Faringdon- edge of the Cotswolds. Oxford 17 miles, Witney 14 miles, Burford 12 miles, Cirencester 21 miles
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ORAFRIO Jewellers - MASSIVE STOCK CLEARANCE- 4/12/19
UP TO 50% OFF EVERYTHING!!
All Semi-Precious Stones, Pearls, Amber, Silver, Gold and more.
Only available while stock last.
Opening Time: 10:00-15:30 WED-SAT
Tel: 01367 244615
4A Market Place Faringdon
Swire Ridgeway Arts Prize - 22/11/19
The Ridgeway – the oldest road in Britain – historically was a trackway providing a reliable trading route from the Dorset coast along the chalk Downs to the Wash in Norfolk. Today it is not only the oldest road but is also a wonderful resource for all the communities that live along its route, where all can enjoy walking, riding or just being there.
The Friends of The Ridgeway have established an annual arts competition and prize – the Swire Ridgeway Arts Prize. For 2020, it will be held in April 2020 with an exhibition in Thomas Hughes Memorial Hall, Uffington on Saturday and Sunday 18 – 19 April 2020 and a second exhibition in the Chilterns the following weekend. The aim of the competition is to bring The Ridgeway to life not only as a long distance trail but also as an artistic inspiration, and to show The Ridgeway, its history and environs, in all their aspects throughout all seasons. The theme of the competition is ‘Spirit of the Ridgeway’.
The main points of the prize competition are:
All entrants will receive one year’s membership of The Friends of The Ridgeway Each category winner will receive a keeper prize plus £100. The overall winner will receive a keeper prize plus £250 and a trophy.
To enter applicants should contact The Friends of The Ridgeway. Entrants need to complete the Entry Form and submit it with their art work.
Why not seek artistic inspiration from the Ridgeway and then, through the Swire Ridgeway Arts Prize, share it with all those that love and value the Ridgeway?
https://www.ridgewayfriends.org.uk/swire-ridgeway-arts-prize/
Faringdon Library want to know.......... 19/11/19
... what improvements you would like to see at the library
There is over £100k S106 money being held by Oxford County Council ( since 2013) that must be spent on the library within the next 2/3 years else it must be returned to the developer.
Email faringdon.library@oxfordshire.gov.uk to tell them what you think.
I haven't discovered any timescales for this, so best respond pdq.
Lost phone - 15/11/19
Has anyone found a small blue Nokia phone in town
berylatkin@aol.com
Youth grants available - 15/11/19
Faringdon Youth Grant programme is still open and we are inviting everyone to send their application.
Please note that the applications dead line is now the 22nd of November. Attached to this email you should find the Youth Funding application form and the Policy document. If you think your organization has something to offer to young and vulnerable people living in Faringdon please get in touch. Should you have any question or run into any problem you can reach out at marzia@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
Farmer Gow's, Fernham Road, Longcot, Faringdon, SN7 7PR- 13/11/19
10am - 5pm, see website for late night opening
Farmer Gow's Christmas Tree Barn is OPEN for pot grown trees. Cut trees available from 21 November.
W: www.farmergows.co.uk
E: enquiries@farmergows.co.uk
Taxi needed - 9/11/19
I am disabled and finding so difficult to get a taxi! I'll leave a message asking for them to return my call to let me know whether they are able to pick me up or not but they don't. Could somebody from White Horse Private Hire ( who I would prefer as the driveris female) please tell me what I have to do to get a taxi! If they don't want my business then please just be courteous & tell me
Name supplied
Free Parking in the Vale - 9/11/19
http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/news/2019/2019-11/free-parking-run-christmas
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS-ON FESTIVE FARINGDON Saturday 30th November- 7/11/19
Market Square from 2.00pm, Santa arrival 2.30pm, Lights-On at 5.30pm
Father Christmas in his grotto, Thomas the Tank Engine, Wantage Silver Band, street entertainers, Fairground all rides £1, Punch & Judy, craft stalls, Christmas Fayre in the Corn Exchange
Further information: faringdonrotarylightson@gmail.com or 07860 304070
The Rotary Club of Faringdon & District supported by Faringdon Town Council
www.faringdonrotaryclub.org www.facebook.com/faringdon.rotary
Faringdon Christmas and Young traders Market,- Stalls available - 5/11/19
We are now inviting everyone to book their stall. The event will take place on Saturday 7th December at 10.00- 14.00. Could you please share this information to your group members?
The event is free for young traders and £ 5.00 for local traders.
Should you have any question or run into any problem you can reach out at marzia@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
Marzia Marzia Sellitti Deputy Town Clerk Faringdon Town Council www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
DURING DECEMBER Look out for Father Christmas with Thomas the Tank Engine - 5/11/19
Faringdon & Villages (Start times: weekdays 5.30pm, Saturdays 4.30pm)
Saturday 30 November - Faringdon Market Square, Lights-On
Monday 2 December - Shrivenham (North of High Street, Sandshill, Stallpits Road, Roman Way area)
Tuesday 3 December - Shrivenham Berens Road., Farthinghoe Way, Sandy Lane etc.)
Wednesday 4 December - Faringdon (Orchard Hill, Westland Road, Highworth Road, The Pines)
Thursday 5 December - Watchfield (Majors Road., Barrington Ave. area)
Friday 6 December - Watchfield (old Watchfield)
Saturday 7 December - Faringdon (Bloor Estate, Park Road, Walnut Court, Wills Close, Bromsgrove)
Monday 9 December - Kingston Bagpuize (Oxford end)
Tuesday 10 December - Southmoor (Faringdon end)
Wednesday 11 December - Faringdon (Gloucester Street, Sudbury Court, Pulling Close, Haynes Close, London Street)
Thursday 12 December - Longcot & Watchfield (Shrivenham Hundred area etc.)
Friday 13 December - Southmoor (Blandy Avenue), Buckland, Littleworth
Saturday 14 December - Faringdon (Stanford Road, Nursery View, Tuckers Road, Berners Way, The Lees)
Monday/Tuesday 16/17 December - Stanford in the Vale
Wednesday 18 December - Faringdon (Century Close, Rawdon Way, Townend Road, Marines Drive, Marlborough Gardens, Folly View Road)
Thursday 19 December - Uffington
Friday 20 December - Clanfield
Saturday 21 December - Faringdon (Fernham Fields, Wearn Road, Coleshill Drive, Fernham Road, Leamington Drive, Carters Crescent, Fernham Gate, Coxwell Road estates)
Should any changes become necessary due to circumstances, they will be announced on: facebook.com/faringdon.rotary
Faringdon Knit and Knatter Ladies.- 4/11/19
Link to Hope. 2019 Shoebox Appeal.
Thank you to everyone who contributed filled shoeboxes or items for shoeboxes.
This year, with your help, we filled and dispatched. 212 boxes.
Unfortunately, having filled boxes for many years, we have decided that this was our last year. However, we will still be knitting for various charities and look forward to receiving your knitted/crochet items.
Once again thank you for your support.
Name supplied
Walking Football starts November 7th- 4/11/19
Leisure Centre 8pm-9pm
See poster for more details
Faringdon library events- 1/11/19
Saturdays November 2nd & 16th from 10.00-1.00
What are your favourite places, journeys and stories linked to where you live? Turn these thoughts into artwork using maps, poems, sound and iPads. Take part in these Saturday morning drop-in sessions. We will be using drawings, animations and pictures to celebrate Faringdon.
As numbers are limited it is essential to book, the form is available at the counter.
No experience needed - just lots of fun, ideas and imagination! Supported by Faringdon Town Council.
Ages 8-15 parents should stay with under 10’s
Youth Grants available until 22/11/19 - 1/11/19
There is a pot of money available to support Youth Opportunities, grants of up to £70,000 are available for this 2 year grant fund.
The closing date for all applications is 12pm on Friday 22 November 2019.
There is an application workshop on Monday, 4 November 2019, 2pm - 4.30pm, in Meeting rooms 1 and 2, Ground Floor, County Hall, Oxford, OX1 1ND. This will be an opportunity for applicants to come to and discuss their ideas and ask any questions that they may have about the application process.
For more information please visit: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/residents/community-and-living/our-work-communities/oxfordshire-together/community-led-childrens-services/youth-opportunity-fund
Please direct any enquiries to youth.opportunities@oxfordshire.gov.uk
Walking for Health. Starts 7th January- 1/11/19
Every Tuesday 10-10.30. Free
Slow paced walk
From Medical Centre Volunteer way
See Poster
Free Technology Workshop- 1/11/19
Wednesday 20th November 1-3pm
Pump House project
Contact 07849 175597
Wednesday 20th November 2019
See Poster
UP TO 50% OFF EVERYTHING!!
All Semi-Precious Stones, Pearls, Amber, Silver, Gold and more.
Only available while stock last.
Opening Time: 10:00-15:30 WED-SAT
Tel: 01367 244615
4A Market Place Faringdon
Swire Ridgeway Arts Prize - 22/11/19
The Ridgeway – the oldest road in Britain – historically was a trackway providing a reliable trading route from the Dorset coast along the chalk Downs to the Wash in Norfolk. Today it is not only the oldest road but is also a wonderful resource for all the communities that live along its route, where all can enjoy walking, riding or just being there.
The Friends of The Ridgeway have established an annual arts competition and prize – the Swire Ridgeway Arts Prize. For 2020, it will be held in April 2020 with an exhibition in Thomas Hughes Memorial Hall, Uffington on Saturday and Sunday 18 – 19 April 2020 and a second exhibition in the Chilterns the following weekend. The aim of the competition is to bring The Ridgeway to life not only as a long distance trail but also as an artistic inspiration, and to show The Ridgeway, its history and environs, in all their aspects throughout all seasons. The theme of the competition is ‘Spirit of the Ridgeway’.
The main points of the prize competition are:
- There will be separate classes for painting, sculpture (including ceramics and textiles) , photography and writing (poetry or prose);
- Competition is open to all, amateur and professional artists;
- Art work submitted must be produced in the 24 months prior to closing date;
- The results of the competition will be announced and prizes awarded at the Ridgeway Friends Day planned for 19 April 2020;
- The closing date for entries shall be one month prior to the Ridgeway Friends Day (i.e. 19 March 2020);
- The full rules of the competition are given in a separate document.
All entrants will receive one year’s membership of The Friends of The Ridgeway Each category winner will receive a keeper prize plus £100. The overall winner will receive a keeper prize plus £250 and a trophy.
To enter applicants should contact The Friends of The Ridgeway. Entrants need to complete the Entry Form and submit it with their art work.
Why not seek artistic inspiration from the Ridgeway and then, through the Swire Ridgeway Arts Prize, share it with all those that love and value the Ridgeway?
https://www.ridgewayfriends.org.uk/swire-ridgeway-arts-prize/
Faringdon Library want to know.......... 19/11/19
... what improvements you would like to see at the library
- new books
- equipment
- workspace
- community activity space
- better children's area
There is over £100k S106 money being held by Oxford County Council ( since 2013) that must be spent on the library within the next 2/3 years else it must be returned to the developer.
Email faringdon.library@oxfordshire.gov.uk to tell them what you think.
I haven't discovered any timescales for this, so best respond pdq.
Lost phone - 15/11/19
Has anyone found a small blue Nokia phone in town
berylatkin@aol.com
Youth grants available - 15/11/19
Faringdon Youth Grant programme is still open and we are inviting everyone to send their application.
Please note that the applications dead line is now the 22nd of November. Attached to this email you should find the Youth Funding application form and the Policy document. If you think your organization has something to offer to young and vulnerable people living in Faringdon please get in touch. Should you have any question or run into any problem you can reach out at marzia@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
Farmer Gow's, Fernham Road, Longcot, Faringdon, SN7 7PR- 13/11/19
10am - 5pm, see website for late night opening
Farmer Gow's Christmas Tree Barn is OPEN for pot grown trees. Cut trees available from 21 November.
- Thanksgiving & Christmas Meats
- Farmer Gow's Firewood
W: www.farmergows.co.uk
E: enquiries@farmergows.co.uk
Taxi needed - 9/11/19
I am disabled and finding so difficult to get a taxi! I'll leave a message asking for them to return my call to let me know whether they are able to pick me up or not but they don't. Could somebody from White Horse Private Hire ( who I would prefer as the driveris female) please tell me what I have to do to get a taxi! If they don't want my business then please just be courteous & tell me
Name supplied
Free Parking in the Vale - 9/11/19
http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/news/2019/2019-11/free-parking-run-christmas
- Faringdon – Saturdays (7, 14, 21 December)
- Wantage – Saturdays (7, 14, 21 December)
- Abingdon – Saturdays (7, 14, 21 December)
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS-ON FESTIVE FARINGDON Saturday 30th November- 7/11/19
Market Square from 2.00pm, Santa arrival 2.30pm, Lights-On at 5.30pm
Father Christmas in his grotto, Thomas the Tank Engine, Wantage Silver Band, street entertainers, Fairground all rides £1, Punch & Judy, craft stalls, Christmas Fayre in the Corn Exchange
Further information: faringdonrotarylightson@gmail.com or 07860 304070
The Rotary Club of Faringdon & District supported by Faringdon Town Council
www.faringdonrotaryclub.org www.facebook.com/faringdon.rotary
Faringdon Christmas and Young traders Market,- Stalls available - 5/11/19
We are now inviting everyone to book their stall. The event will take place on Saturday 7th December at 10.00- 14.00. Could you please share this information to your group members?
The event is free for young traders and £ 5.00 for local traders.
Should you have any question or run into any problem you can reach out at marzia@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
Marzia Marzia Sellitti Deputy Town Clerk Faringdon Town Council www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
DURING DECEMBER Look out for Father Christmas with Thomas the Tank Engine - 5/11/19
Faringdon & Villages (Start times: weekdays 5.30pm, Saturdays 4.30pm)
Saturday 30 November - Faringdon Market Square, Lights-On
Monday 2 December - Shrivenham (North of High Street, Sandshill, Stallpits Road, Roman Way area)
Tuesday 3 December - Shrivenham Berens Road., Farthinghoe Way, Sandy Lane etc.)
Wednesday 4 December - Faringdon (Orchard Hill, Westland Road, Highworth Road, The Pines)
Thursday 5 December - Watchfield (Majors Road., Barrington Ave. area)
Friday 6 December - Watchfield (old Watchfield)
Saturday 7 December - Faringdon (Bloor Estate, Park Road, Walnut Court, Wills Close, Bromsgrove)
Monday 9 December - Kingston Bagpuize (Oxford end)
Tuesday 10 December - Southmoor (Faringdon end)
Wednesday 11 December - Faringdon (Gloucester Street, Sudbury Court, Pulling Close, Haynes Close, London Street)
Thursday 12 December - Longcot & Watchfield (Shrivenham Hundred area etc.)
Friday 13 December - Southmoor (Blandy Avenue), Buckland, Littleworth
Saturday 14 December - Faringdon (Stanford Road, Nursery View, Tuckers Road, Berners Way, The Lees)
Monday/Tuesday 16/17 December - Stanford in the Vale
Wednesday 18 December - Faringdon (Century Close, Rawdon Way, Townend Road, Marines Drive, Marlborough Gardens, Folly View Road)
Thursday 19 December - Uffington
Friday 20 December - Clanfield
Saturday 21 December - Faringdon (Fernham Fields, Wearn Road, Coleshill Drive, Fernham Road, Leamington Drive, Carters Crescent, Fernham Gate, Coxwell Road estates)
Should any changes become necessary due to circumstances, they will be announced on: facebook.com/faringdon.rotary
Faringdon Knit and Knatter Ladies.- 4/11/19
Link to Hope. 2019 Shoebox Appeal.
Thank you to everyone who contributed filled shoeboxes or items for shoeboxes.
This year, with your help, we filled and dispatched. 212 boxes.
Unfortunately, having filled boxes for many years, we have decided that this was our last year. However, we will still be knitting for various charities and look forward to receiving your knitted/crochet items.
Once again thank you for your support.
Name supplied
Walking Football starts November 7th- 4/11/19
Leisure Centre 8pm-9pm
See poster for more details
Faringdon library events- 1/11/19
Saturdays November 2nd & 16th from 10.00-1.00
What are your favourite places, journeys and stories linked to where you live? Turn these thoughts into artwork using maps, poems, sound and iPads. Take part in these Saturday morning drop-in sessions. We will be using drawings, animations and pictures to celebrate Faringdon.
As numbers are limited it is essential to book, the form is available at the counter.
No experience needed - just lots of fun, ideas and imagination! Supported by Faringdon Town Council.
Ages 8-15 parents should stay with under 10’s
Youth Grants available until 22/11/19 - 1/11/19
There is a pot of money available to support Youth Opportunities, grants of up to £70,000 are available for this 2 year grant fund.
The closing date for all applications is 12pm on Friday 22 November 2019.
There is an application workshop on Monday, 4 November 2019, 2pm - 4.30pm, in Meeting rooms 1 and 2, Ground Floor, County Hall, Oxford, OX1 1ND. This will be an opportunity for applicants to come to and discuss their ideas and ask any questions that they may have about the application process.
For more information please visit: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/residents/community-and-living/our-work-communities/oxfordshire-together/community-led-childrens-services/youth-opportunity-fund
Please direct any enquiries to youth.opportunities@oxfordshire.gov.uk
Walking for Health. Starts 7th January- 1/11/19
Every Tuesday 10-10.30. Free
Slow paced walk
From Medical Centre Volunteer way
See Poster
Free Technology Workshop- 1/11/19
Wednesday 20th November 1-3pm
Pump House project
Contact 07849 175597
Wednesday 20th November 2019
See Poster
Faringdon Folly. End of season newsletter to volunteers- 30/10/19
Another successful year with lots of positive feedback from visitors and once again excellent support from our loyal team of volunteers. A huge thank you to everyone who has helped. Without you the Tower would not be open.
Mostly the weather was excellent, so the number of visitors was good.
Visitor Numbers
Since June I have been posting our Open days on many Facebook pages within our 30/40-mile catchment. This is in addition to already being on 'places to visit' websites and the local and regional press.
No Halloween opening this year - please tell anyone you know who may not have heard.
Visitor Survey
We analysed information from visitors for 2 open days in September (Total 150 parties, 464 visitors)
September- 4 Tower Open Days
The first 3 were bright and sunny and busy having 690 visitors. Sadly the weather was dreadful on the 4th Sunday. Only 21 people turned up. The indication is that opening every week (April-Oct) would be successful, if the weather is was good!
Private Bookings
Rob, our chainsaw sculptor will be creating another cannon, as well as refurbishing and weather proofing the existing sculptures.
I'm planning to get both outside boards replaced. They have lasted well but are getting scruffy and the information needs to be updated too. There's no desperate hurry, but I'm aiming for well before next season to get them installed.
Rob will also be surveying the trees to assess their health and whether any actions are needed. We need to reduce the height of a few trees so that the view from the Belvedere Room is unrestricted. I'm hoping this will be done before Christmas.
We have decided to dismantle the giant pie. We did try very hard to make it work - 2/3 rebuilds. Different toppings- camomile, grass, clover, green-roof succulent and they all hated it!
Still no ideas for a replacement.
A group of volunteers from Nationwide will be coming to help in the woodland in November. I plan to get them to pull random brambles, cut them back from paths and prepare some ground for seed (which I've gathered from various places)
We lost a great many young trees and shrubs over the summer due to the very dry conditions. We will be planting replacements very soon and I shall be hoping for a very wet Spring!)
You may be interested to know that we have planted about 600 trees and shrubs over the last 7 to 8 years and around 50% have survived - so far!
Thanks so much to everyone who helps to keep the woodland looking so good.
Other Items
If you would like to receive the newsletter- 3 or 4 times a year- or become a volunteer email enquiries@faringdonfolly.org.uk
Gene Webb
Friend of the Folly
Cycle Park - 30/10/19
Just wanted to say my 4 year old loved his first trip to the cycle park. Zooming around with a big smile on his face
Thanks to everyone who made it.
Adam
Tree Planting at Faringdon Cycle Park, 1pm - 4pm - 28/10/19
Sunday 24th November
Bring a shovel and help us plant the saplings.
Enquiries to cycle@farcycles.org.uk
Grants- available until 28/10- 26/10/19
Local groups in our district can apply for a share of £75,000 as part of our community grant scheme.
If there’s a project in your area that would benefit the local community, please encourage them to apply. The grant can help fund capital projects such as initial start-up costs for a new group or activity, improvements to increase the accessibility of community spaces, energy efficiency initiatives, facility refurbishments, volunteer training costs or equipment upgrades.
Groups can apply for a minimum of £1,000 (and up to 50 per cent of the total cost). Applications must reach us by midday on 28 October - for more information visit whitehorsedc.gov.uk/grants.
Safe Places in Faringdon- 25/10/19
https://www.safeplaces.org.uk/member-schemes/
Faringdon Information Centre
Faringdon Library
Faringdon Leisure Centre, Fernham Road
The Mustard Seed
Stay Grounded
Perry Bishop
Costa Coffee
Volunteers for Home Start wanted - 17/10/19
Home-Start Southern Oxfordshire is looking for new volunteers to support local families with young children who are experiencing difficulties.
Are you a parent, or have experience working with young children, and can spare 2-3 hours per week giving friendly practical and emotional support?
Full training and on-going staff support given. Please contact 01235 511152 or admin@homestartso.org for more information.
Safe places in Faringdon- 14/10/19
Our Community Safety team are working with Thames Valley Police, Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service, Oxfordshire Family Support Network and local communities to launch the nationally recognised 'Safe Places' scheme across South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse.
The Safe Places Scheme aims to help vulnerable people feel confident and safe whilst out and about. If someone is feeling lost, anxious, confused, bullied, abused or harassed they can go to a Safe Place.
Safe Places offer support to elderly people, people with dementia, those who may have a physical or learning disability, people with mental health needs or someone who feels unwell.
Read more about it and see the logo on
www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/community-advice-and-support/community-safety/safe-places-vale-white-horse
This scheme is being set up in Faringdon. I know that Perry Bishop and the Mustard seed are participating already.
Climate Change initiative in Faringdon - 11/10/19
Notes from 5 Climate Emergency Action Groups can be found on http://faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/homepage/climate-emergency/. The page will be updated with more information as soon as we establish a date for the next Climate Change Working party meeting.
Faringdon Town Council
Pavements in the Market Square- 10/10/19
In response to an inquiry, An employee of OCC told me I’ve recently been asked to provide estimates to replace the worn out surfacing. Your local County Councillor is pushing hard for these footways to be resurfaced so there’s high level interest in them. In short, no promises of it being done before Christmas but watch this space.
I then asked if it would be regular tarmac or the beige stuff ( which wears so badly) and was told:
The materials being looked into is both similar to what's there and standard tarmac. VERY much depends on the cost of the beige surfacing.
As you say, the material looks great in the short term but the Utility companies find it difficult to find in small batches so replace with standard tarmac. My choice would be standard tarmac but it's out of my hands decision wise. You could always make representation to Cllr Heathcoat about the replacement material.
I then asked Cncllr Heathcoat 'I wonder- what is your view as to which is the most suitable material. Will it be decided wholly on cost? If tarmac is chosen, will all the pavements be done of will we end up with a mixture of beige and standard? It seems the down side of the beige material is that utility companies find it difficult to match when they carry out their work- and of course that it is has not been hardwearing-(but maybe it has improved now)
Has it been/will it be discussed with FTC? '
and she replied
'The improving of the pavements in Faringdon, town centre is in its early stages. I have met with officers on-site.'
Street Lighting in Faringdon- 10/10/19
Many of you will have noticed the work being done on our street lights.
OCC told me - 'we are currently replacing the street lights in Faringdon which are coming to the end of their serviceable and structural life, therefore the column and lanterns are being changed for new. We are also changing the rest in the road to LED so the lighting levels meet the required standards. The New LEDS consume roughly 50% less energy than the old lanterns and are also pre-programmed to dim to 50% light output from 22:00 to 06:00'.
Ed
Climate Change initiative- 9/10/19
Following the meeting on Monday 7th, Faringdon Town Council will be establishing a Climate Change working party. Several people from Mondays meeting have volunteered to lead action groups- ie Green transport, recycling, sustainable living, nature, plastic use.
Notes from the meeting, a call for volunteers and what happens next will be on the Town Council website and facebook page
Re comments from John - 9/10/19
I have say that on the whole the houses on the Bloor estate are fairly well put together. Any housing estate is going to mass purchase products and suppliers change specs. This is not a reflection on the build quality though.
What is an issue on the estate is the weeds and upkeep of the roads. This, however, is where a massive bone of content comes in.
FVP is the last estate that should get formally adopted by the council however the council are doing all they can to get out of it because it means they will then have to upkeep it.
There is a long standing empasse between them and Bloor. This is the real issue of concern.
Name Supplied
Climate Change meeting- 6/10/19
We would like to hear your views and suggestions on how the council together with the community of Faringdon can play a part in tackling climate change.
Come and join us on the 7th of October at the Corn Exchange at 7.00pm
For any further information or if you have an idea you would like to share before the meeting please write to office@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
Faringdon Town Council Climate Emergency statement:
Climate Emergency statement
Thankyou - 6/10/19
I would like to thank the very kind people of Faringdon who have donated dog food, old dog beds, sardines in oil, thick bleach, washing up liquid and washing power to me for Many Tears Animal Rescue. They re home over 3000 dogs a year and are so very grateful for any donations.
If you do wish to contribute please call me or drop me a text on 07901712340 and I will happily collect from you.
https://manytearsrescue.org
Rotary Young Citizen Awards - 6/10/19
Do you know a young person who deserves recognition? The Rotary Club of Faringdon & District is inviting nominations for The Rotary Young Citizen Awards. These awards recognise young people under the age of 25 who have demonstrated their commitment to citizenship, goodwill and understanding through various activities. The awards can be for individuals or groups, for projects and initiatives that showcase positive citizenship and the important responsibilities assumed by young people. Nominees do not necessarily have to be working on a Rotary project to be eligible, they just have to be recognised by your local Rotary club as worthy of nomination.
This year, Faringdon Rotary are also introducing a new award, the Rotary Young Citizen Sporting Hero Award to recognise and highlight the achievements and contribution, as a positive role model to others, of a sports participant or a group or an individual or group who is enabling others to participate in sport.
Also offered for nomination is the Rotary Young Citizen Peacemaker Award, reflecting Rotary’s area of focus on Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution, to recognise young people, aged under 25, who have made a significant contribution by building peace and understanding, whether in their school, local community or with a peace project internationally.
Nominations must be with Faringdon Rotary by 14th December. To nominate a worthy young citizen or for more information email quoting “young citizen” to: info@faringdonrotaryclub.org or message facebook.com/faringdon.rotary
Pavement parking ban in the pipeline.- 6/10/19
Jesse Norman, head of the Department for Transport, has responded: “The department [DfT] is now undertaking a broader piece of work to gather evidence on the issue of pavement parking. We expect to be able to draw conclusions later this year.”
What would the punishment be?
It’s difficult to predict what the punishment for pavement parking would be. It would be easy to suggest that the fines will be roughly the same as what they are in London, so up to £130 - reduced by 50% if paid within 14 days.
London street is ridiculous now and the parking on double yellow lines outside the houses and for the shops down London street we counted 15 cars parked up nose to tail on double yellow lines half of them would be in the pub and no doubt drink driving as well!!
Will this part of London street be narrowed down to one lane to stop the illegal parking and you traffic lights at the top and bottom of London street on a trail bases, as the car parks are empty.
Just my two pence worth of a residence of forty five years.
John Murph
Re-FOLLY PARK VIEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT- 6/10/19
Reference the comment on the houses built by Bloor homes developers, You get what you pay for! wait till the cracks appear and windows don’t shut.
Cheap Cheap.
John Murph
New venture for Faringdon - 6/10/19
Introducing a new venture to Faringdon. Listening Touch Therapies is owned by an independent mobile therapist offering services for holistic wellbeing for all. With nearly a quarter of a century caring for children, the elderly and people with special needs Listening Touch Therapies comes with kind hands and an open heart.
Services includes;
Massage for all ages and abilities
Massage for dementia patients
Massage for special needs and/or disabled children and adults
Rainbow Kids Club
Baby massage classes
FREE Cuppa and cake sessions for parents
and lots more planned for the new year.
please see website for further information.
www.listeningtouchtherapies.co.uk
Beer and Bangers - 6/10/19
I would just like to pass on our gratitude to the organisers and helpers who gave up their free time for the Beer & Bangers at the weekend. Once again, my family and I really enjoyed the beer, bangers and the great music. Well done.
Regards
Grumpy Old Man.
Another successful year with lots of positive feedback from visitors and once again excellent support from our loyal team of volunteers. A huge thank you to everyone who has helped. Without you the Tower would not be open.
Mostly the weather was excellent, so the number of visitors was good.
Visitor Numbers
- 2019 - 16 open days (no Halloween) 3,189
- 2018 - 15 open days, including Halloween 3,276
Since June I have been posting our Open days on many Facebook pages within our 30/40-mile catchment. This is in addition to already being on 'places to visit' websites and the local and regional press.
No Halloween opening this year - please tell anyone you know who may not have heard.
Visitor Survey
We analysed information from visitors for 2 open days in September (Total 150 parties, 464 visitors)
- 20% from in and around Faringdon
- 20% from under 10 miles
- 50% 10-20 miles
- 10% over 20 miles
- 70% were making their first visit and surprising that 60% travelled more than 10 miles.
- 55% Known/word of mouth
- 27% Internet/Facebook
- 18% other - press, signs or banner
September- 4 Tower Open Days
The first 3 were bright and sunny and busy having 690 visitors. Sadly the weather was dreadful on the 4th Sunday. Only 21 people turned up. The indication is that opening every week (April-Oct) would be successful, if the weather is was good!
Private Bookings
- 2019 - We had 18 private bookings with income of £1,046 - (26% increase from last year.)
- These included 2 wedding proposals and 6 birthday celebrations.
Rob, our chainsaw sculptor will be creating another cannon, as well as refurbishing and weather proofing the existing sculptures.
I'm planning to get both outside boards replaced. They have lasted well but are getting scruffy and the information needs to be updated too. There's no desperate hurry, but I'm aiming for well before next season to get them installed.
Rob will also be surveying the trees to assess their health and whether any actions are needed. We need to reduce the height of a few trees so that the view from the Belvedere Room is unrestricted. I'm hoping this will be done before Christmas.
We have decided to dismantle the giant pie. We did try very hard to make it work - 2/3 rebuilds. Different toppings- camomile, grass, clover, green-roof succulent and they all hated it!
Still no ideas for a replacement.
A group of volunteers from Nationwide will be coming to help in the woodland in November. I plan to get them to pull random brambles, cut them back from paths and prepare some ground for seed (which I've gathered from various places)
We lost a great many young trees and shrubs over the summer due to the very dry conditions. We will be planting replacements very soon and I shall be hoping for a very wet Spring!)
You may be interested to know that we have planted about 600 trees and shrubs over the last 7 to 8 years and around 50% have survived - so far!
Thanks so much to everyone who helps to keep the woodland looking so good.
Other Items
- Those who use the Stanford Road gate will have noticed that the Pedestrian access needs to be repaired. Thames Water have been informed, as this is their responsibility.
- I've displayed bin stickers and posters to remind dog owners to pick up after their dog.
- Oxford CC have agreed to add Folly Hill signs at the top of London St (opposite Stanford Road) and on Stanford Road opposite the Folly Path.
If you would like to receive the newsletter- 3 or 4 times a year- or become a volunteer email enquiries@faringdonfolly.org.uk
Gene Webb
Friend of the Folly
Cycle Park - 30/10/19
Just wanted to say my 4 year old loved his first trip to the cycle park. Zooming around with a big smile on his face
Thanks to everyone who made it.
Adam
Tree Planting at Faringdon Cycle Park, 1pm - 4pm - 28/10/19
Sunday 24th November
Bring a shovel and help us plant the saplings.
Enquiries to cycle@farcycles.org.uk
Grants- available until 28/10- 26/10/19
Local groups in our district can apply for a share of £75,000 as part of our community grant scheme.
If there’s a project in your area that would benefit the local community, please encourage them to apply. The grant can help fund capital projects such as initial start-up costs for a new group or activity, improvements to increase the accessibility of community spaces, energy efficiency initiatives, facility refurbishments, volunteer training costs or equipment upgrades.
Groups can apply for a minimum of £1,000 (and up to 50 per cent of the total cost). Applications must reach us by midday on 28 October - for more information visit whitehorsedc.gov.uk/grants.
Safe Places in Faringdon- 25/10/19
https://www.safeplaces.org.uk/member-schemes/
Faringdon Information Centre
Faringdon Library
Faringdon Leisure Centre, Fernham Road
The Mustard Seed
Stay Grounded
Perry Bishop
Costa Coffee
Volunteers for Home Start wanted - 17/10/19
Home-Start Southern Oxfordshire is looking for new volunteers to support local families with young children who are experiencing difficulties.
Are you a parent, or have experience working with young children, and can spare 2-3 hours per week giving friendly practical and emotional support?
Full training and on-going staff support given. Please contact 01235 511152 or admin@homestartso.org for more information.
Safe places in Faringdon- 14/10/19
Our Community Safety team are working with Thames Valley Police, Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service, Oxfordshire Family Support Network and local communities to launch the nationally recognised 'Safe Places' scheme across South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse.
The Safe Places Scheme aims to help vulnerable people feel confident and safe whilst out and about. If someone is feeling lost, anxious, confused, bullied, abused or harassed they can go to a Safe Place.
Safe Places offer support to elderly people, people with dementia, those who may have a physical or learning disability, people with mental health needs or someone who feels unwell.
Read more about it and see the logo on
www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/community-advice-and-support/community-safety/safe-places-vale-white-horse
This scheme is being set up in Faringdon. I know that Perry Bishop and the Mustard seed are participating already.
Climate Change initiative in Faringdon - 11/10/19
Notes from 5 Climate Emergency Action Groups can be found on http://faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/homepage/climate-emergency/. The page will be updated with more information as soon as we establish a date for the next Climate Change Working party meeting.
Faringdon Town Council
Pavements in the Market Square- 10/10/19
In response to an inquiry, An employee of OCC told me I’ve recently been asked to provide estimates to replace the worn out surfacing. Your local County Councillor is pushing hard for these footways to be resurfaced so there’s high level interest in them. In short, no promises of it being done before Christmas but watch this space.
I then asked if it would be regular tarmac or the beige stuff ( which wears so badly) and was told:
The materials being looked into is both similar to what's there and standard tarmac. VERY much depends on the cost of the beige surfacing.
As you say, the material looks great in the short term but the Utility companies find it difficult to find in small batches so replace with standard tarmac. My choice would be standard tarmac but it's out of my hands decision wise. You could always make representation to Cllr Heathcoat about the replacement material.
I then asked Cncllr Heathcoat 'I wonder- what is your view as to which is the most suitable material. Will it be decided wholly on cost? If tarmac is chosen, will all the pavements be done of will we end up with a mixture of beige and standard? It seems the down side of the beige material is that utility companies find it difficult to match when they carry out their work- and of course that it is has not been hardwearing-(but maybe it has improved now)
Has it been/will it be discussed with FTC? '
and she replied
'The improving of the pavements in Faringdon, town centre is in its early stages. I have met with officers on-site.'
Street Lighting in Faringdon- 10/10/19
Many of you will have noticed the work being done on our street lights.
OCC told me - 'we are currently replacing the street lights in Faringdon which are coming to the end of their serviceable and structural life, therefore the column and lanterns are being changed for new. We are also changing the rest in the road to LED so the lighting levels meet the required standards. The New LEDS consume roughly 50% less energy than the old lanterns and are also pre-programmed to dim to 50% light output from 22:00 to 06:00'.
Ed
Climate Change initiative- 9/10/19
Following the meeting on Monday 7th, Faringdon Town Council will be establishing a Climate Change working party. Several people from Mondays meeting have volunteered to lead action groups- ie Green transport, recycling, sustainable living, nature, plastic use.
Notes from the meeting, a call for volunteers and what happens next will be on the Town Council website and facebook page
Re comments from John - 9/10/19
I have say that on the whole the houses on the Bloor estate are fairly well put together. Any housing estate is going to mass purchase products and suppliers change specs. This is not a reflection on the build quality though.
What is an issue on the estate is the weeds and upkeep of the roads. This, however, is where a massive bone of content comes in.
FVP is the last estate that should get formally adopted by the council however the council are doing all they can to get out of it because it means they will then have to upkeep it.
There is a long standing empasse between them and Bloor. This is the real issue of concern.
Name Supplied
Climate Change meeting- 6/10/19
We would like to hear your views and suggestions on how the council together with the community of Faringdon can play a part in tackling climate change.
Come and join us on the 7th of October at the Corn Exchange at 7.00pm
For any further information or if you have an idea you would like to share before the meeting please write to office@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
Faringdon Town Council Climate Emergency statement:
Climate Emergency statement
Thankyou - 6/10/19
I would like to thank the very kind people of Faringdon who have donated dog food, old dog beds, sardines in oil, thick bleach, washing up liquid and washing power to me for Many Tears Animal Rescue. They re home over 3000 dogs a year and are so very grateful for any donations.
If you do wish to contribute please call me or drop me a text on 07901712340 and I will happily collect from you.
https://manytearsrescue.org
Rotary Young Citizen Awards - 6/10/19
Do you know a young person who deserves recognition? The Rotary Club of Faringdon & District is inviting nominations for The Rotary Young Citizen Awards. These awards recognise young people under the age of 25 who have demonstrated their commitment to citizenship, goodwill and understanding through various activities. The awards can be for individuals or groups, for projects and initiatives that showcase positive citizenship and the important responsibilities assumed by young people. Nominees do not necessarily have to be working on a Rotary project to be eligible, they just have to be recognised by your local Rotary club as worthy of nomination.
This year, Faringdon Rotary are also introducing a new award, the Rotary Young Citizen Sporting Hero Award to recognise and highlight the achievements and contribution, as a positive role model to others, of a sports participant or a group or an individual or group who is enabling others to participate in sport.
Also offered for nomination is the Rotary Young Citizen Peacemaker Award, reflecting Rotary’s area of focus on Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution, to recognise young people, aged under 25, who have made a significant contribution by building peace and understanding, whether in their school, local community or with a peace project internationally.
Nominations must be with Faringdon Rotary by 14th December. To nominate a worthy young citizen or for more information email quoting “young citizen” to: info@faringdonrotaryclub.org or message facebook.com/faringdon.rotary
Pavement parking ban in the pipeline.- 6/10/19
Jesse Norman, head of the Department for Transport, has responded: “The department [DfT] is now undertaking a broader piece of work to gather evidence on the issue of pavement parking. We expect to be able to draw conclusions later this year.”
What would the punishment be?
It’s difficult to predict what the punishment for pavement parking would be. It would be easy to suggest that the fines will be roughly the same as what they are in London, so up to £130 - reduced by 50% if paid within 14 days.
London street is ridiculous now and the parking on double yellow lines outside the houses and for the shops down London street we counted 15 cars parked up nose to tail on double yellow lines half of them would be in the pub and no doubt drink driving as well!!
Will this part of London street be narrowed down to one lane to stop the illegal parking and you traffic lights at the top and bottom of London street on a trail bases, as the car parks are empty.
Just my two pence worth of a residence of forty five years.
John Murph
Re-FOLLY PARK VIEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT- 6/10/19
Reference the comment on the houses built by Bloor homes developers, You get what you pay for! wait till the cracks appear and windows don’t shut.
Cheap Cheap.
John Murph
New venture for Faringdon - 6/10/19
Introducing a new venture to Faringdon. Listening Touch Therapies is owned by an independent mobile therapist offering services for holistic wellbeing for all. With nearly a quarter of a century caring for children, the elderly and people with special needs Listening Touch Therapies comes with kind hands and an open heart.
Services includes;
Massage for all ages and abilities
Massage for dementia patients
Massage for special needs and/or disabled children and adults
Rainbow Kids Club
Baby massage classes
FREE Cuppa and cake sessions for parents
and lots more planned for the new year.
please see website for further information.
www.listeningtouchtherapies.co.uk
Beer and Bangers - 6/10/19
I would just like to pass on our gratitude to the organisers and helpers who gave up their free time for the Beer & Bangers at the weekend. Once again, my family and I really enjoyed the beer, bangers and the great music. Well done.
Regards
Grumpy Old Man.
50s, 60s, 70s pop October 12th- 25/9/19
Corn Exchange 7.30-11.00
Nitelife Duo
Tickets £5 on the door or from 01367 243130
In aid of British Heart Foundation
Children's Christmas Card competition- 25/9/19
Faringdon Town Council Children’s Christmas Card Competition
Design a Faringdon themed card
Winner will switch on the Faringdon Christmas lights and have their card produced
12 years old and under
Entries to: adele@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
or hand in at the Faringdon Information Centre
Closing date 31st October
FOLLY PARK VIEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT- 25/9/19
The lamp in our outside light fitting installed by Bloor Homes has stopped working. I have been to the manufacturer and installer of the tubular style light fittings that most of us have on our outside walls and I have been told that this lamp is no longer available and therefore the complete light fitting needs to be changed.
I have never heard of anything more ludicrous that after 5 years a complete light fitting needs replacement because the bulb isn't available. Why does a housing developer do such a thoughtless thing - I think we all know the answer - because it's cheap !
Can we ever forgive you Bloor Homes for your daft actions ?
Tessa Timms
Roads resurfacing.- 14/9/19
Just to correct the comments on resurfacing, Canada Lane has NOT been resurfaced, it is still one giant pothole.
Name supplied.
Ed: Yes its the Pines, Chestnut avenue etc that have been done.
White Horse Practice (WHMP) Autumn Newsletter - 14/9/19
See http://www.whitehorsepracticeppg.org.uk/
Resurfacing Roads in Faringdon - 14/9/19
I asked the County Council why Canada Lane and Gt Coxwell roads were resurfaced when Park Road is in more need.
This is the reply
Looking at it from the public perception it may seem like we are targeting the wrong roads at times, however, the recent work you have noticed in the Canada Lane estate and Great Coxwell have been non-structural repairs which are basically carried out to try and arrest further deterioration of failing roads or if there are particular problems with the road surface itself. In short, they are fairly cheap processes which we carryout at many similar locations throughout the County.
In Park Road Faringdon, due to continual loadings from HGV’s, constant traffic throughout most of the day and not to mention the masses of utility trenches throughout pretty much its entire length, the required repairs are much more substantial and structural of which are arranged by our Head Office colleagues. I’m told Park Road currently sits in next years programme for resurfacing and is currently being designed.
I anticipate it will be very close in nature to the work carried out in both Marlborough Street last year and Gloucester Street a month or so ago. In the meantime, we will keep an eye on things and respond to the potholes as and when they appear.
Grants available - 12/9/19
Local groups in the Vale of White Horse can apply for grants totalling up to £75,000 as part of a community grant scheme which has opened this month.
In the past the scheme, run by Vale of White Horse District Council, has given grants to a variety of local community organisations including money for parenting programmes in Botley, a play area resurfacing in Faringdon and most recently new furniture for a group in Wantage caring for people suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Groups can apply for a minimum of £1,000 (and up to 50 per cent of the total cost) towards projects which benefit the local community. The final amounts awarded will depend on the number of applicants.
Anyone interested in a grant should see more information on the council’s website here
http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/community-advice-and-support/grants/new-homes-bonus-community-grant
Applications are invited between 2 September 2019 - midday 28 October 2019. Decisions will be made by the end January 2020
Thames Valley Police newsletter - 12/9/19
Priorities
Vehicle Crime: The Faringdon Neighbourhood Team were joined by members of the Wantage Neighbourhood Team and the Mounted Section on a rural operation. We patrolled the car parks of local beauty spots along the Ridgeway in order to deter thefts and raise awareness. The Mounted Section proved to be immensely popular with the public who were thrilled to see them!
Please remain vigilant when leaving you vehicles as we are still getting reports of them being broken into. Various personal items and tools have been stolen from vehicles in our area.
If you see anything suspicious or find evidence of an attempt to break into your vehicle call 101, the 24-hour Thames Valley Police non-emergency number or report online (www.thamesvalley.police.uk/report-a-crime). If a crime is in progress, call 999.
Following these events we have increased our patrols and added signage in the local area reminding residents not to leave items in vehicles.
Vehicle crime reduction advice
• Do not keep anything in your vehicle.
• Hide your car keys away from windows and doors and out of sight.
• Park your car in a well-lit area — either on your driveway, or on the roads under a street lamp.
• Lock all windows and doors of your car and make sure to activate your car alarm if you have one.
• Consider fitting a letterbox defender or restrictor. This prevents burglars from poking tools through the letterbox to open latches from the inside, or reaching nearby car and house keys. A lockable letterbox on the outside of the property is also an option.
• Ensure your doors and windows are locked, if you have a chain on the inside of your door, use it. This prevents burglars from poking tools through the letterbox to open latches from the inside, or reaching nearby car and house keys. A lockable letterbox on the outside of the property is also an option.
Burglary: We are appealing for any information that you may have on the following incidents, there has been incidents at the following locations:
• 27/08/19 – Burglary – Faringdon - a Black BMW was stolen from a driveway in Coxwell Road Faringdon overnight.
• 01/08/19 – Uffington Post Office - Cigarettes and cash was taken by several offenders
• 14/08/19- Kingston Bagpuize – A high value theft of building materials carried out by several offenders overnight.
If you have any information or CCTV please call 101 or report online here
Violent crime: The Neighbourhood Team are working towards a week of action to combat knife crime as part of a national initiative Op Sceptre. As part of this we will be actively targeting premises and locations associated with drugs to help disrupt criminality associated with carrying weapons. If you have any information relating to drugs and knives then please let the team know as soon as possible.
Offenders brought to justice
Alan Reed was arrested and charged with six offenses, Common Assault, Criminal Damage, Public Order x2, Making off Without Payment, and Malicious Communications. As a result of these charges he was recalled to prison.
During the month of August the team have made several arrests, namely for persons being drunk and disorderly in a public places or for drug offenses. These are as a result of the team working to curb the anti-social behaviour issues that have been reported to us.
We ask you to continue to be vigilant and report these incidents as they happen.
Community engagement:
One of the advantages of working from Faringdon is that two major events are held locally in August. We attended the Shrivenham Fete on Sunday 25th August and the Uffington Show on the Monday 26th August.
Both days were hot and sunny and a great opportunity to engage with the public and find out about any local concerns. It was lovely to see every one having a good time and enjoying themselves!
On 11th September 2019 we will be attending The Defence Academy where we will be attending ‘A Meet and Greet Fair’.
Please get in touch/follow us using the following:
E-mail: FaringdonNHPT@thamesvalley.pnn.police.uk
Twitter: @tvpsouthandvale
Facebook: www.facebook.com/tvpsouthandvale
Phone: 101
Always phone 999 in an emergency
Message Sent By
Julia Williams (Police, Neighbourhood Policing Admin, South Oxon and Vale)
Cycling Champions - 11/9/19
South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils have each appointed their first ever Cycling Champions to help and encourage people to travel by bike.
Cllr Sam Casey-Rerhaye at South Oxfordshire and Cllr Eric de la Harpe at Vale of White Horse will work with local organisations, communities, other councils and transport bodies to make sure there is wider access to cycling paths across the districts.
The work of the Cycling Champion will help to deliver the legacy of The OVO Energy Women’s Tour, which saw thousands line the streets and get enthusiastic about cycling when it passed through both districts on 12 June. The race provided a significant platform to showcase Southern Oxfordshire as a cycling and tourism destination and is set to return to Oxfordshire again in 2020 and 2021.
Cllr Casey-Rerhaye, who regularly cycles to work and encourages her children to cycle wherever possible, would love to see more people doing the same – particularly for journeys under five miles. Her aim is to make improvements to new and existing cycle paths in the district to help reduce pollution and carbon emissions and encourage others to increase their overall fitness through cycling.
http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/news/2019/2019-09/first-ever-cycling-champions-appointed-two-district-councils
Oxford University Hospitals (OUH) seeking your views - 11/9/19
Oxford University Hospitals (OUH) is refreshing its strategy for the next five years (2020-2025), so it has a common purpose and direction for all who work there, and can communicate this clearly to patients and partners.
OUH wants to develop a strategy which supports you to receive seamless and joined-up care, helps to make OUH a great place to work for staff and takes advantage of the opportunities that new technologies offer.
OUH values your views and feedback to help create this, so please take the time to fill in the survey below, by Friday 11 October. The survey can be accessed here: https://forms.gle/TxS6BhRUezt4NcoQ6.
The survey will be anonymous, with an option for you to give OUH your email address if you want to be kept up to date.
If you would like further information, please contact the OUH Strategy team at: strategy@ouh.nhs.uk.
Car Free Day - 10/9/19
Sunday 22 September is World Car Free day and South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse district councils are offering drivers in the districts the chance to win a prize – if they give their vehicle a rest on that day.
World Car Free Day has been running for 25 years. Cities, towns and villages take the opportunity to raise awareness of air pollution and air quality by encouraging people to leave their cars at home for the day and choose alternative forms of transport.
Since Clean Air Day on 20 June both South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils have been urging drivers to turn off their engines if they are stopped for a minute or more as part of their joint anti-idling campaign called Turn It Off. Now the councils are suggesting that drivers turn off their engines for a day!
If drivers in the districts pledge not to use their cars on World Car Free Day on 22 September and then tell the councils how they got around instead – on the train? bus? cycling? walking? kayaking? they will be entered for a draw for travel vouchers worth £50.
Simply click on https://survey.southandvale.gov.uk/s/Worldcarfreeday/ and show (using words and photos) what they did on 22 September without their car. Deadline for entries is 5pm Monday 30 September.
More info
Town Council surgeries on Saturdays- 10/9/19
Talk to your Town Councillors- ideas and concerns
10am-12noon The Pump House
http://faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/town-councillor-surgeries-start-this-saturday/
War Memorial Trust Remembrance Exhibition- 9/9/19
The War Memorial Trust and the Royal British Legion will be holding its eleventh exhibition of war time memorabilia in the Old Town Hall to reflect on the impact that wars have made on local families.
This year marks the 80th anniversary of the outbreak of the Second World War as well as the 75th anniversary of D-Day. If you have any memorabilia, stories, photographs or any documents that you would like to share concerning the events leading up to the outbreak of WW2 and its aftermath in 1939, or the events of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy in 1944.
Please bring them to the Faringdon Town Council offices (in the Pump House on the Market Place) before Wednesday, 6th November; the office is open between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday.
If you have any interesting memorabilia concerning other conflicts please bring them along. We would be particularly interested in stories and memorabilia on how WW2 affected families on the ‘home front’; e.g. blackout, rationing, evacuees, daily life, etc. Any precious items that you may think to be too valuable to exhibit can be photocopied and the Trust will take care to return original items to their owners.
The exhibition will be open to the public from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm on Friday 8th and Saturday 9th November, and after the Remembrance Day ceremony on Sunday 10th until 1:00 pm. Volunteers who would like to help in manning the exhibition should contact the Council Offices on 01367 240281.
PAD (Public Access Defilrillators) meeting Sept 20th - 5/9/19
The Faringdon PAD Committee will be holding a general meeting on 20th September at 7.30pm at the Bell Hotel, Faringdon. You are invited to attend our meeting on the evening if you have an interest in the work of our committee, that contributes towards the guardianship of certain Defibrillators in Faringdon, works towards the familiarisation of those in our community in the use of the AED (Automated External Defibrillators) and the development of further PAD's (Publicly Accessible Defibrillators) being available to our local citizens towards saving lives in the case of sudden cardiac arrest.
There will be a business agenda for this meeting, however an opportunity to ask questions or learn more of our work as volunteers and towards our aims to the benefit of our local community. We hold regular, community based familiarisation sessions at various times during the year and if you, or your community group would wish to learn more about the use of the Defibrillators and how lives can be saved with some simple action and knowledge, then please get in touch with our committee.
We are also looking for volunteers, no medical or clinical skills necessary, to support us in our work and if you can be available to attend our occasional meetings, to act as 'Secretary/Note taker and contact point for our activities.
Advance notice of your attendance would be helpful, or if you have any questions or queries regarding our work and the use of Defibrillators, then please Email - faringdonpad@gmail.com or Telephone - 07796 572752
Malcolm Gee - Chair - Faringdon PAD Committee
Temporary Traffic Closure - 4/9/19
LOCATION: Cumnor, A420
REASON: Gully emptying, grass cutting, street lighting,white lining and junction cleaning
DURATION: Starting on 9th September 2019 at 20:00
The anticipated completion date is 14th September 2019 at 05:00hrs (5 night closure and each night from 20:00hrs to 05:00hrs)
Visit the links below to view the full Traffic Regulation Notice and the map of the road closure.
Temporary road closure , Cumnor A420
Faringdon Cycle Park- 2/9/19
See how it was constructed https://farcycles.weebly.com/
Cycle teaching at Faringdon Cycle Park- 1/9/19
Just to let you know that we are running regular teaching sessions for children and adults who are beginners or wanting to get cycling confidently, on:
Let us know if you would like to book a place (max 10 per session), and for which session(s).
Contact us at: cycle@farcycles.org.uk
David Williamson
Corn Exchange 7.30-11.00
Nitelife Duo
Tickets £5 on the door or from 01367 243130
In aid of British Heart Foundation
Children's Christmas Card competition- 25/9/19
Faringdon Town Council Children’s Christmas Card Competition
Design a Faringdon themed card
Winner will switch on the Faringdon Christmas lights and have their card produced
12 years old and under
Entries to: adele@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
or hand in at the Faringdon Information Centre
Closing date 31st October
FOLLY PARK VIEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT- 25/9/19
The lamp in our outside light fitting installed by Bloor Homes has stopped working. I have been to the manufacturer and installer of the tubular style light fittings that most of us have on our outside walls and I have been told that this lamp is no longer available and therefore the complete light fitting needs to be changed.
I have never heard of anything more ludicrous that after 5 years a complete light fitting needs replacement because the bulb isn't available. Why does a housing developer do such a thoughtless thing - I think we all know the answer - because it's cheap !
Can we ever forgive you Bloor Homes for your daft actions ?
Tessa Timms
Roads resurfacing.- 14/9/19
Just to correct the comments on resurfacing, Canada Lane has NOT been resurfaced, it is still one giant pothole.
Name supplied.
Ed: Yes its the Pines, Chestnut avenue etc that have been done.
White Horse Practice (WHMP) Autumn Newsletter - 14/9/19
See http://www.whitehorsepracticeppg.org.uk/
- WHMP research success
- Link-up with Botley GPs
- Breastpump loans
- Surgery Updates
- New urine probs research
- A friend to speak for you
- Docs’ timetable
- Calling all carers
- Prescription deliveries
- Physio/Podiatry appointments
- Your Health Vaccinations & Screening
- Flu clinics
- Medication “shortages”
- Earwax
Resurfacing Roads in Faringdon - 14/9/19
I asked the County Council why Canada Lane and Gt Coxwell roads were resurfaced when Park Road is in more need.
This is the reply
Looking at it from the public perception it may seem like we are targeting the wrong roads at times, however, the recent work you have noticed in the Canada Lane estate and Great Coxwell have been non-structural repairs which are basically carried out to try and arrest further deterioration of failing roads or if there are particular problems with the road surface itself. In short, they are fairly cheap processes which we carryout at many similar locations throughout the County.
In Park Road Faringdon, due to continual loadings from HGV’s, constant traffic throughout most of the day and not to mention the masses of utility trenches throughout pretty much its entire length, the required repairs are much more substantial and structural of which are arranged by our Head Office colleagues. I’m told Park Road currently sits in next years programme for resurfacing and is currently being designed.
I anticipate it will be very close in nature to the work carried out in both Marlborough Street last year and Gloucester Street a month or so ago. In the meantime, we will keep an eye on things and respond to the potholes as and when they appear.
Grants available - 12/9/19
Local groups in the Vale of White Horse can apply for grants totalling up to £75,000 as part of a community grant scheme which has opened this month.
In the past the scheme, run by Vale of White Horse District Council, has given grants to a variety of local community organisations including money for parenting programmes in Botley, a play area resurfacing in Faringdon and most recently new furniture for a group in Wantage caring for people suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Groups can apply for a minimum of £1,000 (and up to 50 per cent of the total cost) towards projects which benefit the local community. The final amounts awarded will depend on the number of applicants.
Anyone interested in a grant should see more information on the council’s website here
http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/community-advice-and-support/grants/new-homes-bonus-community-grant
Applications are invited between 2 September 2019 - midday 28 October 2019. Decisions will be made by the end January 2020
Thames Valley Police newsletter - 12/9/19
Priorities
Vehicle Crime: The Faringdon Neighbourhood Team were joined by members of the Wantage Neighbourhood Team and the Mounted Section on a rural operation. We patrolled the car parks of local beauty spots along the Ridgeway in order to deter thefts and raise awareness. The Mounted Section proved to be immensely popular with the public who were thrilled to see them!
Please remain vigilant when leaving you vehicles as we are still getting reports of them being broken into. Various personal items and tools have been stolen from vehicles in our area.
If you see anything suspicious or find evidence of an attempt to break into your vehicle call 101, the 24-hour Thames Valley Police non-emergency number or report online (www.thamesvalley.police.uk/report-a-crime). If a crime is in progress, call 999.
Following these events we have increased our patrols and added signage in the local area reminding residents not to leave items in vehicles.
Vehicle crime reduction advice
• Do not keep anything in your vehicle.
• Hide your car keys away from windows and doors and out of sight.
• Park your car in a well-lit area — either on your driveway, or on the roads under a street lamp.
• Lock all windows and doors of your car and make sure to activate your car alarm if you have one.
• Consider fitting a letterbox defender or restrictor. This prevents burglars from poking tools through the letterbox to open latches from the inside, or reaching nearby car and house keys. A lockable letterbox on the outside of the property is also an option.
• Ensure your doors and windows are locked, if you have a chain on the inside of your door, use it. This prevents burglars from poking tools through the letterbox to open latches from the inside, or reaching nearby car and house keys. A lockable letterbox on the outside of the property is also an option.
Burglary: We are appealing for any information that you may have on the following incidents, there has been incidents at the following locations:
• 27/08/19 – Burglary – Faringdon - a Black BMW was stolen from a driveway in Coxwell Road Faringdon overnight.
• 01/08/19 – Uffington Post Office - Cigarettes and cash was taken by several offenders
• 14/08/19- Kingston Bagpuize – A high value theft of building materials carried out by several offenders overnight.
If you have any information or CCTV please call 101 or report online here
Violent crime: The Neighbourhood Team are working towards a week of action to combat knife crime as part of a national initiative Op Sceptre. As part of this we will be actively targeting premises and locations associated with drugs to help disrupt criminality associated with carrying weapons. If you have any information relating to drugs and knives then please let the team know as soon as possible.
Offenders brought to justice
Alan Reed was arrested and charged with six offenses, Common Assault, Criminal Damage, Public Order x2, Making off Without Payment, and Malicious Communications. As a result of these charges he was recalled to prison.
During the month of August the team have made several arrests, namely for persons being drunk and disorderly in a public places or for drug offenses. These are as a result of the team working to curb the anti-social behaviour issues that have been reported to us.
We ask you to continue to be vigilant and report these incidents as they happen.
Community engagement:
One of the advantages of working from Faringdon is that two major events are held locally in August. We attended the Shrivenham Fete on Sunday 25th August and the Uffington Show on the Monday 26th August.
Both days were hot and sunny and a great opportunity to engage with the public and find out about any local concerns. It was lovely to see every one having a good time and enjoying themselves!
On 11th September 2019 we will be attending The Defence Academy where we will be attending ‘A Meet and Greet Fair’.
Please get in touch/follow us using the following:
E-mail: FaringdonNHPT@thamesvalley.pnn.police.uk
Twitter: @tvpsouthandvale
Facebook: www.facebook.com/tvpsouthandvale
Phone: 101
Always phone 999 in an emergency
Message Sent By
Julia Williams (Police, Neighbourhood Policing Admin, South Oxon and Vale)
Cycling Champions - 11/9/19
South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils have each appointed their first ever Cycling Champions to help and encourage people to travel by bike.
Cllr Sam Casey-Rerhaye at South Oxfordshire and Cllr Eric de la Harpe at Vale of White Horse will work with local organisations, communities, other councils and transport bodies to make sure there is wider access to cycling paths across the districts.
The work of the Cycling Champion will help to deliver the legacy of The OVO Energy Women’s Tour, which saw thousands line the streets and get enthusiastic about cycling when it passed through both districts on 12 June. The race provided a significant platform to showcase Southern Oxfordshire as a cycling and tourism destination and is set to return to Oxfordshire again in 2020 and 2021.
Cllr Casey-Rerhaye, who regularly cycles to work and encourages her children to cycle wherever possible, would love to see more people doing the same – particularly for journeys under five miles. Her aim is to make improvements to new and existing cycle paths in the district to help reduce pollution and carbon emissions and encourage others to increase their overall fitness through cycling.
http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/news/2019/2019-09/first-ever-cycling-champions-appointed-two-district-councils
Oxford University Hospitals (OUH) seeking your views - 11/9/19
Oxford University Hospitals (OUH) is refreshing its strategy for the next five years (2020-2025), so it has a common purpose and direction for all who work there, and can communicate this clearly to patients and partners.
OUH wants to develop a strategy which supports you to receive seamless and joined-up care, helps to make OUH a great place to work for staff and takes advantage of the opportunities that new technologies offer.
OUH values your views and feedback to help create this, so please take the time to fill in the survey below, by Friday 11 October. The survey can be accessed here: https://forms.gle/TxS6BhRUezt4NcoQ6.
The survey will be anonymous, with an option for you to give OUH your email address if you want to be kept up to date.
If you would like further information, please contact the OUH Strategy team at: strategy@ouh.nhs.uk.
Car Free Day - 10/9/19
Sunday 22 September is World Car Free day and South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse district councils are offering drivers in the districts the chance to win a prize – if they give their vehicle a rest on that day.
World Car Free Day has been running for 25 years. Cities, towns and villages take the opportunity to raise awareness of air pollution and air quality by encouraging people to leave their cars at home for the day and choose alternative forms of transport.
Since Clean Air Day on 20 June both South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils have been urging drivers to turn off their engines if they are stopped for a minute or more as part of their joint anti-idling campaign called Turn It Off. Now the councils are suggesting that drivers turn off their engines for a day!
If drivers in the districts pledge not to use their cars on World Car Free Day on 22 September and then tell the councils how they got around instead – on the train? bus? cycling? walking? kayaking? they will be entered for a draw for travel vouchers worth £50.
Simply click on https://survey.southandvale.gov.uk/s/Worldcarfreeday/ and show (using words and photos) what they did on 22 September without their car. Deadline for entries is 5pm Monday 30 September.
More info
Town Council surgeries on Saturdays- 10/9/19
Talk to your Town Councillors- ideas and concerns
10am-12noon The Pump House
http://faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/town-councillor-surgeries-start-this-saturday/
War Memorial Trust Remembrance Exhibition- 9/9/19
The War Memorial Trust and the Royal British Legion will be holding its eleventh exhibition of war time memorabilia in the Old Town Hall to reflect on the impact that wars have made on local families.
This year marks the 80th anniversary of the outbreak of the Second World War as well as the 75th anniversary of D-Day. If you have any memorabilia, stories, photographs or any documents that you would like to share concerning the events leading up to the outbreak of WW2 and its aftermath in 1939, or the events of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy in 1944.
Please bring them to the Faringdon Town Council offices (in the Pump House on the Market Place) before Wednesday, 6th November; the office is open between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday.
If you have any interesting memorabilia concerning other conflicts please bring them along. We would be particularly interested in stories and memorabilia on how WW2 affected families on the ‘home front’; e.g. blackout, rationing, evacuees, daily life, etc. Any precious items that you may think to be too valuable to exhibit can be photocopied and the Trust will take care to return original items to their owners.
The exhibition will be open to the public from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm on Friday 8th and Saturday 9th November, and after the Remembrance Day ceremony on Sunday 10th until 1:00 pm. Volunteers who would like to help in manning the exhibition should contact the Council Offices on 01367 240281.
PAD (Public Access Defilrillators) meeting Sept 20th - 5/9/19
The Faringdon PAD Committee will be holding a general meeting on 20th September at 7.30pm at the Bell Hotel, Faringdon. You are invited to attend our meeting on the evening if you have an interest in the work of our committee, that contributes towards the guardianship of certain Defibrillators in Faringdon, works towards the familiarisation of those in our community in the use of the AED (Automated External Defibrillators) and the development of further PAD's (Publicly Accessible Defibrillators) being available to our local citizens towards saving lives in the case of sudden cardiac arrest.
There will be a business agenda for this meeting, however an opportunity to ask questions or learn more of our work as volunteers and towards our aims to the benefit of our local community. We hold regular, community based familiarisation sessions at various times during the year and if you, or your community group would wish to learn more about the use of the Defibrillators and how lives can be saved with some simple action and knowledge, then please get in touch with our committee.
We are also looking for volunteers, no medical or clinical skills necessary, to support us in our work and if you can be available to attend our occasional meetings, to act as 'Secretary/Note taker and contact point for our activities.
Advance notice of your attendance would be helpful, or if you have any questions or queries regarding our work and the use of Defibrillators, then please Email - faringdonpad@gmail.com or Telephone - 07796 572752
Malcolm Gee - Chair - Faringdon PAD Committee
Temporary Traffic Closure - 4/9/19
LOCATION: Cumnor, A420
REASON: Gully emptying, grass cutting, street lighting,white lining and junction cleaning
DURATION: Starting on 9th September 2019 at 20:00
The anticipated completion date is 14th September 2019 at 05:00hrs (5 night closure and each night from 20:00hrs to 05:00hrs)
Visit the links below to view the full Traffic Regulation Notice and the map of the road closure.
Temporary road closure , Cumnor A420
Faringdon Cycle Park- 2/9/19
See how it was constructed https://farcycles.weebly.com/
Cycle teaching at Faringdon Cycle Park- 1/9/19
Just to let you know that we are running regular teaching sessions for children and adults who are beginners or wanting to get cycling confidently, on:
- Thursdays at 2pm - starting 5th Sept
- Sundays at 11am - starting 8th Sept
Let us know if you would like to book a place (max 10 per session), and for which session(s).
Contact us at: cycle@farcycles.org.uk
David Williamson
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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.