered 3.45pm - 4.45pm. Thu 13 May Mon 17 May Thu 20 May Mon 24 May Thu 27 May
One individual assessment session to be booked upon completion.
Evening May - June course: All sessions running 7.30pm - 8.30pm.
Long break between sessions 2 and 3 to avoid half term week. Mon 24 May Thu 27 May Mon 7 June Thu 10 June Mon 14 June
For anyone wishing to enrol the next steps would be as follows:
1) Email Jon.Childs@ActivateLearning.ac.uk to express your interest, and he will email you an enrolment form along with a secure onedrive folder.
2) Complete and upload the form, along with some copies of ID, into the folder. These will be specified when you declare your interest. The ID is required for us to evidence who we are claiming funding for, enabling us to offer the course free of charge.
3) Once this is all received and checked we confirm your enrolment and send a course manual to you.
4) Close to the course start a link is emailed to you with final joining instructions to join the first session.
Grants for Food in the School holidays - 3/5/21
The Department for Education (DfE) is providing funding to local authorities to coordinate a programme that provides healthy food and enriching activities to disadvantaged children during the 2021 Easter, Summer and Christmas Holidays.
We are seeking to engage with a wide network of community-based organisations, including existing holiday care providers, schools, childminders, sports coaching, creative and performing arts providers and many others. Healthy meals must also be provided, and each activity session must last for a minimum of four hours a day, for at least four days a week for:
More information on https://fisd.oxfordshire.gov.uk/kb5/oxfordshire/directory/advice.page?id=A0ik14-2Roo
.... 1920s Oxfordshire....
Nancy Mitford was a frequent visitor to Faringdon House, and the character Lord Merlin (Andrew Scott) is essentially our very own Lord Berners!
In other words, not to be missed....
Bowls- The club is reopening - 8/5/21
If you have ever fancied taking up bowling then this is your opportunity.
Faringdon Bowling Club will be open each afternoon over the Spring Bank Holiday Weekend, 28th – 31st, May, for you to come along to have a go. There will be a number of activities including a Family Fun Day on Monday 31st, May. You’re invited to bring a picnic.
Bowls is a game for all ages so everyone is welcome. Coaching and equipment will be provided. You just have to wear flat soled shoes/trainers
For further details please contact our Club Secretary, Trevor Durrant Tel: 07851 875818 or email trevor.durrant1@ntlworld.com
Faringdon Bowling Club, Gravel Walk, FARINGDON, SN7 7JN
Annual Town Meeting 5th May - Town Council- ONLINE- 4/5/21
Reports for the meeting and the Agenda can be found on the link below.
faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk (scroll down the Home page. Look under meetings)
There are many things being researched/discussed by FTC- I'm hoping there will be updates in the various reports or verbally
Tesco recycling point at Tesco in Faringdon - 3/5/21
Tesco to launch UK’s biggest network of recycling points for soft plastic - Tesco PLC
Tesco has begun rolling out soft plastic recycling points to 171 stores in the South West of England and Wales with plans to roll out to all large stores nationwide. This will be the first time that the UK has had a network of collection points of this size dedicated to the collection of soft plastic. Most councils don’t collect soft plastic from homes for recycling and it therefore often goes to landfill.
The collection points will enable customers to return all their previously unrecycled soft plastic, regardless of where they bought it,
including cling film, pet food pouches and crisp packets
to recycling points at their local store, rather than having to throw it away.
Once collected, the old soft plastic is sent for recycling where it is washed, sorted and processed before being turned into new packaging. It will be used into pack items such as food, household and beauty products.
The roll out follows an extremely successful 10-store trial where customers responded positively, returning more than 10 times the expected amount of plastic. The material has already been used to produce food-grade packaging for a selection of Tesco cheeses.
The most common items to be returned during the trial were:
- Bread bags
- Fruit and vegetable packaging
- Crisp packets
- Salad bags
- Baby and pet food pouches
Training in First Aid for Youth Mental Health- 3/5/21
Free training is being offered being offered by Activate training in First Aid for Youth Mental Health.
The attached flyer for full details.
It will be delivered by a registered nurse and is fully certified, so attendees will receive a certificate upon completion of the course stating that they are a qualified Youth Mental Health First Aider. Activate are offering 2 sets of course dates and times in the near future to cater for different needs. The whole course is delivered and assessed online.
When enrolled to the course the participants are sent a link to join the course on MS Teams where they will be part of live delivered sessions, with some short tasks set between lessons.
Each lesson lasts a maximum of an hour.
Late afternoon May course: All sessions delivered 3.45pm - 4.45pm. Thu 13 May Mon 17 May Thu 20 May Mon 24 May Thu 27 May
One individual assessment session to be booked upon completion.
Evening May - June course: All sessions running 7.30pm - 8.30pm.
Long break between sessions 2 and 3 to avoid half term week. Mon 24 May Thu 27 May Mon 7 June Thu 10 June Mon 14 June
For anyone wishing to enrol the next steps would be as follows:
1) Email Jon.Childs@ActivateLearning.ac.uk to express your interest, and he will email you an enrolment form along with a secure onedrive folder.
2) Complete and upload the form, along with some copies of ID, into the folder. These will be specified when you declare your interest. The ID is required for us to evidence who we are claiming funding for, enabling us to offer the course free of charge.
3) Once this is all received and checked we confirm your enrolment and send a course manual to you.
4) Close to the course start a link is emailed to you with final joining instructions to join the first session.
Grants for Food in the School holidays - 3/5/21
The Department for Education (DfE) is providing funding to local authorities to coordinate a programme that provides healthy food and enriching activities to disadvantaged children during the 2021 Easter, Summer and Christmas Holidays.
We are seeking to engage with a wide network of community-based organisations, including existing holiday care providers, schools, childminders, sports coaching, creative and performing arts providers and many others. Healthy meals must also be provided, and each activity session must last for a minimum of four hours a day, for at least four days a week for:
- four weeks in the summer, and
- a week at Christmas
More information on https://fisd.oxfordshire.gov.uk/kb5/oxfordshire/directory/advice.page?id=A0ik14-2Roo
Annual Town Meeting 5th May - Town Council- ONLINE- 29/4/21
The committees and various organisations will be providing reports- I assume for us to see before the meeting.
The link to join the online meeting can be found in the Agendas pack on https://www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/annual-town-meeting-5th-may-2021/
There are many things being researched/discussed by FTC- I'm hoping there will be updates in the various reports or verbally
The committees and various organisations will be providing reports- I assume for us to see before the meeting.
The link to join the online meeting can be found in the Agendas pack on https://www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/annual-town-meeting-5th-may-2021/
There are many things being researched/discussed by FTC- I'm hoping there will be updates in the various reports or verbally
FTC activities |
VWHDC and Oxford County Council |
CIL working party update Town regeneration working party update Covid recovery working party update Climate Change working party Wilderness plan Town Park Eagle Park Town Welcome sign replacement Phone Box Canada Lane Old Town Hall- what is being done Town Park Fitness project Litter, recycle sculpture, Dog Poo campaign Community Wardens Opening venues- plan Christmas lights- new |
20 mph limit- where are we Civil Parking enforcement- where are we Folly Park - entrance, bridge, woodland Park Road resurface- when Market Sq pavement resurface- materials, extent, date Leisure money ( formerly for Wantage Leisure Centre)- how will it be spent Gt Coxwell junction Park Road trees Faringdon Library refurbishment |
Housebuilder challenges children with design competition - 29/4/21
Children at a Faringdon nursery crafted their very own homes for a competition run by a local housebuilder.
Bellway invited children at Annabelle’s Nursery in Great Coxwell to design their ideal home, with prizes on offer for the most outstanding creations. A captivating collection of drawings and models were then submitted by the children.
Emily Crabtree, Emily Ainsworth and Sage Verdier were declared the winners for their house designs. Each received a prize, with Bellway also donating £150 to the nursery.
Carissa Pellegrini, a staff member of Annabelle’s Nursery, said: “The competition was a great opportunity for the children to show their creative skills and they thoroughly enjoyed designing their own homes. I’d like to thank Bellway for organising the competition and enabling the children to have this fulfilling and rewarding experience. “We are also grateful for the donation made to support the nursery – we plan to use the funds to purchase new learning materials for the children.” Bellway is building a range of one to five-bedroom homes at Fern Hill Gardens, off Coxwell Road, less than a mile from Annabelle’s Nursery on Great Coxwell Road.
Update on blister pack collection just for info! - 29/4/21
Blister packs are now being collected at KB/Southmoor, Hinton Waldrist, Wantage, Stanford, Faringdon, and Shrivenham/Watchfield!
At this rate we're going to need a van to get them to Morrisons in Swindon! May need to rethink once we see how much bulk this is going to create!!!
Absolutely great that people are getting on board with this
Coleen
Tuckers Nursery during WW2 - 27/4/21
I've been sent photos of the nursery when it was being used to provide food during the war.
Thanks to Bill Ashby. See Photos and Maps page
The Town Park Fitness Project starting from 1st of May.- 26/4/21
The programme offers different activities every week including Pilates, Yoga, Body workout , children boot camp etc.
The classes will be suitable for all abilities and will take place on the lawn of the Town Park, near Faringdon Library in all weathers, so be prepared!
Car Park: Gloucester Street car park and Southampton Street car park are nearby offering first 2 hrs free.
Days/Times: Saturday mornings , different classes- 9.30 am-13:30 pm
Location: Town Park, Behind the Library, Regent Mews in Faringdon
Pay per Class: FREE
How to Book: ONLINE ONLY ON EVENTBRITE. REGISTER HERE
Volunteers wanted - British Heart Foundation - 22/4/21
Volunteer to get back out in the community, regain some confidence and be part of a friendly team! Wantage British Heart Foundation Furniture store is looking for volunteers for flexible shifts across the week to help with phone & administration/ shop floor sales/ or warehouse roles.
If you want to gain experience and confidence, meet new people and be part of a friendly team, come and join the Wantage store!
By volunteering a few hours a week, you’ll help us save lives and do your bit for the planet.
Please contact the Manager, Dan, on 01235 605370 or email w80@bhf.org.uk for more information.
Plant Giveaway - 20/4/21
Map and list of locations on Poster Board
Faringdon Library Now Open - 17/4/21
Tue & Fri 10-1, 2-5
Faringdon Town Council - 18/4/21
No online meetings allowed after 21/6 ( unless government changes rules) Hybrid meetings need legislation change ( and technology)
May 2021 elections- 18/4/21
Oxford County Council Microsoft Word - OCC Statement of Persons Nominated Faringdon whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
Police Commissioner 2021 Choose My Police and Crime Commissioner (choosemypcc.org.uk)
Volunteer Inn Planning approved - 18/4/21
Application No : P20/V3241/LB
Alterations, extension to and change of use of ground floor of former public house from Class A4 use to Class C3 residential use (2 No apartments),
alterations to first and second floor apartment to create 2 No apartments, construction of detached two-storey building to the rear comprising 2 no
apartments with associated car-parking, cycle and refuse/recycling storage
Amended plans rec 16 March 2021 to show Alterations to ground floor plans to provide one commercial Class E unit and thereby a reduction in total number of residential units from 6 to 5.)
Community Bus Time table - 17/4/21
Community bus timetable is running on Tuesday and Fridays from 9.02am till 11.15am .
The early school service at 8.23 is still not in service
For more information please visit: http://www.faringdoncommunitybus.co.uk/
Pill Blister packs collected for recycling at Acacia Charity Shop- 17/4/21
Fiona Hammond at Acacia UK has kindly agreed to collect blister packs for recycling, in fact she had already started!
Just call in and leave them with her. They will be collected from her either when she has no more room, or every 4-6 weeks for a mass recycle!
The blister packs can be for *any* tablets or capsules including those for animal use.
The only requirement is that they *do not* have any medication left in them.
Thanks all, and happy recycling!
See The Medicine Packet Recycling Programme | TerraCycle® UK · TerraCycle
Whats On events - 14/4/21
If you want to spread the word about your activities and events beyond Facebook. send me the details and if you have one, a poster (jpg)
Details of your event will be posted on the Whats On Calendar and the poster on the Noticeboard.
Use the Contact us form top right of each page
As far as I know this is the only list of events in date order that is produced. The more complete it is, the better
Ed
Covid vaccinations - 14/4/21
For uptodate information about the local vaccination clinic see the News page on The White Horse Practice website
Love to Sing Course - June 2021- 11/4/21
Do you love to sing? Would you like to try something new this year?
Harmony InSpires, the all-female a Cappella chorus based in Marcham (near Abingdon, Oxfordshire) invites women of all ages and all levels of experience to join a FREE online 'Love to Sing' course over three evenings on 2nd, 9th and 16th June.
No need to read music as we provide teach tracks to help you learn as you sing along!
For more details email lovetosing@harmonyinspires.org
or visit www.harmonyinspires.org
More houses off Coxwell Road - 11/4/21
Cant believe that planning permission is sought after to build more houses on coxwell rd on steeds farm.
That field is home to birds nests every year. It is such a shame.
Carran Quirk
Ed: VWHDC refused permission. An appeal hearing will be heard from 27th April. If you want to listen/watch Quote APP/V3120/W/20/3264500 and contact ALISON.DYSON@planninginspectorate.gov.uk
FAAAZE - Social Club for young people with Special Needs - 8/4/21
The Club is for anyone with a disability between the ages of 11 and 25 years with the aim of providing a safe social environment for young people to meet and encourage the development of their independence, social and life skills.
The Club meets every Wednesday during term time 4.00pm-5.30pm at the Faringdon Baptist Church.
For more information contact: secretary@faaaze.org or www.faaaze.org.
Top marks to Faringdon’s vaccination team. - 8/4/21
Everything went as smooth as clockwork - and congratulations to whoever chose the background mood music!
Coincidentally, with the needle going in, the speakers played “Don’t worry, be happy’ While in the rest area after the job, I heard “I will survive”. So far I have.
Surely a deliberate (and inspired) choice of music, but the prefect timing to my own jab must be a coincidence!!
Tony Tarry
NEW Crafty Crew Summer workshops - 8/4/21
www.thepumphouseproject.org.uk/event/the-crafty-crew/2021-04-21/
My name is Katie Pitts and I am going to be taking on the role of Crafty Crew Co-ordinator from 1st April.
For now I will see you all on Zoom but I very much look forward to meeting you all when we can get back into the venue and have some much needed tea and cake! Katie. X
New Summer workshops here at The Crafty Crew, there are quite a few this term.
10 Different Crafts for you to get involved in.
Please book all workshops by Friday April 16th. Booking is open by emailing
All workshops are on Zoom on Weds 10am – 12pm.
Once your place has been confirmed you can pick up a kit for the Zoom session from The Pump House Project.
Kits can be collected from TPHP every FRIDAY ONLY between 1-2pm, from 23rd April – 21st May.
It's £2 per kit, this is the minimum donation, so if you feel you would like to give more, please do as everything goes back into helping the Crafty crew.
Please put the Money in an envelope with your name and the name of the workshop/s on it.
Please open the kits in advance to check if you need to pre prepare anything and to check you have all the tools and materials you are required to provide.
Confidence Bike rides - 5/4/21
Sunday Morning
Starting Sunday April 11th 11.30-13.00
Meet Southampton St Car Park, Faringdon
How to Book: Google Let's Ride - Confidence Ride
Or email – cycle@farcycles.org or phone – 0790 040 3954
Need motivation or help to get back on your bike? Try joining our supervised rides.
Everyone worries they won’t manage – but they all do.
We make sure you have the basic bike skills and build up your confidence before we take you on quiet country roads. You learn to ride safely on your own and in a group. Best of all, it’s great fun.
‘I hadn’t ridden a bike since I was 7, and after this course I am confidently riding my bike at Uni – thank you’ Anna (19)
‘my family bought me a new bike, and I felt very nervous about changing gears and getting back on the road. This course really helped me’ Alison (65+)
‘I hadn’t ridden since I was 6, and was really wobbly, and had never ever cycled in traffic. I wanted to cycle to the local shops…. and now I do’ Liz (30+)
A new community lottery is coming to the Vale of White Horse - 4/4/21
Description: Local charities and good causes in the Vale of White Horse will soon be able to get a funding boost from a brand-new community lottery being launched by the district council this summer. The forthcoming new White Horse Community Lottery will allow players to choose which local charity their money benefits. Similar community lotteries elsewhere ..
You can see details on our website by clicking the link below, or pasting the web address into your browser.
https://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/vale-of-white-horse-district-council/a-new-community-lottery-is-coming-to-the-vale-of-white-horse/
Community & Partnerships meeting 31/3/21. Notes - 3/4/21
Chaired by Bethia Thomas
1 Budgets
Terms of reference changed. Fund raising has been separated from the Steering Group responsibilities.
3 Community Engagement
Suggested by Churches together Earth & Faith Group. The aim is to encourage people to plant trees in their gardens. Trees and advice will be provided.
FTC support this project and will help with publicity.
5 Food Bank a success. Community Larder and fridge being investigated.
6 Martin Gillett of Oxford Play Association will be forming a Junior Youth club (10-13) , to meet once a week in Faringdon. Venue/dates/times to be arranged after discussion with young people. OCC will provide £7.5k. FTC agreed to fund the remaining £7.5k.
Suggestion to ask Faringdon United Charities for a contribution was not taken up.
7 Community Wardens
Sessions to be arranged on Saturday mornings. Adults and Children. From May
These notes are created from following the meeting online. Some subjects discussed were based on reports and information provided to Councillors. These are not available to residents either before or after the meeting.
Ed
ENORMOUS Plant Giveaway 24th & 25th April - 1/4/21
Shrubs, trees, bedding, seedlings
This is organised by Churches Together Earth & Faith Group
If anyone would like to put some spare plants outside their gate that weekend, let Dave Headey know and your location will be advertised on a map of the "trail" nearer the time.
You can contact Dave on faringdonplants@btinternet.com.
Anyone can walk round and take anything they'd like. There's no cash involved, no charity being collected for (though of course feel free to make a donation to a charity of your choice if you find something you consider a "bargain"); it's just a way of making Faringdon a little bit greener.
Julia Burn
Children at a Faringdon nursery crafted their very own homes for a competition run by a local housebuilder.
Bellway invited children at Annabelle’s Nursery in Great Coxwell to design their ideal home, with prizes on offer for the most outstanding creations. A captivating collection of drawings and models were then submitted by the children.
Emily Crabtree, Emily Ainsworth and Sage Verdier were declared the winners for their house designs. Each received a prize, with Bellway also donating £150 to the nursery.
Carissa Pellegrini, a staff member of Annabelle’s Nursery, said: “The competition was a great opportunity for the children to show their creative skills and they thoroughly enjoyed designing their own homes. I’d like to thank Bellway for organising the competition and enabling the children to have this fulfilling and rewarding experience. “We are also grateful for the donation made to support the nursery – we plan to use the funds to purchase new learning materials for the children.” Bellway is building a range of one to five-bedroom homes at Fern Hill Gardens, off Coxwell Road, less than a mile from Annabelle’s Nursery on Great Coxwell Road.
Update on blister pack collection just for info! - 29/4/21
Blister packs are now being collected at KB/Southmoor, Hinton Waldrist, Wantage, Stanford, Faringdon, and Shrivenham/Watchfield!
At this rate we're going to need a van to get them to Morrisons in Swindon! May need to rethink once we see how much bulk this is going to create!!!
Absolutely great that people are getting on board with this
Coleen
Tuckers Nursery during WW2 - 27/4/21
I've been sent photos of the nursery when it was being used to provide food during the war.
Thanks to Bill Ashby. See Photos and Maps page
The Town Park Fitness Project starting from 1st of May.- 26/4/21
The programme offers different activities every week including Pilates, Yoga, Body workout , children boot camp etc.
The classes will be suitable for all abilities and will take place on the lawn of the Town Park, near Faringdon Library in all weathers, so be prepared!
Car Park: Gloucester Street car park and Southampton Street car park are nearby offering first 2 hrs free.
Days/Times: Saturday mornings , different classes- 9.30 am-13:30 pm
Location: Town Park, Behind the Library, Regent Mews in Faringdon
Pay per Class: FREE
How to Book: ONLINE ONLY ON EVENTBRITE. REGISTER HERE
Volunteers wanted - British Heart Foundation - 22/4/21
Volunteer to get back out in the community, regain some confidence and be part of a friendly team! Wantage British Heart Foundation Furniture store is looking for volunteers for flexible shifts across the week to help with phone & administration/ shop floor sales/ or warehouse roles.
If you want to gain experience and confidence, meet new people and be part of a friendly team, come and join the Wantage store!
By volunteering a few hours a week, you’ll help us save lives and do your bit for the planet.
Please contact the Manager, Dan, on 01235 605370 or email w80@bhf.org.uk for more information.
Plant Giveaway - 20/4/21
Map and list of locations on Poster Board
Faringdon Library Now Open - 17/4/21
Tue & Fri 10-1, 2-5
Faringdon Town Council - 18/4/21
No online meetings allowed after 21/6 ( unless government changes rules) Hybrid meetings need legislation change ( and technology)
- Town Meeting (Online) Join Annual Town Meeting 5th May 2021 - Faringdon Town Council
- 20/5/21 Annual Council Meeting in Corn Exchange- restricted numbers ( 38 only allowed in Corn Exchange)
- 11/6/21 FTC meeting Election of Mayor, Committee chairs
May 2021 elections- 18/4/21
Oxford County Council Microsoft Word - OCC Statement of Persons Nominated Faringdon whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
Police Commissioner 2021 Choose My Police and Crime Commissioner (choosemypcc.org.uk)
Volunteer Inn Planning approved - 18/4/21
Application No : P20/V3241/LB
Alterations, extension to and change of use of ground floor of former public house from Class A4 use to Class C3 residential use (2 No apartments),
alterations to first and second floor apartment to create 2 No apartments, construction of detached two-storey building to the rear comprising 2 no
apartments with associated car-parking, cycle and refuse/recycling storage
Amended plans rec 16 March 2021 to show Alterations to ground floor plans to provide one commercial Class E unit and thereby a reduction in total number of residential units from 6 to 5.)
Community Bus Time table - 17/4/21
Community bus timetable is running on Tuesday and Fridays from 9.02am till 11.15am .
The early school service at 8.23 is still not in service
For more information please visit: http://www.faringdoncommunitybus.co.uk/
Pill Blister packs collected for recycling at Acacia Charity Shop- 17/4/21
Fiona Hammond at Acacia UK has kindly agreed to collect blister packs for recycling, in fact she had already started!
Just call in and leave them with her. They will be collected from her either when she has no more room, or every 4-6 weeks for a mass recycle!
The blister packs can be for *any* tablets or capsules including those for animal use.
The only requirement is that they *do not* have any medication left in them.
Thanks all, and happy recycling!
See The Medicine Packet Recycling Programme | TerraCycle® UK · TerraCycle
Whats On events - 14/4/21
If you want to spread the word about your activities and events beyond Facebook. send me the details and if you have one, a poster (jpg)
Details of your event will be posted on the Whats On Calendar and the poster on the Noticeboard.
Use the Contact us form top right of each page
As far as I know this is the only list of events in date order that is produced. The more complete it is, the better
Ed
Covid vaccinations - 14/4/21
For uptodate information about the local vaccination clinic see the News page on The White Horse Practice website
Love to Sing Course - June 2021- 11/4/21
Do you love to sing? Would you like to try something new this year?
Harmony InSpires, the all-female a Cappella chorus based in Marcham (near Abingdon, Oxfordshire) invites women of all ages and all levels of experience to join a FREE online 'Love to Sing' course over three evenings on 2nd, 9th and 16th June.
No need to read music as we provide teach tracks to help you learn as you sing along!
For more details email lovetosing@harmonyinspires.org
or visit www.harmonyinspires.org
More houses off Coxwell Road - 11/4/21
Cant believe that planning permission is sought after to build more houses on coxwell rd on steeds farm.
That field is home to birds nests every year. It is such a shame.
Carran Quirk
Ed: VWHDC refused permission. An appeal hearing will be heard from 27th April. If you want to listen/watch Quote APP/V3120/W/20/3264500 and contact ALISON.DYSON@planninginspectorate.gov.uk
FAAAZE - Social Club for young people with Special Needs - 8/4/21
The Club is for anyone with a disability between the ages of 11 and 25 years with the aim of providing a safe social environment for young people to meet and encourage the development of their independence, social and life skills.
The Club meets every Wednesday during term time 4.00pm-5.30pm at the Faringdon Baptist Church.
For more information contact: secretary@faaaze.org or www.faaaze.org.
Top marks to Faringdon’s vaccination team. - 8/4/21
Everything went as smooth as clockwork - and congratulations to whoever chose the background mood music!
Coincidentally, with the needle going in, the speakers played “Don’t worry, be happy’ While in the rest area after the job, I heard “I will survive”. So far I have.
Surely a deliberate (and inspired) choice of music, but the prefect timing to my own jab must be a coincidence!!
Tony Tarry
NEW Crafty Crew Summer workshops - 8/4/21
www.thepumphouseproject.org.uk/event/the-crafty-crew/2021-04-21/
My name is Katie Pitts and I am going to be taking on the role of Crafty Crew Co-ordinator from 1st April.
For now I will see you all on Zoom but I very much look forward to meeting you all when we can get back into the venue and have some much needed tea and cake! Katie. X
New Summer workshops here at The Crafty Crew, there are quite a few this term.
10 Different Crafts for you to get involved in.
Please book all workshops by Friday April 16th. Booking is open by emailing
All workshops are on Zoom on Weds 10am – 12pm.
Once your place has been confirmed you can pick up a kit for the Zoom session from The Pump House Project.
Kits can be collected from TPHP every FRIDAY ONLY between 1-2pm, from 23rd April – 21st May.
It's £2 per kit, this is the minimum donation, so if you feel you would like to give more, please do as everything goes back into helping the Crafty crew.
Please put the Money in an envelope with your name and the name of the workshop/s on it.
Please open the kits in advance to check if you need to pre prepare anything and to check you have all the tools and materials you are required to provide.
Confidence Bike rides - 5/4/21
Sunday Morning
Starting Sunday April 11th 11.30-13.00
Meet Southampton St Car Park, Faringdon
How to Book: Google Let's Ride - Confidence Ride
Or email – cycle@farcycles.org or phone – 0790 040 3954
Need motivation or help to get back on your bike? Try joining our supervised rides.
Everyone worries they won’t manage – but they all do.
We make sure you have the basic bike skills and build up your confidence before we take you on quiet country roads. You learn to ride safely on your own and in a group. Best of all, it’s great fun.
‘I hadn’t ridden a bike since I was 7, and after this course I am confidently riding my bike at Uni – thank you’ Anna (19)
‘my family bought me a new bike, and I felt very nervous about changing gears and getting back on the road. This course really helped me’ Alison (65+)
‘I hadn’t ridden since I was 6, and was really wobbly, and had never ever cycled in traffic. I wanted to cycle to the local shops…. and now I do’ Liz (30+)
A new community lottery is coming to the Vale of White Horse - 4/4/21
Description: Local charities and good causes in the Vale of White Horse will soon be able to get a funding boost from a brand-new community lottery being launched by the district council this summer. The forthcoming new White Horse Community Lottery will allow players to choose which local charity their money benefits. Similar community lotteries elsewhere ..
You can see details on our website by clicking the link below, or pasting the web address into your browser.
https://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/vale-of-white-horse-district-council/a-new-community-lottery-is-coming-to-the-vale-of-white-horse/
Community & Partnerships meeting 31/3/21. Notes - 3/4/21
Chaired by Bethia Thomas
1 Budgets
- £2.6k left in events fund. To be used for Covid Recovery events
- £1272 unspent in Youth grants fund. To be used for future events.
Terms of reference changed. Fund raising has been separated from the Steering Group responsibilities.
3 Community Engagement
- Suggestion that bullet points covering key information from a Committee meeting is produced and made public (facebook, FTC website +++) to help inform local people.. Generally thought to be a good idea, but needs to be thought through.
- Two awards made by High Sheriff of Oxfordshire on 30/3. Faringdon Viral Kindness and Flowers from Molly. Pictures on facebook.
Suggested by Churches together Earth & Faith Group. The aim is to encourage people to plant trees in their gardens. Trees and advice will be provided.
FTC support this project and will help with publicity.
5 Food Bank a success. Community Larder and fridge being investigated.
6 Martin Gillett of Oxford Play Association will be forming a Junior Youth club (10-13) , to meet once a week in Faringdon. Venue/dates/times to be arranged after discussion with young people. OCC will provide £7.5k. FTC agreed to fund the remaining £7.5k.
Suggestion to ask Faringdon United Charities for a contribution was not taken up.
7 Community Wardens
- Footpath wardens. Good response from volunteers. Induction/training being planned
- The Wilderness. Plan being written by ecologist. 14 people have expressed an interest in helping.
- Litter pick to be scheduled
- Hobble is a blackspot. Tesco to be asked to put a bin just near their exit onto the Hobble
- Recycle sculpture to be put on the Hobble ( think this might be a bin, but I'm not sure)
- Dog Poo campaign discussed and supported.
Sessions to be arranged on Saturday mornings. Adults and Children. From May
These notes are created from following the meeting online. Some subjects discussed were based on reports and information provided to Councillors. These are not available to residents either before or after the meeting.
Ed
ENORMOUS Plant Giveaway 24th & 25th April - 1/4/21
Shrubs, trees, bedding, seedlings
This is organised by Churches Together Earth & Faith Group
If anyone would like to put some spare plants outside their gate that weekend, let Dave Headey know and your location will be advertised on a map of the "trail" nearer the time.
You can contact Dave on faringdonplants@btinternet.com.
Anyone can walk round and take anything they'd like. There's no cash involved, no charity being collected for (though of course feel free to make a donation to a charity of your choice if you find something you consider a "bargain"); it's just a way of making Faringdon a little bit greener.
Julia Burn
Oxfordshire County Council. New candidate for Faringdon - 31/3/21
Judith Heathcoat is standing down as our County Council representative,
The Conservative party has selected David Leigh-Pemberton of Longot to represent Faringdon
County Council Elections on May 6th 2021
https://davidleigh-pemberton.com/about/
Faringdon Library Reopening Announcement - 31/3/21
Oxfordshire Libraries and the FLAG volunteer group are delighted to announce that Faringdon library will reopen on 12th April.
This will be on limited opening hours temporarily.
Tony Tarry
Libraries will reopen on limited opening hours temporarily, and safety measures will remain in place for the protection of customers, volunteers and staff. See our website for details https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/residents/leisure-and-culture/libraries/find-library
Developer monies - 30/3/21
FTC are asking for suggestions on how to spend the developer money arising from the extensive building in Faringdon and along the Coxwell Road.
Some of the ££ is tied up in legal agreements for how it is used, some (Community Interest Levy) is ayailble for Faringdon to decide how to spend it.
FTC have established a working party consisting of councillors chaired by Peter Castle and 4 members of the public from Faringdon.
See Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) - Faringdon Town Council for more info and how you can contact the working group with your suggestions.
Ed
The Baker's Arms - 29/3/21
I have recently moved into what used to be the Bakers Arms on Ferndale Street in Faringdon. I was wondering if any one has any information on the pub. Or any old photos of the outside or the inside of the pub. Any information would be greatly appreciated.
Many thanks.
Melanie Long
Recycling of Blister packs- 29/3/21
Superdrug are working in conjunction with TerraCycle who will convert the packaging into reusable raw materials using its unique recycling process – preventing empty packs spending a lifetime in landfill. What’s more, Superdrug are supporting Marie Curie as each empty blister packet that gets recycled as part of the ‘Little Packs, Big Impact’ scheme. It's easy - it's free and it's a double whammy - recycling and supporting a fantastic charity too. Can you help? Please start saving yours. It really is amazing as to how they add up very quickly.
Ask in Acacia, in the Cornmarket- looks as if they've offered to be a collection point in Faringdon
Ed
Pump Track in Faringdon: - 29/3/21
This would be a great idea, And the best location is the old Rogers concrete/Gardenstone site, If the land owners Martins property’s LTD don’t get the second planning application though for the eighty five houses and two commercial buildings, This would be the best site as nine acres of land lots of parking space. Even with the two commercial buildings on the bottom yard these room at the top yard even use the old quarry.
Regards Tom
Derelict building Park Road - 27/3/21
I have been told that the old water board building at the bottom of Sands Hill and junction of Park road has not been demolished because Bats were found to be roosting in it.
Name Supplied
Pump Track in Faringdon? - 27/3/21
Hello Faringdon.
There is a group of riders and parents trying to gauge and drum up support for a pump track to be built here in Faringdon.
A Facebook page has been created: https://www.facebook.com/104709701711880/
Please read on, and if you can, help by filling in the survey?: https://forms.gle/7qCu2PXQVTgQU9Ev6
The vision is to be have a track circa 150-200 metres long, with a smooth surface preferably tarmac, within Faringdon.
What is a pump track? Pump tracks are usually a closed loop of 100 to 200m where you have rollable humps that you 'pump' to move you forwards instead of pedalling, pushing or scooting.
Who can use them?
Anybody of any age if they use wheels, from toddlers up to grandparents have been seen.
Equipment used includes; bikes (mountain, bmx, balance, I've even seen gravel bikes), scooters, skateboards, rollerblades, and off road wheelchairs.
Do they exist elsewhere?
The last four years has seen a large expansion of tracks across the country (and across the globe), for example Bristol now has four and Reading added another new one last month. The nearest to us here is 15 miles away in Wroughton.
They have spawned a cycling discipline in their own right, pump track racing, see https://www.uci.org/bmx-racing/events/red-bull-uci-pump-track-world-championships Where can I find more information?
https://pumptrack.com/about-pumptrackcom/ Has great overview and links. https://youtu.be/LhL1QtFJtI8
To see a pump track in action with a 'how to' https://youtu.be/ibeZOSg8srw Skateboard on pump track https://youtu.be/BxD9EWjvwYk Scooter on pump track https://youtu.be/mXqlMh8U81M 2019 world championship
Sound like a good idea?
Please help support us by registering your interest by completing the survey: https://forms.gle/7qCu2PXQVTgQU9Ev6
Tim Ellingham
Derelict building Park Road - 24/3/21
Curious as to why that derelict building which is within the building site on Park Road has not been demolished.
Any ideas!
Name supplied.
Ed: I've been wondering that. Looks as if it is in a later phase of development. The picture of the completed site in the original application doesn't show it. But hey - plans change.
RE: Town Council Facilities meeting - 23/3/21
Why do the tennis courts at the Elms need to be resurfaced at a cost of £10k? According to the FTC web page linked in the article they already have a ‘shiny new surface’ thanks to the generosity of ‘Tesco, Waitrose and Aviva’!
Name supplied
Ed: I was told that this referred to the cleaning that is required every few years.
VWHDC identifying how to spend housing cash for leisure - 23/3/21
Local sports clubs in the Grove and Wantage area are helping Vale of White Horse District Council understand how money that’s coming in from new housing developments could be used to help provide appropriate new or improved leisure facilities for local residents. A similar engagement is taking place with clubs in the Faringdon and Great Coxwell area.
The funding has been raised from housing developers building in the areas through legal agreements known as Section 106 agreements, and through the Community Infrastructure Levy, which is essentially a kind of tax raised from developers building houses.
The clubs, along with their local town and parish councils and district councillors, are being asked to provide initial views on whether their current facilities – like sports pitches and courts – will be suitable for the forthcoming increase in population locally, or if they think they will need to improve existing facilities or build new ones.
The initial feedback they provide now will contribute to a wider project happening this year to identify the need for leisure facilities in the area, which will in turn help to determine the best ways to spend the infrastructure cash.
Cllr Judy Roberts, Cabinet Member for Development and Infrastructure at Vale of White Horse District Council said: “It’s important that this funding from local housing developments is spent in the way it was intended – to benefit existing and future residents in the areas affected by the growing populations. We want to make the right changes to the leisure facilities in Grove and Wantage, and also the Faringdon area, to encourage everyone into a more active lifestyle.”
Cllr Helen Pighills, Cabinet Member for Healthy Communities at Vale of White Horse District Council said: “People being able to exercise and be active close to where they live is a priority for the council. Covid has changed the way we work and spend our leisure time, perhaps for the long term. We are engaging with local sports groups and councillors in Grove and Wantage to understand how best to use developer contributions for leisure facilities as soon as soon as possible, and also carrying out engagement in the Faringdon area, before moving on to look at the wider district.”
New Primary School- Gas Boilers- 22/2/21
Given the Government and Oxford County Council's intention to stop using gas boilers in the near future, I asked why gas boilers were to be installed in the new school. This is what I was told:-
The government’s current policy is to ban gas boilers from 2025 in newly built homes and it is recognised that we must also work further to reduce our reliance upon gas heating in other building types beyond this date.
The county council is intending to introduce policy that enables funding to be captured for new schools which will ensure they can be constructed to zero carbon standards at some point in the future.
However in the case of Faringdon funding levels were negotiated with the developer some years ago and they do not enable the scheme to be designed to such enhanced standards. The county council do however look to maximise the opportunity for carbon efficiencies within the legislative and financial constraints it faces and the school is therefore being delivered based upon a mixed heating strategy of high efficiency gas boilers as well as heat recovery systems and photo-voltaic's.
Design teams working for the council are tasked to find the best solutions they can and to account, where practicable, for potential enhancements through retrofit that might take place in the future.
The Dead hand of Local councils!!!!!!
Community Lottery- 22/3/21
Local charities and good causes in the Vale of White Horse will soon be able to get a funding boost from a brand-new community lottery being launched by the district council this summer.
The forthcoming new White Horse Community Lottery will allow players to choose which local charity their money benefits. Similar community lotteries elsewhere raise tens of thousands of pounds for charities every year.
The lottery will have a weekly jackpot of £25,000 and will be available for residents to play online. The draw will take place every Saturday, with a jackpot going to anybody who matches a sequence of six numbers. The other prizes are £2,000, £250, £25 or three free tickets.
The district council will not receive any of the proceeds, although some will go into a central community fund, all of which the council will distribute to good causes in the district’s voluntary and community sector.
Later in the spring, the council will be inviting community groups and charities across the district to a launch event to explain how they can get involved and benefit from the money raised.:-
Residents can get involved by buying tickets which will cost £1 per week with
60p going towards the player’s chosen local good cause.
20p of the remaining money goes into the central community fund,
17p towards the administration of the lottery, and 3p on VAT.
Link to news article New community lottery - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
Town Sculptures. - 22/3/21
If there is any money for the town to spend please no more sculptures or plastic pigeons enough is enough, and people with bikes have had more than enough time and money spent on them.
Lets all put our heads together, and I mean all, not just the same few and have something that the townspeople actually needs, something that would benefit nearly all the residents not pander to the "bring people into the town" contingent, no one really visits and when they do there is nothing for them to spend their money on or anything for them to do.
Name Supplied
ED: FTC have formed a working party who will consider how the developer money is spent. 4 residents were invited to join ( don't know who, only that people with children who didn't usually participate in council affairs were chosen) The group meets in private, but I have asked that minutes are put in the public domain. I'm pretty sure if you wrote to FTC with suggestions, they would be passed on to the group. You can see the list of suggestion made through the survey below.
Faringdon Leisure Survey- 21/3/21
This was done last year and the results posted in February 2021. See Community Survey Results - Faringdon Town Council. There is a list of all the suggestions from local people.
The post mentions the Working parties set up to discuss these-maybe make your views known?
The Developer money for the Highworth Road site amounts to nearly £1.6m, of which Faringdon Town Council should get 25%. In addition there is s106 money from other sites designated for leisure, mostly.
Ed
Town Centre Regeneration. - 21/3/21
I totally agree about the sculptors. Sheep....please, this has got to be a wind up. As for pigeons, haven’t we got enough of the real filthy things. These two items will really bring in the tourists
Let’s hope the money is spent on something more useful than the bike racks outside the library, and the butchers. And as for the cycle maintenance point in the car park, mmm really well used...not. has anybody ever seen any of these used, I doubt it.
Name supplied.
Town Centre “Sculptures” - 20/3/21
How I agree with Mary Beck!
We have an opportunity, now that monies are apparently being made available, to do something much more serious-minded.
Name supplied
Bird song identifier from RSPB - 20/3/21
This is super- I couldn't resist posting the link
https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/bird-songs/what-bird-is-that/?utm_source=notes_on_nature_210313&utm_medium=email&utm_term=short&utm_content=4&utm_campaign=notes_on_nature
ED
National Day of reflection - 20/3/21
Tuesday 23rd March is the National Day of Reflection with a one minute's silence at 12 noon in memory of those who have died of Covid.
All Saints Church will be tolling the tenor bell following the silence.
No sculptures wanted in Town Centre - 20/3/21
I feel very strongly that we do not need sculptures cluttering up the town centre.
All efforts should be put into making the square more attractive in terms of the shop fronts, outside dining and other practicalities.
Mary Beck
Faringdon Judo in the 1970s- 20/3/21
Back in the early 70's I took part in many judo competitions. One of my instructors was John Vine from Faringdon and I seem to remember he recorded some of the competitions. I believe John passed away a few years ago. His wife was Betty and they had a daughter named Sue.
Due to circumstances all my photos, medals etc have all gone. None of my children or grandchildren have ever seen any footage or photos of my judo career.
If any of these films and photos are still in existence, any help in tracking them down would be much appreciated.
Thank you.
Name supplied
Community Interest levy-make your bid- 19/3/21
CIL is a payment made by developers building in Faringdon to Vale of White Horse District Council (VoWHDC) and FTC to help provide or improve facilities within the town.
In order to decide the best use for CIL spending, Faringdon Town Council has created a CIL working party to discuss and consider potential projects in Faringdon using the allocated and unallocated s106 / CIL funds.
The working party consists of four members of the public, 5 councillors and the Town Clerks and will meet to discuss a list of projects before moving to consultation with the wider community and make a final decision.
See Terms of reference and application form on FTC website
FTC
Leisure Consultation- DEADline 26th March 2021 - 19/3/21
It's really important that local clubs/groups/people respond to this
Community groups and sporting organisations in Wantage, Grove and Faringdon will help to identify how millions of pounds of funding raised from housing developers will be spent in their local areas.
The groups are being asked for their thoughts on the need for leisure locally, which will feed into a review by the district council. One of the review’s outcomes will be to propose the allocation of funding for leisure generated by new housing developments in each area.........................
Read the full news article from VWHDC
Leisure facilities in your area: feedback form
For Faringdon this is the £220k from the Coxwell Road Estates
Town Council Facilities meeting 17/3/21 . Notes - 19/3/21
1 Tennis courts at the Elms need to be resurfaced. Cost of £10k. Funds currently stand at £2.6k. No discussion as to where the rest would come from. My guess is s106 money through Fernham Fields. Expected to last for 10-20 years
31 members (record number) using the courts. The rules are you can book online 1 hour, no more than 4 days in advance and only once per week.
Due to reopen 28/3/21
More details on https://www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/elms-tennis-court/
2
4 Park on Park Road/The Eagles. Waiting to hear from VWHDC. The intention is that Faringdon Twinning will take it over.
5 Town Regeneration
7 Bus shelters
New one with green roof and smart technology to replace one on Park Road (by developer). FTC will require dowry to cover ongoing maintenance, before agreeing to be responsible for it.
8 Town Park
OCC have now offered a fixed term lease ( currently a year on year rolling lease) This is required before FTC develop plans to develop the park. eg amphitheatre, outside venue.
It was agreed that the project would be developed. The town will be consulted.
New Primary School Planning application P21/V0750/CC - 17/3/21
https://data.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P21/V0750/CC#exactline
You can comment online. Doesn't say when consultation period is closed, but the target decision date is 31/3/21
It's a 2 Form Entry primary school, with nursery provision, located on New Bloor estate, top right, abutting Sands Hill
Parking
I assume that there are proper cycle lanes through the estate to the school
Energy
Lots of information about expected traffic on Park Road and up to school. I have no idea how accurate this might be. I thin k they're expecting only children from that estate and nearby to go to the school. and others to go to the Gloucester Street Primary. Not sure how that will work- especially in the short term.
Lucky children who go there- Faringdon hasn't ever had a purpose built Primary school since the Infant School stone building was built in (guess) late 19th century
Plant Giveaway - 15/3/21
24th & 25th April
Shrubs, trees, bedding, seedlings
Outside many houses. Map to be provided nearer the date
Everything is free
HELP MAKE OUR TOWN GREENER
Great Bike service - 16/3/21
Like a lot of people during lockdown, due to the gym being closed, I dragged by bike from the depths of the shed, polished it off and got back into cycling outside for exercise.
After nearly a year of at least three cycle rides a week, I had worn the brake pads down. After attempting to change them myself, badly...(a puncture I CAN do!), I thought it best not to compromise on safety and decided the job was for someone who knew what they were doing.
I contacted Farcycles in the Market Square. David was very helpful and happily took my bike off my hands to give it a bike 'MOT'. It needed a bit more than just brake pads!
It was returned to me a few days later, at a very reasonable cost and I can continue my cycling knowing that my bike is now roadworthy and it's brakes are going to stop me if needed!
So, if your bike needs a bit of TLC do get in touch with them. The phone number is displayed in the shop window. Thank you David.
Victoria Stepp
Survey- Leisure Facilities in Faringdon - 12/3/21
Over the next few months Vale of White Horse District Council will be looking at how some money that’s coming in from new housing developments can be used to help provide leisure facilities for local residents. The funding (Section 106 and Community Infrastructure Levy) could be used to enhance existing facilities or build new ones to meet the demands of the increasing population.
In this feedback form we are asking how you think existing leisure facilities could cope with increased use from residents in new housing developments.
Leisure facilities in your area: feedback (southandvale.gov.uk)
Ed: At least some of this ££ (£230k) is that which VWHDC originally planned to spend on a new Wantage Leisure Centre
Monday 10th May Knowing Me Free online six weeks course - 12/3/21
This course is aimed to develop self confidence and self-esteem
Run by Oxfordshire Adult Learning (Abingdon and Witney College) and Faringdon Town Council Please contact adele@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
to book or for more information. See poster
Re The folly footpath. - 12/3/21
The Driveway track leading up to the folly from the locked gates at the is the is owned and is the responsibility of Thames water As like most of the land and the property’s of the Faringdon house estate were sold off around ten years ago before the main house went up for lease and sale. Same as the fields surrounding the folly and woods is privately owned by the Farmer. This is not the main foot path leading up to the folly, The main tarmac footpath is near the bottom of Stanford road which runs past the back of Sudbury hotel
I hope you are not to hurt after your fall and you have a quick recovery.
Regards John
Folly Footpath - 10/3/21
The gravel footpath up to the Folly has become very uneven and dangerous I had a nasty fall today, . Just wondered if anything can be done about it?
Name supplied.
Ed: I believe the footpath is on Faringdon Estates Land, and was created by Thames Water for access to the reservoir
Re £230k Leisure money - 5/3/21
Before we became councillors, funding generated here in the town through housing developments was promised to Wantage to build a new leisure centre there. We thought this was wrong, and have been working hard to get it back to Faringdon, where it will be spent on fitness and leisure infrastructure.
The good news is that we're nearly, but first we need to find out how to spend it in a way that will benefit our residents the most.
The next few weeks will see us consult the town council and key stakeholders who are interested in the health and wellbeing of our residents.
If you represent a sports or leisure group, or an have interest in this please let us know - you may already be on our list, but we want to hear from as many people as possible.
Bethia Thomas Bethia.Thomas@whitehorsedc.gov.uk
David Grant David.Grant@whitehorsedc.gov.uk
Judith Heathcoat is standing down as our County Council representative,
The Conservative party has selected David Leigh-Pemberton of Longot to represent Faringdon
County Council Elections on May 6th 2021
https://davidleigh-pemberton.com/about/
Faringdon Library Reopening Announcement - 31/3/21
Oxfordshire Libraries and the FLAG volunteer group are delighted to announce that Faringdon library will reopen on 12th April.
This will be on limited opening hours temporarily.
Tony Tarry
Libraries will reopen on limited opening hours temporarily, and safety measures will remain in place for the protection of customers, volunteers and staff. See our website for details https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/residents/leisure-and-culture/libraries/find-library
Developer monies - 30/3/21
FTC are asking for suggestions on how to spend the developer money arising from the extensive building in Faringdon and along the Coxwell Road.
Some of the ££ is tied up in legal agreements for how it is used, some (Community Interest Levy) is ayailble for Faringdon to decide how to spend it.
FTC have established a working party consisting of councillors chaired by Peter Castle and 4 members of the public from Faringdon.
See Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) - Faringdon Town Council for more info and how you can contact the working group with your suggestions.
Ed
The Baker's Arms - 29/3/21
I have recently moved into what used to be the Bakers Arms on Ferndale Street in Faringdon. I was wondering if any one has any information on the pub. Or any old photos of the outside or the inside of the pub. Any information would be greatly appreciated.
Many thanks.
Melanie Long
Recycling of Blister packs- 29/3/21
Superdrug are working in conjunction with TerraCycle who will convert the packaging into reusable raw materials using its unique recycling process – preventing empty packs spending a lifetime in landfill. What’s more, Superdrug are supporting Marie Curie as each empty blister packet that gets recycled as part of the ‘Little Packs, Big Impact’ scheme. It's easy - it's free and it's a double whammy - recycling and supporting a fantastic charity too. Can you help? Please start saving yours. It really is amazing as to how they add up very quickly.
Ask in Acacia, in the Cornmarket- looks as if they've offered to be a collection point in Faringdon
Ed
Pump Track in Faringdon: - 29/3/21
This would be a great idea, And the best location is the old Rogers concrete/Gardenstone site, If the land owners Martins property’s LTD don’t get the second planning application though for the eighty five houses and two commercial buildings, This would be the best site as nine acres of land lots of parking space. Even with the two commercial buildings on the bottom yard these room at the top yard even use the old quarry.
Regards Tom
Derelict building Park Road - 27/3/21
I have been told that the old water board building at the bottom of Sands Hill and junction of Park road has not been demolished because Bats were found to be roosting in it.
Name Supplied
Pump Track in Faringdon? - 27/3/21
Hello Faringdon.
There is a group of riders and parents trying to gauge and drum up support for a pump track to be built here in Faringdon.
A Facebook page has been created: https://www.facebook.com/104709701711880/
Please read on, and if you can, help by filling in the survey?: https://forms.gle/7qCu2PXQVTgQU9Ev6
The vision is to be have a track circa 150-200 metres long, with a smooth surface preferably tarmac, within Faringdon.
What is a pump track? Pump tracks are usually a closed loop of 100 to 200m where you have rollable humps that you 'pump' to move you forwards instead of pedalling, pushing or scooting.
Who can use them?
Anybody of any age if they use wheels, from toddlers up to grandparents have been seen.
Equipment used includes; bikes (mountain, bmx, balance, I've even seen gravel bikes), scooters, skateboards, rollerblades, and off road wheelchairs.
Do they exist elsewhere?
The last four years has seen a large expansion of tracks across the country (and across the globe), for example Bristol now has four and Reading added another new one last month. The nearest to us here is 15 miles away in Wroughton.
They have spawned a cycling discipline in their own right, pump track racing, see https://www.uci.org/bmx-racing/events/red-bull-uci-pump-track-world-championships Where can I find more information?
https://pumptrack.com/about-pumptrackcom/ Has great overview and links. https://youtu.be/LhL1QtFJtI8
To see a pump track in action with a 'how to' https://youtu.be/ibeZOSg8srw Skateboard on pump track https://youtu.be/BxD9EWjvwYk Scooter on pump track https://youtu.be/mXqlMh8U81M 2019 world championship
Sound like a good idea?
Please help support us by registering your interest by completing the survey: https://forms.gle/7qCu2PXQVTgQU9Ev6
Tim Ellingham
Derelict building Park Road - 24/3/21
Curious as to why that derelict building which is within the building site on Park Road has not been demolished.
Any ideas!
Name supplied.
Ed: I've been wondering that. Looks as if it is in a later phase of development. The picture of the completed site in the original application doesn't show it. But hey - plans change.
RE: Town Council Facilities meeting - 23/3/21
Why do the tennis courts at the Elms need to be resurfaced at a cost of £10k? According to the FTC web page linked in the article they already have a ‘shiny new surface’ thanks to the generosity of ‘Tesco, Waitrose and Aviva’!
Name supplied
Ed: I was told that this referred to the cleaning that is required every few years.
VWHDC identifying how to spend housing cash for leisure - 23/3/21
Local sports clubs in the Grove and Wantage area are helping Vale of White Horse District Council understand how money that’s coming in from new housing developments could be used to help provide appropriate new or improved leisure facilities for local residents. A similar engagement is taking place with clubs in the Faringdon and Great Coxwell area.
The funding has been raised from housing developers building in the areas through legal agreements known as Section 106 agreements, and through the Community Infrastructure Levy, which is essentially a kind of tax raised from developers building houses.
The clubs, along with their local town and parish councils and district councillors, are being asked to provide initial views on whether their current facilities – like sports pitches and courts – will be suitable for the forthcoming increase in population locally, or if they think they will need to improve existing facilities or build new ones.
The initial feedback they provide now will contribute to a wider project happening this year to identify the need for leisure facilities in the area, which will in turn help to determine the best ways to spend the infrastructure cash.
Cllr Judy Roberts, Cabinet Member for Development and Infrastructure at Vale of White Horse District Council said: “It’s important that this funding from local housing developments is spent in the way it was intended – to benefit existing and future residents in the areas affected by the growing populations. We want to make the right changes to the leisure facilities in Grove and Wantage, and also the Faringdon area, to encourage everyone into a more active lifestyle.”
Cllr Helen Pighills, Cabinet Member for Healthy Communities at Vale of White Horse District Council said: “People being able to exercise and be active close to where they live is a priority for the council. Covid has changed the way we work and spend our leisure time, perhaps for the long term. We are engaging with local sports groups and councillors in Grove and Wantage to understand how best to use developer contributions for leisure facilities as soon as soon as possible, and also carrying out engagement in the Faringdon area, before moving on to look at the wider district.”
New Primary School- Gas Boilers- 22/2/21
Given the Government and Oxford County Council's intention to stop using gas boilers in the near future, I asked why gas boilers were to be installed in the new school. This is what I was told:-
The government’s current policy is to ban gas boilers from 2025 in newly built homes and it is recognised that we must also work further to reduce our reliance upon gas heating in other building types beyond this date.
The county council is intending to introduce policy that enables funding to be captured for new schools which will ensure they can be constructed to zero carbon standards at some point in the future.
However in the case of Faringdon funding levels were negotiated with the developer some years ago and they do not enable the scheme to be designed to such enhanced standards. The county council do however look to maximise the opportunity for carbon efficiencies within the legislative and financial constraints it faces and the school is therefore being delivered based upon a mixed heating strategy of high efficiency gas boilers as well as heat recovery systems and photo-voltaic's.
Design teams working for the council are tasked to find the best solutions they can and to account, where practicable, for potential enhancements through retrofit that might take place in the future.
The Dead hand of Local councils!!!!!!
Community Lottery- 22/3/21
Local charities and good causes in the Vale of White Horse will soon be able to get a funding boost from a brand-new community lottery being launched by the district council this summer.
The forthcoming new White Horse Community Lottery will allow players to choose which local charity their money benefits. Similar community lotteries elsewhere raise tens of thousands of pounds for charities every year.
The lottery will have a weekly jackpot of £25,000 and will be available for residents to play online. The draw will take place every Saturday, with a jackpot going to anybody who matches a sequence of six numbers. The other prizes are £2,000, £250, £25 or three free tickets.
The district council will not receive any of the proceeds, although some will go into a central community fund, all of which the council will distribute to good causes in the district’s voluntary and community sector.
Later in the spring, the council will be inviting community groups and charities across the district to a launch event to explain how they can get involved and benefit from the money raised.:-
Residents can get involved by buying tickets which will cost £1 per week with
60p going towards the player’s chosen local good cause.
20p of the remaining money goes into the central community fund,
17p towards the administration of the lottery, and 3p on VAT.
Link to news article New community lottery - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
Town Sculptures. - 22/3/21
If there is any money for the town to spend please no more sculptures or plastic pigeons enough is enough, and people with bikes have had more than enough time and money spent on them.
Lets all put our heads together, and I mean all, not just the same few and have something that the townspeople actually needs, something that would benefit nearly all the residents not pander to the "bring people into the town" contingent, no one really visits and when they do there is nothing for them to spend their money on or anything for them to do.
Name Supplied
ED: FTC have formed a working party who will consider how the developer money is spent. 4 residents were invited to join ( don't know who, only that people with children who didn't usually participate in council affairs were chosen) The group meets in private, but I have asked that minutes are put in the public domain. I'm pretty sure if you wrote to FTC with suggestions, they would be passed on to the group. You can see the list of suggestion made through the survey below.
Faringdon Leisure Survey- 21/3/21
This was done last year and the results posted in February 2021. See Community Survey Results - Faringdon Town Council. There is a list of all the suggestions from local people.
The post mentions the Working parties set up to discuss these-maybe make your views known?
The Developer money for the Highworth Road site amounts to nearly £1.6m, of which Faringdon Town Council should get 25%. In addition there is s106 money from other sites designated for leisure, mostly.
Ed
Town Centre Regeneration. - 21/3/21
I totally agree about the sculptors. Sheep....please, this has got to be a wind up. As for pigeons, haven’t we got enough of the real filthy things. These two items will really bring in the tourists
Let’s hope the money is spent on something more useful than the bike racks outside the library, and the butchers. And as for the cycle maintenance point in the car park, mmm really well used...not. has anybody ever seen any of these used, I doubt it.
Name supplied.
Town Centre “Sculptures” - 20/3/21
How I agree with Mary Beck!
We have an opportunity, now that monies are apparently being made available, to do something much more serious-minded.
Name supplied
Bird song identifier from RSPB - 20/3/21
This is super- I couldn't resist posting the link
https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/bird-songs/what-bird-is-that/?utm_source=notes_on_nature_210313&utm_medium=email&utm_term=short&utm_content=4&utm_campaign=notes_on_nature
ED
National Day of reflection - 20/3/21
Tuesday 23rd March is the National Day of Reflection with a one minute's silence at 12 noon in memory of those who have died of Covid.
All Saints Church will be tolling the tenor bell following the silence.
No sculptures wanted in Town Centre - 20/3/21
I feel very strongly that we do not need sculptures cluttering up the town centre.
All efforts should be put into making the square more attractive in terms of the shop fronts, outside dining and other practicalities.
Mary Beck
Faringdon Judo in the 1970s- 20/3/21
Back in the early 70's I took part in many judo competitions. One of my instructors was John Vine from Faringdon and I seem to remember he recorded some of the competitions. I believe John passed away a few years ago. His wife was Betty and they had a daughter named Sue.
Due to circumstances all my photos, medals etc have all gone. None of my children or grandchildren have ever seen any footage or photos of my judo career.
If any of these films and photos are still in existence, any help in tracking them down would be much appreciated.
Thank you.
Name supplied
Community Interest levy-make your bid- 19/3/21
CIL is a payment made by developers building in Faringdon to Vale of White Horse District Council (VoWHDC) and FTC to help provide or improve facilities within the town.
In order to decide the best use for CIL spending, Faringdon Town Council has created a CIL working party to discuss and consider potential projects in Faringdon using the allocated and unallocated s106 / CIL funds.
The working party consists of four members of the public, 5 councillors and the Town Clerks and will meet to discuss a list of projects before moving to consultation with the wider community and make a final decision.
See Terms of reference and application form on FTC website
FTC
Leisure Consultation- DEADline 26th March 2021 - 19/3/21
It's really important that local clubs/groups/people respond to this
Community groups and sporting organisations in Wantage, Grove and Faringdon will help to identify how millions of pounds of funding raised from housing developers will be spent in their local areas.
The groups are being asked for their thoughts on the need for leisure locally, which will feed into a review by the district council. One of the review’s outcomes will be to propose the allocation of funding for leisure generated by new housing developments in each area.........................
Read the full news article from VWHDC
Leisure facilities in your area: feedback form
For Faringdon this is the £220k from the Coxwell Road Estates
Town Council Facilities meeting 17/3/21 . Notes - 19/3/21
1 Tennis courts at the Elms need to be resurfaced. Cost of £10k. Funds currently stand at £2.6k. No discussion as to where the rest would come from. My guess is s106 money through Fernham Fields. Expected to last for 10-20 years
31 members (record number) using the courts. The rules are you can book online 1 hour, no more than 4 days in advance and only once per week.
Due to reopen 28/3/21
More details on https://www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/elms-tennis-court/
2
- Corn Exchange roof is in need of repair. 15 companies asked to quote, only 1 responded. The committee agreed to accept the quote ( under £10k)
- Maintenance and decoration has been done in the Corn Exchange and the Pump House while they've been closed.
- Plan to open the venues in the town post lockdown was agreed.
- Corn Exchange to be used for elections 5/5/21 prior to venues opening. VWHDC to be responsible for adhering to Covid rules.
- Old Town Hall is due to be refurbished Planning Application P20/V1448/LB (whitehorsedc.gov.uk) ( funded by grants, not detailed). It will reopen in the Autumn
- Corn Exchange external Notice Board to be replaced at a cost of £585. Hardwood frame, perspex 'glass', installed.
4 Park on Park Road/The Eagles. Waiting to hear from VWHDC. The intention is that Faringdon Twinning will take it over.
5 Town Regeneration
- Sculptures for the Town Centre ( sheep) were discussed. It was agreed that the project will be put to Finance for funding. There will be a consultation once the detail has been thought through
- Pigeon sculptures idea. 1 (£900 funded by VWHDC Arts s106 money) will be commissioned, to see what it's like. More detail in a report, but this was only made available to councillors. No detail re size, material, location was discussed.
7 Bus shelters
New one with green roof and smart technology to replace one on Park Road (by developer). FTC will require dowry to cover ongoing maintenance, before agreeing to be responsible for it.
8 Town Park
OCC have now offered a fixed term lease ( currently a year on year rolling lease) This is required before FTC develop plans to develop the park. eg amphitheatre, outside venue.
It was agreed that the project would be developed. The town will be consulted.
New Primary School Planning application P21/V0750/CC - 17/3/21
https://data.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P21/V0750/CC#exactline
You can comment online. Doesn't say when consultation period is closed, but the target decision date is 31/3/21
It's a 2 Form Entry primary school, with nursery provision, located on New Bloor estate, top right, abutting Sands Hill
Parking
- 36 spaces, 2 disabled, 1 minibus on the premises, for staff and visitors only
- 9 temp spaces outside school boundary as drop off for parents
- 70+ bicycle and scooter safe storage
I assume that there are proper cycle lanes through the estate to the school
Energy
- Solar panels - amount not specified
- Gas boiler- even though OCC has a commitment to remove all gas in their buildings by 2030
Lots of information about expected traffic on Park Road and up to school. I have no idea how accurate this might be. I thin k they're expecting only children from that estate and nearby to go to the school. and others to go to the Gloucester Street Primary. Not sure how that will work- especially in the short term.
Lucky children who go there- Faringdon hasn't ever had a purpose built Primary school since the Infant School stone building was built in (guess) late 19th century
Plant Giveaway - 15/3/21
24th & 25th April
Shrubs, trees, bedding, seedlings
Outside many houses. Map to be provided nearer the date
Everything is free
HELP MAKE OUR TOWN GREENER
Great Bike service - 16/3/21
Like a lot of people during lockdown, due to the gym being closed, I dragged by bike from the depths of the shed, polished it off and got back into cycling outside for exercise.
After nearly a year of at least three cycle rides a week, I had worn the brake pads down. After attempting to change them myself, badly...(a puncture I CAN do!), I thought it best not to compromise on safety and decided the job was for someone who knew what they were doing.
I contacted Farcycles in the Market Square. David was very helpful and happily took my bike off my hands to give it a bike 'MOT'. It needed a bit more than just brake pads!
It was returned to me a few days later, at a very reasonable cost and I can continue my cycling knowing that my bike is now roadworthy and it's brakes are going to stop me if needed!
So, if your bike needs a bit of TLC do get in touch with them. The phone number is displayed in the shop window. Thank you David.
Victoria Stepp
Survey- Leisure Facilities in Faringdon - 12/3/21
Over the next few months Vale of White Horse District Council will be looking at how some money that’s coming in from new housing developments can be used to help provide leisure facilities for local residents. The funding (Section 106 and Community Infrastructure Levy) could be used to enhance existing facilities or build new ones to meet the demands of the increasing population.
In this feedback form we are asking how you think existing leisure facilities could cope with increased use from residents in new housing developments.
Leisure facilities in your area: feedback (southandvale.gov.uk)
Ed: At least some of this ££ (£230k) is that which VWHDC originally planned to spend on a new Wantage Leisure Centre
Monday 10th May Knowing Me Free online six weeks course - 12/3/21
This course is aimed to develop self confidence and self-esteem
Run by Oxfordshire Adult Learning (Abingdon and Witney College) and Faringdon Town Council Please contact adele@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
to book or for more information. See poster
Re The folly footpath. - 12/3/21
The Driveway track leading up to the folly from the locked gates at the is the is owned and is the responsibility of Thames water As like most of the land and the property’s of the Faringdon house estate were sold off around ten years ago before the main house went up for lease and sale. Same as the fields surrounding the folly and woods is privately owned by the Farmer. This is not the main foot path leading up to the folly, The main tarmac footpath is near the bottom of Stanford road which runs past the back of Sudbury hotel
I hope you are not to hurt after your fall and you have a quick recovery.
Regards John
Folly Footpath - 10/3/21
The gravel footpath up to the Folly has become very uneven and dangerous I had a nasty fall today, . Just wondered if anything can be done about it?
Name supplied.
Ed: I believe the footpath is on Faringdon Estates Land, and was created by Thames Water for access to the reservoir
Re £230k Leisure money - 5/3/21
Before we became councillors, funding generated here in the town through housing developments was promised to Wantage to build a new leisure centre there. We thought this was wrong, and have been working hard to get it back to Faringdon, where it will be spent on fitness and leisure infrastructure.
The good news is that we're nearly, but first we need to find out how to spend it in a way that will benefit our residents the most.
The next few weeks will see us consult the town council and key stakeholders who are interested in the health and wellbeing of our residents.
If you represent a sports or leisure group, or an have interest in this please let us know - you may already be on our list, but we want to hear from as many people as possible.
Bethia Thomas Bethia.Thomas@whitehorsedc.gov.uk
David Grant David.Grant@whitehorsedc.gov.uk
Click image to make it bigger
Cohort 6 are those under 65 who are at risk.
See clinical conditions on COVID-19 vaccination first phase priority groups - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
See clinical conditions on COVID-19 vaccination first phase priority groups - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Faringdon Area Traffic Advisory meeting - 5/3/21
Notes arising from meeting
Chaired by Judith Heathcoat (JH) OCC councillor.
Top recyclers - 5/3/21
Residents in southern Oxfordshire are among the top recyclers in the country yet again!
Yesterday the government published the figures showing how much waste is recycled across the country. South Oxfordshire District had the second highest recycling rate in England with 64 per cent of its waste being recycled.
Vale of White Horse district came joint third with 63.3 per cent of its waste being recycled. This puts the two districts way above the national recycling rate of 45.5 per cent and they are also two of only 11 local authorities in the country with a recycling rate above 60 per cent. Both districts have consistently been in the top ten in the past five years.
https://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/waste-and-recycling/vale-and-south-are-top-recyclers-again/
£1.9m Help for High St Recovery in Oxfordshire - 4/3/21
Vale of White Horse District Council has teamed up with social enterprise Makespace and other councils to help bring empty shops back into use with a £1.9m fund.
https://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/uncategorised/nearly-2m-provided-to-help-the-recovery-of-the-countys-high-streets/
Great news!- 3/3/21
Faringdon Leisure Centre is to get a £400,000 refurbishment with the potential to reduce its carbon footprint by 500,000 kwh over a year - the equivalent of the annual energy use of 135 houses.
Work will start soon to replace gas boilers at the end of their functional life, with modern air source heat pumps powered with new solar panels.
This is real investment in our community and will ensure that the leisure centre is open and fit for the town's future and our environment.
The Vale of White Horse District Council has been awarded a £361,746 grant from the government’s Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme. The rest of the funding needed will come from S106 money.
More info on Vale website
David Grant, Bethia Thomas District Councillors for Faringdon
Thank you.- 2/3/21
I had a nasty fall while crossing the road opposite the old post office last Wednesday and would like to thank the lovely people who came to my assistance.
Firstly the kind gentleman from Stanford-in-the-Vale and secondly the 2 off-duty nurses, Jo and Rachel, who coincidentally arrived at the same time. As I had bashed my head and there was a lot of blood, they called an ambulance and all 3 kindly waited with me until the ambulance came.
Also my neighbour, Lorna, who I had rung expecting to be able to go home. It was also very warming how many people passing by on foot and in cars stopped to see if there was anything they could do.
The A&E dept at the JR were very thorough and then my other neighbours, Mike and June, were outstanding good neighbours when they came to fetch me home at 1.00a.m.
Fortunately, my injuries were fairly superficial, though very colourful! It all made feel that I am very lucky to live in a place like Faringdon where people look out for each other.
Janet Crawshaw
Donating food - 2/3/21
I've just been speaking to Sally at Faringdon Food Bank as I didn't know what they needed. I thought it might be helpful to share what I've found out.
The Food Bank donates supplies to people who have been referred to them by, for example, a school, a doctor, social services etc - they don't have to prove income support.
The Bank makes up weekly packages of 7 meals, plus deodorant and shower gel. Longer term clients also receive such things as washing powder, cleaning products and so on.
Thus the best things to donate are tinned meals, tinned meat, tinned vegetables, long life milk, tea and coffee.
Donations can be delivered to the food bank, or left at Waitrose (you don't have to buy your donations there). Cash is also welcome as it can buy items not in store, such as nappies. It should be put in an envelope and put through the door of the council offices.
Faringdon Pump House run a Food and Share which is open to everyone (no referral required). For this, donations can be left at Tescos.
Mary Beck
Notable Faringdon People- from the past - 1/3/21
I've added information to this site about
The Bennett Family
Pye Family
Heber-Percy Family
Untons of Wadley
Includes a genealogy report and Family tree for each.
Notes arising from meeting
Chaired by Judith Heathcoat (JH) OCC councillor.
- Police were requested to enforce parking periodically/unannounced
- Market Sq refurbishment to be done in 2021/2022 budget year. Details being discussed with FTC. No information given about extent of the pavement resurfacing or the material to be used. Replacing bollards was mentioned.
- 20mph limit. Still awaiting to hear about £20k funding from OCC/VWHDC. No discussion as to which streets will be affected.
- Replacement Welcome to Faringdon wall on Park road. OCC is discussing this with FTC
- Member of the public highlighted excessive speeding into and out of Faringdon to/from Lechlade Road. OCC representative said a speed survery (cost £250) needs to be requested by FTC. No mention of 20mph limit in this discussion, so I guess Lechlade road is not part of that initiative.
- Civil Parking enforcement. On a request from a member of the public about the submission to government for CPE, JH read out a statement she made Oct 2020, where she said it would be made in April 2021 as planned. Later in the meeting the OCC officer working on CPE implementation said the submission had been made at the end of January and OCC are waiting to hear Live date still scheduled for Nov 2021 as planned.
- In the meantime lines and signs being checked - defects, missing- across the district.
- No changes to Traffic Orders is planned at this stage. Consolidated orders will be published before the live date.
- It was suggested that FTC and OCC officer liaise to identify potential changes for Faringdon.
- JH said that in the past when Residents parking was investigated, it could not be implemented because 100% take up was needed. OCC officers said they were unaware of any fixed rules with take up of residents parking. IT seems to be expected that requests for residents parking areas could follow CPE implementation.
- JH said that OCC officers are still looking for the additional £470k ( they have £1.75m) they say is needed to change the A420/Gt Coxwell junction.
- The cycle way along Southampton St is under construction. Due for completion 10/3/21
- OCC are working on resolving flooding along the Coxwell Road under the s278 agreement.
- The landowner has ( independently) carried out hedging and ditching along this road,
- VWHDC are including in their next Local Pan that new residential areas should all have 20mph speed limits. A police officer said that unless the development design restricts speed, the limit will not be effective.
- JH announced this was her last meeting as she is standing down as OCC councillor.
Top recyclers - 5/3/21
Residents in southern Oxfordshire are among the top recyclers in the country yet again!
Yesterday the government published the figures showing how much waste is recycled across the country. South Oxfordshire District had the second highest recycling rate in England with 64 per cent of its waste being recycled.
Vale of White Horse district came joint third with 63.3 per cent of its waste being recycled. This puts the two districts way above the national recycling rate of 45.5 per cent and they are also two of only 11 local authorities in the country with a recycling rate above 60 per cent. Both districts have consistently been in the top ten in the past five years.
https://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/waste-and-recycling/vale-and-south-are-top-recyclers-again/
£1.9m Help for High St Recovery in Oxfordshire - 4/3/21
Vale of White Horse District Council has teamed up with social enterprise Makespace and other councils to help bring empty shops back into use with a £1.9m fund.
https://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/uncategorised/nearly-2m-provided-to-help-the-recovery-of-the-countys-high-streets/
Great news!- 3/3/21
Faringdon Leisure Centre is to get a £400,000 refurbishment with the potential to reduce its carbon footprint by 500,000 kwh over a year - the equivalent of the annual energy use of 135 houses.
Work will start soon to replace gas boilers at the end of their functional life, with modern air source heat pumps powered with new solar panels.
This is real investment in our community and will ensure that the leisure centre is open and fit for the town's future and our environment.
The Vale of White Horse District Council has been awarded a £361,746 grant from the government’s Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme. The rest of the funding needed will come from S106 money.
More info on Vale website
David Grant, Bethia Thomas District Councillors for Faringdon
Thank you.- 2/3/21
I had a nasty fall while crossing the road opposite the old post office last Wednesday and would like to thank the lovely people who came to my assistance.
Firstly the kind gentleman from Stanford-in-the-Vale and secondly the 2 off-duty nurses, Jo and Rachel, who coincidentally arrived at the same time. As I had bashed my head and there was a lot of blood, they called an ambulance and all 3 kindly waited with me until the ambulance came.
Also my neighbour, Lorna, who I had rung expecting to be able to go home. It was also very warming how many people passing by on foot and in cars stopped to see if there was anything they could do.
The A&E dept at the JR were very thorough and then my other neighbours, Mike and June, were outstanding good neighbours when they came to fetch me home at 1.00a.m.
Fortunately, my injuries were fairly superficial, though very colourful! It all made feel that I am very lucky to live in a place like Faringdon where people look out for each other.
Janet Crawshaw
Donating food - 2/3/21
I've just been speaking to Sally at Faringdon Food Bank as I didn't know what they needed. I thought it might be helpful to share what I've found out.
The Food Bank donates supplies to people who have been referred to them by, for example, a school, a doctor, social services etc - they don't have to prove income support.
The Bank makes up weekly packages of 7 meals, plus deodorant and shower gel. Longer term clients also receive such things as washing powder, cleaning products and so on.
Thus the best things to donate are tinned meals, tinned meat, tinned vegetables, long life milk, tea and coffee.
Donations can be delivered to the food bank, or left at Waitrose (you don't have to buy your donations there). Cash is also welcome as it can buy items not in store, such as nappies. It should be put in an envelope and put through the door of the council offices.
Faringdon Pump House run a Food and Share which is open to everyone (no referral required). For this, donations can be left at Tescos.
Mary Beck
Notable Faringdon People- from the past - 1/3/21
I've added information to this site about
The Bennett Family
Pye Family
Heber-Percy Family
Untons of Wadley
Includes a genealogy report and Family tree for each.
Click for bigger image
This link shows the booking system: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5V01yb0272k...
 Click for bigger image
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Currently we are scheduled for AZ / Oxford for these dates.
Vaccine supply for first dose can change at the last minute. |
New Primary School - 23/2/21
Planning permission will be applied for soon, when there will be opportunity to comment on the design
See site layout and leaflet that went to Primary school parents
Unlocking Lockdown Roadmap - 22/2/21
Boris Johnson has announced a "roadmap" for easing Covid restrictions in England. What will the first steps be?
The unlocking will be done in stages with each phase coming no earlier than:
8 March
Now we all know people have been flouting the reactions that were in place during the lockdown and meeting friends and families up the folly and skate park/folly park as the Stanford road has been chocker blocked with cars every day and weekends and this was noted on here after Boxing Day, And the parish council nor the Oxfordshire County Council have done nothing the police have nothing to enforce people to keep away.
Please stay away and protect the NHS and the residents who live here.
Thank you
Old friend of Robert Vernon Heber-Percy, Boyfriend of the late Lord Berners
Alert - Suspicious activity report from Thames Valley Police. - 18/2/21
Though this is specific to the Whychwoods area it may be of interest to the community at large:
From PCSO Moulding, We have recently been made aware from concerned residents and other social media postings, that a number of properties in the Wychwoods area have seemingly been marked. The properties have been marked with differing coloured elastic bands, either around the gatepost or wheelie bins. It is believed the properties have been marked due to there being pedigree dogs at the locations.
Clearly this is of concern to all dog owners, and we ask that that you all remain vigilant and where possible to report this either online via the TVP website or on the 101 number.
General advice is to change your routine, go out walking at differing times, where appropriate make sure your dog is on a short lead.
We would further advise that if your dog stays in the house, then move its location to a harder to reach area and less visible to the outside.
Lastly, do not post anything on social media with respect to your dog, or any potential litters.
Thank you
Message Sent By Darryn Moulding (Police, PCSO, West Oxfordshire LPA (bb))
Grove Station Survey - 16/2/21
This survey is designed to show the level of support locally for reopening Grove/Wantage Road station.
https://www.david-johnston.org.uk/grove-station-survey Deadline 12pm 1st March
I have been campaigning for this since I was elected as your MP – talking about it regularly in the House of Commons and to transport ministers – and one of the criteria the Government uses for deciding to reopen stations/lines is whether or not it would be popular locally and people would actually use it.
Please answer the following questions which should take no more than 3 minutes. Your personal details are requested to see whether or not you are a constituent (and to ensure it is only completed by the same person once) - they will not be used for other purposes unconnected to Grove Station unless you explicitly consent.
David Johnston MP
Keys found - 16/2/21
Hi. We have found a set of door keys this morning on the pavement on Orchard Hill. I guess they were lost this morning as they are not wet after last night's rain. If you think they belong to you, then please message me with a description of your lost keys.
Mark.lunnon@diamond.ac.uk
February Council meeting - 13/2/21
Oxford County Council consultation re New Primary School, Park Road - soon
FTC Strategic working party, Jan 2021
Old Town Hall refurbishment.
Work on the hobble and the wilderness. Information to be given to the Town
Tidy Team needs more suggestions for places to work on.Liz@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
Food Bank helps 15/20 families
Here is the Town Council Youtube page where you can find the recording of the meeting
District Councillor Monthly report - 12/2/21
Here is the full report
It includes information about:
Leisure Consultation- 12/2/21
Community groups and sporting organisations in Wantage, Grove and Faringdon will help to identify how millions of pounds of funding raised from housing developers will be spent in their local areas.
The groups are being asked for their thoughts on the need for leisure locally, which will feed into a review by the district council. One of the review’s outcomes will be to propose the allocation of funding for leisure generated by new housing developments in each area.........................
Read the full news article from VWHDC
For Faringdon this is the £220k from the Coxwell Road Estates
Clearance- Hobble Path- 12/2/21
The clearing was to remove litter, dead wood that was becoming a safety hazard and to coppice back parts of the established old growth to encourage thicker regrowth.
A denser and more species diverse hedge that still maintains its trees at intervals is the aim . Removal of some (not all) of the old growth and ivy will give the interplanting of a more diverse hedgerow mix space the opportunity to establish.
We plan to plant other native climbers like old man's beard to improve the diversity and interest.
The timing of the works avoids the breeding bird season but is also sufficiently late in the winter to avoid removing the food source of seeds and berries.
More information about managing the hedgerows is here: https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/how-manage-hedgerow-wildlife
FTC
Garden waste collections resume from Monday 15th - 12/2/21
We have good news for our garden waste customers. We are pleased to be able to tell you that our garden waste service restarts next week – thank you so much for your patience.
If you are a garden waste customer and you still have your real Christmas tree, we are happy to take it on your garden waste collection day. Please put it in the bin if it fits or put it out next to the bin.
The crews will be working hard to complete the rounds but we are expecting more garden waste bins to be put out than normal, so please bear with us.
Please ensure all the garden waste fits into the bin with the lid closed as this helps the bin crews get round more quickly. If you can’t fit everything in the bin, please keep anything extra back (except Christmas trees) until the next collection.
Please note that we are not taking on any new garden waste customers at this time to focus on fulfilling the service for existing customers.
In the meantime, anyone who is not a garden waste customer can dispose of garden waste at one of Oxfordshire County Council’s Household Waste Recycling Centres. These sites are open but please check their website for opening times and any restrictions, particularly Covid-19 restrictions.
Please see our website for more information here https://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/.../recycli.../garden-waste/
Kindness - 11/2/21
I have been left a 'random act of kindness' - a packet of shortbread through my letterbox with a nice note.
A very big thankyou to the kind and anonymous friend who thought to do this God bless you.
Kay Fox
County Councillor Monthly report- 6/2/21
Includes some things relevant to Faringdon ( from bottom page 3)
Here is the January report
Steak Restaurant in London St- - 6/2/21
The big shop in London St ( once Chamberlains) with the wonderful windows ( apparently they're oak frames) is being refurbished to become a steak restaurant.
Good news for Faringdon
Planning appeal, South of Steeds - 5/2/21
The appeals meeting is 27/4/21, deadline 16th Feb 21. Anyone can comment. Reference: APP/V3120/W/20/3264500 (planninginspectorate.gov.uk)
Planning permission for the additional 125 houses on South of Steeds estate was refused by VWHDC, but the developer has appealed
Objections included
South of Steeds Decision notice
Planning application P18/V0259/O
Faringdon Town Council Meeting online - 5/2/21
10th February, 715.
Papers and joining information on https://www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/an-online-meeting-of-the-full-council-to-be-held-on-wednesday-10th-february-2021/
A Strategic working party met 3/2. The related agenda item
12. Strategic Working Party 3 rd February 2021 (not attached- not available to the public until after the meeting))
a) To consider revised short-term objectives in the Strategic Plan
b) To set up and elect members to a Covid Recovery Working Party
c) To consider Town Centre regeneration
d) To set up and elect members to a CIL Working Party
e) To receive community survey results
FTC are likely to receive nearly £1m (s106 and CIL) over the next few years, as housing developments are completed.I believe this is the beginning of the plan on how it should be spent in Faringdon.
Notable people in Faringdon's history- 4/2/21
I've been whiling away some lockdown time researching the history of some of the notable people from the past- The Robert Pye, and the Untons- both families commemorated with chapels in All Saints Church and streets named after them.
I didn't realise that Henry Unton ( 1557) was the 1st cousin of Jane Seymour, mother of Edward VI
See History, people and places, notable people and scroll down
ED
Vaccines- where we are now- 4/2/21
I've been reporting (covid/no covid) daily to https://covid.joinzoe.com/?mc_cid=149e50e8ca&mc_eid=UNIQID - research organisation
They have produced a youtube video (streamed live yesterday) 'What we know so far'
You can watch it on www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZJOQzrspFI
Ed
Home Bargains Shop - 2/2/21
Opening February 13th
(Behind Aldi)
Planning permission will be applied for soon, when there will be opportunity to comment on the design
See site layout and leaflet that went to Primary school parents
Unlocking Lockdown Roadmap - 22/2/21
Boris Johnson has announced a "roadmap" for easing Covid restrictions in England. What will the first steps be?
The unlocking will be done in stages with each phase coming no earlier than:
8 March
- All schools and colleges will reopen
- University students can return for practical courses. There will be a review by the end of the Easter holidays for all other students
- Face coverings are recommended for older students, but also for parents and staff in primary school
- Wraparound childcare can also return for vulnerable pupils and where it is needed for parents or carers to go to work, support groups or seek medical care
- People can meet one other person outside for recreation, which can include "a coffee on a bench"
- A "broader range" of campaigning can continue from this date in light of elections on May
- One nominated person can visit care homes, but will need PPE, a lateral flow test and to "keep physical contact to a minimum"
- Holidays still not permitted and outbound passengers will be legally obliged to provide their reason for travel
- People will be allowed to meet outside either with one other household or within the "rule of six", including in private gardens
- Stay at home rule is dropped but people should still minimise movement as much as possible
- People will still be urged to work from home
- Outdoor sport facilities will reopen, including tennis and basketball courts
- Formally organised outdoor sports can also restart
- Parents and children groups can return but are capped at 15 and must be outdoors.
- Indoor groups can take place for vulnerable children and where parents need the groups to go to work
Now we all know people have been flouting the reactions that were in place during the lockdown and meeting friends and families up the folly and skate park/folly park as the Stanford road has been chocker blocked with cars every day and weekends and this was noted on here after Boxing Day, And the parish council nor the Oxfordshire County Council have done nothing the police have nothing to enforce people to keep away.
Please stay away and protect the NHS and the residents who live here.
Thank you
Old friend of Robert Vernon Heber-Percy, Boyfriend of the late Lord Berners
Alert - Suspicious activity report from Thames Valley Police. - 18/2/21
Though this is specific to the Whychwoods area it may be of interest to the community at large:
From PCSO Moulding, We have recently been made aware from concerned residents and other social media postings, that a number of properties in the Wychwoods area have seemingly been marked. The properties have been marked with differing coloured elastic bands, either around the gatepost or wheelie bins. It is believed the properties have been marked due to there being pedigree dogs at the locations.
Clearly this is of concern to all dog owners, and we ask that that you all remain vigilant and where possible to report this either online via the TVP website or on the 101 number.
General advice is to change your routine, go out walking at differing times, where appropriate make sure your dog is on a short lead.
We would further advise that if your dog stays in the house, then move its location to a harder to reach area and less visible to the outside.
Lastly, do not post anything on social media with respect to your dog, or any potential litters.
Thank you
Message Sent By Darryn Moulding (Police, PCSO, West Oxfordshire LPA (bb))
Grove Station Survey - 16/2/21
This survey is designed to show the level of support locally for reopening Grove/Wantage Road station.
https://www.david-johnston.org.uk/grove-station-survey Deadline 12pm 1st March
I have been campaigning for this since I was elected as your MP – talking about it regularly in the House of Commons and to transport ministers – and one of the criteria the Government uses for deciding to reopen stations/lines is whether or not it would be popular locally and people would actually use it.
Please answer the following questions which should take no more than 3 minutes. Your personal details are requested to see whether or not you are a constituent (and to ensure it is only completed by the same person once) - they will not be used for other purposes unconnected to Grove Station unless you explicitly consent.
David Johnston MP
Keys found - 16/2/21
Hi. We have found a set of door keys this morning on the pavement on Orchard Hill. I guess they were lost this morning as they are not wet after last night's rain. If you think they belong to you, then please message me with a description of your lost keys.
Mark.lunnon@diamond.ac.uk
February Council meeting - 13/2/21
Oxford County Council consultation re New Primary School, Park Road - soon
FTC Strategic working party, Jan 2021
- Business support re empty shops
- Revisit Parking Survey
- Achieve Gold Standard for Town Councils Local Council Award Scheme (nalc.gov.uk)
- Town Centre regeneration working party
- Climate Change
- Post Covid recovery working party
- CIL/s106 spending working party
- Multi Use Games area in Tucker Park
- Biggest support was for town centre regeneration
- No support for change of market sq bus stop
- Some support for redirecting London St traffic
Old Town Hall refurbishment.
- Chosen contractor has withdrawn. Imperial Renovations has agreed to carry out the work
Work on the hobble and the wilderness. Information to be given to the Town
Tidy Team needs more suggestions for places to work on.Liz@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
Food Bank helps 15/20 families
Here is the Town Council Youtube page where you can find the recording of the meeting
District Councillor Monthly report - 12/2/21
Here is the full report
It includes information about:
- £220k Leisure money due to be returned to Faringdon
- Folly Park
- Swan Park
- New boiler for the Leisure Centre
Leisure Consultation- 12/2/21
Community groups and sporting organisations in Wantage, Grove and Faringdon will help to identify how millions of pounds of funding raised from housing developers will be spent in their local areas.
The groups are being asked for their thoughts on the need for leisure locally, which will feed into a review by the district council. One of the review’s outcomes will be to propose the allocation of funding for leisure generated by new housing developments in each area.........................
Read the full news article from VWHDC
For Faringdon this is the £220k from the Coxwell Road Estates
Clearance- Hobble Path- 12/2/21
The clearing was to remove litter, dead wood that was becoming a safety hazard and to coppice back parts of the established old growth to encourage thicker regrowth.
A denser and more species diverse hedge that still maintains its trees at intervals is the aim . Removal of some (not all) of the old growth and ivy will give the interplanting of a more diverse hedgerow mix space the opportunity to establish.
We plan to plant other native climbers like old man's beard to improve the diversity and interest.
The timing of the works avoids the breeding bird season but is also sufficiently late in the winter to avoid removing the food source of seeds and berries.
More information about managing the hedgerows is here: https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/how-manage-hedgerow-wildlife
FTC
Garden waste collections resume from Monday 15th - 12/2/21
We have good news for our garden waste customers. We are pleased to be able to tell you that our garden waste service restarts next week – thank you so much for your patience.
If you are a garden waste customer and you still have your real Christmas tree, we are happy to take it on your garden waste collection day. Please put it in the bin if it fits or put it out next to the bin.
The crews will be working hard to complete the rounds but we are expecting more garden waste bins to be put out than normal, so please bear with us.
Please ensure all the garden waste fits into the bin with the lid closed as this helps the bin crews get round more quickly. If you can’t fit everything in the bin, please keep anything extra back (except Christmas trees) until the next collection.
Please note that we are not taking on any new garden waste customers at this time to focus on fulfilling the service for existing customers.
In the meantime, anyone who is not a garden waste customer can dispose of garden waste at one of Oxfordshire County Council’s Household Waste Recycling Centres. These sites are open but please check their website for opening times and any restrictions, particularly Covid-19 restrictions.
Please see our website for more information here https://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/.../recycli.../garden-waste/
Kindness - 11/2/21
I have been left a 'random act of kindness' - a packet of shortbread through my letterbox with a nice note.
A very big thankyou to the kind and anonymous friend who thought to do this God bless you.
Kay Fox
County Councillor Monthly report- 6/2/21
Includes some things relevant to Faringdon ( from bottom page 3)
- Market Sq pavements
- Library refurb
- Spending of Youth s106
- cycle path
Here is the January report
Steak Restaurant in London St- - 6/2/21
The big shop in London St ( once Chamberlains) with the wonderful windows ( apparently they're oak frames) is being refurbished to become a steak restaurant.
Good news for Faringdon
Planning appeal, South of Steeds - 5/2/21
The appeals meeting is 27/4/21, deadline 16th Feb 21. Anyone can comment. Reference: APP/V3120/W/20/3264500 (planninginspectorate.gov.uk)
Planning permission for the additional 125 houses on South of Steeds estate was refused by VWHDC, but the developer has appealed
Objections included
- The land is not allocated in the Local Plan. It was kept as space between Steeds and Gt. Coxwell and to protect views to/from the Great Barn
- VWHDC have achieved their housing numbers
- Faringdon has already had c500 house occupied since 2015. (increase of c20%) A further 600/700 have been given permission.
- The developers have indicated that they are unable to include social housing or contributions towards infrastructure as it would make the site un-viable. Past and expected growth of housing is putting pressure on essential facilities- Health, schools, roads,
- There are very few employment opportunities in Faringdon
South of Steeds Decision notice
Planning application P18/V0259/O
Faringdon Town Council Meeting online - 5/2/21
10th February, 715.
Papers and joining information on https://www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/an-online-meeting-of-the-full-council-to-be-held-on-wednesday-10th-february-2021/
A Strategic working party met 3/2. The related agenda item
12. Strategic Working Party 3 rd February 2021 (not attached- not available to the public until after the meeting))
a) To consider revised short-term objectives in the Strategic Plan
b) To set up and elect members to a Covid Recovery Working Party
c) To consider Town Centre regeneration
d) To set up and elect members to a CIL Working Party
e) To receive community survey results
FTC are likely to receive nearly £1m (s106 and CIL) over the next few years, as housing developments are completed.I believe this is the beginning of the plan on how it should be spent in Faringdon.
Notable people in Faringdon's history- 4/2/21
I've been whiling away some lockdown time researching the history of some of the notable people from the past- The Robert Pye, and the Untons- both families commemorated with chapels in All Saints Church and streets named after them.
I didn't realise that Henry Unton ( 1557) was the 1st cousin of Jane Seymour, mother of Edward VI
See History, people and places, notable people and scroll down
ED
Vaccines- where we are now- 4/2/21
I've been reporting (covid/no covid) daily to https://covid.joinzoe.com/?mc_cid=149e50e8ca&mc_eid=UNIQID - research organisation
They have produced a youtube video (streamed live yesterday) 'What we know so far'
You can watch it on www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZJOQzrspFI
Ed
Home Bargains Shop - 2/2/21
Opening February 13th
(Behind Aldi)
FTC Planning meeting 27/2/21- 28/2/21
Notes
Volunteer Inn. Grade 2 listed. Application to become residential 6 flats.
Comments
Comments can be made until 4th Feb
https://data.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P20/V3241/LB#exactline
Builder Ede has agreed to replace the Welcome wall/sign at the entrance of Faringdon. FTC to decide what specify Style/type
It was stated that action is needed to install Faringdon signs on other roads including Twinning signs
Budgens
It was reported that there is an issue with the access on Marlborough St. The owner is discussing access from Southampton St carpark with VWHDC.
Puzzling as the application has been approved (undated decision notice)
South Of Steeds appeal. Mike Wise will represent FTC. Date not mentioned.
Planning Application P18/V0259/O (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
FTC Council meeting 14/1/21 - 28/1/21
Notes
Recording on Youtube
State of Folly Park car park. Action being investigated.
Footpath link /bridge from Travelodge grounds to Folly Park being pursued. (VWHDC/FTC)
Strategic Planning meeting 3/2/21 to discuss results of Town survey. (270 responses). Report will be provided for Council meeting Feb 10th. This is not a public meeting, but the report will be in the public domain. I believe information from this consultation will form the basis of a plan on which to spend developer contributions to infrastructure.
VWHDC and FTC are working together on how the Leisure money (£225k intended once to be spent on a Wantage Leisure Centre) will be spent- I think that's what was said
Faringdon Town Council meetings online- 27/1/21
All FTC committee meetings are streamed online now, and it is the intention to post the recordings on their Youtube channel soon after the meeting.
You can find agendas and papers on the home page - scroll down to the bottom
See Faringdon Town Council - YouTube
This has been a bit patchy, but you can now see the full council meeting of 13th Jan on youtube.
Travelodge Faringdon Oxfordshire- 27/1/21
Unit 5, Henry Blake Way,
Faringdon, SN7 7CQ
t: 08719 846572
w: https://www.travelodge.co.uk/hotels/680/Faringdon-Oxfordshire-hotel
This hotel is bookable for stays from 10/05/2021
Notes
Volunteer Inn. Grade 2 listed. Application to become residential 6 flats.
Comments
- Would prefer it if the ground floor was a pub or some other public space
- Over development - 6 flats, 2 parking spaces
- Insufficient parking. Developer said that 2 spaces per flat would be arrangted in Gloucester St car park
- Not viable as a brewery owned pub
- Significant costly refurbishment and repair needed
Comments can be made until 4th Feb
https://data.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P20/V3241/LB#exactline
Builder Ede has agreed to replace the Welcome wall/sign at the entrance of Faringdon. FTC to decide what specify Style/type
It was stated that action is needed to install Faringdon signs on other roads including Twinning signs
Budgens
It was reported that there is an issue with the access on Marlborough St. The owner is discussing access from Southampton St carpark with VWHDC.
Puzzling as the application has been approved (undated decision notice)
South Of Steeds appeal. Mike Wise will represent FTC. Date not mentioned.
Planning Application P18/V0259/O (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
FTC Council meeting 14/1/21 - 28/1/21
Notes
Recording on Youtube
State of Folly Park car park. Action being investigated.
Footpath link /bridge from Travelodge grounds to Folly Park being pursued. (VWHDC/FTC)
Strategic Planning meeting 3/2/21 to discuss results of Town survey. (270 responses). Report will be provided for Council meeting Feb 10th. This is not a public meeting, but the report will be in the public domain. I believe information from this consultation will form the basis of a plan on which to spend developer contributions to infrastructure.
VWHDC and FTC are working together on how the Leisure money (£225k intended once to be spent on a Wantage Leisure Centre) will be spent- I think that's what was said
Faringdon Town Council meetings online- 27/1/21
All FTC committee meetings are streamed online now, and it is the intention to post the recordings on their Youtube channel soon after the meeting.
You can find agendas and papers on the home page - scroll down to the bottom
See Faringdon Town Council - YouTube
This has been a bit patchy, but you can now see the full council meeting of 13th Jan on youtube.
Travelodge Faringdon Oxfordshire- 27/1/21
Unit 5, Henry Blake Way,
Faringdon, SN7 7CQ
t: 08719 846572
w: https://www.travelodge.co.uk/hotels/680/Faringdon-Oxfordshire-hotel
This hotel is bookable for stays from 10/05/2021
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Path from Southampton St to Volunteer Way - 25/1/21
A big thankyou to John, our (Biffa) street cleaner. He always does a great job - long may he be allowed to stay working in Faringdon. |
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Volunteer Inn- planning request to become residential- 24/1/21
Grade II listed building
''vacant public house to create four flats (two no. two-bedroom and two no. one-bedroom units). A small single storey infill extension is proposed to the rear. A new stand-alone two storey building containing two no. one bedroom flats is proposed in part of the rear courtyard area. In addition, the area between the main building and the new building will be a shared courtyard, with parking and cycle / bin store area or spaces for two vehicles.'
'Loss of historic fabric will be limited'
'There is no off-street parking associated with the existing public house, however two spaces are shown for the proposed scheme. An alternative could be zero parking, with the creation of a shared courtyard area for drop off, cycle and bin storage.
Given the town centre location there is no need to provide parking on-site. This is particularly the case given the proximity to existing public car parks, the premium bus services in the town centre and the lack of parking for the public house use
Planning Application P20/V3241/LB (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
Comments by 11th Feb 2021
More Houses in Volunteer Way - 24/1/21
Planning permission being sought for 9 house, 1*2 bed, 4*3 bed 4 *4 bed
Planning Application P21/V0056/RM (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
Comments by 18th Feb 2021
I assume this, if passed, will require the developer to pay Community Interest Levy, 25% of which will come to Faringdon Town Council to spend
Ed
Covid vaccination - 23/1/21
I have to comment on how friendly and helpful everyone is at the Covid centre from traffic monitors to everyone upstairs. And, of course, beautifully organised. Congratulations to all.
Mary Beck
Trees cut down along Park Road- 22/1/21
I asked the VWHDC PLanning Officer why the trees were removed ( when the arboricultural report deemed them to be healthy)
The tree removal works were considered with the outline planning application, and at that stage the applicant provided surveys to justify which trees would need to be removed to facilitate the development. This was reviewed and established at that stage. The applicant was also required to provide tree an arboricultural method statement as a conditions application, which has since been approved. For clarification I have attached the arboricultural report , and the tree retention plan, associated with the outline application: P17/V1082/O.
With reference to the trees shown to be removed along the front, this was proposed so the carriageway could be widened (bringing the road much closer to the trees) to allow space for the access into the site, visibility splays, the cycle / footway and to accommodate the bus stop – shown on attached access strategy plans. The Tree Officer reviewed the surveys and concluded there was justification for certain trees to be removed to allow the access to be created. This approach was presented to the Planning Committee in March 2018 and felt to be acceptable, based on replacement trees and planting being provided elsewhere on the development. The applicant has provided this detail in the form of a landscaping scheme to help integrate the development into the local area, which includes additional trees to offset the loss of the trees along the front, and screening along the eastern edge. The landscaping scheme has since been formally approved as a conditions application.
In terms of the recent tree removal, the trees closest to the road tally with those shown on the tree retention plan [T8, G7, T5, T4, and ash adj. crossing island]. However, we have been alerted to the removal of three further trees (marked as G3 – Ash) on the retention plan. These are the three set back behind the run of beech trees, as indicated on your photos. Discussions have already started between the Tree Officer and the developer to secure replacement trees, and to address the loss of the three ash trees. Given the proximity of the ash and beech trees, it would not be beneficial to the growth of the beech trees to provide replacement trees in exactly the same location. The Tree Officer will clarify the requirements to the developer in due course, and will continue to liaise with their Tree consultant, who is regularly monitoring the tree protection as the development progresses.
Ed
Covid Vaccination Programme Wave.3. Update: 21-01-21- 21/1/21
We will commence our Third Covid Clinic from Friday 22nd – Sunday 24th January 2021
Clinic NOT at WHMP Practice building. Please see detail below of where you will be vaccinated.
The groups of Patients to be vaccinated are:
APPOINTMENT BOOKING: We will text patients in these groups, for whom we have a mobile phone number. The text message has a link to book your appointment via ‘AccuBook,’ a simple three step process. Please help us by using this service if at all possible. Please contact the Practice direct if you have no mobile phone, and/or we will call you.
Other eligible for vaccination: Health and Social Care staff. All employed and/or paid Carers, plus any frontline NHS staff are entitled to a Covid Vaccination. To register for your vaccination please apply to: occg.carerseligibleforcovidvaccine@nhs.net
Contact us today or 22/01/21 for vaccination this weekend; you do not need to be a Practice patient.
We will update this message as necessary, and our Facebook Page, so please check regularly for updates. We will advise on the next groups to be vaccinated and when, as soon as we know.
In closing, a huge Thank you to all who have visited for the vaccination, some 2500 as of now, since last Friday. Your kind words of support for our efforts are hugely appreciated by all at WHMP.
WHMP
Thankyou WHMP - 20/1/21
Just wanted to say well done everyone involved in the Covid Vaccination clinic, very well organised and all very friendly, despite the volunteers standing out in the rain, they were all very helpful.
Sue Crook
Report from our VWHDC councillors - 20/1/21
This report was written by David Grant and Bethia Thomas for the monthly Faringdon Town Council meeting.
It has some interesting information.
It is also here
Ed
Help if you're shielding - 21/1/21
https://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/vale-of-white-horse-district-council/coronavirus-community-support/support-for-people-who-need-help/
Help for individuals and families - Vale of White Horse District Council
Help is available if you’re struggling because of COVID-19 and you have nobody around to help you. Call our Community Hub on 01235 422600 if you need support or complete the online form.
The Community Support team is available from: 8.30am-5pm Monday to Thursday 8.30am-4.30pm on Fridays The team will put you in touch with a network
www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk
White Horse Covid vaccinations - 19/1/21
We went earlier and nothing could have been more straightforward.
Congratulations to the teams from WHMP, the Military personnel, volunteers and absolutely everyone involved for you friendly approach, sound organisation and superb planning.
If there are any over-70s who might be worrying about attending, please be re-assured. You will be in very safe hands.
Name supplied
Covid Vaccinations- Location - 18/1/21
Rac Unit 1, off Park Road
See map
and on Home page of this site
VWHDC Waste and Recycling - 15/1/21
Nearly 100 members of Faringdon U3A listened to a presentation by a VWHDC Recycling and Education Officer.
Here are my notes:
VWHDC recycle 62% ( 3rd in England 2018)) ( c12% is rejected through contamination)
You can recycle -CLEAN pots/tubs/trays/bottles/cans/paper/card Lids on. Loose in the bin. If in doubt put in black bin
Food residue in recycle bin will contaminate the whole bin
Waste- Black bin
Compostable bags and cups, Bubble wrap, cling films, crisps, biscuit wrappers, polystyrene, flower pots, hard plastic (eg toys), Tissues, Kitchen roll, disposable coffee cups, blister packs, crisp tubes
Loose in the Bin. If in doubt put in black bin
Food waste - Green caddy- Food only in lined ( paper, plastic bag) or unlined bin. Corn starch bags unsuitable
Garden waste- Brown Bin - Weeds, plants, cuttings, grass. No plastic pots, containers, bags
This is how the waste and recycling is processed and used:
Recycling (Green) Hand sorted at Culham, processed, sold ( mostly abroad) for reuse
Waste (Black) Incinerated at Ardley to produce electricity
Garden (Brown) Composted in outdoor heaps and sold to farmers
Food (Green caddy) Processed at Wallingford, to produce methane which becomes electricity (for 4.8k homes) and residue sold as fertiliser
Covid jabs - 15/1/21
White Horse Practice are calling 70-79 year olds for their vaccination. I believe you'll either get a text, or be phoned
Ed
Mobile Banking.- 13/1/21
Just found out today that the hours of the bank visits to Faringdon have been changed .
They are now 12.15 to 1.15 every other Wednesday during the current lockdown.
It would have been helpful for Lloyds to inform this town of the changes so that the residents were not inconvenienced by making a fruitless visit as I did today. Not at all impressed by the lack of information from Lloyds,,!!
See dates on www.lloydsbank.com/banking-with-us/mobile-branch/south-east.html#Faringdon
Help if you're shielding - 13/1/21
I wonder if there are local volunteers in Faringdon who can help people who are shielding. For example with shopping and prescriptions.
If there is such a service I would be grateful if could let me have contact details.
hazelbagwell9@gmail.com
ED: Faringdon Viral Kindness I think has closed now as I think the service is now provided from elsewhere. But sorry- I don't know the details
I have found
Town Centre 20mph Speed Restriction - 13/1/21
Have just read the proposal for a 20 mph Speed Restriction in the Town Center which will be funded by the Council ..
For years many in this town have been asking for something to be done about the constant illegal parking along London Street where people park on the paths blocking peoples access to there own front doors showing no consideration or regard for anyone or the law . . Only to be told time and time again that there is no money in the pot to fund a parking warden and the Police aren't interested .. Suddenly money is available and abundant for other newly thought up traffic schemes .. Its about time the Council listened and acted ...
Dean Suckling
Ed: Oxford CC and VWHDC, Cherwell and South Oxford councils have agreed to take over responsibility of on street parking enforcement from the police ( as has been done in other parts of England) Their submission needs to be agreed to by Governement ( Dept Transport?). Target date to take over enforcement is November 2021
Reference social gathering at the Folly and the skate park this past weekend 9/10 January.- 13/1/21
I find it very hurtful and shameful of Families and friends meeting up at the folly/Skate park picnicking and social gathering, We are in a national lockdown I can’t believe the council have not closed both sites down.
We counted at least twenty people around the folly tower gathering and more than forty five people at the skate park watching there children with no social distancing..
I have lived on tuckers road for fifteen years and only work are dogs for one hour during day as advised by the government rules of the national lockdown and we wear are masks when walking, But we are afraid to walk are dog around both the folly hill and folly sports ground now..
Am sorry but we have no alternative to write to all our local MPs with photos of the gathering are skate park and folly hill.
Just a foot note the fields around the folly tower are Private land owned by the farmer and am very sure he doesn’t want people trespassing on his land.as they have been.
Stay safe and save lives.
Jane French
White Horse Council Consultations - 12/1/21
The council is asking the public and local businesses and organisations to comment on the draft Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Charging Schedule and the draft Developer Contributions ...
www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/planning/community-infrastructure-we-want-your-views-2/
The consultations on both draft documents run from Monday 11 January until midnight on Monday 8 February.
Bosom Friends Breast Cancer Support - 12/1/21
This time last year, nobody had any idea what 2020 would have in store for us. The coronavirus pandemic has meant that the last few months have been challenging and difficult for just about everyone.
Hearing the news that you have cancer is devastating; receiving such a diagnosis during these uncertain covid times can be even more frightening. As well as the obvious physical effects, such a diagnosis is emotionally overwhelming and ultimately life-changing; it’s common to feel alone, fearful and anxious.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, with one in eight women being diagnosed in their lifetime. Men can also be diagnosed with breast cancer. Each year around 12,000 people will die from the disease. Although survival rates have improved dramatically – with more people now surviving breast cancer than ever before – there is still a long way to go.
Bosom Friends is a small, Oxfordshire support group run entirely by volunteers and offers a listening ear as well as practical, confidential support to those who have been affected by breast cancer. The group was formed several years ago by two women who wanted to ensure that others in Oxfordshire would not feel the same isolation that they had experienced following their diagnosis.
Members of Bosom Friends would usually meet once a month, often in the home of one of the members with a chat, cuppa and cake. Although currently unable to hold normal group meetings due to coronavirus Bosom Friends continue to hold monthly meetings online via Zoom.
Whether you have just been diagnosed, are currently undergoing treatment or completed your active treatment a while ago, the group offers emotional support and practical, up-to-date information. Above all, we can offer an understanding voice at the end of the phone should you ever need it.
If you or someone you care about has been affected by breast cancer, please do take a look at the Bosom Friends website - www.bosomfriends.org.uk; alternatively if you prefer, please call Jan in confidence on 01844 290362 for more information.
Ring found.- 11/1/21
Hello. We have found a ring today (11/01/21) whilst walking on Humpty Hill.
If you think it belongs to you, then please email me with a description and I will let you know if it matches yours.
regards Mark
marklunnon219@btinternet.com
Online Town Council Meeting Wed 13th 7.15 - 10/1/21
Agenda, reports and link to view proceedings can be found on
Full Council to be held on Wednesday 13th January 2021 at 7.15pm.
The 2021. 22 budget will be considered at this meeting. - Faringdon Town Council
If you would like to submit a question for the meeting please email: sally@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
Vaccination starts in Faringdon - 9/1/21
Covid Vaccination Programme Launch at White Horse Medical Practice: 08-01-21
We have today received notification that our first supply of the Covid Vaccine should arrive with us at a time to be confirmed, on Thursday 14th January, 2021.
The groups of patients to be vaccinated are:
Our initial batch of vaccines will be the Pfizer BioNtech, which has to be used within 3 days of delivery. Accordingly we will start to make bookings for the above stated groups immediately, with a view to vaccinating in the period 15th – 17th January.
We will update this message as necessary, and our Facebook Page, so please check regularly for updates. We will advise on the next groups to be vaccinated as soon as we know.
For more info on the Covid vaccine please visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/covid-19-vaccination-programme
Return of NHS equipmemt- 8/1/21
We're asking people to help their local NHS by returning any equipment they've been loaned and no longer use, as much of this equipment could be recycled and reused.
Please have a look around your house, or the house of the people you care for to see if you have any chairs, beds, wheeled commodes, mattresses, electrical items, bed rails, walking and toilet frames, telecare items and slings that are no longer needed and have an NRS Healthcare sticker attached
URGENT: Help your NHS and hand it back - Equipment required due to COVID-19 (oxfordshireccg.nhs.uk)
Robert Pye and descendants - 7/2/21
There has long since been information about Henry James Pye ( the infamous poet Laureate to George III) on this site. I have now added further information about his forebears starting with his GGG grandfather Robert Pye. I've gleaned all this from the internet so if there is anyone out there who knows more or can correct anything please get in touch genewebb@rocketmail.com
Ed
Grants available fro Oxford Community Foundation - 7/1/21
We are delighted to inform you that we have opened a new grants round, from our Community Resilience Fund. These grants aim to give organisations vital funding as they continue to respond to the pandemic or enter the recovery phase.
Grants of up to £5,000 are available on a rolling basis, until all the funds are allocated. Applications will be assessed on a weekly basis. Priority will be given to projects that are responding to the latest lockdown.
There is just a short online application form to complete.
Find out more about what we are looking for oxfordshire.org/grants/2021-covid-19-grants/?dm_i=1OSY,76T5A,LUB5YT,T4JRR,1
ocf@oxfordshire.org
Oxford County Council Budget Consultation- 7/1/21
Please take the time to read the consultation booklet which provides helpful information (it can be downloaded here or see below under 'documents') and have your say. Our news package provides additional useful information. You may also wish to review the council's full budget proposals and supporting information that will be considered by the Performance Scrutiny Committee on 18th December, to help inform your consultation response.
Please take the time to respond to our Budget Proposals
The public consultation on the budget closes on 13th January 2021 and feedback will be considered when councillors set the budget on 9th February 2021.
consultations.oxfordshire.gov.uk/consult.ti/budget2021/consultationHome
Planning Application 'Las Chicas' - 6/1/21
The proposal is part of works to convert the vacant premises (formerly a bar, BGI building) into a new vibrant restaurant. As part of this a sufficient extract system is required from a modified kitchen
https://data.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P20/V3138/LB
Planning application for the Volunteer Pub - 5/1/21
Alterations, extension to and change of use of ground floor of former public house from Class A4 use to Class C3 residential use (2 No apartments), alterations to first and second floor apartment to create 2 No apartments, construction of detached two-storey building to the rear comprising 2 no apartments with associated car-parking, cycle and refuse/recycling storage
https://data.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P20/V3239/FUL#exactline
Open for comments until 4/2/21
The Folly and the Skate Park - 5/1/21
Why are people gathering at the folly and skate park, The Stanford road has been blocked with cars by so many people meeting up with friends and family’s from not from the Faringdon area, due to checking the car registrations some had travelled sixty miles away, Some were even having picnics and No social distancing what so ever in groups hugging and kissing. Please respect Faringdon original residents And keep away!!! Photos of cars parked up will now be photographed. As we the residents have had enough. Follow the rules.
Stay at home
If you live in Tier 4 you must not leave or be outside of your home or garden except where you have a ‘reasonable excuse’. A reasonable excuse includes:
Exercise and recreation
People can also exercise outdoors or visit some public outdoor places, such as parks, the countryside accessible to the public, public gardens or outdoor sports facilities. You can continue to do unlimited exercise alone, or in a public outdoor place with your household, support bubble, or with one other person if you maintain social distancing. You should follow the guidance on meeting others
Name supplied
CHRISTMAS TREE RECYCLING - 3/1/21
Because of Tier 4 Restrictions stopping Rotary from collecting Trees in The Market Place next Sat 9th, Trees can be Recycled at Steeds Farm 10am to 3pm instead, Drive in, drop off and leave.
Donations for Helen House Hospice will be able to be made.
Andrew Liddiard
Christmas tree recycling cancelled - 1/1/21
Because of the Tier 4 restrictions the Rotary Christmas Tree Recycling on Saturday 9th January has been cancelled.
We look forward to better times in 2021 and wish you a Happy New Year.
Faringdon Rotary
Grade II listed building
''vacant public house to create four flats (two no. two-bedroom and two no. one-bedroom units). A small single storey infill extension is proposed to the rear. A new stand-alone two storey building containing two no. one bedroom flats is proposed in part of the rear courtyard area. In addition, the area between the main building and the new building will be a shared courtyard, with parking and cycle / bin store area or spaces for two vehicles.'
'Loss of historic fabric will be limited'
'There is no off-street parking associated with the existing public house, however two spaces are shown for the proposed scheme. An alternative could be zero parking, with the creation of a shared courtyard area for drop off, cycle and bin storage.
Given the town centre location there is no need to provide parking on-site. This is particularly the case given the proximity to existing public car parks, the premium bus services in the town centre and the lack of parking for the public house use
Planning Application P20/V3241/LB (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
Comments by 11th Feb 2021
More Houses in Volunteer Way - 24/1/21
Planning permission being sought for 9 house, 1*2 bed, 4*3 bed 4 *4 bed
Planning Application P21/V0056/RM (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
Comments by 18th Feb 2021
I assume this, if passed, will require the developer to pay Community Interest Levy, 25% of which will come to Faringdon Town Council to spend
Ed
Covid vaccination - 23/1/21
I have to comment on how friendly and helpful everyone is at the Covid centre from traffic monitors to everyone upstairs. And, of course, beautifully organised. Congratulations to all.
Mary Beck
Trees cut down along Park Road- 22/1/21
I asked the VWHDC PLanning Officer why the trees were removed ( when the arboricultural report deemed them to be healthy)
- The trees removed are inside another row of trees that are left standing( and nearer the carriageway) Why were were these removed?
- Trees removed nearer the carriageway. Please let me know what carriageway works will be carried out that required these trees to be removed
The tree removal works were considered with the outline planning application, and at that stage the applicant provided surveys to justify which trees would need to be removed to facilitate the development. This was reviewed and established at that stage. The applicant was also required to provide tree an arboricultural method statement as a conditions application, which has since been approved. For clarification I have attached the arboricultural report , and the tree retention plan, associated with the outline application: P17/V1082/O.
With reference to the trees shown to be removed along the front, this was proposed so the carriageway could be widened (bringing the road much closer to the trees) to allow space for the access into the site, visibility splays, the cycle / footway and to accommodate the bus stop – shown on attached access strategy plans. The Tree Officer reviewed the surveys and concluded there was justification for certain trees to be removed to allow the access to be created. This approach was presented to the Planning Committee in March 2018 and felt to be acceptable, based on replacement trees and planting being provided elsewhere on the development. The applicant has provided this detail in the form of a landscaping scheme to help integrate the development into the local area, which includes additional trees to offset the loss of the trees along the front, and screening along the eastern edge. The landscaping scheme has since been formally approved as a conditions application.
In terms of the recent tree removal, the trees closest to the road tally with those shown on the tree retention plan [T8, G7, T5, T4, and ash adj. crossing island]. However, we have been alerted to the removal of three further trees (marked as G3 – Ash) on the retention plan. These are the three set back behind the run of beech trees, as indicated on your photos. Discussions have already started between the Tree Officer and the developer to secure replacement trees, and to address the loss of the three ash trees. Given the proximity of the ash and beech trees, it would not be beneficial to the growth of the beech trees to provide replacement trees in exactly the same location. The Tree Officer will clarify the requirements to the developer in due course, and will continue to liaise with their Tree consultant, who is regularly monitoring the tree protection as the development progresses.
Ed
Covid Vaccination Programme Wave.3. Update: 21-01-21- 21/1/21
We will commence our Third Covid Clinic from Friday 22nd – Sunday 24th January 2021
Clinic NOT at WHMP Practice building. Please see detail below of where you will be vaccinated.
The groups of Patients to be vaccinated are:
- 1)All those aged between 70 – 75 plus any from 76 or older, not yet vaccinated.
- 2)All those aged between 18 - 79 who are officially Shielding
APPOINTMENT BOOKING: We will text patients in these groups, for whom we have a mobile phone number. The text message has a link to book your appointment via ‘AccuBook,’ a simple three step process. Please help us by using this service if at all possible. Please contact the Practice direct if you have no mobile phone, and/or we will call you.
- 3)Health and Social Care staff; qualifying details below.
Other eligible for vaccination: Health and Social Care staff. All employed and/or paid Carers, plus any frontline NHS staff are entitled to a Covid Vaccination. To register for your vaccination please apply to: occg.carerseligibleforcovidvaccine@nhs.net
Contact us today or 22/01/21 for vaccination this weekend; you do not need to be a Practice patient.
We will update this message as necessary, and our Facebook Page, so please check regularly for updates. We will advise on the next groups to be vaccinated and when, as soon as we know.
In closing, a huge Thank you to all who have visited for the vaccination, some 2500 as of now, since last Friday. Your kind words of support for our efforts are hugely appreciated by all at WHMP.
WHMP
Thankyou WHMP - 20/1/21
Just wanted to say well done everyone involved in the Covid Vaccination clinic, very well organised and all very friendly, despite the volunteers standing out in the rain, they were all very helpful.
Sue Crook
Report from our VWHDC councillors - 20/1/21
This report was written by David Grant and Bethia Thomas for the monthly Faringdon Town Council meeting.
It has some interesting information.
- Leisure s106 c£230k
- Support for residents
- Gloucester St Car park
- Planning enforcement
- Volunteer Inn
It is also here
Ed
Help if you're shielding - 21/1/21
https://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/vale-of-white-horse-district-council/coronavirus-community-support/support-for-people-who-need-help/
Help for individuals and families - Vale of White Horse District Council
Help is available if you’re struggling because of COVID-19 and you have nobody around to help you. Call our Community Hub on 01235 422600 if you need support or complete the online form.
The Community Support team is available from: 8.30am-5pm Monday to Thursday 8.30am-4.30pm on Fridays The team will put you in touch with a network
www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk
White Horse Covid vaccinations - 19/1/21
We went earlier and nothing could have been more straightforward.
Congratulations to the teams from WHMP, the Military personnel, volunteers and absolutely everyone involved for you friendly approach, sound organisation and superb planning.
If there are any over-70s who might be worrying about attending, please be re-assured. You will be in very safe hands.
Name supplied
Covid Vaccinations- Location - 18/1/21
Rac Unit 1, off Park Road
See map
and on Home page of this site
VWHDC Waste and Recycling - 15/1/21
Nearly 100 members of Faringdon U3A listened to a presentation by a VWHDC Recycling and Education Officer.
Here are my notes:
VWHDC recycle 62% ( 3rd in England 2018)) ( c12% is rejected through contamination)
You can recycle -CLEAN pots/tubs/trays/bottles/cans/paper/card Lids on. Loose in the bin. If in doubt put in black bin
Food residue in recycle bin will contaminate the whole bin
Waste- Black bin
Compostable bags and cups, Bubble wrap, cling films, crisps, biscuit wrappers, polystyrene, flower pots, hard plastic (eg toys), Tissues, Kitchen roll, disposable coffee cups, blister packs, crisp tubes
Loose in the Bin. If in doubt put in black bin
Food waste - Green caddy- Food only in lined ( paper, plastic bag) or unlined bin. Corn starch bags unsuitable
Garden waste- Brown Bin - Weeds, plants, cuttings, grass. No plastic pots, containers, bags
This is how the waste and recycling is processed and used:
Recycling (Green) Hand sorted at Culham, processed, sold ( mostly abroad) for reuse
Waste (Black) Incinerated at Ardley to produce electricity
Garden (Brown) Composted in outdoor heaps and sold to farmers
Food (Green caddy) Processed at Wallingford, to produce methane which becomes electricity (for 4.8k homes) and residue sold as fertiliser
Covid jabs - 15/1/21
White Horse Practice are calling 70-79 year olds for their vaccination. I believe you'll either get a text, or be phoned
Ed
Mobile Banking.- 13/1/21
Just found out today that the hours of the bank visits to Faringdon have been changed .
They are now 12.15 to 1.15 every other Wednesday during the current lockdown.
It would have been helpful for Lloyds to inform this town of the changes so that the residents were not inconvenienced by making a fruitless visit as I did today. Not at all impressed by the lack of information from Lloyds,,!!
See dates on www.lloydsbank.com/banking-with-us/mobile-branch/south-east.html#Faringdon
Help if you're shielding - 13/1/21
I wonder if there are local volunteers in Faringdon who can help people who are shielding. For example with shopping and prescriptions.
If there is such a service I would be grateful if could let me have contact details.
hazelbagwell9@gmail.com
ED: Faringdon Viral Kindness I think has closed now as I think the service is now provided from elsewhere. But sorry- I don't know the details
I have found
- Faringdon Community Support (google.com)
- Shielding our most vulnerable | Abingdon-on-Thames ( includes White Horse area)
- Get support if you’re clinically extremely vulnerable to coronavirus - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Town Centre 20mph Speed Restriction - 13/1/21
Have just read the proposal for a 20 mph Speed Restriction in the Town Center which will be funded by the Council ..
For years many in this town have been asking for something to be done about the constant illegal parking along London Street where people park on the paths blocking peoples access to there own front doors showing no consideration or regard for anyone or the law . . Only to be told time and time again that there is no money in the pot to fund a parking warden and the Police aren't interested .. Suddenly money is available and abundant for other newly thought up traffic schemes .. Its about time the Council listened and acted ...
Dean Suckling
Ed: Oxford CC and VWHDC, Cherwell and South Oxford councils have agreed to take over responsibility of on street parking enforcement from the police ( as has been done in other parts of England) Their submission needs to be agreed to by Governement ( Dept Transport?). Target date to take over enforcement is November 2021
Reference social gathering at the Folly and the skate park this past weekend 9/10 January.- 13/1/21
I find it very hurtful and shameful of Families and friends meeting up at the folly/Skate park picnicking and social gathering, We are in a national lockdown I can’t believe the council have not closed both sites down.
We counted at least twenty people around the folly tower gathering and more than forty five people at the skate park watching there children with no social distancing..
I have lived on tuckers road for fifteen years and only work are dogs for one hour during day as advised by the government rules of the national lockdown and we wear are masks when walking, But we are afraid to walk are dog around both the folly hill and folly sports ground now..
Am sorry but we have no alternative to write to all our local MPs with photos of the gathering are skate park and folly hill.
Just a foot note the fields around the folly tower are Private land owned by the farmer and am very sure he doesn’t want people trespassing on his land.as they have been.
Stay safe and save lives.
Jane French
White Horse Council Consultations - 12/1/21
The council is asking the public and local businesses and organisations to comment on the draft Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Charging Schedule and the draft Developer Contributions ...
www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/planning/community-infrastructure-we-want-your-views-2/
The consultations on both draft documents run from Monday 11 January until midnight on Monday 8 February.
Bosom Friends Breast Cancer Support - 12/1/21
This time last year, nobody had any idea what 2020 would have in store for us. The coronavirus pandemic has meant that the last few months have been challenging and difficult for just about everyone.
Hearing the news that you have cancer is devastating; receiving such a diagnosis during these uncertain covid times can be even more frightening. As well as the obvious physical effects, such a diagnosis is emotionally overwhelming and ultimately life-changing; it’s common to feel alone, fearful and anxious.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, with one in eight women being diagnosed in their lifetime. Men can also be diagnosed with breast cancer. Each year around 12,000 people will die from the disease. Although survival rates have improved dramatically – with more people now surviving breast cancer than ever before – there is still a long way to go.
Bosom Friends is a small, Oxfordshire support group run entirely by volunteers and offers a listening ear as well as practical, confidential support to those who have been affected by breast cancer. The group was formed several years ago by two women who wanted to ensure that others in Oxfordshire would not feel the same isolation that they had experienced following their diagnosis.
Members of Bosom Friends would usually meet once a month, often in the home of one of the members with a chat, cuppa and cake. Although currently unable to hold normal group meetings due to coronavirus Bosom Friends continue to hold monthly meetings online via Zoom.
Whether you have just been diagnosed, are currently undergoing treatment or completed your active treatment a while ago, the group offers emotional support and practical, up-to-date information. Above all, we can offer an understanding voice at the end of the phone should you ever need it.
If you or someone you care about has been affected by breast cancer, please do take a look at the Bosom Friends website - www.bosomfriends.org.uk; alternatively if you prefer, please call Jan in confidence on 01844 290362 for more information.
Ring found.- 11/1/21
Hello. We have found a ring today (11/01/21) whilst walking on Humpty Hill.
If you think it belongs to you, then please email me with a description and I will let you know if it matches yours.
regards Mark
marklunnon219@btinternet.com
Online Town Council Meeting Wed 13th 7.15 - 10/1/21
Agenda, reports and link to view proceedings can be found on
Full Council to be held on Wednesday 13th January 2021 at 7.15pm.
The 2021. 22 budget will be considered at this meeting. - Faringdon Town Council
If you would like to submit a question for the meeting please email: sally@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
Vaccination starts in Faringdon - 9/1/21
Covid Vaccination Programme Launch at White Horse Medical Practice: 08-01-21
We have today received notification that our first supply of the Covid Vaccine should arrive with us at a time to be confirmed, on Thursday 14th January, 2021.
The groups of patients to be vaccinated are:
- All those over 80 years of age, all care home residents and care home staff: WE WILL CALL YOU TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT. PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE PRACTICE.
- All Health and Social Care staff.
- Covid Vaccination Eligibility for Carers and NHS Staff: All employed and/or paid Carers and all frontline NHS staff are entitled to a Covid Vaccination at our first Covid clinic.
Our initial batch of vaccines will be the Pfizer BioNtech, which has to be used within 3 days of delivery. Accordingly we will start to make bookings for the above stated groups immediately, with a view to vaccinating in the period 15th – 17th January.
We will update this message as necessary, and our Facebook Page, so please check regularly for updates. We will advise on the next groups to be vaccinated as soon as we know.
For more info on the Covid vaccine please visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/covid-19-vaccination-programme
Return of NHS equipmemt- 8/1/21
We're asking people to help their local NHS by returning any equipment they've been loaned and no longer use, as much of this equipment could be recycled and reused.
Please have a look around your house, or the house of the people you care for to see if you have any chairs, beds, wheeled commodes, mattresses, electrical items, bed rails, walking and toilet frames, telecare items and slings that are no longer needed and have an NRS Healthcare sticker attached
URGENT: Help your NHS and hand it back - Equipment required due to COVID-19 (oxfordshireccg.nhs.uk)
Robert Pye and descendants - 7/2/21
There has long since been information about Henry James Pye ( the infamous poet Laureate to George III) on this site. I have now added further information about his forebears starting with his GGG grandfather Robert Pye. I've gleaned all this from the internet so if there is anyone out there who knows more or can correct anything please get in touch genewebb@rocketmail.com
Ed
Grants available fro Oxford Community Foundation - 7/1/21
We are delighted to inform you that we have opened a new grants round, from our Community Resilience Fund. These grants aim to give organisations vital funding as they continue to respond to the pandemic or enter the recovery phase.
Grants of up to £5,000 are available on a rolling basis, until all the funds are allocated. Applications will be assessed on a weekly basis. Priority will be given to projects that are responding to the latest lockdown.
There is just a short online application form to complete.
Find out more about what we are looking for oxfordshire.org/grants/2021-covid-19-grants/?dm_i=1OSY,76T5A,LUB5YT,T4JRR,1
ocf@oxfordshire.org
Oxford County Council Budget Consultation- 7/1/21
Please take the time to read the consultation booklet which provides helpful information (it can be downloaded here or see below under 'documents') and have your say. Our news package provides additional useful information. You may also wish to review the council's full budget proposals and supporting information that will be considered by the Performance Scrutiny Committee on 18th December, to help inform your consultation response.
Please take the time to respond to our Budget Proposals
The public consultation on the budget closes on 13th January 2021 and feedback will be considered when councillors set the budget on 9th February 2021.
consultations.oxfordshire.gov.uk/consult.ti/budget2021/consultationHome
Planning Application 'Las Chicas' - 6/1/21
The proposal is part of works to convert the vacant premises (formerly a bar, BGI building) into a new vibrant restaurant. As part of this a sufficient extract system is required from a modified kitchen
https://data.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P20/V3138/LB
Planning application for the Volunteer Pub - 5/1/21
Alterations, extension to and change of use of ground floor of former public house from Class A4 use to Class C3 residential use (2 No apartments), alterations to first and second floor apartment to create 2 No apartments, construction of detached two-storey building to the rear comprising 2 no apartments with associated car-parking, cycle and refuse/recycling storage
https://data.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P20/V3239/FUL#exactline
Open for comments until 4/2/21
The Folly and the Skate Park - 5/1/21
Why are people gathering at the folly and skate park, The Stanford road has been blocked with cars by so many people meeting up with friends and family’s from not from the Faringdon area, due to checking the car registrations some had travelled sixty miles away, Some were even having picnics and No social distancing what so ever in groups hugging and kissing. Please respect Faringdon original residents And keep away!!! Photos of cars parked up will now be photographed. As we the residents have had enough. Follow the rules.
Stay at home
If you live in Tier 4 you must not leave or be outside of your home or garden except where you have a ‘reasonable excuse’. A reasonable excuse includes:
Exercise and recreation
People can also exercise outdoors or visit some public outdoor places, such as parks, the countryside accessible to the public, public gardens or outdoor sports facilities. You can continue to do unlimited exercise alone, or in a public outdoor place with your household, support bubble, or with one other person if you maintain social distancing. You should follow the guidance on meeting others
Name supplied
CHRISTMAS TREE RECYCLING - 3/1/21
Because of Tier 4 Restrictions stopping Rotary from collecting Trees in The Market Place next Sat 9th, Trees can be Recycled at Steeds Farm 10am to 3pm instead, Drive in, drop off and leave.
Donations for Helen House Hospice will be able to be made.
Andrew Liddiard
Christmas tree recycling cancelled - 1/1/21
Because of the Tier 4 restrictions the Rotary Christmas Tree Recycling on Saturday 9th January has been cancelled.
We look forward to better times in 2021 and wish you a Happy New Year.
Faringdon Rotary
Posted on White Horse Practice facebook page - 27/12/20
Wantage Mummers - 26/12/20
The recording will be available from 10 am Boxing Day until Twelfth Night. In the event you have difficulty getting access owing to the level of interest, please try later. Download speeds of 7Mbps or greater are required.
https://www.wantagemummers.org.uk/covid19-edition
Boxes of Joy - 24/12/20
I have also today received one of the boxes after being nominated by a very dear friend. What a lovely idea, thank you to all those involved bought tears of joy to me.
Faringdon is such a wonderful place to live and the community spirit is amazing.
Merry Christmas everyone.
Sue Crook
Temporary traffic lights on Park Road - 22/12/20
From 4 January 2021 for a period of 4 weeks.
Utilities and carriage way works
Boxes of Joy - 2/12/20
My husband and I received one of the wonderful ‘Boxes of Joy’ yesterday and we were overwhelmed with people’s generosity at such an awful time. So many people have been involved in giving, wrapping & delivering the boxes, along with messages from local school children. It was in fact a joy to receive and we look forward to opening the numerous gifts over the coming days - the hyacinth is already on the windowsill.
We would like to say a special ‘Thank You’ to the person who nominated us, they know who they are! And we wish everyone involved a very Happy Christmas.
Name Supplied
Permission sought for 14 houses in Canada Lane to go ahead- 19/12/20
The former Tetronics site
See https://data.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P20/V3193/DIS
Discharge of conditions re contamination
Lloyds Mobile Banking . Faringdon - 19/12/20
Wednesdays 12.45- 15.00
w/c 14th December 2020
w/c 28th December 2020
w/c 11th January 2021
w/c 25th January 2021
w/c 8th February 2021
w/c 22nd February 2021
w/c 8th March 2021
w/c 22nd March 2021
w/c 5th April 2021
United Church carpark SN7 7HA
Lloyds Bank | Banking with us | Mobile Branch | South East
Paths and Roads in Faringdon- 14/12/20
At the December Traffic Advisory meeting I asked what was happening about:-
D/Cllr. Grant specified that the despite the latest development of South Steeds being refused, a contribution was available from the first application of The Steeds and Fernham Fields development for the allocated 400 houses that has been approved by the Vale.
Cllr/Heathcoat further informed members that the Highways Authority had put forward to the District the request that any decision being made regarding Steeds south Development should not affect the S106 Money contribution towards the works at Great Coxwell junction. However, this comment was not put before the Vale Committee, the only comment presented to the Vale Committee was the 2018 comment.
Other matters
Surveys have confirmed that 20mph limit in parts of the Town Centre is allowed. If FTC wish to proceed. a Consultation will take place in the New Year. The work will be funded by Oxford CC.
Cycle path from Southampton St Volunteer way. First section to be delivered in January 2021
More information in the minutes to be found on FTC website
Ed
Christmas Dinner for those who will be alone - 14/12/20
A wonderful local initiative. See the poster on the Home page
Ed
'Illegal onstreet parking - 14/12/20
The 3 District Council - VWHDC, South Oxfordshire, Cherwell have now agreed
Following approval by their respective Cabinets, the proposals will now move forward and the district councils will ask Oxfordshire County Council to submit a joint CPE application to the government for approval.
https://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/parking/measures-to-tackle-illegal-parking-could-be-introduced-in-the-vale-next-year-following-cabinet-approval/
Thankyou Credit Card returned.- 11/12/20
Many thanks to whoever found the credit card I carelessly dropped to the ground in Faringdon and then took the trouble to hand it in to my bank in Witney. I greatly appreciate the kindness.
Name Supplied.
Town Council meetings on Youtube- 11/12/20
You can now see the recordings of FTC meetings for a time after the streamed meeting on the Faringdon Town Council Youtube account.
See https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQLRIqAOQ7KnWd3_LEoH2EA
Ed
Online Faringdon Town Council Meeting Wed 9th. 7.15pm- 7/12/20
The link to the meeting of the Full Council is on https://www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/full-council-to-be-held-on-wednesday-9th-december-2020-at-7-15pm/
Scroll down a few lines to find the Agenda Pack - agenda, relevant minutes, County Council report,
Ed
Traffic Advisory Meeting Notes- 4/12/20
Key points
Ed
Faringdon Town Council Newsletters - 4/12/20
The December one has just been published. You can find this and previous ones on https://www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/council/news/newsletters/
Vitamin D - 1/12/20
I've just learned that someone shielding from Covid can apply online for Vitamin D now - 4 months supply will be delivered in January
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/people-at-higher-risk/get-vitamin-d-supplements/>
Ed
Thankyou - 1/12/20
May I send my grateful thanks to the kind people who helped me yesterday when I had a blackout outside McColls in Faringdon. And also to the poor people who were queuing outside and couldn't get in as I was sitting in the doorway.
I spent the day at the JR and they found a heart complaint, which they are dealing with - so thanks again for the help and kindness!
Mary Beck
The recording will be available from 10 am Boxing Day until Twelfth Night. In the event you have difficulty getting access owing to the level of interest, please try later. Download speeds of 7Mbps or greater are required.
https://www.wantagemummers.org.uk/covid19-edition
Boxes of Joy - 24/12/20
I have also today received one of the boxes after being nominated by a very dear friend. What a lovely idea, thank you to all those involved bought tears of joy to me.
Faringdon is such a wonderful place to live and the community spirit is amazing.
Merry Christmas everyone.
Sue Crook
Temporary traffic lights on Park Road - 22/12/20
From 4 January 2021 for a period of 4 weeks.
Utilities and carriage way works
Boxes of Joy - 2/12/20
My husband and I received one of the wonderful ‘Boxes of Joy’ yesterday and we were overwhelmed with people’s generosity at such an awful time. So many people have been involved in giving, wrapping & delivering the boxes, along with messages from local school children. It was in fact a joy to receive and we look forward to opening the numerous gifts over the coming days - the hyacinth is already on the windowsill.
We would like to say a special ‘Thank You’ to the person who nominated us, they know who they are! And we wish everyone involved a very Happy Christmas.
Name Supplied
Permission sought for 14 houses in Canada Lane to go ahead- 19/12/20
The former Tetronics site
See https://data.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P20/V3193/DIS
Discharge of conditions re contamination
Lloyds Mobile Banking . Faringdon - 19/12/20
Wednesdays 12.45- 15.00
w/c 14th December 2020
w/c 28th December 2020
w/c 11th January 2021
w/c 25th January 2021
w/c 8th February 2021
w/c 22nd February 2021
w/c 8th March 2021
w/c 22nd March 2021
w/c 5th April 2021
United Church carpark SN7 7HA
Lloyds Bank | Banking with us | Mobile Branch | South East
Paths and Roads in Faringdon- 14/12/20
At the December Traffic Advisory meeting I asked what was happening about:-
- the re surfacing of the pavements in the Market Square
- The resurfacing of Park Road
- Traffic lights at Great Coxwell junction
- It was NOTED that the Great Coxwell project is not progressing as it is now short of funding of £ 500.000, due to the Steeds South development being refused.
- It was NOTED that the resurfacing of Park Road is scheduled for the next financial year.
- It was NOTED that C/Cllr. Heathcoat has written to the Cabinet members enquiring about the works needed in Market Square, these being highly needed. It was also NOTED that for this reason 2 officers were brought up to Faringdon and 1 officer attended the Full Council to speak to members regarding the matter.
D/Cllr. Grant specified that the despite the latest development of South Steeds being refused, a contribution was available from the first application of The Steeds and Fernham Fields development for the allocated 400 houses that has been approved by the Vale.
Cllr/Heathcoat further informed members that the Highways Authority had put forward to the District the request that any decision being made regarding Steeds south Development should not affect the S106 Money contribution towards the works at Great Coxwell junction. However, this comment was not put before the Vale Committee, the only comment presented to the Vale Committee was the 2018 comment.
Other matters
Surveys have confirmed that 20mph limit in parts of the Town Centre is allowed. If FTC wish to proceed. a Consultation will take place in the New Year. The work will be funded by Oxford CC.
Cycle path from Southampton St Volunteer way. First section to be delivered in January 2021
More information in the minutes to be found on FTC website
Ed
Christmas Dinner for those who will be alone - 14/12/20
A wonderful local initiative. See the poster on the Home page
Ed
'Illegal onstreet parking - 14/12/20
The 3 District Council - VWHDC, South Oxfordshire, Cherwell have now agreed
Following approval by their respective Cabinets, the proposals will now move forward and the district councils will ask Oxfordshire County Council to submit a joint CPE application to the government for approval.
https://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/parking/measures-to-tackle-illegal-parking-could-be-introduced-in-the-vale-next-year-following-cabinet-approval/
Thankyou Credit Card returned.- 11/12/20
Many thanks to whoever found the credit card I carelessly dropped to the ground in Faringdon and then took the trouble to hand it in to my bank in Witney. I greatly appreciate the kindness.
Name Supplied.
Town Council meetings on Youtube- 11/12/20
You can now see the recordings of FTC meetings for a time after the streamed meeting on the Faringdon Town Council Youtube account.
See https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQLRIqAOQ7KnWd3_LEoH2EA
Ed
Online Faringdon Town Council Meeting Wed 9th. 7.15pm- 7/12/20
The link to the meeting of the Full Council is on https://www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/full-council-to-be-held-on-wednesday-9th-december-2020-at-7-15pm/
Scroll down a few lines to find the Agenda Pack - agenda, relevant minutes, County Council report,
Ed
Traffic Advisory Meeting Notes- 4/12/20
Key points
- 20mph in town centre. Surveys have been done. Assuming FTC want to do this, next stage will be a consultation. I assume local residents will be included
- Cycle path from Southampton St to Medical centre . Being priced now. Should be done in January 2021
- 5 sets of cycle racks have been installed around the town
- Civil Parking Enforcement. VWHDC to vote at cabinet today. South Oxford and Cherwell before Christmas. Implementation target is November 2021
- Bloor have agreed to wash the mud off Park Road every day
- Faringdon Gateway on Park Road needs to be moved. FTC to decide where.
- Great Coxwell junction. Cncllr Heathcoat is seeking the final £500k that is needed
- Park Road will be resurfaced in 2021
- Town Centre pavements will be resurfaced. Cncllr Heathcoat has written to the relevant cabinet member for the timescale
Ed
Faringdon Town Council Newsletters - 4/12/20
The December one has just been published. You can find this and previous ones on https://www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/council/news/newsletters/
Vitamin D - 1/12/20
I've just learned that someone shielding from Covid can apply online for Vitamin D now - 4 months supply will be delivered in January
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/people-at-higher-risk/get-vitamin-d-supplements/>
Ed
Thankyou - 1/12/20
May I send my grateful thanks to the kind people who helped me yesterday when I had a blackout outside McColls in Faringdon. And also to the poor people who were queuing outside and couldn't get in as I was sitting in the doorway.
I spent the day at the JR and they found a heart complaint, which they are dealing with - so thanks again for the help and kindness!
Mary Beck
|
|
|
Community Survey - Faringdon Town Council - 21/11/20
See www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/faringdon-community-survey/
Questions about Town Centre, parking, Buses and ideas for spending ££ from developers
(£400k over 3 years expected from South of Highworth Road; potentially £230k earmarked for the now cancelled Wantage Leisure)
Plus more - South of Park Road, Hotel and shop near Aldi and I think other ££ from other developments.
No deadline given
Ed
Thankyou - 18/11/20
Iris Haynes would like to thank all those who rushed to her aid when she suffered a fall in the Corn Market this morning. Particularly the gentleman who left his car and helped her to her feet, Silvana and Pete who took her home and Tom Blundy and many others too numerous to name who expressed sympathy and concern. Iris hopes they will be relieved to learn that apart from severe bruising she was quite unhurt and is resting quietly at home.
Thank you all very much.
Dennis Haynes
Faringdon Town Council meeting 11/11 notes - 17/11/20
New councillor David Brown, Gt Coxwell
OCC and District Council reports can be found on www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Agenda-Pack-Visitors-1.pdf
District Council report mentions:
Discussion re keeping recordings of meetings online for a period of time
Town regeneration group proposal for investigation into:
Community survey being finalised
Provision of IT/tablets for councillors who need it
Ed
On street parking enforcement - 17/11/20
Oxford CC are likely to take over the enforcement of on street parking ( from the Police) from Nov 2021.This relies on Cherwell council, South Oxford, The Vale District Councils agreeing to the proposal and the Dept of Transport ratifying the proposal. Full information can be found from p 28 of democratic.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/documents/b6945/supplementary%20agenda%20Monday%2023-Nov-2020%2019.00%20Scrutiny%20Committee.pdf?T=9
Faringdon Tidy Team- call for places that need tidying - 13/11/20
Great job from the Tidy Team in Marlborough Street. https://www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/tidy-team-5/
If you know of an area in Faringdon that is in need of a tidy please send your requests to Liz@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
Armistice Day in Faringdon Market Sq - 13/11/20
https://www.facebook.com/FaringdonTC/videos/1179889639074621
Faringdon yellow pages Whats On - 13/11/20
We seem not to get the what's on yellow pages anymore.Is this because of covid 19 or is there some other reason?Certainly miss not being able to browse and get local traders details.
Name supplied
Ed: It was stopped last year sometime. The only 'paper' place now is the Faringdon Advertiser. Sadly because of Facebook, many fewer people inform me of their events for the Whatson here ( though of course at the moment there is pretty much nothing going on.
Folly video- 12/11/20
Super video made this summer by Nathan Edginton
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C2Jvz2leJcU&feature=youtu.be&fbclid=IwAR1JUodfzs0amnVGOCeY4V-ycKJVvrpJUCZ8HkleCGgogGXe0Y93VAnZ7_g
Online Council Meetings - 12/11/20
FTC council meetings can be seen online/live streamed. Find meetings- scroll down on the Home page , choose your meeting and click the Join Microsoft Teams link
FTC are considering making the recordings available after the meeting for a period of time.
VWHDC council meetings are also available online during and after the meeting.
See https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTj2pCic8vzucpzIaSWE3UQ/videos
I have been told they will be available for a year.
Ed
Don't lose your way
The results of our search are now in, and we can announce that we have found over 49,000 miles of paths that could be lost forever, unless we come together to save them.
Find out how many miles of lost paths we have discovered in your local area and help us raise £49,000 to save them before they're lost forever
Cotswold Outdoor, our recommended outdoor retailer, have generously kickstarted our crowdfunder with a contribution of £10,000.
Help us raise £49,000 to save lost paths >
Watch as Mary-Ann Ochota reveals the results of the search, and how we can save these paths.
Now it’s a race against time. After the UK government cut-off date of January 2026 it will no longer be possible to add paths to the definitive map based on historic evidence, meaning our right to access them will not be protected for the future.
Together, we can save these paths for future generations.
Donate now >
If you have any questions, then please do contact us using the email address below.
Jack and Dom,
Don’t Lose Your Way project team
DLYW@ramblers.zendesk.com
Faringdon Art Society. Online exhibition - 4/11/20
In this very unusual year we have been unable to hold our exhibition in its normal format and have had to go online and hold it virtually.
The Exhibition will be online for the whole of November and you can reach it through the following link. http://www.faringdonartsociety.co.uk/2020-virtual-exhibition.html
Please do take a browse and vote for your favourite 3 pieces. Most of the pieces are for sale and we have started to sell so don’t leave it too long to take a look.
Please do spread the word and let your family and friends know that they can visit the exhibition from the comfort of their own home.
Karen Spence
Land South of Highworth Road - 2/11/20
I asked VWHDC how much developer ££ Faringdon would get.
I was told 'the total of £1,584,578.92 to be paid over 3 instalments of 20%, 40% and 40%.
The first instalment is due at the end of December and for each instalment 25% goes to the parish if there is a neighbourhood plan in place.
Payments are made to parishes twice a year, in April and October.'
Therefore Faringdon will get 25%- nearly £400k
I understand there is no agreement detailing how the money will be spent as there is for s106 agreements.
Ed
Rule of 6 exceeded- 1/11/20
I see that the rain has encouraged some of the local shops to exceed the rule of 6. I know its not pleasant to que outside but I thought the barber shops had booking systems for appointments now so if there are ques it must question the booking system if they have one:
Please think about what your allowing to happen.
Alison Hedges
Double yellow lines - 1/11/20
Dear editor.
I live in the vale and have lived in london, blackpool, manchester and abingdon, and worked in oxford for several years driving 3 ton waste trucks.
Regarding single and double yellow line parking restrictions. I have held a car driver licence for nearly 40 years and have some knowledge of yellow line enforcement.
Law is only good if someone is present to enforce it. As far as I know yellow lines also require timing plates, sometimes called enforcement plates, fixed at the roadside nearby on a building or post, and a termination bar at both ends of the line. A termination bar is a short line across the end of a single and double yellow line indicating the end of the line.
On london street, faringdon outside a charity shop the double yellow has a large gap between the lines. In other words the lines are not continuous nor terminated on either side of that road hump. Thus not enforceable in my experience. You simply need to inform the appropriate authority that the lines are not complete or terminated and if needed install timing plates.
I live at wantage which is a parking eyesore, and I hate the sight of vehicles parked on roads. We need much better public transport. And fewer supermarkets. Lets have less cars and hgvs on the the highways.
Faringdon and wantage are charming, beautiful market towns. Built for horse and cart.
I am an old fashioned gent. Concerned about air pollution. Bring back the horse and cart.
I hope this history is useful to readers.
Many thanks. John Winch
Planning permission given P20/V0658/RM. Land South of Highworth Road - 1/11/20
This planning application has taken a long time to get through the system, but now permission has been given for 190 houses. I found a doc that indicates that c £1.5m Community Levy is due to be paid over 3 years. I haven't found the legal agreement showing how this will be spent. I'm pretty sure Faringdon Town Council will get a chunk.
https://data.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P20/V0658/RM
Gene Webb
See www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/faringdon-community-survey/
Questions about Town Centre, parking, Buses and ideas for spending ££ from developers
(£400k over 3 years expected from South of Highworth Road; potentially £230k earmarked for the now cancelled Wantage Leisure)
Plus more - South of Park Road, Hotel and shop near Aldi and I think other ££ from other developments.
No deadline given
Ed
Thankyou - 18/11/20
Iris Haynes would like to thank all those who rushed to her aid when she suffered a fall in the Corn Market this morning. Particularly the gentleman who left his car and helped her to her feet, Silvana and Pete who took her home and Tom Blundy and many others too numerous to name who expressed sympathy and concern. Iris hopes they will be relieved to learn that apart from severe bruising she was quite unhurt and is resting quietly at home.
Thank you all very much.
Dennis Haynes
Faringdon Town Council meeting 11/11 notes - 17/11/20
New councillor David Brown, Gt Coxwell
OCC and District Council reports can be found on www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Agenda-Pack-Visitors-1.pdf
District Council report mentions:
- Mountain Bike trail
- Lights at the skate park
- Refuse bins
- Ferndale underpass
Discussion re keeping recordings of meetings online for a period of time
Town regeneration group proposal for investigation into:
- Closure of bus lane between Old Town Hall and the Crown
- Redirection of traffic in London Street, with consideration given to closure or one-way traffic.
Community survey being finalised
Provision of IT/tablets for councillors who need it
Ed
On street parking enforcement - 17/11/20
Oxford CC are likely to take over the enforcement of on street parking ( from the Police) from Nov 2021.This relies on Cherwell council, South Oxford, The Vale District Councils agreeing to the proposal and the Dept of Transport ratifying the proposal. Full information can be found from p 28 of democratic.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/documents/b6945/supplementary%20agenda%20Monday%2023-Nov-2020%2019.00%20Scrutiny%20Committee.pdf?T=9
Faringdon Tidy Team- call for places that need tidying - 13/11/20
Great job from the Tidy Team in Marlborough Street. https://www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/tidy-team-5/
If you know of an area in Faringdon that is in need of a tidy please send your requests to Liz@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
Armistice Day in Faringdon Market Sq - 13/11/20
https://www.facebook.com/FaringdonTC/videos/1179889639074621
Faringdon yellow pages Whats On - 13/11/20
We seem not to get the what's on yellow pages anymore.Is this because of covid 19 or is there some other reason?Certainly miss not being able to browse and get local traders details.
Name supplied
Ed: It was stopped last year sometime. The only 'paper' place now is the Faringdon Advertiser. Sadly because of Facebook, many fewer people inform me of their events for the Whatson here ( though of course at the moment there is pretty much nothing going on.
Folly video- 12/11/20
Super video made this summer by Nathan Edginton
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C2Jvz2leJcU&feature=youtu.be&fbclid=IwAR1JUodfzs0amnVGOCeY4V-ycKJVvrpJUCZ8HkleCGgogGXe0Y93VAnZ7_g
Online Council Meetings - 12/11/20
FTC council meetings can be seen online/live streamed. Find meetings- scroll down on the Home page , choose your meeting and click the Join Microsoft Teams link
FTC are considering making the recordings available after the meeting for a period of time.
VWHDC council meetings are also available online during and after the meeting.
See https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTj2pCic8vzucpzIaSWE3UQ/videos
I have been told they will be available for a year.
Ed
Don't lose your way
The results of our search are now in, and we can announce that we have found over 49,000 miles of paths that could be lost forever, unless we come together to save them.
Find out how many miles of lost paths we have discovered in your local area and help us raise £49,000 to save them before they're lost forever
Cotswold Outdoor, our recommended outdoor retailer, have generously kickstarted our crowdfunder with a contribution of £10,000.
Help us raise £49,000 to save lost paths >
Watch as Mary-Ann Ochota reveals the results of the search, and how we can save these paths.
Now it’s a race against time. After the UK government cut-off date of January 2026 it will no longer be possible to add paths to the definitive map based on historic evidence, meaning our right to access them will not be protected for the future.
Together, we can save these paths for future generations.
Donate now >
If you have any questions, then please do contact us using the email address below.
Jack and Dom,
Don’t Lose Your Way project team
DLYW@ramblers.zendesk.com
Faringdon Art Society. Online exhibition - 4/11/20
In this very unusual year we have been unable to hold our exhibition in its normal format and have had to go online and hold it virtually.
The Exhibition will be online for the whole of November and you can reach it through the following link. http://www.faringdonartsociety.co.uk/2020-virtual-exhibition.html
Please do take a browse and vote for your favourite 3 pieces. Most of the pieces are for sale and we have started to sell so don’t leave it too long to take a look.
Please do spread the word and let your family and friends know that they can visit the exhibition from the comfort of their own home.
Karen Spence
Land South of Highworth Road - 2/11/20
I asked VWHDC how much developer ££ Faringdon would get.
I was told 'the total of £1,584,578.92 to be paid over 3 instalments of 20%, 40% and 40%.
The first instalment is due at the end of December and for each instalment 25% goes to the parish if there is a neighbourhood plan in place.
Payments are made to parishes twice a year, in April and October.'
Therefore Faringdon will get 25%- nearly £400k
I understand there is no agreement detailing how the money will be spent as there is for s106 agreements.
Ed
Rule of 6 exceeded- 1/11/20
I see that the rain has encouraged some of the local shops to exceed the rule of 6. I know its not pleasant to que outside but I thought the barber shops had booking systems for appointments now so if there are ques it must question the booking system if they have one:
Please think about what your allowing to happen.
Alison Hedges
Double yellow lines - 1/11/20
Dear editor.
I live in the vale and have lived in london, blackpool, manchester and abingdon, and worked in oxford for several years driving 3 ton waste trucks.
Regarding single and double yellow line parking restrictions. I have held a car driver licence for nearly 40 years and have some knowledge of yellow line enforcement.
Law is only good if someone is present to enforce it. As far as I know yellow lines also require timing plates, sometimes called enforcement plates, fixed at the roadside nearby on a building or post, and a termination bar at both ends of the line. A termination bar is a short line across the end of a single and double yellow line indicating the end of the line.
On london street, faringdon outside a charity shop the double yellow has a large gap between the lines. In other words the lines are not continuous nor terminated on either side of that road hump. Thus not enforceable in my experience. You simply need to inform the appropriate authority that the lines are not complete or terminated and if needed install timing plates.
I live at wantage which is a parking eyesore, and I hate the sight of vehicles parked on roads. We need much better public transport. And fewer supermarkets. Lets have less cars and hgvs on the the highways.
Faringdon and wantage are charming, beautiful market towns. Built for horse and cart.
I am an old fashioned gent. Concerned about air pollution. Bring back the horse and cart.
I hope this history is useful to readers.
Many thanks. John Winch
Planning permission given P20/V0658/RM. Land South of Highworth Road - 1/11/20
This planning application has taken a long time to get through the system, but now permission has been given for 190 houses. I found a doc that indicates that c £1.5m Community Levy is due to be paid over 3 years. I haven't found the legal agreement showing how this will be spent. I'm pretty sure Faringdon Town Council will get a chunk.
https://data.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P20/V0658/RM
Gene Webb
Managing Type 2 diabetes- 31/10/20
My name is Becky and I work at Leicester Diabetes Centre. We have been working with staff at your local GP Practice to find out how we can get more people (patients, not staff!) to do training about how to manage their Type 2 Diabetes. We'd like to invite you to join us online for a cup of tea, a brief presentation and a chat about what the research involved and why we did it. We'd be really happy to meet you and find out what you think about research and diabetes education in your local area!
The talk will take place on the 12th November at 11am. If you'd like to join us, please drop me an email at rp237@leicester.ac.uk and I'll send you the link for the meeting.
We have lots of other activity taking place too, including an upcoming talk about vaccine research on the 17th November ("I took a research vaccine: ask me anything"), so do also feel free to express your interest in our work generally if you're excited about research.
With kind regards and hoping to 'meet' you on the 12th November.
Becky Pritchard
07887 753553 (please leave a message if I don't answer - so many zoom meetings!)
rp237@le.ac.uk
Hannah Westall Script writing award - 31/10/20
Faringdon’s Hannah Westall has won the 2020 Sir Peter Ustinov Television Scriptwriting Award, awarded by the International Emmys Foundation for her television drama script ‘Mind The Gap’.
Hannah Westall, 26, grew up in Faringdon and attended Faringdon Community College before attending Cardiff University to study BA Journalism, Media and Cultural studies achieving a First Class Honours. After realising her passion lay in writing for television, she completed an MA in Screenwriting at the London College of Communication, achieving a Merit.
The competition, run by the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, is open to novice script writers all over the world. It aims to spotlight undiscovered writers outside of the US under the age of 30, and offer them the recognition and encouragement that can lead to a successful career in television scriptwriting.
The annually chosen winner is awarded $2,500 and would normally be flown to New York to pick up the Sir Peter Ustinov Television Scriptwriting Award at the International Emmy Awards Festival. However, due to travel restrictions during COVID-19, Hannah is celebrating her success with housemates in her rented house in Tooting, London, which is currently under Tier 2 lockdown restrictions.
‘I can’t wait to go back to Faringdon to celebrate with my family as soon as we come out of Tier 2 restrictions. I video called all of my family and friends when I found out and everyone was so happy.’’
Mind the Gap is a crime-drama about the aftermath of a young interracial couple being found dead in South London.
“I’ve been working on the script for Mind the Gap for two years, so it’s incredible to get this recognition. We perceive the UK as being tolerant and integrated, but there is still such a gulf of understanding between some communities, and I think we need to spend time interrogating that. Through the complex relationship of the two main female characters, we explore this notion.
Hannah said that winning the award has given her a new lease of motivation in what has been a hard year for her career. Faringdon raised Hannah was made redundant from her Researcher role at a London-based Marketing Agency at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in March, and was not offered the government furlough scheme.
‘In March I was feeling very stressed and unmotivated after having to sign on to Universal Credit after being let go from my job due to COVID. I was worrying about London rent payments and had to move back home to Faringdon over the summer to save money.’
Talented writer Hannah has now found another role, and is currently freelancing as a Production Assistant for a female run production company based in Notting Hill, London. Hannah hopes her award win will help her with her next goal of getting an agent and pursuing a career in writing for the screen; focusing on stories that elevate diverse voices and tackle topics such as mental health.
‘I still can’t wrap my head around it all. Winning the Scriptwriting Award on top of managing to find another role during this pandemic has given me the validation I needed to push myself to continue my dream of writing a series for Television. It feels incredible to be taking a leap forward in my career during a year of so many setbacks. I’ve been working on Mind the Gap for 2 years and to get this recognition is incredible’
Wasps at the Folly - 29/10/20
My daughter and I both were stung by wasps at the Folly. Only after did we see a small paper note in the floor warning of a bee hive. Surely that area should cordoned off.
Gisella Kerek
Confidence Bike Rides for Adults Sunday 1st November - 27/10/20
Do you know someone who needs confidence to get back to cycling?
Starting this Sunday 1st November and continuing for 6 weeks, Lyn and David are leading 'Confidence Rides'.
These are designed to give participants a refresher in basic bike skills in a protected environment, then move on to quiet residential roads, progressing to cycling on other roads.
We aim for you to recover confidence to start making those small journeys to the shops or work by bike, and enjoy all the benefits to your health of regular cycling.
You can see feedback from our first course and more information on the Farcycles website under Cycle Teaching.
You can book onto any of the sessions there, and they are entirely FREE, or email: cycle@farcycles.org.uk
So if you need confidence yourself, or know someone who needs a little help to get back to cycling, we'd love to see you on a Sunday morning.
11.30 to 1pm, meeting in Southampton St car park behind the Red Lion, Faringdon - by the bike repair station - SN7 7HG
David Williamson
Join in with The TEARFUND BIG QUIZ NIGHT- 27/10/20
on Saturday 14th November at 7pm
A Family friendly Quiz On the Zoom platform
Entry by donation to Tear Fund https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/paul-gray32
(Suggested donation £1 per person)
See Poster
Tickets FREE from:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/tear-fund-big-quiz-night-tickets-126702000093
Or contact Paul Gray at pauloffazza@gmail.com
SEEKING YOUR SUPPORT- 21/10/20
Thank you to everyone who so generously donated raffle prizes to our fundraising for the John Radcliffe Neuro ICU last December/January. We were blown away by the generosity.
We have had a tough year with fundraising, given the restrictions that we have all experienced due to Covid 19, but have been able to hold a few modified events, and are extremely grateful to many generous donations. However, we had to delay our plans for a licenced raffle.
The raffle will now take place live on our fundraising Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/BrockieJRNeuroICU Saturday, 28th November at 3 pm. We need it to go ahead, as we require our spare bedroom back!!
Excitingly, we are now really close to our £15,000 target, and if we can sell 450 books of raffle tickets (£5/book) we will be able to give the hospital the go ahead to purchase the tilt table that patients so desperately need this side of Christmas.
· Would you be prepared to take a some books of raffle tickets and sell them our behalf?
· We have set up ways for you to BACS transfer or pay for tickets via our JustGiving page https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/rachel-brockie4(not eligible for gift aid) and receive a photograph of your tickets – PM me for more details.
· Tickets are also for sale in Faringdon (Stay Grounded, The Barbers), and from Rachel Brockie and Hazel Heaseman
Prizes: Miele Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, Basket of booze, Whisky & Brandy Selection, plus many more hampers and prizes.
Thank you
Rachel Brockie
Poppy Appeal - 17/10/2020
This year's Poppy Appeal will officially run from 24 October 2020 - 11 November 2020. Due to the current circumstances there will be no door to door or street sellers as in previous years. Poppies will be available in shops and pubs around town and there will be a manned stall in Tesco and Aldi periodically over the two weeks. These stalls will be holding the traditional paper poppy alongside the small enamel pins and crosses.
In addition there will be a stall under the Old Town Hall on Saturday 24 October and Saturday 31 October from 9am -1pm, and in the square on market day on Saturday 07 November 2020. In addition to the traditional paper poppy these stalls will hold enamel poppy pins, crosses, wristbands and poppy facemasks.
The British Legion have also developed an A4 posters one which is in full colour and one which can be coloured in to display in windows.
These can be downloaded from https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/ways-to-give/donate
Mary van Andel
Old Town Hall in need of refurbishment- 17/10/20
We are applying for funding to refurbish the Old Town Hall inside and out. We need to demonstrate community support and evidence how people use the building.
We would be very grateful if you could send me an email saying what the Old Town Hall means to you and why you would like to see it refurbished.
Many thanks
sally@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
Faringdon Town Centre.- 15/10/20
I think that the clock is the least of the bad impressions that visitors will have of our town centre.
What about all the pigeon droppings on either side of the entry, directly opposite the offending clock.
What about all of the boarded up shops, with graffiti and weeds. What about all the inconsiderate parking, all over the town. There are plenty of car park space available, which nobody seems to use any longer.
There is simply no reason for anybody to stay in Faringdon, as there is nothing to do after the first 30 minutes. No shops, when there used to be several small speciality shops, but the lack of footfall, thanks to Tesco, have seen these off. There isn’t even a cash machine or bank in the centre. The nearest machine being, yes Tesco.
It’s a terrible shame, because it is an attractive centre, but is in need of some serious financial investment, and more proactive councillors and chamber of commerce.
You would think with the massive house building programme, that some investment would be put into the town itself.......or am I being naive.
Name supplied.
Cornmarket Clock - 14/10/20
Is it known who is responsible for the Cornmarket clock?
There is an interesting piece here from 2015: http://www.faringdon.org/cornmarket-clock.html
The clock is again in need of at least some external repair and has also been running about 15 mninutes slow for nearly 2 years. It is a fairly prominent feature in the town and gives a poor impression to visitors. Without attention it will of course get worse.
Name Supplied
Ed: It belongs to the owner of the building
Lloyds Bank - 9/10/20
I understand that the Lloyds Bank mobile unit has been re-instated now, but on a fortnightly basis only. It’s in the car park of the United Church , as before.
The Lloyds website does not tell us how these fortnightly visits are spread through the calendar month, though. Can anyone help? It seems to have been in HIghworth this morning, so is it safe to assume it came on here to F’don this afternoon? Thanks to anyone who can clarify.
Dorothy Garrett
FLU VACCINATION UPDATE:- 9/10/20
Dear Patients of White Horse Medical Practice
As many of you will be aware, we have commenced our 2020 Flu Vaccination Campaign.
THIS IS AN IMPORTANT UPDATE ON BOOKING YOUR APPOINTMENT: PUBLISHED 09-10-2020
If you are 65 or Over:
Due to not receiving our vaccines until the early hours of the first day of vaccinating, and even then, only a partial supply, we had advised all patients Over-65 that we would contact them to arrange an appointment. This was to avoid a rush that we could not meet and to minimise patient risk by attendance but no vaccine availability.
We now have our full quota of vaccines, and we invite all Over-65s, not yet vaccinated or already booked-in for an appointment, to contact us to arrange for this. If you need to contact the Practice to arrange for any other medical appointment, please advise our staff if you have NOT already had (or booked) your vaccination this year, and we can do it during your visit. This will avoid the necessity for you to visit the Practice twice, as we seek to protect all patients from risk to exposure in the face of Covid case increases.
Our Patient Services Team will advise you of the available Flu Clinic dates when you contact us.
18-65 At Risk Patients:
For patients UNDER the age of 65 and OVER 18, with specific long-term conditions and/or in the ‘at risk group’ : These include chronic respiratory disease or asthma, heart disease, renal disease, liver disease, diabetes, neurological disease, BMI > 40 or you are immune-suppressed, or a carer for an elderly or disabled person, please use our Engage-Consult online service, if at all possible, to contact us and make a vaccination booking. If you already have a future date appointment for vaccination booked, please do not book again.
Pregnant, Babies and Children:
All pregnant women are recommended to have the vaccination.
For babies of 6 months +, with an existing condition, please consult your GP
Vaccinations for pre-school aged children: These have started, and we urge you to get this done as soon as possible for all children aged 2 or 3 years old on August 31st, 2020.
NB: School children from reception to yr7 will be vaccinated at school this year.
Government Planning Reforms – have your say!
The Government is currently consulting on a major shake up to the planning system that would see:
Tel: 01491 612079 director@cpreoxon.org.uk
www.cpreoxon.org.uk facebook.com/CPREOxfordshire | Twitter@CPREOxfordshire
Flu jabs- information from WHMP - 29/9/20
Read this
Library re opening - 25/9/20
We are reopening the Library on Tuesday 29th September.
Our temporary new hours will be:-
TUESDAY 10.00-1.00 2.00-5.00
FRIDAY 10.00-1.00 2.00-5.00
David Johnston MP Newsletter - 25/9/20
Here is the Word document
Volunteer to gain Administration and Retail experience- 18/9/20
Wantage British Heart Foundation Furniture store is looking for volunteers for flexible shifts Wed – Saturday to help with phone/administration/shop floor sales roles. If you want to gain experience and confidence, meet new people and are keen to learn, come and join Manager Deb’s friendly team. By volunteering a few hours when you can, you’ll help us save lives and the planet. Please contact Jack on 07741 906 852 or burrowsj@bhf.org.uk for more information.
Autumn Newsletter from Faringdon Town Council - 15/9/20
The town council newsletter informs resident about what we're doing and are planning to achieve to look after our community ,and also provides an opportunity for residents to engage with the town council and tell us about their views and ideas for future services in Faringdon.
https://www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/council/news/newsletters/
Buscot Park gardens extended opening - 14/9/20
Buscot Park gardens will stay open to the public for an extra month.
We normally close at the end of September, but this year the season will be extended until October in order to give people an inspirational place to visit when they might feel they need it.
Check Buscot Park website for opening times.
Wedding on 19th- Give us a wave - 14/9/20
not so much news as such, but i just wanted to share that my fiance and i ( who live in faringdon) are getting married at all saints church on Saturday 19th September, i'm told its the first wedding at the church since the Pandemic so i wanted to share some good and exciting news for us - and anyone on the streets of faringdon on saturday 19th September from 2.30 pm please give us a wave!
Tina
2020 Poppy Appeal - 14/9/20
This will go ahead this year but with restrictions and changes to the normal appeal activities
Budgens site- planning permission approved- 13/9/20
http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P20/V0013/FUL
Hooray
Leisure centres next phase of opening - 11/9/20
http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/news/2020/2020-09/leisure-facilities-southern-oxfordshire-ready-next-phase-reopening
Illegal parking in Faringdon - 11/9/20
The amount of illegal parking in Faringdon has become very Dangerous for other drivers trying to get around and pedestrians who are forced onto roads.
Who should this be reported to and why are our local councillors not doing anything about it?
Name supplied
Ed: The police are currently responsible for onstreet parking enforcement. VWHDC has a project to consider taking on the responsibility. Don't hold your breath
Mid Vale Ridge - NOT the 'the edge of' the Cotswolds - 11/9/20
Who decided that Faringdon was on 'the edge of the Cotswolds'? It isn't. It is a good 10 miles from the Cotswolds.
Faringdon occupies an important location on the Mid Vale Ridge, a National Character Area with a distinctive character of its own, a unique geology, and a completely diffferent landscape from the Cotswolds. It seems as though someone with no geological knowledge thought the Mid Vale Ridge wasn't important enough.
Describing Faringdon as being 'on the edge of' the Cotswolds is inaccurate and makes the town sound totally inconsequential and apologetic.
Anna Hoare
For those responsible for the Non Conformist Cemetery.- 8/9/20
My great grandparents James and Elizabeth Brown are buried in the Non Conformist Cemetery. He died in 1949 and she in 1946. We visited the cemetary this morning hoping to find the grave but could not.
The grave is mentioned in the excel file list, but it says that the stone surround was removed in 1993. Does this mean that no grave stone exists or did we somehow miss it?
Grateful for any help you can give in locating it.
And to say it was wonderful to see how well the cemetery is being kept up.
David Birch
07967 665430
Grants available from VWHDC - 4/9/20
Voluntary and community sector groups in South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse can apply for a share of nearly £90,000 to help people affected by Covid-19 in the districts.
South Oxfordshire District Council has £45,373 to distribute and the Vale of White Horse District Council has £43,077 to provide funds for voluntary and community sector projects that are delivering essential services to vulnerable residents in the districts who are struggling to afford food and other essential provisions as a result of COVID-19.
http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/news/2020/2020-09/nearly-%C2%A390000-funding-available-volunteer-groups-and-organisations-help-vulnerable
Country Market on Fridays - 3/9/20
The Country Market will be under the Old Town hall on Fridays 9am - 11am.
Selling all our usual, home bakes, fruit and veg, plants and crafts.
The Eagle Inn, Coxwell St - 3/9/20
I have come across this old photo of The Eagle Inn Coxwell Street (where I now live) on the OCC photo website and am wondering if anybody can date the photo or tell me anymore about the pub and its history.
Photo
hlbarter@btinternet.com
Health Walk at the White Horse Medical Practice- 1/9/20
Walks will restart on Tuesday September 15th at 10am.
Walk is pre-bookable only now so please contact Ashley Chapman 07717714477 ashley.chapman@southandvale.gov.uk to join.
My name is Becky and I work at Leicester Diabetes Centre. We have been working with staff at your local GP Practice to find out how we can get more people (patients, not staff!) to do training about how to manage their Type 2 Diabetes. We'd like to invite you to join us online for a cup of tea, a brief presentation and a chat about what the research involved and why we did it. We'd be really happy to meet you and find out what you think about research and diabetes education in your local area!
The talk will take place on the 12th November at 11am. If you'd like to join us, please drop me an email at rp237@leicester.ac.uk and I'll send you the link for the meeting.
We have lots of other activity taking place too, including an upcoming talk about vaccine research on the 17th November ("I took a research vaccine: ask me anything"), so do also feel free to express your interest in our work generally if you're excited about research.
With kind regards and hoping to 'meet' you on the 12th November.
Becky Pritchard
07887 753553 (please leave a message if I don't answer - so many zoom meetings!)
rp237@le.ac.uk
Hannah Westall Script writing award - 31/10/20
Faringdon’s Hannah Westall has won the 2020 Sir Peter Ustinov Television Scriptwriting Award, awarded by the International Emmys Foundation for her television drama script ‘Mind The Gap’.
Hannah Westall, 26, grew up in Faringdon and attended Faringdon Community College before attending Cardiff University to study BA Journalism, Media and Cultural studies achieving a First Class Honours. After realising her passion lay in writing for television, she completed an MA in Screenwriting at the London College of Communication, achieving a Merit.
The competition, run by the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, is open to novice script writers all over the world. It aims to spotlight undiscovered writers outside of the US under the age of 30, and offer them the recognition and encouragement that can lead to a successful career in television scriptwriting.
The annually chosen winner is awarded $2,500 and would normally be flown to New York to pick up the Sir Peter Ustinov Television Scriptwriting Award at the International Emmy Awards Festival. However, due to travel restrictions during COVID-19, Hannah is celebrating her success with housemates in her rented house in Tooting, London, which is currently under Tier 2 lockdown restrictions.
‘I can’t wait to go back to Faringdon to celebrate with my family as soon as we come out of Tier 2 restrictions. I video called all of my family and friends when I found out and everyone was so happy.’’
Mind the Gap is a crime-drama about the aftermath of a young interracial couple being found dead in South London.
“I’ve been working on the script for Mind the Gap for two years, so it’s incredible to get this recognition. We perceive the UK as being tolerant and integrated, but there is still such a gulf of understanding between some communities, and I think we need to spend time interrogating that. Through the complex relationship of the two main female characters, we explore this notion.
Hannah said that winning the award has given her a new lease of motivation in what has been a hard year for her career. Faringdon raised Hannah was made redundant from her Researcher role at a London-based Marketing Agency at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in March, and was not offered the government furlough scheme.
‘In March I was feeling very stressed and unmotivated after having to sign on to Universal Credit after being let go from my job due to COVID. I was worrying about London rent payments and had to move back home to Faringdon over the summer to save money.’
Talented writer Hannah has now found another role, and is currently freelancing as a Production Assistant for a female run production company based in Notting Hill, London. Hannah hopes her award win will help her with her next goal of getting an agent and pursuing a career in writing for the screen; focusing on stories that elevate diverse voices and tackle topics such as mental health.
‘I still can’t wrap my head around it all. Winning the Scriptwriting Award on top of managing to find another role during this pandemic has given me the validation I needed to push myself to continue my dream of writing a series for Television. It feels incredible to be taking a leap forward in my career during a year of so many setbacks. I’ve been working on Mind the Gap for 2 years and to get this recognition is incredible’
Wasps at the Folly - 29/10/20
My daughter and I both were stung by wasps at the Folly. Only after did we see a small paper note in the floor warning of a bee hive. Surely that area should cordoned off.
Gisella Kerek
Confidence Bike Rides for Adults Sunday 1st November - 27/10/20
Do you know someone who needs confidence to get back to cycling?
Starting this Sunday 1st November and continuing for 6 weeks, Lyn and David are leading 'Confidence Rides'.
These are designed to give participants a refresher in basic bike skills in a protected environment, then move on to quiet residential roads, progressing to cycling on other roads.
We aim for you to recover confidence to start making those small journeys to the shops or work by bike, and enjoy all the benefits to your health of regular cycling.
You can see feedback from our first course and more information on the Farcycles website under Cycle Teaching.
You can book onto any of the sessions there, and they are entirely FREE, or email: cycle@farcycles.org.uk
So if you need confidence yourself, or know someone who needs a little help to get back to cycling, we'd love to see you on a Sunday morning.
11.30 to 1pm, meeting in Southampton St car park behind the Red Lion, Faringdon - by the bike repair station - SN7 7HG
David Williamson
Join in with The TEARFUND BIG QUIZ NIGHT- 27/10/20
on Saturday 14th November at 7pm
A Family friendly Quiz On the Zoom platform
Entry by donation to Tear Fund https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/paul-gray32
(Suggested donation £1 per person)
See Poster
Tickets FREE from:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/tear-fund-big-quiz-night-tickets-126702000093
Or contact Paul Gray at pauloffazza@gmail.com
SEEKING YOUR SUPPORT- 21/10/20
Thank you to everyone who so generously donated raffle prizes to our fundraising for the John Radcliffe Neuro ICU last December/January. We were blown away by the generosity.
We have had a tough year with fundraising, given the restrictions that we have all experienced due to Covid 19, but have been able to hold a few modified events, and are extremely grateful to many generous donations. However, we had to delay our plans for a licenced raffle.
The raffle will now take place live on our fundraising Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/BrockieJRNeuroICU Saturday, 28th November at 3 pm. We need it to go ahead, as we require our spare bedroom back!!
Excitingly, we are now really close to our £15,000 target, and if we can sell 450 books of raffle tickets (£5/book) we will be able to give the hospital the go ahead to purchase the tilt table that patients so desperately need this side of Christmas.
· Would you be prepared to take a some books of raffle tickets and sell them our behalf?
· We have set up ways for you to BACS transfer or pay for tickets via our JustGiving page https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/rachel-brockie4(not eligible for gift aid) and receive a photograph of your tickets – PM me for more details.
· Tickets are also for sale in Faringdon (Stay Grounded, The Barbers), and from Rachel Brockie and Hazel Heaseman
Prizes: Miele Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, Basket of booze, Whisky & Brandy Selection, plus many more hampers and prizes.
Thank you
Rachel Brockie
Poppy Appeal - 17/10/2020
This year's Poppy Appeal will officially run from 24 October 2020 - 11 November 2020. Due to the current circumstances there will be no door to door or street sellers as in previous years. Poppies will be available in shops and pubs around town and there will be a manned stall in Tesco and Aldi periodically over the two weeks. These stalls will be holding the traditional paper poppy alongside the small enamel pins and crosses.
In addition there will be a stall under the Old Town Hall on Saturday 24 October and Saturday 31 October from 9am -1pm, and in the square on market day on Saturday 07 November 2020. In addition to the traditional paper poppy these stalls will hold enamel poppy pins, crosses, wristbands and poppy facemasks.
The British Legion have also developed an A4 posters one which is in full colour and one which can be coloured in to display in windows.
These can be downloaded from https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/ways-to-give/donate
Mary van Andel
Old Town Hall in need of refurbishment- 17/10/20
We are applying for funding to refurbish the Old Town Hall inside and out. We need to demonstrate community support and evidence how people use the building.
We would be very grateful if you could send me an email saying what the Old Town Hall means to you and why you would like to see it refurbished.
Many thanks
sally@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
Faringdon Town Centre.- 15/10/20
I think that the clock is the least of the bad impressions that visitors will have of our town centre.
What about all the pigeon droppings on either side of the entry, directly opposite the offending clock.
What about all of the boarded up shops, with graffiti and weeds. What about all the inconsiderate parking, all over the town. There are plenty of car park space available, which nobody seems to use any longer.
There is simply no reason for anybody to stay in Faringdon, as there is nothing to do after the first 30 minutes. No shops, when there used to be several small speciality shops, but the lack of footfall, thanks to Tesco, have seen these off. There isn’t even a cash machine or bank in the centre. The nearest machine being, yes Tesco.
It’s a terrible shame, because it is an attractive centre, but is in need of some serious financial investment, and more proactive councillors and chamber of commerce.
You would think with the massive house building programme, that some investment would be put into the town itself.......or am I being naive.
Name supplied.
Cornmarket Clock - 14/10/20
Is it known who is responsible for the Cornmarket clock?
There is an interesting piece here from 2015: http://www.faringdon.org/cornmarket-clock.html
The clock is again in need of at least some external repair and has also been running about 15 mninutes slow for nearly 2 years. It is a fairly prominent feature in the town and gives a poor impression to visitors. Without attention it will of course get worse.
Name Supplied
Ed: It belongs to the owner of the building
Lloyds Bank - 9/10/20
I understand that the Lloyds Bank mobile unit has been re-instated now, but on a fortnightly basis only. It’s in the car park of the United Church , as before.
The Lloyds website does not tell us how these fortnightly visits are spread through the calendar month, though. Can anyone help? It seems to have been in HIghworth this morning, so is it safe to assume it came on here to F’don this afternoon? Thanks to anyone who can clarify.
Dorothy Garrett
FLU VACCINATION UPDATE:- 9/10/20
Dear Patients of White Horse Medical Practice
As many of you will be aware, we have commenced our 2020 Flu Vaccination Campaign.
THIS IS AN IMPORTANT UPDATE ON BOOKING YOUR APPOINTMENT: PUBLISHED 09-10-2020
If you are 65 or Over:
Due to not receiving our vaccines until the early hours of the first day of vaccinating, and even then, only a partial supply, we had advised all patients Over-65 that we would contact them to arrange an appointment. This was to avoid a rush that we could not meet and to minimise patient risk by attendance but no vaccine availability.
We now have our full quota of vaccines, and we invite all Over-65s, not yet vaccinated or already booked-in for an appointment, to contact us to arrange for this. If you need to contact the Practice to arrange for any other medical appointment, please advise our staff if you have NOT already had (or booked) your vaccination this year, and we can do it during your visit. This will avoid the necessity for you to visit the Practice twice, as we seek to protect all patients from risk to exposure in the face of Covid case increases.
Our Patient Services Team will advise you of the available Flu Clinic dates when you contact us.
18-65 At Risk Patients:
For patients UNDER the age of 65 and OVER 18, with specific long-term conditions and/or in the ‘at risk group’ : These include chronic respiratory disease or asthma, heart disease, renal disease, liver disease, diabetes, neurological disease, BMI > 40 or you are immune-suppressed, or a carer for an elderly or disabled person, please use our Engage-Consult online service, if at all possible, to contact us and make a vaccination booking. If you already have a future date appointment for vaccination booked, please do not book again.
Pregnant, Babies and Children:
All pregnant women are recommended to have the vaccination.
For babies of 6 months +, with an existing condition, please consult your GP
Vaccinations for pre-school aged children: These have started, and we urge you to get this done as soon as possible for all children aged 2 or 3 years old on August 31st, 2020.
NB: School children from reception to yr7 will be vaccinated at school this year.
Government Planning Reforms – have your say!
The Government is currently consulting on a major shake up to the planning system that would see:
- The introduction of nationally-imposed housing targets
- An increase in housing numbers in the south-east, but a fall in other parts of the country
- A significant reduction in local involvement - Community engagement would be largely restricted to the Local Plan making stage (as it stands, just one six-week consultation), with the public thereafter losing their ability to scrutinise most individual planning applications.
- Countryside campaigners CPRE Oxfordshire are concerned about the impact these changes will have on our rural county. You can read more about the issues on their website at www.cpreoxon.org.uk
- The Government’s White Paper – Planning for the Future – is out for consultation until 29th October 2020, but the debate will continue thereafter so there is still time to share your views with your local MP.
CPRE Oxfordshire – Trustees Wanted - Do you care about your local countryside? Want to make a difference?
- CPRE Oxfordshire is the voice of the countryside in Oxfordshire. We fight for the right development in the right place and work to protect, promote and enhance our amazing local landscapes and rural character.
- Due to retirement of current members, we are looking for a number of new trustees, including a treasurer, to join the team.
- By volunteering with us you will be helping to find positive solutions for the issues facing the countryside and the environment. By applying your skills and experience you can make a real difference and be a central part of our friendly and passionate charity
To find out more… - Please contact our Branch Secretary Dorian Grier: E: dorian.cpre@gmail.com or leave a message on our office phone: T: 01491 612079.
- Role descriptions can be downloaded from the CPRE Oxfordshire website www.cpreoxon.org.uk
- Application deadline is 31st October 2020 in the first instance, but we are happy to receive expressions of interest on an ongoing basis
Tel: 01491 612079 director@cpreoxon.org.uk
www.cpreoxon.org.uk facebook.com/CPREOxfordshire | Twitter@CPREOxfordshire
Flu jabs- information from WHMP - 29/9/20
Read this
Library re opening - 25/9/20
We are reopening the Library on Tuesday 29th September.
Our temporary new hours will be:-
TUESDAY 10.00-1.00 2.00-5.00
FRIDAY 10.00-1.00 2.00-5.00
David Johnston MP Newsletter - 25/9/20
Here is the Word document
Volunteer to gain Administration and Retail experience- 18/9/20
Wantage British Heart Foundation Furniture store is looking for volunteers for flexible shifts Wed – Saturday to help with phone/administration/shop floor sales roles. If you want to gain experience and confidence, meet new people and are keen to learn, come and join Manager Deb’s friendly team. By volunteering a few hours when you can, you’ll help us save lives and the planet. Please contact Jack on 07741 906 852 or burrowsj@bhf.org.uk for more information.
Autumn Newsletter from Faringdon Town Council - 15/9/20
The town council newsletter informs resident about what we're doing and are planning to achieve to look after our community ,and also provides an opportunity for residents to engage with the town council and tell us about their views and ideas for future services in Faringdon.
https://www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/council/news/newsletters/
Buscot Park gardens extended opening - 14/9/20
Buscot Park gardens will stay open to the public for an extra month.
We normally close at the end of September, but this year the season will be extended until October in order to give people an inspirational place to visit when they might feel they need it.
Check Buscot Park website for opening times.
Wedding on 19th- Give us a wave - 14/9/20
not so much news as such, but i just wanted to share that my fiance and i ( who live in faringdon) are getting married at all saints church on Saturday 19th September, i'm told its the first wedding at the church since the Pandemic so i wanted to share some good and exciting news for us - and anyone on the streets of faringdon on saturday 19th September from 2.30 pm please give us a wave!
Tina
2020 Poppy Appeal - 14/9/20
This will go ahead this year but with restrictions and changes to the normal appeal activities
Budgens site- planning permission approved- 13/9/20
http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P20/V0013/FUL
Hooray
Leisure centres next phase of opening - 11/9/20
http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/news/2020/2020-09/leisure-facilities-southern-oxfordshire-ready-next-phase-reopening
Illegal parking in Faringdon - 11/9/20
The amount of illegal parking in Faringdon has become very Dangerous for other drivers trying to get around and pedestrians who are forced onto roads.
Who should this be reported to and why are our local councillors not doing anything about it?
Name supplied
Ed: The police are currently responsible for onstreet parking enforcement. VWHDC has a project to consider taking on the responsibility. Don't hold your breath
Mid Vale Ridge - NOT the 'the edge of' the Cotswolds - 11/9/20
Who decided that Faringdon was on 'the edge of the Cotswolds'? It isn't. It is a good 10 miles from the Cotswolds.
Faringdon occupies an important location on the Mid Vale Ridge, a National Character Area with a distinctive character of its own, a unique geology, and a completely diffferent landscape from the Cotswolds. It seems as though someone with no geological knowledge thought the Mid Vale Ridge wasn't important enough.
Describing Faringdon as being 'on the edge of' the Cotswolds is inaccurate and makes the town sound totally inconsequential and apologetic.
Anna Hoare
For those responsible for the Non Conformist Cemetery.- 8/9/20
My great grandparents James and Elizabeth Brown are buried in the Non Conformist Cemetery. He died in 1949 and she in 1946. We visited the cemetary this morning hoping to find the grave but could not.
The grave is mentioned in the excel file list, but it says that the stone surround was removed in 1993. Does this mean that no grave stone exists or did we somehow miss it?
Grateful for any help you can give in locating it.
And to say it was wonderful to see how well the cemetery is being kept up.
David Birch
07967 665430
Grants available from VWHDC - 4/9/20
Voluntary and community sector groups in South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse can apply for a share of nearly £90,000 to help people affected by Covid-19 in the districts.
South Oxfordshire District Council has £45,373 to distribute and the Vale of White Horse District Council has £43,077 to provide funds for voluntary and community sector projects that are delivering essential services to vulnerable residents in the districts who are struggling to afford food and other essential provisions as a result of COVID-19.
http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/news/2020/2020-09/nearly-%C2%A390000-funding-available-volunteer-groups-and-organisations-help-vulnerable
Country Market on Fridays - 3/9/20
The Country Market will be under the Old Town hall on Fridays 9am - 11am.
Selling all our usual, home bakes, fruit and veg, plants and crafts.
The Eagle Inn, Coxwell St - 3/9/20
I have come across this old photo of The Eagle Inn Coxwell Street (where I now live) on the OCC photo website and am wondering if anybody can date the photo or tell me anymore about the pub and its history.
Photo
hlbarter@btinternet.com
Health Walk at the White Horse Medical Practice- 1/9/20
Walks will restart on Tuesday September 15th at 10am.
Walk is pre-bookable only now so please contact Ashley Chapman 07717714477 ashley.chapman@southandvale.gov.uk to join.
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You can read talking points back to 2002. Quite interesting to see whether issues are still the same now as in the past.
You can read talking points back to 2002. Quite interesting to see whether issues are still the same now as in the past.