| faringdon-online community web site home |
talking points |
| november 2006 |
| Speeding on the Highworth Road
-30/11/06 Please lets not get all nannying about speed on this site apart from eveything else thats being controlled at present. Controlling speed is something thats very serious and needs to be completely understood. A couple of local examples for you; the speed humps that have appeared on the Lechlade road leading out of town adjacent to the schools. Any thoughts to the increased carbon implications when drivers have to brake and slow to pass over these and then accelerate again in between. The actual enriched mixture coming out of the exhaust by this process times each vehicle is adding to global warming, all in the name of safety. It also needs to be considered that these humps appeared without much warning and if you are a motorcyclist and you hit one (they are difficult to spot when on a bike) they are a possible means of actually losing control and what then mounting the curb possibly, maiming children, who would be in favour then? So, please before we have speed humps, or those dreadful narrorw chicains in and out of Bamford think very hard, is it going to slow traffic, increase the risk of an accident or worse still add to the earths global carbon problems.... Name supplied |
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| A bit of noise is worth it
- 29/11/06 My Wife told me about this site today and without her diligence we would not have been invited to this discussion. I am a resident of Gloucester Street and live in one of the closest houses to the Corn Exchange. Most of the time the level of the music is perfectly acceptable, and on only one or two occasions has it been too loud. On these occasions it was a private function playing drum and bass stupidly loud. There has to be a balance, and I for one enjoy hearing the bustle of a town in the background. As a youth I was always playing in bands and I would have been devastated if there was nowhere to play. If we take this away from the youngsters in this town then what else will they have? I think that this is a very important part of the youth culture and needs to be encouraged. I would rather a bit of noise and know that the youngsters are enjoying themselves in a safe environment rather than getting bored and going down other avenues to have fun. If you want to live in a town centre you should expect a bit of noise, remember that this isn't some sleepy village. I have not been canvassed and I wonder if the council have taken a decision by only listening to the opinion of the people that have complained? The council need to reverse this nonsense and return the local live music to its rightful place before this wonderful building becomes the reserve of Christmas bazaars and coffee mornings.. Name supplied |
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| 15 minute club must
continue - 29/11/06 As a Gloucester Street family we are never disturbed by the music and think it would be a loss to the whole community if the 15 minute club was forced to close. We all complain about young people wandering the streets with nothing to do; here is something constructive that they can get involved in together with the rest of us. It must continue Name Supplied |
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| Speeding Cars - Highworth Road
- 29/11/06 We are very concerned about the speeding traffic through Highworth Road in Faringdon. We often see cars exceeding the speed limit and making it dangerous for other road users. I think it’ll be only a matter of time before a serious accident is repeated, last time this happened a pedestrian was killed. Does anyone have any views on this? Name Supplied ED: There is a group called Traffic Advisory (Councils, Police) - maybe worth contacting them - the Town Council will know who the chair is |
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| Gloucester St residents- no problems with
music?-get in touch - 29/11/06 For my part I know that it is not all the residents of Gloucester Street complaining. In fact my understanding is that it is limited to a handful at the very most. I am, of course, concerned for the comfort of those who are adversely affected but, for balance, I'm also very interested to hear from anyone in the vicinity who does not have a problem with the current noise levels at the Corn Exchange. Please feel free to call me on 0771 421 8825. David Reynolds |
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| Surprised Gloucster St resident - 29/11/06 I am a resident in Gloucester Street I logged onto the website for a read over lunch. Very surprised about all the articles about live music at The Corn Exchange. Why have no letters been sent to local residents has it been assumed that all Gloucester Street residents have the same view on live music at the Corn Exchange? Name supplied |
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| EMBERS Last Chance to buy Embers stock Huge savings on Fantastic items At The Market Place Restaurant, Faringdon Sat 2nd December, from 10am Up to 75% off |
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| Only some Gloucester St
residents - 28/11/06 Hang on a minute - there's far too much talk at the moment about the residents of Gloucester Street, as if they were a coven, hell bent on putting an end to fun!!! I'm not sure who among us has complained about the noise levels at the Corn Exchange but it is unfair that we should collectively have the finger pointed at us. I am very rarely disturbed by the activities at the Corn Exchange except for the post disco drunks who stagger back up Gloucester Street!!!!!! Name supplied |
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| Junior School as a Venue -27/11/06 I have spoken to the Chair of the Goveners, Joanna Cave and the school will consider this issue at their meeting in the new year. From my inital conversation there is an interest in the opportunity but at the same time they will have to balance the needs and concerns of any possible impact on their neighbours. Sean Hodgson www.britpopuk.com |
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| THE HEART OF FARINGDON
-27/11/06 The regeneration of Faringdon's soul has occurred because the square has once again become its heartbeat. While it would be admirable to have a variety of arts venues distributed around the town and beyond, it is vital that we keep attracting people into the town centre. This is why the short-term focus should be on reinstating the CORN EXCHANGE by coming up with a compromise that is closest to the needs of all Faringdonians. Mark Harrison |
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| Good NHS news -
27/11/06 David (Williamson) has just won the Hospital Doctor 'Surgery Team of the Year' Award as leader of the Orthopaedic Department at the GWH,Swindon. This is a prestigious national award, and the local team won ahead of 50 or so nominated entries from all branches of surgery throughout the country David is being quite modest about it all, but I am happy to blow the trumpet for good quality local services. Lynn Williamson |
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| RE: Corn Exchange
-26/11/06 I agree with Matt Barber that all parties need to get together on this matter urgently. This venue is just too important to the soul of Faringdon. I lived opposite the Corn Exchange for many years, and have played there with my band, so I can see both sides of the argument. I do feel however that if you live in the town centre you need to accept some noise (it goes with the territory I'm afraid). The VoWH decision to ban all live music is surreal. A leaf fell on the bonnet of my car the other day, so could the Vale please organise to cut down all the trees in Faringdon to stop this happening again. Name supplied |
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| Fernham on TV- FFFF Calendar
- 26/11/06 Filming took place in the Woodman Inn, St John's church and at the home of Mr October! We've been assured of a place in local TV history - with a 2 minute slot on Monday night - BBC Oxford at 6.30 - set the videos!! Calendars are available at 6.50 or signed copies for a tenner - please let me know and we'll post or even deliver! All for a good cause - for more info - check out www.fernham.info and click on Project Inspire..... Bill |
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| CORN EXCHANGE DEMISE
-26/11/06 Whatever is happening at the Corn Exchange.?? I cannot believe that the performing of live music is being threatened by a handful of residents living nearby. (Did they not consider this when they moved to Gloucester Street ?? ). In 1964 my wife and I lived in Marlborough Street, overlooking the Hall. There were dances at regular intervals, all finishing at respectable hours, and the noise never bothered us. In fact, we started a family there, and the eldest son now plays with the Lucky Generals, ( or should that now be UNLUCKY Generals) who perform at the venue. I understand that cancellations of dances etc.are under way. We cannot let this happen, so come on, you committees, let common sense prevail before Faringdon sinks slowly into oblivion. Geoff Edgington, born and bred here, will never leave, but saddened by recent events. |
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| Ed Vaizey said this in an
email... - 25/11/06 Thanks very much for getting in touch about the shenanigans at the Corn Exchange. Sorry about the delay in replying. I am a big fan of the faringdon arts scene,and completely agree it is thriving. I would hate anything to jeopardise it. I raised the issue on Friday with the Vale, and this is my understanding of the position. I am putting it as objectively as possible, as that makes it easier to work out a solution. 1. There have been complaints from neighbours, apparently about ten in all 2. The Vale own the building, but the Town Council are responsible for running it 3. The entertainment licence is granted to the Town Council and there no formal restrictions on it 4. However, the Vale can intervene and serve a noise abatement order. This they have threatened to do. 5. They have encouraged the Town Council to use a limiter. 6. The Vale has encouraged the Town Council to get an expert to set the limiter. The Vale have said they could make one of their officials available to set it properly. 7. The Vale is open to the idea of discussions with neighbours where, on particular occasions, the limiter could be switched off. I also understand that Matthew Barber is convening a meeting of all interested parties - neighbours, bookers, town council and Vale - to look for a solution. I will do all I can to help. Name supplied |
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| Community College for a music
venue? - 25/11/06 Have you thought of using the faringdon comunity college as a venue They hold a battle of bands there. and i heared from a couple of friends that its quite noisy. but none of the neighbours complain. Name supplied |
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| Town Crier - too loud!! -
24/11/06 The Town Crier set the Corn Exchange limiter off at the Pre school Xmas Fair. Good eh? Name supplied |
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| SILENT NIGHT(REPRISE).-
24/11/06 Yep, I'm up for mass carol singing in Gloucester Street, I will bring my drums Perhaps all the money raised could go towards the £190 needed for the school licence, see, there is light at the end of the tunnel, and there was me thinking it was another train coming Tis' the season of goodwill after all,god bless Mr Scrooge and every single one of us,buy the biggest turkey in the shop boy.....oh dear to much Chateaux neuf de pape, and watching " It's a wonderful life"back to being a miserable ol' git tomorrow. Jim Horton |
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| Meeting to attempt to resolve Corn Exchange
situation- 24/11/06 The concerns over the problems of the Corn Exchnage have been rumbling on for months now, but over the last few days things have become even more intense. The future of the Corn Exchange as a music venue is extremely important to the town, but so is the responsibility to the neighbours who are effected by the noise. A solution to this problem will not be easy to find, but I hope that a meeting of interested parties will help to clear some of the emotion, deal with the facts, and hopefully find a way out of this problem. I am proposing to convene a meeting between those directly involved with the Corn Exchange: the neighbours, representatives of the hirers, Town Council, District Councillors and Vale officers. I will try to confirm details and circulate invitations over the weekend. I have spoken to the Chairman of the Town Council's Venue's committee and we are agreed that this is the most productive way forward. I do not believe that anyone is to blame for the situation in which we find ourselves, it is a matter of circumstances, but working together we may be able to find a solution. Matt Barber VWHDC and FTC Councillor |
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| Trying to provide an accurate
picture. -24/11/06 This may sound boring but a lot of missinformation seems to be going around I hope this begins to clarify the picture. Today I have had a conversation with Roy Paddock who is the environmental health officer from the Vale who has been looking into the complaints. His departments role is to asses the impact of volume on the ability of complainants to still enjoy the use of their home without reasonable interferance from noise. This is NOT a technical issue relating to decibels i.e it is not linked to the sound limiter. Mr Paddocks guidelines are that if within the home of a complainent he could hear the words to the songs then this would be regarded as a statutory nuisance and an abatement notice would be issued to the licencee i.e. the town council. As of yet following the recent complaints no one from his dept. has managed to get to an event in time to make such an assessment hence they have not had the opportunity to make such an assessment. Having said that he did feel that possibly the Halloween night may have been too loud and could possibly have resulted in such a notice - but he didn't get there in time to fully assess. The issue of the sound limiter although linked is seperate this is a condition of the licence - why this is required and why it is required at such a low level is unclear - I will speak to the licensing department on Monday. But to get this changed will require the licence holder (the town council) to apply for an amendment to the licence at a licensing committe hearing - part of the Vale District Council). Obvioulsy this would be an open hearing and interested parties would also make representations i.e. current complainents. But at this stage anyone using the hall wihout the using the sound limiter puts the licence holder, the Town council, in jeopardy of breaching a condition of the licence hence their insistance that it will be used. The suggestion made by Mr Paddock was to have a band play (not as gig but as a test) then his staff could plot themselves around the vicinity to make an assessment of the sound levels. It is the opinion of the Environmental Health officer not any breach of the sound limiter levels that counts - in his capacity the sound limiter is NOT part of the assessment. I assume, following Wednesday meeting, these are the issues the venues committee are considering. If the Council could post their current position on this site that would be useful. Sean Hodgson www.britpopuk.com PS The cost of the Junior school applying for a licence is £190 (not extortinate). ITS NOT ALL OVER YET |
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| Sealed Knot noise - 24/11/06 Jim Horton's comments about Sealed Knot gun noise in Faringdon are a little over the top. The limit for sudden noise such as gunfire is 120dB. Anything over this tends to make the ears ring, indicating hearing damage. The Sealed Knot, being Europe's largest re-enactment group, monitor and control the noise levels inflicted on the Public with great care. John Gillman |
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| Silent night -
24/11/06 As we near Christmas - how about a few of us (say a hundred or so !) get together for carol singing..................maybe along Gloucester Street !. Starting with 'Silent Night'. Well, it is the season to be jolly' ! Name supplied |
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| Junior school possibility as a
venue -24/11/06 I will approach the Junior School to ask if they will consider applying to become a licensed premises. Perhaps the town council budget that was going towards double glazing (about £5-6k), which is now not needed, could be invested into the Junior school hall as part of the towns contribution. There are financial implications for the school, the cost of becomeing licensed (based on rateable value), the cost of paying for the Designated Premices Supervisor DPS (Licencee) to become licensed (One licence for the premise one for the licencee) unless someone we know would take the role, training for the DPS, possibly establishment of a proper bar area. This could be a win win to all concerned. Sean Hodgson Ed: I've always thought that a town the size of Faringdon has difficulty sustaining one of everything - so it makes sense to join together and make the most of what we already have. I am pretty certain that there is/will be planning gain money for sound proofing and refurbishment of the Corn Exchange (ask the Town Council- it was their suggestion) I vote we try and get this money in developing the junior school - hopefully the head and the County would be willling!! The school would gain, and Faringdon would have a town centre venue with parking nearby - what could be better!! I think we should return the Corn Exchange to VWHDC, and the Town Council move to the Pump House- something that is already being considered by them I believe |
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| Dedicated Performance
space -24/11/06 It is very sad to hear about the Corn Exchange and the problems with sound. FAP have for the last 12 months been trying to get a dedicated performance space in Faringdon. Lets get together to get this project moving as soon as we can. Please contact Julie Farmer at julie.farmer@fap.org.uk or anna.marlow@fap.org.uk Juile Farmer |
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| Performance Space -
24/11/06 It seems to me that we need a short and long term solution if the music scene can grow to become even more successful for the town. Our very successful Faringdon Dramatic group really need a more appropriate venue, Faringdon artistic skaters (winning national level competitions) need somewhere to practise and I expect there are more(I'd love it if there was a community choir) In the long term the Corn Exchange is not suitable for many events, and needs much money spent on it - sound proofing, the loos, maybe the bar area, and it belongs to VWHDC, so will always be a battle to get things done in there. For the future it probably isn't big enough either So my suggestion is that we focus on the Junior school(with their permission) in the short term and for the longterm work towards a purpose built performance venue- flexible space for different uses, and parking There is 106 money from the planned housing development for a contribution towards Community Art (in the hands of VWHDC)- maybe this could be used to investigate the option, understand the potential uses. I understand there is land owned by Faringdon (charitable, with covenants) along Park Road( on the right, just before the road to the quarry) WE's need a great deal of meiney, but Faringdon Area Project has practical expertise in applying for grants - the Big Lottery fund could be tried So given there is a suitable shorterm solution at the Junior School (or elsewhere) I suggest we focus real effort in getting a proper performance venue that will take us into the future Gene Webb |
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| Corn Exchange- a lobby group? - 2311/06 Excellent idea Steve - we need a coordinated approach or we'll lose the initiative. Name supplied |
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| Corn Exchange- a lobby group? -23/11/06 Following all of the positive posts and ideas put forward it would be terrible to lose the venue without exploring all options. I would be prepared to organise a public meeting to consider possible options and where perhaps a group could be formed to lobby and organise? Anyone interested in a public meeting contact me. steve@leniec.fsnet.co.uk |
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| CORN EXCHANGE
-23/11/06 . I too have just sent a email to the VWHDC, if we all do it then maybe some common sense, and common ground can be made. On a lighter note, our beloved Mayor is a member of the Sealed Knot,( it's mentioned on the profile page of the town councils web site,) Well I would like to complain that every time they fire their b****y guns in the market square its always far to loud, next time could we have a sound monitor just to make sure my hearing is not being damaged!!!!!!! Jim Horton |
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| LIMITERS FOR ALL
-23/11/06 Okay (it's not okay), the VWHDC has unilaterally enforced the noise limiter at a reduced level in the Corn Exchange, effectively killing any form of entertainment(and indeed any form of life) there. Are they enforcing this throughout the district? On ALL pubs, clubs and town halls? Does this also mean we will have to have a limiter at private parties in our homes? Where do they draw the line? Who decides? We have to appeal. We can't let them do this to Faringdon. Shelley-Ann Harrison |
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| Contact the Vale -
23/11/06 I've just complained - and asked that representatives of VWHDC come along to a meeting to discuss our grievances and listen to our constructive suggestions for an amicable resolution. I suggest we also go directly to our local VWH councillors Name supplied |
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| Corn Exchange - 23/11/06 I wonder if we should be seeking help from our District Councillors rather than Town Councillors? Also I do think it would be helpful if the Town Council could post on this site a clear explanation of the position and say what went wrong at their recent meeting with Environmental Health Officers. For example were Dave Reynolds or Dave Porter invited? Was any notice taken of the large amount of very authoritative technical information and practical suggestions which have been advanced here and at the meeting on Tuesday? Name supplied Ed: Yes I agree. Faringdon Town Councillors have little say in VWHDC matters, and I'm sure they'll be fighting it on some front. So here are email addresses for our VWHDC councillors Matt Barber mail@matthewbarber.co.uk Roger Cox roger.cox@whitehorsedc.gov.uk Alison Thompson alison.thomson@whitehorsedc.gov.uk Judith Heathcoat - County Councillor (County Education owns school premises) judy.heathcoat@virgin.net |
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| Contact our MP? - 23/11/06 I know this is a long shot, but has anyone tried our local MP? Maybe he could intervene with the council? I'm all for writing to the Council. Perhaps the Webmaster of this excellent site could knock up an online petition that everyone could sign as well. Ray Ed: Happy to have something on here - but we don't have the technology for a proper online poll/survey. I can't help thinking signatures are needed. But maybe someone out there can help/will tell me different Our MP is Ed Vaizey vaizeye@parliament.uk |
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| "This town's coming like a ghost town".
-23/11/06 The Specials 1981. Ring any bells! Having been to last Saturday's Tyla gig, and seen the noise monitor tripped off by applause and to Tuesday's Venues Committee, where strong feelings were aired by supporters of music and the complaining neighbours, (never mind the Mayor's embarrassing contribution) I am very saddened and angry by the fact that Faringdon is losing its main social venue just at the time when there is a strong musical and community spirit emerging. I also think the Corn Exchange just isn't up to it in terms of containing loud music and the new lower level recommended by the noise police, unless there was major investment in the building. Where's the Vale in all this? They appear to have withdrawn from the town and they own the building. We could either go back to sleep for 100 years or push forward to create an alternative venue...some chance of that with the determination of some people to kill everything off that makes a noise....long live live music! Frank Lee Phuming |
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| re music is dead. - 23/11/06 The Vale is still our elected council. Who do we write to/phone about this? Faringdon shouldn't just roll over on this one. Name supplied |
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| Contact the Vale -
23/11/06 Flood the Vale site with complaints re the Corn Exchange issue ... http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/council_and_democracy/corporate_complaints/ Name supplied |
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| Other potential music
venues.-23/11/06 The Crown physically is a possibility but at present does not have the right licence to allow live music (hence the reason for having the Boogie band at the Corn Exchange originally planned for The Crown). If my understanding is correct it again is sound related the Envoromental Health Department (VWHDC)would put in an objection to the Licensing Committee (Local Authority VWHDC - NOT Faringdon town council) unless the owners installed significant sound proofing. This is not likely in the short term. The Junior school is a great venue but is not licensed. The school are allowed to hold 12 'Temporary Events' without a licence - these opportunities are snapped up and the demand will now increase. If the school want more then the school has to be licenced - a possibility they may wish to consider (an income generator perhaps) but it brings with it significant legal implications and responsibilites - but not insurmountable if they want to consider it. It also has to be bourne in mind that the school do charge nearly twice as much for the use of the hall - this has implications of viability for organisers of events. The idea of a new venue on the edge of town sounds wonderful but this wold be longterm and would bring with it the flaw that unfortunately people won't bother to walk down to it. This would be similar to the possibility of using the community college which, my understanding is, people regard it as too far out of town - after all most people go to such events as they are located near the pubs where people go to first. Also the cost to hire the college hall is similar to the junior school and therefore impacts on the viability of using it. The only longterm possibility is the community centre unless the Junior school seize the opportunity and become licensed. Sean Hodgson www.britpopuk.com Ed: The school buildings are public buildings and therefore 'belong' to us. the taxpayers- perhaps the fees can be reduced |
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| NO MORE FTFC DANCES
-23/11/06 We too have just had to cancel our annual Christmas Charity Dance. The live bands booked expressed concerns about the saftey of their equipment when using the limiter. Faringdon Football Club have been using the Corn Exchange for over 50 years,various events have been held, many involving live music.These will now have to stop as no other venue in Faringdon is suitable, this means local charities, which have already benefited by over £20000 over the years, will no longer receive much needed extra funding. Come on Faringdon, there must by a compromise, otherwise all the past & future hard work by FTFC will just grind to a halt! Name supplied |
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| Xmas party cancelled -
23/11/06 I heard this morning that the Football Club Christmas party on Dec 9th has been cancelled as a direct result of the noise problems at the Corn Exchange. This is an important event in the town's social calendar and 200 people are going to be deprived of an excellent evening, celebrating Christmas and dancing to the music of premier local band 'Kiff'. Where are the priorities of the local council? - restoring live music to the Corn Exchange should now be their number one priority. They should demand a meeting with the Vale Council to hammer out a plan that allows events we have enjoyed for years to continue in OUR Corn Exchange. And if you don't want to live in the centre of a vibrant community, I'm sure the local estate agents will be only to pleased to find somewhere quieter out in the country. Name supplied |
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| A Tragedy -
23/11/06 This indeed a tragedy. I suspect the requirement by the VWDC to reduce the level even further is because they are under the impression that all the events that have been causing the recent problems - including the 15MC - have been using the noise limiter. Was there no discussion about soundproofing at the meeting? Name supplied |
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| Corn Exchange for live music- it is
dead....finished! 23/11/06 At a meeting between the the Vale of White Horse and the Town Council yesterday the former demanded that the noise limiter be reduced EVEN FURTHER than the ludicrously low level at which is currently set. This effectively means that no live music (and possibly even discos) will be able to perform at the Corn Exchange anymore. No discussion with the people of the town, no compromise.....it is dead....finished! A big thank you to those who have worked tirelessly to reach this sad conclusion. I hope you (the complainants) are pleased with yourselves and look forward to hearing your own plans for improving the economic and social development of Faringdon! David Reynolds |
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| Move over Cropredy -
23/11/06 The pleasure that has been given to the people of Faringdon from music events held in the Corn Exchange has been immeasurable. I count the Tsunami fund raising gig as a highlight of my social life in recent years. However, these cannot feature in balance sheets. Surely it would be an easier proposition to measure the monetary value of such events? Direct and measurable benefits include: FTC in hire fees; the organisers of the bar; charities receiving funds raised as a result of events held; impresarios willing to organise local and visiting artists; PA and lighting hire companies, etc. There are as well the indirect benefits - increased energy and enthusiasm in local businesses, residents and among visitors - all likely to increase the money generated and spent in the town. Perhaps bearing this in mind would encourage local officials to find an effective solution likely to satisfy all interested parties? There are any number of contributors to this forum who have expressed willingness to work together to resolve the issues. We can then all continue to build our town's profile as a centre of excellence in live music. Move over Cropredy - Faringdon is the place to come to for year-round musical entertainment. Name Supplied Ed: Hear hear! The music events are gradually putting Faringdon on the map - the New Orleans/Sidmouth, Edinburgh of Oxfordshire!! Shops, pubs, restaurants, B&Bs - all would benefit, and subsequently the vitality of the town would improve for everyone |
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| Music Action -
23/11/06 In all of this the only real practical suggestion is the one coming from David Reynolds. So what do we have to do to make it happen? And if it doesn't happen or doesn't achieve a reasonable compromise, can we go to mediation, please - it is the practical way to resolve disputes where the parties cannot otherwise agree ... Mark Harrison |
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| Noise Limiter - FACTS -
22/11/06 Why does the noise limiter trip for live music at a very low level but seems loud for discos/recorded music (i.e when it was calibrated)? The answer is, the noise limiter is set to trip at "peak" volume (dB). At the risk of losing the readers' interest, I will try and explain without the help of diagrams. Recorded music has already been processed and compressed and cannot exceed the maximium (peak) level permitted for a CD/vinyl record. This processing results in the perceived volume (RMS level) of the music being raised to become closer to the peak level. The RMS level is a special kind of mathematical average value which is directly related to the energy contents of the sound - i.e how loud it sounds or i.e. how much it will bother residents. Live music, by it's nature, is dynamic. Peak levels are uncontrolled and cannot be controlled without recording and processing. Its RMS level (perceived volume) is much lower than it's peak volume. Hence bands trip the noise limiter at a much lower perceived volume. The solution: Switch the noise limiter to measure RMS levels so discos in the Corn Exchange trip at the same level as bands and set it up as suggested by Dave Reynolds, Brian Critchley and myself. Dave Porter BSc Electronic Engineering, Recording Engineer for BBC/EMI 1985-1997 |
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| CORN EXCHANGE - LIVE
MUSIC- 22/11/06 I was in attendance both on Saturday 18th and Venues Committee on Tuesday 21st. I completely agree with trying to reach a solution by involving complainants, musicians, council and environmental health at an event specifically aimed at setting an acceptable level of noise. It has been proven at a recent event that by setting the sound level with aid of a hand held noise meter it is possible for amplified music to be played at a realistic level whithout complaint. The ill informed setting of the limiter at present means that it has been bypassed, resulting in music being played at uncontrolled levels therefore causing complaint. Most people I have spoken to support the use of a limiter but it needs setting by someone who understands how they work. This first action should take place before anything else. If unsuccessful then experts in noise control need to be brought in so that that the problem and its resolution are clearly understood before a penny is spent. Referring to previous points - Of course there are other venues in the town which can hold live music but the Corn Exchange is important. It's at the heart of the town and on a good night can be the heartbeat of the town, bringing all ages and talent together making our community stronger. It would be a travesty to sit back and be satisfied with linen, markets and jumble at this key venue. The venues committee was an eye opener. The musicians, promoters and complainant made their views felt in complete order. In stark contrast was the Mayors embarrassing, heavily one sided, inaccurate rant which did not offer any constructive comment to aid proceedings. I was pleased when I arrived and saw him sat there but after his tirade it did make me wonder how other important issues for the town are influenced. Chris Edgington - The Lucky Generals and Gloucester St Resident. |
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| Disappointed -
22/11/06 I would just like to ask if what i heard is true about the 15 minute club. I think it is stupid if the same people that complained earlier on this year still have another chance of destroying a fantastic event. I understand that loud music being played on a sunday night isnt the most of atractive idea to residents living by, but the 15 minuite club should still stand. To be honest i think its a disgrace that in a town of democracy just two residents can make such a huge difference. everyone that i know really enjoys the event so it would a real shame to lose it. My band and i were very exited about playing this month in the 15 minute club but now our hopes have failed and we are strongly dissapointed. I hope you understand my view. Mark Langlay Smith |
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| Fatal accident is waiting to happen on B4019
- 22/11/06 In my view speed claiming measures is desperately needed to slow down the traffic entering Faringdon on B4019 Highworth road. Oxfordshire highway department and the local council position on this issue is that no consideration will be given to this until there is been enough serious accidents. I feel this is a totally wrong approach to wait for a disaster to happen before any action is taken. Ron ONeal |
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| The Corn Exchange - a
suggestion -22/11/06 David Reynold's suggestion is a constructive contribution, but I fear that it is the 15 Minute Club itself that started the complaints. For many years live music was played at the Corn Exchange without any adverse comment from local residents. At the meeting of the Venues Committee last night I understand that the main complainant stated that he had lived in Gloucester Street for five years but that it was only within the last 18 months that the noise problems had got worse - around the time the 15 minute club moved to the Corn Exchange from the Portwell bar. The short-lived closure of the 15 minute club in the summer was a direct result of complaints about the noise it was creating. Surely any resolution of this affair requires movement on both sides and a reasonable gesture on behalf of the musicians of Faringdon would be to agree to restrict all live music to a Friday or Saturday night. By all means let's try to see if we can agree a sound level that's acceptable to both sides within the current set up - gigs have been played recently without the sound limiter and without complaint - but let's also agree that tolerating loud music on a Sunday evening is asking a lot from anyone. If the Pump Rooms development is going ahead as currently planned, the 15 Minute Club can reasonably be expected to transfer its activities there within six months or so. So let's offer this olive branch to the residents of Gloucester Street and ask in return that they work with us to restore life to the Corn Exchange. Name Supplied Ed: Re Pump Rooms. There are many residents close to the Pump Rooms rear. I can't help thinking it is a good thing that the Youth Club is going elsewhere(hopefully) |
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| Overwhelming support-
22/11/06 The depth of feeling displayed through comments on this website is truly overwhelming and it is super to see that so many people are as passionate as I am to make Faringdon a centre of musical and social vibrance. Some interesting ideas have been raised. I am keen to pursue the idea for all parties getting together for the very reason that it will underline EVERYBODY'S committment to find an agreeable resolution. If it doesn't work out we will understand each other's position and at that point a decision can be made on how to move forward. Ironic to see that Slade played at the Corn Exchange in the 70s a band once listed as the one of the loudest in the world....and no complaints! I do wonder who made the statement, as expressed at last night's meeting, that the Corn Exchange has only just recently started being used for events that are slightly louder than the average bed-linen sale! David Reynolds |
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| SOME GOOD NEWS!!!!! -
22/11/06 'Jon Lane & Boogie Me', 16th December and 'Roxy Magic', 23rd December. These two gigs are still going ahead and have been transferred to the Junior School. A splendid time is still guaranteed for all. Sean Hodgeson www.britpopuk.com |
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| CORN EXCHANGE. -
22/11/06 It is very sad to hear, and read all that has been happening in this lovely old hall, the accoustics have never been brilliant for live music, but local bands have loved playing there. It may surprise some of you that Slade, the seventies band once played there,that was when the hall had a proper stage, and by god they were loud, but it all ended at midnight, and no one complaned. I am a Faringdonian, born and raised here,(not someone who has just moved here because its quaint, and the first thing they do is try to change it), and I can tell you that it has always been twinned with Brigadoon, it comes to life every hundred years or so, woken from it's sleep by a few hard working people wishing to push the town into a more modern age, people that try to encompass all residents, young and old alike. Sadly in my experience, they have always been put back firmly in their place, because in the past there have never been enough like minded people to make a difference, to defeat the pompous, bombastic atitude's of the so called people that know better, well there are now, Over the last couple of years we have been overwelmed with music events, the organisers that have put them on have even lost their own money on some shows, and still carry on putting on more,( how's that for dedication, some councillors could learn from that!) I don't want to go back to how it was, and neither do the majority of the town. The Corn exchange will now start losing money, as nothing, apart from the W.I, (at reduced rates)oh, and a massive bedding sale. will ever hire it again. Now how sad is that? To my knowledge not one of our councillors have ever been voted in by the townsfolk,( sorry if I am wrong, but co-opted has a familiar ring about it) as in the past the attitude of "can't be bovvered" by us all has prevailed. Well they need to know that this time around we CAN be bothered. If the Corn exchange is bullied into submission, do we care, well yes actually I do. Jim Horton |
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| Music events - the fund raising
contribution - 22/11/06 There is an important aspect of the debate about the use of the Corn Exchange that hasn't featured greatly in discussion so far, namely the contribution that events held there make to the local community. Saturday evening's debacle had the admirable aim of bringing together both teenagers and their parents' generation in a shared enjoyment of live music. Recently "Kiff" and "The Beamers" raised over £500 for the Pre-school at an event that was supported by a cross-section of people from the town. This is an annual fund raising event on which the Pre-school depends. The wonderful fundraising event for the Tsunami appeal is another case in point. There is more than music at stake here - important though that is. Name supplied |
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| Corn Exchange - another twist - 22/11/06 Corn Exchange... Just another twist to consider; in the future Faringdon expect's to convert the land between the A420 and the petrol station over to commercial use. Why not enter into discussion NOW with the developers to build a new venues building there that could be leased back to Faringdon for the same amount as we pay the Vale. That way it could be utilised for the benefit of the community and possibly make the residents of Faringdon a commercial return by hiring out said building. As long as no one has a bright idea to build homes too close all should be happy? Re the corn exchange, there's always the worry that someone or something will upset the neighbours again, parking, dog fouling, teenagers, wind in the wrong direction etc as well as noise. This way the corn exchange could be converted into flats for immigrant labour, recovering drug addicts, or enhancing the local pain in the butt brigade. Its not dissimilar to people moving into houses near a farm and complaining about the smell!! Andy Patyra |
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| Corn Exchange - ideas -
22/11/06 Although I think David and Brian's idea of setting the sound levels in conjunction with the complainants is reasonable, it does rather rely on the central premise that the complainants accept the idea that the Corn Exchange should be used for live music - which considering everything that's gone on seems fairly unlikely. It seems to me that whatever the live music community do there is an innate rejection to the very idea of the Corn Exchange being used this way. I can't even see that it can be soundproofed considering its construction, and that's even without taking into account the fact that the Council would no doubt face a challenge from someone - or six - who would probably take umbrage that their Council Tax is being used this way. Dave - is there no way you could move The 15 minute Club to: The Crown - largish back room and which I'm sure could fit the 100 or so regulars; I'm sure you could arrange a split in the bar takings that was advantageous to both of you. The Junior School - admittedly I've never attended a gig here so have no idea if you can open a bar. Let's face it, there's a small but dedicated minority in this town that are determined to close The Corn Exchange whatever is done. Ray |
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| Sound test the Corn
Exchange - 22/11/06 How about we get a band into the Corn Exchange. Crank up the volume. Play around with the sound to determine an acceptable noise level within the houses of concerned nearby residents. Then ask Dave Porter if he wouldn't mind resetting the sound limiter accordingly. We will then know whether amplified music in the Corn Exchange is viable without sound proofing. Also it will help assess whether sound proofing would have the desired effect. A compromise, if not already in place, could involve certain day/ time limits on amplified music and a limit to the number of amplified bands per month. I think that the mayor let himself down at last nights meeting. He gave a good lesson in 'How the mayor shouldn't act at a meeting.' Brian Critchley |
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| Moondust - in the library
- 22/11/06 My new book can be read in Faringdon Library. Cleve Gibson |
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| The Corn Exchange - a suggestion -
22/11/06 For those not in attendance at the Venues Committee meeting here is my suggestion. The noise limiter is currently set at an impossibly low level that simply precludes any meaningful live music performance and presents some health and safety issues if lighting is also routed through the trip system. I believe the limiter can be raised to a level that is acceptable to both nearby residents and performers. I propose we run a 15 Minute Club at the Corn Exchange with the complainants (I understand there are 6), an officer from Environmental Health, the caretaker and member/s of the Town Council in attendance. We will by-pass the limiter and reach a level of sound that is acceptable to ALL parties. Once that level has been agreed the limiter will be set at that point and everyone is happy. This also negates the need for the Town Council to spend the town's money on soundproofing a venue that isn't even owned by them. (It is owned by the Vale of White Horse). If there is a genuine willingness from all parties to resolve this issue I believe this way forward will work. David Reynolds 15 Minute Club |
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| Council Venues Committee meeting - a summary -
22/11/06 I would guess around 20 members of the public attended the meeting, which 2 (I think) councillors and the chairman attended. The meeting was chaired by Siobhan Vinall and in my view she did an excellent job. It seems that the number of complainants has increased by 200% - there are now 6!!. But importantly it is not all the events at the Corn Exchange that are complained about. VWHDC Environmental Health have threatened to revoke the licence for the venue, if the noise nuisance continues. It seems that any noise that can be heard outside the building may be deemed a nuisance. The Statutory Nuisance Act does not specify acceptable levels, so even if the noise is lower than the traffic and people noise in the street, it may be deemed a nuisance David Reynolds said that given the sound limiter settings remain at the current level, then the Corn Exchange is not a suitable venue from the organisers and musicians point of view. This because when the limiter cuts the power the lights go out too, so there is a Health and Safety hazard for all those in the building. Also the cut out and cut in of the power could damage sound equipment and instruments . Faringdon Town Council (FTC) have a quote of about £5k for double glazing for part of the hall. There are concerns that this still may not resolve the noise issue. It was suggested that specialist sound proofing advice is needed FTC are meeting with VWHDC Environmental Health today, 22/11/06, to try and resolve the issues. These appear to be the ability to put double glaxing into a listed building, and whether VWHDC will contribute. Siobhan Vinall said maybe she would post to this site after the meeting The building is owned by VWHDC, with FTC leasing it from them, though it was mentioned that a lease has not been signed. New residents may be interested to know that the Corn Exchange once belonged to Faringdon. A previous Town Council gave it to the Vale, and retained the use of it on a peppercorn rent until 3/4 years ago. At that time the Vale indicated that they were going to charge Faringdon a high rent. It was mentioned that the Corn Exchange costs £18k pa to run, excluding a share of the Caretaker employed by FTC. I suspect this does not take account of the income from events FTC say they are seeking to resolve this as a matter of urgency, though it didn't appear to me that there is a real plan, apart from the meeting with the Vale. I do try and remember that all town councillors are volunteers Gene Webb |
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| We should talk -
22/11/06 Has anyone attempted to speak to the two people who appear to be at the root of the complaints? Name supplied |
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| Sorry June ! -
22/11/06 The postings on this website give a very clear indication of our feelings about matters which concern us but the Powers That Be,if they read them at all,may dismiss them as 21st century Graffiti. THEY may claim that THEY have received very few valid complaints. In the past,when I have sent letters of protest I have always received an acknowledgement and I presume my comments have been filed,though not necessarily acted upon. Unfortunately it is not always obvious who should receive the complaint so one answer might be to copy future postings to someone who is bound to know where to send them with a polite request that they be forwarded to the appropriate committee. I'm afraid the obvious choice is our overworked Town Clerk who I am sure will not thank me for this suggestion so I am not even mentioning that her email address is june@faringdontowncouncil.org.uk HGM |
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| Council need to take urgent
action - 22/11/06 The council have been sleep walking into the issue of noise from the Corn Exchange and allowed local town folk to go into battle. The council needs to set clear objectives regarding the allowed usage of Corn Exchange venue and set out an urgent action plan to resolve the dispute. It needs to believe in it's number one objective as per the Faringdon web site: "To enable residents and visitors to enjoy high-quality social, recreational, environmental, educational, economic and cultural facilities within the town, and to seek the continuing improvement and development of these facilities in accordance with the desires expressed by the residents." Interesting the Directgov web site says this re noise nuisance: "In some cases, the council may not need to prove a statutory nuisance where the premises hold a public entertainment licence." Tim Cave |
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| Some good news for a
change -22/11/06 I've had some emails and so has Tyla all from people who travelled to Faringdon for the show. They were sad for the mess that the Council found itself in but were grateful for Tyla's extended set to ensure that the show went on. A number of them stayed in Faringdon and commented on how friendly and welcoming they found everyone that they came across. Also they askd Tyla when he was coming back!!!! Hamish Millar |
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| Play on ... -
22/11/06 It is clear that Faringdon's lack of music venue needs to be resolved PROMPTLY if our town's culture and youth are not going to suffer. At first, it would seem that soundproofing the Corn Exchange offers the best solution but the uncertainties of cost, authorisation and timescale make this a high risk approach. I would like to suggest a 3-tier approach that could work: 1. We follow David Reynolds and others' excellent suggestion that we work with the complainants to find an acceptable compromise sound level that is consistent with the ambient noise in Gloucester Street (Traffic etc.) 2. If this does not achieve a speedy solution, we employ the services of a professional mediator 3. If mediation is not acceptable to all parties, we resolve the issue democratically through some sort of device such as a local referendum ... This needs to be resolved in weeks rather than months or worse. Mark Harrison |
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| Corn Exchange situation-
FACT - 22/11/06 I have just been to a well run venue committee meeting - FACT Everyone was entitled to their say - FACT The main complainant hid behind his children and the fact that someone, not remembered who, told him that noise not an issue from the Corn Exchange when they chose to purchase their house on one of the busy streets in the middle of town- FACT Faringdon has actually developed a vibrancy in the last few years which has no doubt pushed up house prices - FACT Sadly a lot of facts about Saturday were distorted - FACT The town council final warning was not actually as draconian as put to me on Saturday when the letter read out - FACT Live music however is dead at the Corn Exchange unless an agreement about reasonable noise is agreed by all parties and adhered to - FACT The Mayor appears to wish he had a gatlin (hope spelt correctly) gun to shoot the kids outside his house - FACT The Mayor continued to spout a lot of false facts about Saturday despite being advised he was incorrect and shouting - FACT ( at a level which would have set off the limiter if he had been miked up) after each point - FACT Sadly his unreasonable behaviour forced me from the meeting as at that point even though I am a local Council Tax payer due process meant I was unable to respond. The Mayor sadly made himself a figure of fun at the meeting - FACT Is this the best that this town can do for a Mayor - SURELY NOT A FACT An enjoyable post meeting was held in the Bell - FACT Based upon the Mayors performance tonight the local paper should be renamed the Faringdon FACT Hamish Millar |
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| Digital TV signals -
22/11/06 Has anyone else had problems with the ITV digital (freeview) signal. My elderly mother (a resident of Oakwood House)cannot watch ITV through freeview from about 4pm onwards. I have written to ITV and they tell me that the ITV signal is the weakest and that the government say they cannot strengthen it until the analogue signal is phased out. Is this a ploy to allow them to phase out analogue earlier as we all get fed up with these poor digital signals? Name supplied |
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| RIP - 21/11/06 Stop all the clocks, cut off the telephone, Prevent the dog from barking with a juicy bone, Silence the pianos and with muffled drum Bring out the coffin, let the mourners come. ... to the Corn Exchange. Name supplied |
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| Narrow Minded, miserable, killjoys! -21/11/06 Why why why do the powers that be in this town have to pander to the smallest minority, no matter how pathetic they are? Faringdon is finally in with a chance of becoming a thriving, buzzing town and what happens?........You get two people choosing to move into the centre of town next to a public venue knowing full well what that might involve and yet they have the cheek to complain and attempt to spoil everything for the WHOLE town!!! I have only one thing to say to these dinosaurs....................Do everyone a favour and move to the middle of nowhere! Although i'm sure they'll put in a complaint about the dawn chorus sooner or later! Trish Reynolds |
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| Pro music candidates -
21/11/06 The Anti-Music brigade really do appear to have it for any use of the Corn Exchange that does not revolve around tea cakes and craft fairs don't they? Personally i think the best thing we can do is put up a raft of Pro-Music candidates at the next local elections, as this latest decision stinks of a stitch-up. I was at the last emergency meeting when the 15 Minute Club won its reprieve and it was fairly obvious that those who were against the idea (though small in number) where not going to give in. If that fails then perhaps we can find a venue that is council free - which would at least deprive them of a fee Ray |
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| Boogie Me Boogie Relocated to Junior
School -21/11/06 For those of you unaware, Boogie Me are a Faringdon based rhythm and blues orchestra totalling some 12 permanent musicians and an additional 6 musicians for performances. As you can imagine, its very hard finding somewhere to practice with a band this size and so we recently hired the Corn Exchange for our usual band practice. The attendees included: one trumpet (unamplified) , three vocals, a bass guitar, a rhythm guitar, drums, piano and one sax (unamplified). We obediently plugged into the limiter and managed to get a whole 10 bars into the first track before the vocals made the limiter cut in. Reducing all amplification to the lowest level we could possibly hear resulted in the unamplified trumpet setting off the limiter again. We all agreed that the Corn Exchange is untenable as a venue for live music. We are not a punk band - we play soul, blues and jazz - none of which is especially well known for being thrash type music and not usually known to provoke any kind of negative response from passive listeners. We've now moved our rehearsals back to the Crown at the invitation of Lanlord Keith who is happy to support local music in Faringdon. Luckily, BritPOP UK has managed to move our gig to the Junior School on 16th December but what a shame that the core focus of our little market town is clearly destined to be a venue for beetle drives, poetry readings (unamplified obviously) and silent protests. Also, how pointless was it that we all trooped off down there to attend the council meeting where we managed to get the 15 minute club ban overturned when Environmental health can just shut it down regardless. I implore the couple who will not accept that living in a town centre next to a public hall may just mean live music to JUST MOVE!!! Mel Taylor |
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| Faringdon RIP - 20/11/06
I am the drummer with the Lucky Generals, one of the bands who didn't play Saturday night. It would appear that the council have received a final warning letter from environmental health stating if they receive one more noise complaint they will lose their licence so their actions on Saturday are understandable. I have played at the Corn Exchange numerous times for the last 10 years. The noise limiter has always been there and at various times we have been asked to play through it. We have tried to, but it has not been possible as it is set at a ridiculously low level. Tyla, the main act on Saturday night, tripped it 3 times with quite acoustic guitar and vocals! The audience clapping tripped it twice!!! I have 2 points to make: 1) Why are noise complaints accepted by Environmental Health without any objective measuring taking place. Sure, it's possible to hear a band playing if you step outside your front door in Gloucester street in the same way as you can hear a bus going past. Living in a town centre you would expect this level of noise pollution, wouldn't you? 2) Why is the limiter set at a level which kills live music? The caretaker said that country and western bands play through it. I don't believe any band has played through it. They may say they are and run off a socket not fed from the limiter. Surely the solution is to set the noise limiter up based on an acceptable limit as measured outside the Corn Exchange at the nearest residence in Gloucester Street? Please Enviromental Health / Faringdon Council / White Horse Council let sense prevail before Faringdon loses it's music scene. Dave Porter - Kiff and The Lucky Generals |
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| Loud clapping at the Corn
Exchange - 20/11/06 It was my event on Saturday and was the first under the supposed final warning from the Vale. On Saturday night having had this bombshell thrown at me I tried to work with the Vale to get an acceptable time to cut off amplified music so that Surface Noise, the teenagers from The Community College could play. According to the professional sound engineers the band would reach a sound of 103db, the limiter cuts in at 98bd however this sound is measured inside the hall and is not the sound outside which would be approx 30-40db on the other side of the road. Unfortunately for all concerned the edict was use the limiter or no event even though the promise had been made to have amplified music finished by 8.30, the other support act, The Lucky Generals, kindly agreeing to forgo their slot so that the teenagers could play. Fortunately the main act was planned as an acoustic act, demonstrating that I was sensitive to the needs of those affluent residents who have chosen to live in the ghetto of inner city Faringdon, and therefore we were able at least to have some music. I am grateful to everyone who has supported me in this and stayed on Saturday to watch what was one of the most inspirational and moving performances that I have ever seen, - the irony of the whole situation being crystallised when the audience showing their appreciation set off the limiter and cut the power. Hamish MIllar |
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| Saturday at the Corn
Exchange - 20/11/06 I too witnessed the farcical events of Saturday night in the Corn Exchange. The curtain closing on music in a dedicated venue in the centre of Faringdon. How about a big push for some double glazing (and a ceremonial removal of the sound limiter). Brian Critchley |
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| 15 Minute
Club.-20/11/06 I was surprised and dismayed to learn that once again we face the possible loss of the Corn Exchange as a performance venue in the town. My understanding of the situation on Saturday was that groups were asked to comply with the conditions of hire and use the sound limiter. It would appear that this causes problems, even though it has operated successfully in the past and I am not sure if this is due to faulty equiptment/settings or a desire by some artists to be totaly unrestricted? Readings taken at the 15 minute club in November did not indicate any problems and in Gloucester Street were not as loud as passing traffic. As the operator the council hold a licence granted by the Vale district council who through their Environmental Health officers have now suggested that any noise audible from the venue at a complainants property could be unacceptable. Clearly if this is correct we face an impossible situation and the building as a venue will become untenable. I for one would not support the Town Council continuing to operate the Corn Exchange as a hall for Markets and jumble sales, we were there in the past when Faringdon was a Ghost Town and the tumble weed blew through the town centre! Anyone who attended the special meeting of Council in the Corn Exchange, when this was last considered, will realise that the majority of councillors want music to continue. I hope we can find a solution before we loose the vibrant music scene that so many have worked hard to develope. If living within earshot of a music venue is grounds for closing it down we are destined to become a pretty soulless town again and will the last one out turn off the lights - quietly. Steve Leniec |
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| Music and the Corn Exchange
- 20/11/06 Although I wasn't there on Saturday night, what I have heard and read about a minority taking actions to ruin an evening of music for the majority angers me. At the meeting to discuss the future of the "Fifteen minute club" a few months ago, there was a lot of talk about the fact that it this "open mike night" was held on a sunday night and that nearby residents would be trying to sleep earlier for work the next day. But this was 8pm on a Saturday night, surely the one night when events like Live music should be able to be staged without comeback from anybody, residents or not. As a musician and performer, I sympathise greatly with the 2 local bands that were cancelled because of the farce that took place on saturday night. I know that these bands will have worked hard and rehearsed like crazy for such an event, only to have had their excitement at playing totally deflated. I used to live in a flat above a hairdressers in a town in Kent which was a few doors away from a very noisy pub that every weekend had live music on a saturday and sunday night. I never once thought about complaining about the noise levels though because it was my choice to live there, and I had to accept that I was living in a town centre and that town centres can (especially at the weekends) be noisy. I also have lived for many years in a small village which had a village hall, which was used for events, live music, dances, discos, wedding receptions etc. It was surrounded by local residents, wasn't soundproofed and yet there was very rarely any complaints about noise unless the music went on past 1am. So what's really going on here with the Corn Exchange? Is there a hidden agenda here that we are not aware of? My Grandfather risked his life fighting in World War 2 fighting
for freedom against Nazi Germany. If Live music can't be staged in a communal
hall in a thriving town in the middle of England's green and pleasant land on a
Saturday night at 8pm, maybe he shouldn't have bothered |
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| Fifteen minute mime club -
20/11/06 Perhaps we should set up the Fifteen Minute Mime Club?! I reckon there'd be a few interesting mimes aimed at the people responsible for the complaints about noise............ Name supplied |
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| Tutors wanted -
20/11/06 We are looking for Tutors for adult courses. Languages, Digital Photography, Scrap-Booking, are just some suggestions. Other course suggestions welcome. Taster or 5-week courses initially, to begin January 2007. New Year, New Start! Please contact Janet Deane to give brief details about what you could offer jd0051@faringdon-cc.oxon.sch.uk Faringdon Community College |
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| Faringdon R.I.P -20/11/06 For those interested in trying to keep the Corn Exchange alive as a key music venue in Faringdon, the Town Council's Venues Committee is meeting at 7:15 on Tuesday 21st November at the Corn Exchange. Needless to say, noise complaints about the Corn Exchange are on the agenda. Those who either play or enjoy listening to live music in Faringdon should come along and let the council know how we feel about this unacceptable situation. There has to be a solution. Martin Waymark |
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| 15 minute club -
20/11/06 The 15 Minute Club will not be held at the Corn Exchange until further notice. The Management of the club has taken this decision following the unfortunate events at the venue on Saturday which lead them to believe the venue is no longer viable under current conditions. We sincerely hope this can rectified and that the hundreds of people and artists who enjoy the event can look forward to a return at a time when no inconvenience is caused to nearby residents. In the meantime the 15 Minute Club will revert back to the Portwell Bar from the first Sunday in December (3rd). Any enquiries please call 0771 421 8825. David Reynolds 15 Minute Promotions |
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| Frustration!! -
20/11/06 Monday morning and the frustration is building up! More new homes near the centre of Faringdon with parking space, but is it enough? Do we remember the great debate about parking spaces for development in Swan Lane and have you tried to drive there lately or even walk on the pavement? Has anyone worked out the sense of getting parking fines for being in a car park, albeit slightly over our time limit, but no fines if we park on double yellow lines? And now we have a performance venue (The Corn Exchange) where there will probably be no performances. And I just can't bring myself to talk about dogs still fouling our footpaths. Steve Wright |
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| Faringdon
R.I.P.-20/11/06 I was there on Saturday night and there is no doubt about it. The Town Clerk and Hall Manager were there and they ruled that any amplified music must go through a sound-limiting device which basically cuts off the power every time the singer of an amplified band starts to sing. The two (amplified) bands due to play that night were cancelled. One of the bands was a group of local teenagers who had worked incredibly hard to get that opportunity. I thought we had resolved this issue but clearly not. I cannot see how the 15 Minute Club can continue under these rules or indeed the countless dances and fund-raising events we have enjoyed over the years. It is a tragic and ludicrous situation. Name supplied Ed: I despair!! |
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| Faringdon R.I.P.
-19/11/06 Twenty years ago when I told people I lived in Faringdon the news was met with an ill-disguised sneer. That has changed recently and our town was becoming an enviable place to visit and live. Much of this was down to the active cultural scene that attracted people, young and old from the surrounding areas, even Oxford with all its history and facilities for culture. All this is now being threatened by the narrow-mindedness of a few residents and the cowardliness of the Vale Council. From 18 November 2006 on, it became impossible to play amplified music in the Corn Exchange, even at 8PM on a Saturday night! It is so unreasonable that it beggars belief - young people's bands unable to play in OUR town hall early on a Saturday evening ... perhaps the detractors would rather these industrious young people and their admirers were on the street with nowhere to go and nothing to do ... Come on fellow Faringdonians - the only way good sense will prevail will be if we all stand together against the few bullies that are trying to kill the spirit of our town! Name supplied Ed: Anyone know anymore? Would one of our Town Councillors like to comment? Does it mean that the 15 minute club has been told it can't use the Corn Exchange.? I thought VWHDC had measured the sound levels and found them within the limits?? |
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| Parking -
19/11/06 Interesting point re the parking we now have to endure. The new machines, the strict adherence to the times and visibility of tickets etc etc. I do wonder if the car park in the council's eyes is a money maker, an inconvenience that has to have a warden patrolling it, or do they see it as a means of helping our community or even encouraging visitors to return, don't think it's the latter do you? We have all seen the about turn in Oxford from a car unfriendly city to a more liberal one after rush hour to encourage business. Maybe people were going elsewhere because of it and revenue's were falling? But hey, what about Faringdon, what rush hour, what problem parking that needs strict adherence to a few spaces we've been given to use? In all the years that I've lived here when ever I've driven into our car parks there's always been space, or am I missing the point. Does our council want us to walk more with our shopping, I would love to know the real answer to this. Now I'm not blaming the recipient but its barking mad when an MP has to get pulled in to a dispute over car parking spaces isn't it? I think this will drag on and on and we'll never get to the bottom of it or get any sense from senseless liberal councillors' either. Think the point about parking on the double yellow lines looks like a cheaper bet to me? Andy Patyra |
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| Parking - 19/11/06 The VWHDC really do take the biscuit don't they? I wonder what response I'd get if I invoiced them for every occasion I OVERPAID for parking because their machines are "unable" to give change. The previous correspondent makes a very valid point about London Street parking which I know for a fact impacts hugely on many of the shopkeepers in the area and is a dangerous obstruction to other road users. I have a proposal. Budgens Car Park: First half hour free of charge, machines that give change and a tiered penalty system that is proportionate to the length of overstay. London Street; train and empower a team of local residents to become surrogate traffic wardens with the authority to issue tickets. All this could help the local economy and make everyone safer. Is this something The Town Council, the Chamber of Commerce and the Joint Economic Forum might like to get involved with? David Reynolds Ed: Currently the police are responsible for on street parking here, and VWHDC the car parks. In some areas, on street parking enforcement has been handed over to the County, who I think usually passes it on to the District council. Don't know if and when that will happen here. |
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| re Parking Fines.....
18/11/06 November 2005 my elderly Dad was parked in a disabled space in Budgens car park during the time he was standing in the market place with his RBL Poppy Appeal collection tin. He does have a valid disabled permit which he keeps attached to the sun visor, however on this occasion it hadn't been pulled down fully and the parking attendant couldn't see it. I tried, and so did Mr Ed Vaizey MP, to appeal to the VWHDC's charitable side.....it doesn't have one !. No leeway at all. Fair enough, the badge should have been more visible but the fact that disabled drivers don't pay to park there anyway, and it was easy enough to prove that he has that entitlement - all a bit mean I think. Due to our own stupidity, in the last few months my husband and I have received two parking tickets for 1) ticket wrong way up so details not visible and 2) no ticket. Thank you to the Kennet DC for understanding that the ticket was valid, just upside down and Thank you to North Cornwall DC for a ccepting that our ticket was valid - just on the floor !. So you see, not all councils are so grasping. In future - park on the double yellow lines along London St and Stanford Rd, you'll be fine there (no pun intended !). Name supplied |
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| Parking fines - an
increase - 18/11/06 This week I had the misfortune of overunning my allotted parking time in Budgens Car Park by 23 minutes having been caught up in an extended business meeting. Why misfortune? Well I had received the inevitable excess ticket but to my astonishment the fine is a staggering £50 rising to....wait for it....£80 if not paid within ten days! I have contacted Vale of White Horse District Council to see if there's any latitude and they basically said "On yer bike!" (which is what I might do next time!). A penalty of this magnitude isn't particularly helpful at a time when we need to encourage people into Faringdon to use the shops and other facilities. David Reynolds |
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| Name supplied 16/11/06 unmasked -18/11/06 I acquired world wide recognition when I revealed that Eliza Doolittle was a Hungarian .....of Royal Blood. I can now reveal that the shy Name Supplied who commented on THEY is definitely and without any doubt either: 1.A councillor. 2.The owner of a large back garden ripe for development, 3.John Prescott . 4.None of the above. I am never wrong in these matters ! Zoltan Karpathy |
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| Bus services -18/11/06 It is true that as a result of talks about the new development,there is a suggestion that the bus service will benefit. The County Council representatives at a meeting that I attended suggested that the route between Swindon and Oxford would be designated as a "premium" route. This would be paid for from a contribution by the developers of the new site. If this happens (and the County usually get their way in these matters) then yes the service will improve dramatically and it will continue much later (whether until 2.00am I'm not sure). The full details of all the infrastructure improvements resulting from the development should be available very soon. I will post a note on this site when they are, so that everybody can know what's going to benefit. Alan Hickmore |
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| Re Stagecoach Punctuality
-17/11/06 It's not always lateness which is the problem though. The buses often arrive at the peripheral stops earlier than expected, which is worse than being late because if you miss a bus which is early, it actually makes the service worse than 'no service'. Name supplied |
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| Stagecoach Punctuality - 17/11/06 I appreciate that an unpunctual bus service is annoying but it is better than no bus service. King Louis XVIII of France is supposed to have said "Punctuality is the Politeness of Kings" I can't be certain of this as I wasn't there. But what I can be certain of is that he didn't attempt to drive a long fat bus in a rural environment. The bus drivers could guarantee to be never late by observing a few simple precautions one of which would be never drive down narrow roads used by tractor drivers or horses and never try to negotiate the centre of Faringdon. Name supplied |
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| Unreliable Buses. -
16/11/06 Twice in the last 2 weeks I have attempted to go to Oxford. The first time the bus was early and I missed it, the second time the bus did not arrive at all ! When you do manage to catch one they are very noisy and unpleasant to travel in. I have emailed stage coach but so far no reply. Kay Fox |
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| They!! -
16/11/06 "They" could be "you" if you were brave enough to stand for election to one of the councils. What's holding you back? Perhaps you just like to whinge? Name supplied |
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| About Budgens- from the horses mouth
- 16/11/06 As the manager of Budgens i have not asked members of my staff to answer on my behalf regarding the so called takeover. All Budgens store will be franchised in the near future following a roll-out plan.This was published in all the national press when Musgrave bought Budgens over 3 yrs ago so this is not a big secret. When faringdon does become franchised we will as indicated try to source more local products to meet more of our customers needs I hope now this has come from the horses mouth it answer most of your concerns. David Woodruff |
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| Buses - 16/11/06 I agree with Ray that if the bus rumour were true, it would indeed be fantastic (on paper). The only problem is that buses are only useful if A. they turn up and B. they are on time . The current bus service from Farington to Oxford or Swindon is atrocious. I have written two letters to Stagecoach recently and have felt the replies have been written with an 'am I bovvered' kind of attitude. Has anyone else had problems? Name supplied |
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| Another rumour -
16/11/06 On Friday I heard another rumour. A councillor's son told me that as a result of the new homes that are due to be built, the bus from Faringdon to Oxford would be running every 15 minutes, with the last bus back from Oxford due to leave at 2am. Can anyone confirm this as it would be excellent news if true. Ray |
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| THEY - 16/11/06 The OCC, VWHDC and FTC are dedicated to spending our Council Taxes etc to make the lives of the people in Faringdon better. But within this benevolent body there hides a secret group who do not have the same aims. This group is known as THEY. THEY reorganised our town centre...enough said ! THEY decided to restrict the road in front of the Crown to buses and taxis..but to turn a blind eye to dangerous drivers who use it as a shortcut THEY increased our car park charges and prevented us sharing the spaces we had paid to use THEY said town centre parking was restricted to 30 minutes apart from anyone who wanted to stay longer. THEY decided that our facilities in Faringdon could justify building hundreds of new homes particularly for key workers such as Prison Warders and Council Officials THEY considered traffic calming measures in London Street and Coxwell Road were not necessary But THEY may be getting worried THEY may have been behind the move to close the 15 Minute Club and for probably the first time THEY did not get their wicked way. And now we have a champion to fight for us, one councillor is not afraid to tell it as it is from his point of view. So please Mr L keep your Knight in Shining Armour suit polished and keep a special eye on the future mini estates being encouraged in people's back gardens. I know our Deputy Prime Minister is in favour but he may not realise that there will be little room for croquet lawns. HGM |
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| The Future of Budgens -
16/11/06 I too had heard the rumours so I hatched a sneaky plan to find out the truth. I asked a staff member if there was a change in store (get it ?) for Budgens and was it a secret. I was told it wasn't a secret but I must talk to the manager. Which I did. It seems that it is intended to change some Budgens outlets into franchises. This will allow the new 'bosses' to cater more for local needs but the products will still be to the same standard we have always had from our local supermarket. The manager made it clear that any talk of secrecy was nonsense. So it is to be hoped that staff members who are Websiters will now be able to answer any questions from customers without disturbing the manager. HGM |
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| More Inconsiderate Parking
- 15/11/06 Not only Coxwell Street, but London Street has become a one way thoroughfare for most of every day. Cars are parked in the shopping areas, also further up the road; on the double yellow lines; in the restricted time zones, and often dangerously close to junctions, restricting the view of oncoming traffic. It is all very well the public being encouraged to report such things, but we pay community support officers and police officers to deal with these infringements. This apparently to no avail. If those who are paid to uphold the law have no respect for it, then what chance anyone else? Name Supplied |
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| and another demolition to make room for houses -
15/11/06 Planning application GFA/10178/1 is to demolish existing 49a Bromsgrove (and swimming pool) and build nine 2 and 3 bed dwellings with associated car parking. It looks as if access is to remain where its is - through Walnut Court- I hope they've been consulted. The site is adjacent to school lane. You can see the detail on VWHDC planning system Gene Webb |
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| A rumour!!!! -
15/11/06 That Budgens is being sold, but remaining a supermarket Anyone know anything?? Gene Webb |
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| Thoughtless Parking -
15/11/06 I suspect the poster means Coxwell Street NOT Coxwell Road. And I agree, especially as one of the accidents wrote off my son's car and he was parked legally Jane Boulton |
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| Thoughtless parking, Coxwell
Road - 13/11/06 I have the misfortune to need to drive along Coxwell Road each morning at about 7.45. It has always been a little difficult due to the parked cars, but in recent months the double parking has escalated. Last week I saw the end results of 2 collisions due to this. But this morning took the biscuit! A red BMW was parked half on the road, half on the pavement, facing the wrong way, right on the junction with Coxwell Gardens!!!!!! This sort of thoughtless behaviour is an accident waiting to happen. Name supplied |
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| Noises off -superb-
12/11/06 On Saturday we went to see The Faringdon Dramatic Society perform Noises Off! The cast were absolutely brilliant. They performed a superbly funny and extremely clever play to a standard you might only expect at some top venues. Once again it goes to show how unique Faringdon is for artistic talent. If you haven't seen these folks perform before please do go along next time. You are in for a truly major treat! David and Trish Reynolds |
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| Noises Off - 12/11/06 What a huge amount of talent there is in Faringdon! Absolutely brilliant performances this evening to a packed house - fantastic set, marvelous direction, lighting, costume, sound etc etc. Well done everyone, you should be very pleased with yourselves. I loved it. Name supplied |
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| Super sausages -
10/11/06 Congratulations go to Peter, Tara and their team at Pat Thomas- Butchers, Market Place, Faringdon. With over Eighty entries from all over Oxfordshire and Berkshire, our Faringdon Butchers came home with Bronze Medals in both of the two classes they entered. In his first ever competition, Peter took his prize winning sausages straight from his shop window to place before the Judges. 'We'll return next year with Gold Medals' he says confidently. Buckland School children are already enjoying these sausages. The Faringdon Local Food Group would encourage parents to write to their children's schools to ask if more schools would consider having them. The prize winning plain pork sausages, and the pork and beef with herbs sausages, both have no additives and no preservatives. Baked in an oven proof dish with a dash of soy sauce and a drizzle of local Faringdon honey - they are fantastic Daphne Saunders |
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| ROTARY CHRISTMAS COLLECTION with THOMAS THE
TANK ENGINE & FATHER CHRISTMAS MONDAY 4 DECEMBER - Watchfield TUESDAY 5 DECEMBER - Watchfield WEDNESDAY 6 DECEMBER - FARINGDON Highworth Road area, Westland Road, Orchard Hill, The Pines etc. THURSDAY 7 DECEMBER - Lechlade FRIDAY 8 DECEMBER - FARINGDON Park Road area, Marines Drive, Town End Road, Marlborough Gardens, Volunteer Way SATURDAY 9 DECEMBER - Lechlade MONDAY 11 DECEMBER - Shrivenham TUESDAY 12 DECEMBER - Shrivenham THURSDAY 14 DECEMBER - FARINGDON & GREAT COXWELL Coleshill Drive etc., Leamington Drive, Fernham Road, Folly View Road, Great Coxwell FRIDAY 15 DECEMBER - Clanfield SATURDAY 16 DECEMBER - FARINGDON Stanford Road area, Berners Way, Tuckers Road, Nursery View, Pye Street, Goodlake Avenue, Southampton Street etc MONDAY 18 DECEMBER - Stanford in the Vale TUESDAY 19 DECEMBER - Southmoor WEDNESDAY 20 DECEMBER - Uffington, Fernham, Little Coxwell |
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| Re: Anonymous posters -
8/11/06 I usually supply my name when I post, but there have been a couple of occasions when I have posted and revealing my name would have identified someone else who might not have wanted their details known. It has always been in the interest of the town but I would not like to embarass another Name Supplied |
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| Our own trumpet!! -
8/11/06 This website regularly gets 800-900 visitors each week. Last week it was more than 1000 How good is that! and I was chatting with a couple of people at Bloors exhibition - they had come from Surrey - and only knew of the exhibition through this website!! Hil and Gen |
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| Name supplied!! -
7/11/06 Like Devil's Advocate I think we should respect people's right to anonymity. I often post to this site anonymously as I do not want my personal opinions confused with my business opinions. Many people wear several hats in this town and the different hats don't always share view points! This is not a matter of cowardice but more of professionalism. Whilst I do not always agree with him, I do admire Cllr Leniec for having the guts to say as he feels on this site - I think it is quite refreshing to have a town councillor who is prepared to stand up to public opinion to air his own personal and/or professional opinions and I wish more would do the same. The fact that he wishes to publish his name however does not make him more brave or more correct than those who wish to remain nameless. The poster who branded the Town Council as m****s was a little out of order on that particular point but let's applaud the fact that he/she visited this site and bothered to express an opinion in the first place. We are lucky to live in a country where we can express our views freely - let's not undervalue that! Name supplied |
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| Christmas Lights -
7/11/06 I agree with Cllr Leniec in that personal insults should have no place on this site. I have had many disagreements with what people have said in the past, and made comments about views put forward, but I hope that I have never personally insulted anyone. On the other hand I have borne the brunt of some contributors who have taken exception to their views being questioned or an alternative view being put forward. However, I'm grown up I can live with it. I do however disagree with Cllr Leniec's comments about posting and views being devalued by anonymous ones. It is also a little insulting to infer that those who wish to remain anonymous are cowardly (i.e. the opposite of being brave). In my case I have a view on many issues, I sometime just post to try and even up a debate to give a different and perhaps more balanced perspective. There are always two sides to a story or argument and in my experience the view of the masses usually takes precedent, a lot of the time at the expense of the little person. I try to be an advocate for the little person on many issues. Unlike some Cllrs, I take no pleasure from being in the public eye. I have my reasons, just as Cllrs have their reasons for doing what they do. I simply wish to remain anonymous but enter into debates that I feel I can make a contribution. While it is totally wrong to insult anyone on this site, I see nothing wrong with attacking a viewpoint. It is also wrong to devalue a view just because it is anonymous, sometimes we are right. Devils advocate. PS I always post as Devils advocate so it was not I who used the "m" word Ed: I meant to ***** the offensive word - I wish I had - have done it now |
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| Re: Firestation - 7/11/06 I happened to be having my usual Saturday glass of wine and do the crossword in the Bell on Saturday, when I overheard "Town Council" mentioned by a group of young ladies at the next table. I hadn't been eavesdropping and the music had been turned up so I couldn't hear the topic of their conversation, so I asked. It appears that they wondered why the Town Council wasn't supporting the retention of the fire service in Faringdon. As a Town Councillor (albeit a recent one) I knew nothing of this personally, I can't speak for the other members of the council. I would be delighted to support Faringdon Firestation and would have attended the open evening if it hadn't coincided with our next council meeting. Haven taken advice on this, my suggestion is that someone from the fireservice contacts the council and requests help from them. I will reiterate that I am speaking personally and not for the whole council. Jane Boulton |
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| International RollerSkating Cup of Europe, Paris, 1st - 5th
November 2006 - 7/11/06 Nathaniel Williams gained 2nd place in the above Championships CONGRATULATIONS Dee England |
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| Christmas Lights -
5/11/06 Oh the joys of internet debate, make assertions that you can't back up, insult anyone you disagree with and all with anonimity. HOW BRAVE IS THAT? I refer of course to the post after mine 5/11/06 which describes people that the poster in all probability has never met as "morons". He/She then suggests that the lights should not be up until after Rememberance Sunday, not realistic and remember that they will not be switched on until December. Well "name supplied" how disrespectful is your post!!! What about being really brave and putting your name to your views? Anything less devalues comment and this site. Steve Leniec |
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| christmas lights -5/11/06 i would agree that mr white should do the lights,and that the council should not waste are money like this. maybe the local people should write to them with there views,maybe start a chrismas lights group? with pete white at the helm, with out the ***** doing it now. i also feel that they have been put up too early,maybe this will give them chance to get them to work, but they could of waited until after rememberance sunday out off respect Name supplied |
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| Christmas lights, a seasonal fairy
tale - 4/11/06 Bah humbug, it's that awful town councillor again, dropping down your internet chimneys with a few facts on the Christmas lights debate. Fact, the Town council were asked to take the lights over from the Christmas lights group in March 98 to provide continuity and to enable the dreaded VAT to be reclaimed. Council then found itself in dispute with Mr White over his failure to complete the wiring in London street for which he had already been paid. Fact,last year's installation cost,£4,480 not £7,000 as claimed by Mr White. This figure included the testing and repair of anchors holding the strings and a survey of the wiring! Something which we are now obliged to do on an annual basis which wasn't done in the past. I fully accept that last year's lights were a disappointment and that the contractor will have to up his game. You will note that the lights are already in place for this year. Last year's problem appeared to stem from the original wiring being unable to take the load as one circuit, it has now been split into two separate circuits and the timer has been placed in a secure location! Fact, The cost of Mr White's work between 1999 and 2001 was £1,520 rising to £1,730 not £1,393 in 2001. Fact, Mr White's assertion that the Rotary Club lights cost £1,772 is wrong. They actually cost £775, they are held in secure storage by the council and haven't "disappeared into thin air". Now I may personally agree with "Name supplied" that the council should stop providing Christmas lights on the rates and hand the whole operation over to some altruistic benefactor, the Christmas fairy? Step forward anyone who doesn't see Christmas as a commercial opportunity. The fact is that we have a contractor with a three year fixed contract to install the town centre lights and we will no doubt be judged on their performance, silence if they are a success but woe betide us if there is one bulb out this year. In the spirit of Christmas I thank Mr White and the Folly Tower Trust for their annual display and look forward to this year's, together with the centre lights we should have a display Faringdon can be proud of. That's if we can keep the Greenpeace activists out of Didcot power station.... Peace and goodwill Steve Leniec |
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| Bah humbug -
3/11/06 The 'bah humbug' comment wasn't directed at you posters believe me - I totally agree with all your comments so far! I t was in eager anticipation of the christmas lights debate which is bound to follow (I remember the discussions from last year!) Just wanted to clear that up as I wouldn't want to cause offence!! Name supplied |
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| Not bah humbug -
2/11/06 No - we're not getting "bah humbug" again. There have been no comments that the lights shouldn't be there. Only that the money should be diverted to the most economical and best place possible. Name supplied |
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| Christmas lights - 2/11/06 I totally agree with the Christmas Lights posting. How can the Town Council possibly spend "our" money so irresponsibly when a very good local man can do it far better and for less money? What do we have to do to make them see sense? Name supplied |
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| Peter White for Christmas
lights - 2/11/06 I agree that Peter White should be given control of Faringdon's Christmas lights but I don't think it's quite as simple as it sounds. I suspect that the Town Council may be tied into a contract with the current providers for some period of time. Let's just hope that this year's display does more justice to Faringdon than last year's pathetic effort! I know there are some people out there (some Town Councillors included) who feel that any money spent on Christmas Lights is a waste of money. I personally think that Christmas Lights are incredibly important to a town and am looking forward to seeing Faringdon looking festive once more (especially the Folly with whatever Peter has in store this year!) Why do I have the feeling that Talking Points is about to get all 'bah humbug' again?!... Name supplied |
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| One fire engine to
disappear - 1/11/06 I have just heard that Oxfordshire intends to take away one of our fire engines, that would be a great shame, especially as Shrivenham no longer has theirs. If you would like to ask why, there is going to be an open evening on Wednesday November 8th from 7 till 9, at Faringdon Fire Station, where the Chief Fire Officer will be attending. Name supplied |
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| Christmas Lights -
1/11/06 I vote that the Town Council hands over control of the entire Christmas Lights for Faringdon to Peter White. Anyone care to second/third/fourth/fifth? Now's the time to start gathering support for this rather than allow last year's debacle to be repeated. Faringdon deserves better and Peter White is clearly the bloke for the job. Name supplied |
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| Doorstep Charity Collections
-1/11/06 My own charity African Children's Fund and The Porridge Club both of which are Faringdon based are currently doing doorstep collections in the Faringdon area. In order to do so we have a time limited licence (1 month) from the VWH district Council. All our leaflets have our charity number on and if any body would like to confirm our details please don't hesitate to telephone me on 01367 244480. Also if you are doubtful about a charities credentials the District Council will confirm details and also the Police. In the meantime please if you have anything you wish to donate we would be very grateful and children do benefit. To all who have already supported this collection the donations have been wonderful and beautiful quality. Thankyou Alison Moore |
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| Faringdon Coffee Shop - Parking refund -
1/11/06 The Faringdon Coffee House offer coffee house customers a refund on their parking. If you spend over £10 (excluding mobile phone top-ups) with us, we will refund a maximum of 60p for the Southampton Street, (Budgens) car park if you provide us with the ticket receipt. We will also refund a maximum of 50p when you spend £10 or over (excluding mobile phone top-ups) for the Gloucester Street cark park. However, for us to do this, you must obtain a Coffee House receipt and on your next visit to us produce both the car park ticket and the Coffee House receipt. If you are a local business and you park in Gloucester Street car park all day and spend £20 or over, (excluding mobile phone top-ups) we will refund the £2.00 parking fee when you produce a Coffee House receipt and the parking ticket. Faringdon Coffee House Ed: This scheme was started by the Chamber of Commerce many years ago. Any business in Faringdon can offer car park refunds |
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