| Too Much Information
- 30/11/11 Shakespeare believed, or at least had a character say, that “Brevity is the soul of wit “ but he omitted to mention messages on TPs. Obviously information about a survey to help shape the 2012/2013 budget makes riveting reading but must such announcements be double spaced ? I resent having to scroll down in order not to miss equally fascinating information about Zumba dancing for the over sixties or lost cats. Gerry Atrick. |
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| Press releases from VWHDC and
OCC - 30/11/11 Have a look at nvpressrelease.htm. VWHDC are promoting shopping in Faringdon and Oxfordshire County Council launching a 'tell us once' service Ed(GW) |
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| Help shape the 2012/13 budget
- 30/11/11 Residents in the Vale of White Horse are being encouraged to take part in a survey to help shape the 2012/13 budget. Between Wednesday 30 November and Wednesday 11 January people will be able to take part in a survey asking their opinion on a variety of topics relating to next year’s Vale of White Horse District Council budget. Residents will have the chance to have their say on what services they think the council should prioritise, how the council should operate with significantly reduced and constantly changing levels of funding, and whether council tax should continue to be frozen. Those responding to the survey will be asked to consider the council’s role in supporting the arts, working with young people, providing public toilets, making grants to benefit the community and giving business rate relief. As part of the consultation the Vale will also be carrying out a workshop with members of the council’s Residents’ Panel, which will allow issues to be discussed more in depth, with closer consideration of the costs involved. Once the consultation period has ended the Vale’s cabinet will consider all responses prior to publishing its draft budget proposal in February which will then be considered by council on 22 February. Cllr Matthew Barber, Leader and cabinet member for finance, said: “Our financial position is a lot stronger than it has been for the past few years, however with the reduction of the amount of funding coming from the government and the ever changing economic situation it is very important that we continue to be robust in how we manage our spending. “While we have to ensure our finances are secure we also have to make sure that we are delivering the best services we can provide in ways that our residents want. Therefore we would like as many people as possible to let us know what they think should be the priorities of our next budget and how they think we should develop our services so they provide better value for money.” To find out more about the 2012/13 budget, and to take part in the survey please visit www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/haveyoursay. If you would like a paper copy of the survey please contact the Vale’s consultation officer on 01235 547614 |
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| World
Aids Day ribbons- 28/11/11 World Aids Day is on Thursday 1 December Red ribbons are available in the Mustard Seed from the afternoon of Wed 30 November. Name Supplied |
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| Faringdon Fire
Station Christmas Fayre and Santa's Grotto. Cake Stall, Refreshments, Tombola, Raffle, White Elephant and many more stalls. Come and see Santa. From 2pm till 5pm on Saturday 10th December 2011. We are raising money for the Fire Fighters Charity. |
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| Thisman
from Thatman 27/11/11 Afghanistan, the NHS and our ailing economy Occupy my thoughts to the exclusion of a tilting Christmas Tree. Thatman |
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| Not only
Parking..... - 24/11/11 Working with people who live in Swindon and who are now travelling through Faringdon while the bridge at Lechlade is repaired its interesting to hear their comments about parking. They think the people who park the way they do especially on Coxwell Road/Coxwell Street and around the Market Place shambles must be inbreds as it is fairly obvious that they have no sense at all. Having travelled through many villages and towns, they find coming through Faringdon quite a challenge. Come on people clue up and park where you are supposed to. That does not mean double or single yellows, near junctions, pavements, and opposite other cars on narrow roads. Just where are the parking enforcement troops this town needs? Colin |
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| Re new
changing facilities at Faringdon Leisure Centre-
27/11/11 Councillor Ware says: ' Having investigated it transpires that there was a problem regarding the floor tiles. I understand that this has now been resolved and that the leisure centre with its new facilities can be enjoyed by all who use it.' |
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| The
Christmas Tree - 26/11/11 Cassandra, I think the Christmas tree is upright but might appear to lean when viewed from Deacons against the old town hall which slopes inwards at the top. When viewed from The Bell it might appear to lean due to the slope of the ground. What does Thatman think about it? Thisman |
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| A missed
chance - 26/11/11 I note with some dissatisfaction that I missed an percuniary opportunity on Wednesday the 23rd of November. To whit the chance of barter in the United Church, Coxwell Street. However, I can at least relax in the knowledge that this may benefit the potential salvation of my soul, bearing in mind the words of St Mathew chapter 21, verses 12 and 13. St. Michael |
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| Funding
website for Wantage Air Traing Corps - 26/11/11 We have a new fund raising website for Wantage Air Cadets: http://www.spendandraise.com/WantageAirCadets When you have a moment, please follow the above link (or paste it into your browser) and have look at the website. If you want to make a purchase over the internet, please visit this website first, and look for the retailer you wish to buy from. If they are listed, follow the link to their website and when you make your purchase a percentage of the order value will be credited to the Wantage Air Cadets SpendandRaise account. You do not pay any more, the money comes from the retailer. SpendandRaise has been around for many years and many organizations have signed up to raise funds. Some of the retailers listed include: ASDA, Sainsbury’s, B&Q, Screwfix, Amazon. When you visit the website you will see that £11.10 has already been raised over the last few days. If you register on the website then the commission that is raised through your purchases will be listed against your user name. If you do not register then the funds will be shown against ‘anonymous’. Please give it a go and forward this email to family, friends and colleagues . |
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| The
Christmas Tree - 25/11/11 Firstly I must say what a splendid tree we have in the Market Place this year. But surely a tree should be erect. not leaning at an angle I estimate to be at least 10 degrees off true. Is the tree in the same state of inebriation as other nocturnal Market Place dwellers? If the tree fails to sober up, I fear there will be a cry of "Timber!!" ere too long when the winter winds arrive. Cassandra |
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| Fabulous
Fungi at the Folly - 25/11/11 I've never noticed them before- but this year they are many and varied. Have a look on the Folly website. ( in the Wildlife and woodland section of www.faringdonfolly.org.uk) if there is anyone out there who knows about fungi, it would be really good to know the names Thanks- hopefully Gene Webb |
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| "The
Warehouse" in the Cornmarket - 25/11/11 Currently with mostly Christmas goods on offer. The range of non Christmas goods will widen after Christmas. There are already screws, fixings, polythene and foil containers, cards Name Supplied |
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| Humour
and mischief - 24/11/11 Thatman, I always look forward to your contributions which bring humour and mischief to Talking Points. Of course, there will always be sad curmudgeons consistently whinging about the situations they face. They need their release too and often it's other peoples' fault you see. Lang may yer lum reek! Thisman |
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| Second to
None - 24/11/11 I visited Second to None garage in Faringdon with a problem with my car early on Wednesday 23rd November. I am a mobile nurse and needed to get it sorted quickly as I was on my way to a patient requiring treatment. The staff were absolutely brilliant and looked at the car immediately for me, they sorted the problem out quickly and I was on my way within 15 minutes. I wanted to thank them for their fantastic attitude and for being so helpful. I will definitely be taking my car there in future. Jo Plush. |
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| Not only
Parking..... - 24/11/11 Faringdon is becoming an absolute nightmare for illegal parking. Whether it's parking on double-yellow lines, opposite junctions, on corners of road turnings etc. As already mentioned in previous posting, a Traffic Warden will more than pay for themselves. Assuming a fine would be in the region of £30, the best part of £100 would be made daily in Stanford Road alone. Parking issues are not only confined to the Town centre. Many residential areas, such as Tuckers Road have fallen to the 'laziness epidemic'. All these properties have allocated parking or garages. However, there are a high percentage of residents that are just too bone-idle to use their allocated parking and walk the small distance to their homes. They just have to park outside their front door! No wonder we are becoming an obese nation. There is total disregard for the neighbours who may want to wash or vacuum their vehicles, or who may have visitors. So long as they have all (sometimes 3 or 4) their vehicles parked on the road. There is even an instance where one car has just been left there for the best part of a year and never been moved. Surely, in this case, it would less selfish to park it in the allocated parking. There are occasions where it would be nigh on impossible for the Emergency Services to do their work too. You need only look on Google Earth to see how much parking is available and realise how lazy and selfish people are! Name Supplied |
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| Waste
collection calendars - 24/11/11 Residents across the Vale of White Horse will be delivered their new waste collection calendars in the next couple of weeks. While there are no changes to standard collection days, the calendar serves as a handy ‘quick look’ guide as to which weeks their recycling will be collected, and which weeks are dedicated to rubbish. The calendar runs until March 2013 and includes the changes that will take place to accommodate all of the bank holidays up to and including Christmas and New Year at the end of 2012. Customers of the council’s garden waste collection service are reminded that over Christmas this year, the brown bin collections will not take place. This is so these crews can concentrate on collecting the extra household waste created over the festive period when there’s very little garden waste. There will be an extra brown bin collection in the spring next year for these customers; a busier time for gardeners. Residents in the Vale of White Horse can sign up to a free text message service to inform them when to put their bins out if collections change due to bank holidays or bad weather. To register, they should send a message with the word waste and their collection day (for example waste Monday) to 07797 870371. If for some reason, any residents don’t receive a copy of the calendar, it can be downloaded from the council’s website at http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk or by phone the Vale’s waste partner Biffa on 03000 610610. The next calendar will be included in the booklet delivered with council tax bills in March 2013. |
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| Nil
Desperandum - 23/11/11 I hope that Newby and anyone else prepared to submit comments to this website is not discouraged by nit-picking criticisms such as mine. It has been said, more than once, that no-one in authority takes any notice of any opinions expressed here.That may be true.. But, again, maybe it isn’t ! So please keep the comments coming...and if you can introduce a bit of humour it would make a welcome addition to an informative but sometimes slightly boring website So apropos absolutely nothing
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| Lost
ipod - 23/11/11 Found on Gravel Walk 23 Nov, an IPod, owner please collect from 36 Gravel Walk. Name Supplied |
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| Faringdon and World War II - new information on this
site - 22/11/11 Following the wonderful U3a talk Bill King gave about Faringdon in the war and the secret army at Coleshill, I 've put some information together. Did you know that: - under the threat of invasion, Faringdon was on a strategic defence line? - the Secret Army ( or Auxiliars) started in Faringdon? - Marines drive and Canada Lane are named for the troops that were based here? Find out by going to http://www.faringdon.org/hyhistory1.htm- under 'W' I remember my mother saying that a bomb landed somewhere nearby- but not much else about the war that she talked about. Have you or your relatives any memories? If so do tell us all about it. We could include the stories on http://www.faringdon.org/nvmemories.htm Gene Webb |
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| Reply to
Thatman - 22/11/11 I for one intend not to throw my highway code out of the window! In your comment regarding my untrue and unkind comments, I wasn't in fact referring to the people of Faringdon specifically but how life is particularly hectic and everyone wants convenience. I think you will also find that this is my first comment regarding this and have yet to mention the lack of policing of the situation, but in agreement with others when it comes to welcoming this. Newby |
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| Reminder about free Christmas
parking - 22/11/11 People in the Vale of White Horse will be able to take advantage of the traditional free parking day again this Christmas. Drivers in the Vale of White Horse will be able to park for free in district council car parks in Abingdon, Wantage and Faringdon all day on Saturday 3 December. The annual free parking tradition is provided by the district council in December to encourage people to shop locally for their Christmas presents, helping to boost the local town centre economy in the process. For this day only people can park for free and do not have to display a ticket. VWHDC |
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| Sk8
theft - 22/11/11 I have just been informed that a 1.5 tonne digger was stolen from the skate park site last night. This will have a negative effect on moral and potentially the schedule as they will now have to source a hire vehicle and deal with insurance etc… If anyone has any information please contact the police with crime reference MC3948445-11. I am unbelievably disappointed and angry at the news. What sad times we live in. Any help would be most gratefully received!!! Name Supplied |
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| TP
Traffic and parking - 22/11/11 The problems with traffic and parking are not necessarily to do with everyone being in a rush, but in the town centre they are to a large extent a legacy of the ill conceived "improvements" some years ago. The narrowing of the carriageway in Cornmarket and the reduction in parking available in the square have both, in addition to the inevitable rise in traffic volume, contributed to the frustrating state of affairs which we now see. The signage around Cornmarket is particularly confusing as although there are priority signs, the sight line from the Glouceser St end of the Cornmarket is insufficiently clear to allow foresight; also if you are entering Cornmarket from the Gloucester street end and intend to turn left towards the church, it is not always possible to predict the movements of unseen traffic at the other end of the 'narrows' and in the Market Place, hence the familiar snarl ups around the lower end of London St/Cornmarket. The chevron signs at the junction of Church Street and Radcot Road is a further example of confusing and unnecessary signage, (why on earth put large black and white chevron signs - at a T junction?) and the parking situation at the lower end of Church Street (where parked cars jut out onto the carriageway) is another result of design myopia. If you point these facts out to anyone in authority eg a county councillor, don't expect anything to happen. Yes, you will get a polite, if condescending (!) reply, even a promise to look into it, but your complaint or enquiry will eventually be met with bland assurances that there is no problem and as usual bureaucracy and dogma will win every time over common sense. Heaven forbid that anyone will take responsibility and do something. Complacency rules. Name supplied |
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| Reply to
newby - 22/11/11 It is not kind, nor true, to say that everyone in Faringdon is in a rush. You have already pointed out that whoever is supposed to monitor traffic problems certainly isn't ! Also, shame on you, don't throw your Highway Code out of the window. We already generate enough rubbish as it is and don‘t need help from a comparative newcomer. Thatman |
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| Musical
Acts required for 2012 event - 22/11/11 If you’re a local group or solo artist interested in playing at a new large charity, family event in Faringdon over a weekend next summer we’d be interested to hear from you. All styles considered; covers or original. Youth or maturity no barrier! You will need to have enough material to play 30-45 minutes. Please contact us with links to websites/sample music etc. info@15minuteclub.co.uk David Reynolds |
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| Not only
Parking..... - 21/11/11 I have only been in the Faringdon area for the past 2 years but I can already say I have never known a town like it! There seems to be a total disregard for not only the parking but road signage. The amount of times I have seen cars shoot up the bus stop area of the Market square ignoring the ever so obvious sign that it's bus only. This also goes for the one way section. Just this morning I was level with the bargain shop when a truly ignorant woman ignored the 'GIVE WAY' sign, drove at me and then gestured at me to reverse! It seems that everyone is forever in a rush that highway code goes out the window! From a newby with respect for the town! |
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| Tea Dances at
Wantage- 21/11/11 The monthly tea dances are organised by the Vale of White Horse District Council and are open to anyone to attend. They take place on the second Friday of each month at Wantage Civic Hall between 2pm and 4.30pm. Tickets are £2.50 in advance (£3 on the door) with complimentary tea and biscuits provided. |
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| Martyn
Joseph Concert this Thursday - 21/11/11 Just a reminder that as part of his current UK tour, Martyn will be performing at the Corn Exchange this Thursday 24th. Tickets £15.00. Start 8pm......doors 7.15pm. Details contact Faringdon Community & Tourist Info on 242191. For info on Martyn www.martynjoseph.net |
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| Stolen
Angel - 21/11/11 A white resin angel was stolen from our sons grave( in the Coach Lane cemetary) The angel is in the sitting position,holding a small bird it is about 8inches high and is marked on the base with the following PG 41 SN77AN Stolen in October,it is of no real monetary value but very upsetting for all concerned. Name Supplied |
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| Re new
changing facilities at Faringdon Leisure Centre-
21/11/11 I went to the gym on Friday at lunchtime, thinking how nice it would be to be able to get changed without hoardes of school girls screeching in my ear and was told that the new facilities weren't ready and wouldn't be for some time. When I mentioned the posting on the web ('The new changing facilities will be open from Wednesday 16 November.'), I was looked at as if I was mad. So, either there's been some delay and SOLL have decided not to publicise this (ie only good news makes it onto the Faringdon website) or they need to do some training of their front-desk staff! Anyone else tried to use the new facilities, with or without success? Name supplied |
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| Faringdon Radio - Special - 21/11/11 New Faringdon Local is now out featuring Dominique Ventura Life-style coach, Alison Moore The Porridge Club: Music Martyn Joseph (playing at the Corn Exchange 24th) , The Loves (The Crown 25th) , Ben Phillips (The Crown 26th). Our second special an audio tour of the Bullpen Art centre in Stanford in the Vale, is still available to download. We are still looking for writers to help us produce a book reading programme. Sean www.faringdonradio.com |
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| Vandalism - 20/11/11 In the last few days I have been disgusted with the actions of some, and uplifted by the actions of others. As some of you will have heard a memorial plaque had been removed from Tuckers Park. It had been placed in memory of a Faringdon Resident some years ago, and his family are still known and respected in our community. Many of us were outraged at hearing this, and within 24 hours of word getting round, an offer was made by a generous and lovely local man to replace it. It may seem very trivial to some people, but this serves as an example to us all that the community does count for something still. We are still lucky enough to live in a community were people care about the feelings of others. Bad things happen, and I wish they didn't, but hopefully the family and friends will take comfort in the fact that there are people out there that care. A Lucky Faringdonian |
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| Pest
Control- 20/11/11 Mike Perks - pest control - did a great job when we had a wasps' nest in the wall - and I'd highly recommend him. Wally Wright |
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| Pest
Control- 20/11/11 There's at least one listed for Faringdon Wasp phobic. Google is your friend, if Able. You didn't doubt Rachel did you? ThisMan |
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| Pest
Control- 20/11/11 The FindItInFaringdon web site shows a Faringdon local pest control company, Greenwood Pest Management on 01367 241120. Steve Wright |
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| Re That
flag - 19/11/11 I gather that the delay in replacing the flag was extended through the need to bring in a pest controller from Swindon who was not available for several days, to remove the wasp nest, rather than a Faringdon based company who was. Another example of FTC's attitude to supporting local business? Perhaps Nick O'Keeffe would explain the reasoning. Rachel Kenward |
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| Planters
in Town Centre - 19/11/11 How good to see the flowers round the Portwell pump and in the planters outside the Portwell Angel I hope the nearby businesses keep an eye/help to maintain them Local resident |
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| Zumba
Classes- 19/11/11 If any Zumba instructors are interested in hiring a venue for daytime classes then consider the Corn Exchange in Faringdon. We offer very reasonable rates and are walking distance from the infants school and junior school – ideal for parents who have just dropped children off.......or just before they pick them up !. Contacl Val on 01367 242191 or email val@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk |
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| Westmill
Sustainable Energy Trust Invitation to 26th November meeting to introduce the work of Westmill Sustainable Energy Trust and also the Solar Park share offer, Guided tour of the Solar Park and Wind Farm, 2.00pm – 3.00pm Presentations at Watchfield Village Hall, 3.30pm-4.30pm More information |
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| Zumba
- 18/11/11 In response to the person asking about Zumba classes their will be a Zumba class starting at Faringdon Leisure Centre in the New year. This will run at 10am – 10:45am. Creche will be available during this class for any mums or dads wishing to take part in the class. Steve Gilbert Steve Gilbert Health & Fitness Manager SOLL Leisure More People More Active More Often visit http://www.soll-leisure.co.uk |
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| Zumba
- 18/11/11 There is a morning Zumba class at Southmoor Village hall on Thursdays, 9.15am at £3.50 per session. There are only 4 weeks left until it stops though are looking at starting again in the new year. Alternatively, If there is enough interest in starting a Daytime Class in Faringdon then I can set something up. If you want more information please ring 01235 547646. Thanks Ashley Chapman, Go Active |
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| Spork, sprooter,
sprake - 18/11/11 Beautiful garden tools- great Christmas presents- and available to see and buy in Faringdon http://www.sporkgardentools.com/shop |
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| Solar PV
Unfair?- 18/11/11 I have a lot of sympathy for "name supplied" when he/she points out that many people installing solar panels are just doing it "to make a quick profit" - rather than for eco reasons. But then as an environmental campaigner, I think - does it really matter what the reason is? As long as people ARE reducing their carbon footprint, and in many cases also taking more individual responsibility for their energy consumption, then the scheme can be seen as successful . We then have to make sure that all can benefit from free sunlight - rather than just the privileged few - or those with roughly south-facing roofs. A point of clarification on how much it costs the rest of us. The daily mail ran a campaign on green energy taxes earlier in the year, but then had to retract many of their original assertions after they turned out to be inaccurate or misleading. The so-called green taxes pay for ALL subsidies on renewables, as well as research into renewables - and are part of our overall commitment to the EU Renewable Energy Directive ( 15% from renewables by 2020) . Ofgem figures put the average green energy tax per household at £80 ( = 9%) . This breaks down as follows ( see for example http://www.carbonbrief.org/blog/2011/06/peiser-gwpf-mail-energy-prices ) : Carbon Emissions Reduction Target CERT £48 ; Community Energy Saving Programme CESP £3 ; Renewables Obligation RO £16 ; FiTs negligible ; Emissions Trading Scheme ETS £13 . So - if it's any reassurance to those who haven't got the right kind of roof, your contributions to other peoples' solar panels are described as "negligible" - according to Ofgem. Knowing the size of the FiT pot, and with 26 million households in the UK, I can also do a back-of-envelope calculation myself that gives me less than 0.1% of the typical energy bill going to FiTs. The Government has promised us green loans - where energy-saving measures tied to the property automatically qualify for essentially interest-free loans (or call them benefit-sharing schemes with your lender) . This will be one way in which those without the necessary capital can still benefit. The new solar PV farm at Watchfield will shortly be launching its share offer. This allows anyone (whatever your roof aspect) to buy into solar PV . A representative from the Westmill Solar COOP will be at the meeting in the Corn Exchange on Tuesday with more details. Do come along if this sounds of interest. Sjoerd |
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| Feed in
tariffs/Solar PV - 17/11/11 Of course the scheme isnt fair, but when has any government had to worry about fairness? The predominent motivation of government members isn't altruism, it is to stay in power. To do this they must introduce schemes and legislation which benefit and pander to those who are most likely to vote them back in next time. Members of government are a) so cocooned in their vast personal wealth that they have no understanding of or sympathy with what it means to be underprivileged or vulnerable, and b) even if they had they would hardly be likely to benefit the poorer members of society over the middle class who make up the majority of their supporters. Bystander |
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| Faringdon Community Bus Christmas Shopping -
17/11/11 The Faringdon Community Bus has Christmas Shopping trips organized, so don’t miss these opportunities: Sunday November 20th - Christmas Shopping at Bristol Cribbs Causeway (The Mall), depart 10:00, tickets £12.00 – just a few tickets remaining. Sunday December 4th - Christmas Shopping at Milton Keynes (Centre MK), depart 09:30, tickets £13.00 – One of the best shopping malls in our area! Thursday December 15th – Last minute shopping at Witney, depart 13:30, tickets £5.00. Tickets can be purchased from the Tourist Information Centre in Gloucester Street. Steve Wright, Faringdon Community Bus |
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| Zumba
- 16/11/11 Does anyone know of a DAYTIME (9-2) Zumba class in Faringdon, or its surroundings? Siobhan |
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| Faringdon Radio - Special - 15/11/11 Our second special has eventually arrived. This is a 30 minute audio tour of the Bullpen Art Centre in Standford in the Vale with one of the artists that run the centre Helen Jacobs. From our website look under Faringdon Radio - Specials. We are still look to hear from writers and playwrights to create a new book reading programme and hopefully a radio play.....don't be shy do come forward. Sean www.faringdonradio.com |
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| This is a Community Message
from Thames Valley Police. - 15/11/11 HAVE YOUR SAY MEETINGS The following Have Your Say Meetings are being held in your Neighbourhood: Sunday 27th November, between 11:0hrs and 14:00hrs at Faringdon Market Square Please come along, this is your opportunity to speak with your Neighbourhood Officers to discuss any local issues of concern you may have. If you are unable to attend but wish to speak with your Neighbourhood Officers, please call 101. |
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| Feed in
tariffs/Solar PV - 14/11/11 Never has a Government scheme been so ill-conceived & unfair,this scheme benefits those who can afford to pay for an installation of around 10k, and those whose property is predominantly south facing ie the already privileged in our society, yet they expect the rest of us. The elderly, The not so privileged, The unemployed, etc etc to subsidise this scheme through our utility bills, estimated to be about £100.00 per household a year. So Ifor forgive me if I do not feel sorry for you. The sooner the Feed in Tariffs are reduced to below 10p per unit the better, we may then see a takeup by the true eco warriors,not those looking to make a quick profit from the rest of us. Name Supplied |
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| Waste
Recycling Centres. Christmas and New Year opening - 14/11/11 Christmas Eve 8am to 3pm Christmas Day CLOSED Boxing Day CLOSED Tuesday 27.12.2011 - 8am to 5pm Friday 30.12.2011 New Year's Eve 8am to 3pm New Year's Day CLOSED Monday 02.01.2012 onwards - normal opening hours apply, 8am-5pm |
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| New
changing facilities at Faringdon Leisure Centre-
14/11/11 Adult customers of Faringdon Leisure Centre are to benefit from new dedicated changing facilities. A store room and treatment room have been transformed into members only changing accommodation for users of the gym, squash courts and dance studio. The new changing accommodation, which opens this week, consists of male and female changing areas with showers and locker facilities. The new facilities provide members of the public with their own dedicated changing area during school hours. School groups will continue to use existing facilities in a separate area of the building, meaning that there will be more room for people to change. The work, which cost £30,000, has been carried out by the Vale of White Horse District Council. The project has been funded through Section 106 developer contributions from Bloor Homes Ltd, and is part of a continuous leisure centre improvement programme. The new changing facilities will be open from Wednesday 16 November. Cllr Elaine Ware, cabinet member for leisure, said: “We are always looking to improve our leisure facilities so that members can enjoy a more welcoming environment and feel that they are getting value for money. We hope that the upgrade to the changing facilities will make using Faringdon Leisure Centre a nicer experience for both members and school parties.” Dave Morrell, the General Manager of Faringdon Leisure Centre, said: “Customer numbers at the Faringdon Leisure Centre increased by 20 per cent since last year. We are delighted with the works that the local authority has undertaken which will benefit our customers during the day." |
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Cotswold
Volunteers Need Your Help… - 14/11/11
Anyone interested in volunteering is asked to contact Judy at Cotswold Volunteers on 01285 651246. Email judy@cotswoldvolunteers.org Ed(GW) I'm told that this organisation 'supplies transport through the hospitals in the Faringdon area for the patients going to Cheltenham and oxford hospitals as well as supporting the PCT when they have a urgent transport need with a specialist vehicle ' |
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| Two
hours free parking confirmed for the Vale - 13/11/11 Residents and visitors to the Vale are set to receive an early Christmas present after it was confirmed, subject to scrutiny, that they will be able to park for free for two hours every day from this December. On Friday 11 November the Vale of White Horse District Council’s cabinet voted in favour of implementing a new car parking order, which includes the provision of a two hour period of free parking that drivers can take advantage of anytime between 8am and 6pm in district council car parks. The new scheme was proposed as a way to help boost the trade in Abingdon, Faringdon and Wantage town centres, allowing people time to do everyday shopping and also explore more of what the local shops, cafes and other businesses have to offer, while not having to worry about paying to park. It is hoped that the introduction of two hours free parking will provide a boost to businesses which are having to cope with the tough economic conditions, and in some cases the added effect of nearby building work. Under the new arrangements the charging period will change to between 8am and 6pm. During this time people wishing to park will need to display a valid ticket, including during the free two hour period. Once people have parked for the free two hours in a particular town they will have to pay the standard fee if they wish to park again during the charging period. Parking will remain free of charge between 6pm and 8am. The new parking order also includes changes to the cost of standard short term parking fees and longer term parking permits. Following approval by cabinet, the new car parking order is now subject to scrutiny. Once the scrutiny period has passed full details of the scheme will be published. It is anticipated that the scheme will launch on Friday 9 December. |
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| Parking - 13/11/11 I spoke with Thames Valley Police on Tuesday having been faced yet again with a car driving directly towards me on the pavement along Canada Lane as I walked home after dropping off my daughter at school. It's fantastic that there are now less cars parking on the double yellow lines there, however the problems are further along the road towards the junction with Cedar Road and The Pines. Cars parked on the junction, all around the corner before the junction and now every afternoon one or two morons are even parking opposite the junction on the pavement. There's not enough room for the cars to get by safely, let alone us poor pedestrians! On Friday I asked one person not to park on the path opposite the junction as it's not safe, it's illegal and makes it impossible for anyone with a pram to get past. She said she wasn't on the double yellow lines and there was nowhere else to park! Nowhere? Seriously? I didn't have the opportunity to educate this ignoramous further because she shut her car door. It takes less than five minutes for me to walk to school, surely it'd take the same amount of time for these people to walk from the Gloucester Street car park? It's got to the point where it's not safe for me or my daughter to walk to school! Cheryl |
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| French
Tutor wanted - 12/11/11 Does anyone know a good French tutor for GCSE private tuition? Cheryl Allen-Stevens |
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| Parking
- 11/11/11 It was good to see the Police, were issuing parking tickets outside the Infants School on Wednesday morning. Hopefully now, they can also concentrate on the drivers passing the School too fast. Well done. Mark |
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| Parking
and that flag - 10/11/11 First that flag: Re. Mike Perks comment 20/10/11. A new flag is flying atop The Pump House, the FTC had first to arrange for a wasp's nest to be removed hence the delay but is now there. Parking: Yes there does seem to be a feeling that double yellow lines, and parking on pavements does not apply to some Faringdon residents, who are 'only going to collect a take away', going to the shop, etc etc or are incapable of walking a few hundred yards and perceive the road outside their house to be their's by right and to hell with other road users (including pedestrians, those in wheelchairs, and those using prams). This is a perennial problem and as a Town Councillor and a motorist/cyclist/pedestrian I have every sympathy with those of us that are affected by the selfish actions of some of our community. What can be done about it ? Apart from a change of attitude by these selfish illegal parkers (slim chance I fear), the free two hour parking will go some way to alleviating the problem, but not by much. There is no traffic warden in Faringdon, other than someone who checks the pay car parks. This leaves the police to act as deterrents to the illegal parker. I have had many discussions with our local police team and I fully understand that they cannot devote all of their time to acting as traffic wardens. They are doing a terrific job in keeping our crime levels as low as they are and this has to be a priority. Having said that they have significantly increased the number of tickets issued, and have issued many warning letters to persistent illegal parkers. They can only act on what they see not on hearsay regarding parking problems. However if you have a problem with illegal parking in your area please report it. The police have identified problem 'hot spot' areas in the town and are targeting these for action as time and resources allow, but please report persistent abuse direct to them. The real solution assuming a collective sense of community responsibility does not suddenly descend on the town (watches pigs fly past window) is for us to have a full time Traffic Warden. The FTC are asking for this and I would urge you all to lobby your Vale & County Councillors to make this happen. Personally I think it would be self funding in a matter of weeks! Nick O'Keeffe |
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| Tip
petition - 10/11/11 This is one petition that I think may be a good idea. The catchment area for the stanford tip encompasses a large area including Faringdon, Wantage and all the surrounding villages in the Vale, plus any from other local authority areas for whom the Stanford tip is closer than any others. There is time to make a well organised and presented case, with many thousands of signatories. Bystander |
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| This is a Community Message
from Thames Valley Police. - 10/11/11 Theft of tools from vehicles - "No Tools Left in Vehicle" Sticker There have been vehicles broken into and tools stolen in the South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse areas. Thames Valley Police are urging vehicle owners, particularly van owners, NOT to leave tools in unattended vehicles whenever possible and to remove them at night. All tools should be property marked, preferably with a visible mark such as chemical etching, further detail about this can be found by visiting: http://www.selectamark.co.uk/product_logomark.html The “No Tools Left in Vehicle” stickers are being supplied to potential victims to display in their vehicles to show that no tools have been left inside. The stickers are FREE and will be available at the following police stations: Abingdon, Didcot, Faringdon, Henley, Thame, Wallingford & Wantage. Your neighbourhood policing teams will also be distributing the stickers and some will be available from local builders merchants and similar trade outlets. Please be extra vigilant, if you see anyone anyone acting suspiciously in or around vehicles please call the police on 08458 505 505 or 999 for crime in progress. If you have information but wish to remain anonymous, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. |
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| Available in Faringdon Tourist and Community Information Centre
now: Faringdon Calendars - 10/11/11 13 beautiful views of Faringdon and the surrounding area. Great Christmas present or just treat yourself! Only £7.50 Faringdon Christmas Cards - two different designs. Available as single cards or in packs of 3 or 5. Faringdon Tourist and Community Information Centre, Corn Exchange, Faringdon. 01367 242191 email tic@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk |
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| Tip
petition - 9/11/11 Is there an existing petition opposing the closure of the Stanford tip? If not, is it worth starting something? There are so many people who feel strongly about this issue. Name Supplied |
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| Faringdon Radio- Calling all writers and playwrights
- 9/11/11 We are looking to expand the content of Faringdon Radio and have book readings on the station. This can be either short stories and or novels (these would be by instalments and may need to be abridged to keep the time down). We can find people to read your stories if you feel that reading your work is not your strength. We would also like to develop a radio play if any performers and writers would like to get in touch with us. Please get in touch sean@faringdonradio.com www.faringdonradio.com |
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| Survey-
2hrs free parking in Faringdon - 8/11/11 At a meeting on 8 July 2011 the Vale of White Horse District Council’s Cabinet agreed to introduce two hours free parking in all the council’s car parks where there is currently a charge for parking. The council and the town partnerships (Wantage and Faringdon joint economic forums and the Choose Abingdon Partnership) are working hard to encourage people into the town centres and the two hours free parking would allow people the opportunity to do everyday shopping and also explore more of what the town centres have to offer without having to pay parking charges. A public consultation on a draft car parking order, including the proposals for the two hour free parking scheme, is set to end this week, and a draft order will then go before the Cabinet on Friday 11 November. Should the order be formally approved, it is anticipated that the free parking scheme will launch by mid December. Businesses in three Vale of White Horse towns are therefore being asked to help inform the Council about the potential benefits of a new two hour free parking scheme. Could you complete a survey to tell us what impact that the introduction of two hours free parking in Vale car parks will have on your business and town centre vitality? The results of this survey will be used alongside other research such as the number of cars parking in the car parks, town centre footfall surveys, and the shop vacancy rates, as a basis for comparison purposes over the coming months to judge whether the introduction of free parking has been a success. The deadline date for completing the survey will be 10th November 2011. To complete the survey please click on this link http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/GLZVVK5 Thank you for participating. If you have any questions about the survey please email economic.development@southandvale.gov.uk kindest regards Economic Development Tel 01235 540346 |
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| Mindless
Vandalism - 8/11/11 I can't imagine what pleasure is given to the mindless, brainless vandal(s) who smashed windows at the RC church hall. Their destructive, idiotic behaviour is totally anonymous, but I sign myself : Carolyn Williams. |
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| Parking
by the Swan - 7/11/11 Has anything been done or will be done about the ridiculous parking going on by the Swan pub/Bromsgrove area? It is ludicrous. Cars parked on the once grass island by the Church there, a tree damaged by parking and at times its very difficult to get through. As usual no one is taking notice of the one way street, double yellows and disabled bay. Where are the PCSO’s and the Traffic Wardens? Do we actually get what we are entitled to by paying the most expensive council tax in the vale thanks to poor councillors and bad management? Colin Name allowed. Nothing to hide |
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| M.A.D.D.
Christmas Party /Fund raiser, 23 and 24th Dec.- 7/11/11 Crown Hotel, 9pm . Free Entry OXJAM gig. Bands already signed up, "Faceless" "Hands Down" "Young Rosie" "SkyBurnsRed" "The Fixed" "Tentwentysix" "Dj COAST" "Lifehiker" "Invasion Sound and Lighting". It is our aim to try and turn this into a mini Fest and run 2 days This could be the with your help an awsome party,lotta fun, and a great Fund raiser as well as a roof raiser. So please participate ,If you wish to perform or help out please get in touch with me, Sam Prince on Facebook, samprince@fsmail.net 01367243806 0753 145 9179. |
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| Faringdon Local new show out on Faringdon
Radio- 6/11/11 In this show: - - The Maggie Centre & fundraising dinner with writer of Vicar of Dibley at Sudbury House - Royal British Legion -Faringdon & Shrivenham branch Music from: The Brickwork Lizards Lighterthief The Man with the Stereo Hands Comments welcomed on our Facebook page www.faringdonradio.com |
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| Faringdon on Facebook - 5/11/11 I live in Faringdon on Facebook has been upgraded to the new groups format, to make it easier for members to connect and share Roz |
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| Halloween at the Folly- Witney TV-
5/11/11 http://www.witneytv.co.uk/videos/faringdon-folly-at-halloween |
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| Feed in
Tariff changes- 5/11/11 I'm doomed! The new dates are bad news. I have quotes, but the decision deadline for my planning application isn't until 18th December. Ifor Phillips |
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| WANTED!
Memories about Faringdon House. - 3/11/11 I am writing a book about my maternal grandparents – Robert Heber-Percy and Jennifer Fry and also about Lord Berners. I am particularly interested in hearing any memories about Faringdon House during the wartime – when the house and grounds were occupied by the US army. My mother, Victoria, was born in February 1943 and spent her first years at Faringdon House. I would be extremely grateful for any information that anyone could give me, including general information about the town during the war. My email address is sofka@zinovieff.com many thanks. Sofka Zinovieff Website: www.sofkazinovieff.com |
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| Queens
Diamond Jubilee - 2/11/11 The Faringdon Town Council have set up a working group to organise some events for the Queens Diamond Jubilee. We are having an open meeting on Wednesday 30 November at Faringdon Business Centre and would like anyone or organisation that would like to take part to join us. We will start the meeting at 7pm and we will provide some tea and coffee. Julie |
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| Halloween at the Folly -
1/11/11 Thanks to the 300 people who climbed the spooky tower last evening. The little ghouls and goblins loved the (resident?) witch and the Jigsaw character. Spooky music and spooky decorations added to the excitement Photos on Flikr All proceeds to Faringdon Folly |
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| Double
Yellow lines - 1/11/11 It appears from contributors' reports, that it wouldn't be more of a problem if some of the yellow lines were eradicated. They appear to serve no useful purpose. Hopefully, as in Witney, we will see free parking and then more stringent policing of illegal street parking. Name Supplied |
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