Faringdon News & Views

faringdon-online community web site home	talking points
	june 2008

Read this report from www.tescopoly.co.uk. - 30/6/08 Local shops From a nation of shopkeepers to Clone Town Britain? The UK's biggest supermarkets are grappling for ever greater market share. Small independent stores and suppliers, and ultimately consumers, are paying a direct price in the face of unfair competition. In the five years to 2002, 50 specialist stores including butchers, bakers, fishmongers and newsagents closed every week. In May 2005 the IGD revealed the loss of 2,157 unaffiliated independent convenience retailers, compared to only 1,079 the year before. The All-Party Parliamentary Small Shops Group investigated the future of small shops in the UK. Its report "High Street Britain: 2015", released in January 2006, predicted a bleak future for independent shops. The report predicted that independent convenience stores were unlikely to survive by 2015 and independent newsagents were very unlikely to survive. The report argued that the social and economic benefits of diverse forms of retail should be protected. Likewise, a report by the New Economics Foundation (NEF) from 2005, Clone Town Britain, found that chain retailers are damaging to the local economy, social inclusion and local identity. Small shops are vital for people to access healthy food, in particular disadvantaged groups, and people without cars or with limited mobility. The closure of many small shops has left some neighbourhoods with limited access to healthy food. Please see the food poverty page and Sustain's Food Access Network for more information on this. What will the future impact of these changes be? There are concerns that the closure of small shops is a one-way street. Once small independent stores shut, there are often insurmountable barriers to getting back into the High Street. It is very difficult for new businesses to start up. And there are concerns that a tipping point could be reached. Once a certain amount of independent retailers shut, the wholesale industry may no longer be sustainable, and could collapse. The knock on effect of this will be further damage to the independent retail sector. For more information on this, please see the submission from the Federation of Wholesale Distributors to the Competition Commission, as well as the High Street Britain report and the Association of Convenience Stores submission to the Competition Commission. There are concerns about the way supermarket chains gain an advantage over small shops on the High Street. Their market share gives them a level of flexibility between store formats and over product pricing, and control of supply chains. Smaller shops do not have this flexibility and control. There is evidence of the large supermarket chains: abusing seller power, through practices such as price flexing and below-cost selling. According to the Competition Commission's report on the grocery market from 2000, the big four chains were persistently selling products at below market price. This could damage independents and smaller chains, and in turn damage consumers. This report also found that some of the chains were engaging in price-flexing. In geographical areas with no major competitors, they were selling products at higher products than in areas where they faced stronger competition. The submission by the Association of Convenience Stores to the Competition Commission grocery market inquiry in 2006 found that such practices were continuing. abusing buyer power, in particular squeezing suppliers on prices. The larger chains can extract more favourable conditions from suppliers than other types of retailer can. They are able to do this because of their market shares and integrated supply chains. See the Code of Practice page for more information on these issues. The result of these practices can be what is known as the "waterbed effect", when suppliers raise prices for other buyers (including independent shops) as a knock-on effect. For further information on this please see the Association of Convenience Stores submission to the Competition Commission. > abusing the planning system, because of their superior resources compared to competitiors or local authorities. See the planning page and Friends of the Earth's report Calling the Shots for more information. Name Supplied
Tesco - pros and cons - 30/6/08 Will it be bad for Faringdon to have a Tesco? When I go to Wantage Sainsbury, after shopping there I leave my car in their car park and walk through to the town and shop there. It seems to me that providing Tesco allow this AND there is an attractive walk from their car park to the town (along Hobwell lane and Southampton St) it could be good for the town - not perhaps for Budgens, but OK for other shops. It could attract people from the villages to come here instead of Wantage and Swindon, so there could be more potential customers for local shops. I've heard it said that the Swindon Woodworking site could become available- with good negotiation with Tesco any 106 agreement could provide access and maybe development of the Willes Close triangle(owned by Faringdon). It could be the place for a (sound proofed) performance venue! Name Supplied
Big Faringdon Gig - Saturday 5th July , Junior School - 30/6/08 It just goes to show despite all the thought that goes into this there is always something glaringly obvious that is missed off. As we want to encourage families to this event, especially as we have two great school bands playing, tickets for under 18's will be £5. The pricing is as follows: Adults - all day £10 Under 18's - all day £5 Accompanied under 11's free. In the evening (from 7.30pm in the main hall - still three bands to see) All tickets one price £5 (Accompanied under 11's still free). Doors open at 11.15am, entrance via the town park behind the library or through the blue gates - first band on at 12 noon. > > Well done to Dawn and all those volunteers for Saturday and it was sunny as well - what more could we ask for. Sean and Amanda www.bigfaringdongig.com
Scarey Tesco - 30/6/08 The thought of Tesco's is quite a scarey one. Our town centre couldn't win. There will no doubt be some very short sighted people who will be pleased about it - and the thought of saving a few pence. We do need to sort the parking out in Faringdon - even allowing the first hour free in the two main car parks might encourage more shoppers. Any idea where we go to let our objections be known (apart from here !). Name Supplied Ed(GW) I think FTC are going to get Tesco to sponsor some consultation
Fantastic Production by Faringdon Junior School Year 6 - 30/6/08 If you really want to see Local Talent both On the Stage and Behind the Scenes then POP Along to Faringdon Junior School on any of these Days 15th July 7pm 16th July 1:30pm 17th July 7pm And see Faringdon Junior School Perform their Year 6 Musical Production of > "CAN'T STOP THE MUSIC" Written and Composed by NONE other than Mr Joe Moore. NO TIckets Required Entry is Free. Set at StarStruck Music & Dance School, in 1988, when synthesizers, rubix cubes and leg-warmers ruled the world, a competition to find new performing talent emerges. Two rival bands, 'Angel Eyes' and 'Uptown Boys' - who are sworn enemies from day one - compete for the prize, unaware of the highs and lows they will face on their journey towards stardom... "West Side Story meets Fame whilst auditioning for A Chorus Line..." Scott Gildert on behalf of Joe Moore
Taste massage - 30/6/08 From 2pm - 6pm on Saturday, 12th July, I will be offering free massage taster sessions with essential oils lasting ten minutes. Just come and sign up for a time slot on the day from 1.45pm onwards at 25 London Street. Emma Elkin-Jones
Tesco in Faringdon - 30/6/08 I'll help stop Tescos Ray
Clothes shop in Faringdon? - 29/6/08 As a resident of Faringdon I really do enjoy the small independant stores and cafes we have in the local community. I am interested to know what shops the local residents would like to see as I have been watching Mary Queen of the Shops and have been wondering would a clothing shop have a place in Faringdon? Name Supplied
Party in the Park 2008 - 29 /6/08 Great party at Faringdon House Grounds. Thanks to Dawn Pulker, Rotary members and all the other helpers for organising a great family afternoon event. Simply put, Faringdon at it's best. Laura Bishop
Party in the Park - 29/6/08 A big thanks to those that organised the event yesterday, and the bands that played. It was GREAT! Sue
Re. Stop Tesco - 29/6/08 We'll support you. We think we owe it to the local farming community to stop this. We all know Budgens isn't great but it is getting better now its stocking Coleshill organic and local eggs. If you want a major supermarket, and lets face it there are times when you do, its only 7 miles to Sainsbury's in Wantage and on a bus route. Far more people will lose out than gain if Tesco goes ahead. Local farms, the farmer's market, local specialists like Rob the Cheese and the Florists will find it impossible to compete and will have to close, leaving Faringdon with a dead main street and market place and a thriving major conglomerate just outside the town. I think we're all agreed that this would be a different argument if it was one of those Tesco Express type affairs taking over Budgens, which although not ideal, would probably be quite restricted and contained given the location. Where do we sign? Jon and Mel Lane
STOP TESCO - 29/6/08 We are lucky in Faringdon. We have a breadth of independent shops in the town centre from the butchers to the florists that serve our needs. Budgens is brilliant - fighting for a range of good food, locally sourced at fair prices. Do we want Tesco on our doorstep? We certainly don't need it... Do we want the centre of Faringdon to become a ghost town and Park Lane to be congested with traffic so we can buy intensively reared, chemical laced, broiler chickens on BOGOF?? We want to fight against this - anyone else interested? Let us know... Michele Oliver & Paul Vanags (Gloucester Street)
Interim solution to posters?? - 27/6/08 Until someone from othe VWHDC displays some common sense (unlikely), perhaps event organisers could provide an email address for Faringdon residents who are willing to put posters up in their windows to get in touch? Posters could then be dropped through letter boxes (or maybe with the TIC for collection) and we can all do our bit. I'm not aware that councils can do you for advertising from your own home (yet), or maybe they can??!! This could potentially reach more residents (esp in the estates) and passing trade, if those of us on the main roads (London St in my case) are on board. Name Supplied ED(GW) Good idea - they'd get taken down when the event has happened promptly too. Not sure I'd want too many in my window though
Tescos - definitely - 27/6/08 The Folly reports that Tescos have bought the old JDS site and are hoping to buy adjacent properties. Tesco says it will be a superstore(15k-60k sq ft) No timescales yet Read more in the July Folly Gene Webb
Fly Poster Meeting with the Vale - 27/6/08 An informal meeting looking at the questions of roadsigns and fly-posting (this includes A-Boards) took place yesterday between VWHDC staff and members of the Faringdon Community. There were three representatives from the Vale who came to Faringdon for the meeting: Toby Warren (head of Community Strategy), David Stevens (Dep Dir Environment) and Paul Yaxley (Planning Enforcement Officer). From Faringdon, the Town Council and Chamber of Commerce were also represented. Overall, very constructive discussions. The VWHDC explained why and how these enforcement policies (originating from central govt) are at present being implemented. Although there is scope for interpretation and discretion when enforcing the "Clean Neighbourhoods Act" at local level, there is also a fear in what is becoming an increasingly litigious society that making exceptions, turning a blind-eye, interpreting liberally, appling common sense - opens the VWHDC to potential litigation. Someone trips over an A-Board and it's the Vale that then gets sued because they didn't do their enforcement job properly. Making one exception opens up a time-consuming can-of-worms as everyone else also wants to be treated as an exception. So - they crack down. At the meeting there was general recognition that we DO need to find creative solutions to what is now seen as a policy that is negatively impacting the vibrancy of the town & turning the VWHDC into the enemy. This blanket enforcement is perceived by Joe Public as inappropriate and draconian. Messages coming from DC, Highways Authorities & CC are confused and contradictory. You haven't a clue to whom you should apply for permission, and when you DO find out (Highways Authorities) then you also discover that permission will NOT be granted. There's at present really no workable exceptions to this for low budget local events (apart from: don't get caught!). AA signs are one exception - but this route will cost you a body part or two. Here's the good news: 1. The VWHDC is in final stages of putting in place a clear "Enforcement Policy" Document for its staff - so that more discretionary common sense decisions can be made by enforcement officers without fear of litigation. The FTC and Chamber are now also involved in consulting on this document. 2. Potentially, the TC could take local control over many of these flyposter/roadsign decisions. There IS a precedence for this. Abingdon & North Hinksey were apparently given some local control up until two years ago. This will be further investigated by the TC. 3. On the continent (think of a wonderfully tidy yet fantastically colourful Plaza typical of Switzerland, Holland, Germany .... ) you have dedicated poster points - perhaps solar-powered rotating ones - rather than having to rely on scabby lamp posts. This will also be investigated thru the TC. 4. I think there's grudging respect from the VWHDC for this bunch of Faringdon renegades who seem to think that their Town actually matters. For the two big upcoming events (FAF & Sealed Knot) we may find that they'll give us some slack while we try to find more permanent solutions. As long as people promise not to sue them for tripping over an A-Board.... Watch this space. Sjoerd Vogt
No discretion re posters - 26/6/08 I have now had two telephone conversations with the Vale Planning department. It was like being in a sketch with a pontificating Ronnie Barker character. ''....the law of the land states...' and 'The law is black and white and must be obeyed...'. 'Our enforcement officer is just doing his duty' Discretion was not in the vocabulary. As Basil Fawlty once said 'This is how Nazi Germany started.' Sean
Indie dance?? - 26/6/08 Ray, Is that some kind of indie dance then? Or were you going for the full UDI? Bill Sticker
Use strong glue - 26/6/08 The Arts Council states "Between 2006 and 2008, we will invest £1.1 billion of public money from government and the National Lottery in supporting the arts. This is the bedrock of support for the arts in England. We believe that the arts have the power to change lives and communities, and to create opportunities for people throughout the country." Shame no-one's allowed to hear about these opportunities... David, that location doesn't appear to feature on the forbidden list so I reckon you should go ahead and stick that poster (make sure you use VERY strong glue!) Anna
Re: Events posters - 26/6/08 Meanwhile the Orwellian state gathers pace informing us every single day of the things we are no longer permitted to do and the consequences we face if we disobey. I have been trying to warn people on this forum of what was to come (this is of course nothing compared to the civil liberties that we will see taken away in the next decade). Anybody in Faringdon ready to listen yet? Citizen Smith
VWHDC Vee Will Hound Decent Citizens. - 26/6/08 anyone do better? Ive started to dig the tunnel, do I need planning permission? Name, rank and serial number, withheld.
Permitted posters! - 26/6/08 For those of you who think that we still live in a democratic, liberal society check out the following link from the Vale of White Horse District Council website which explains where you can and cannot stick a poster. I know where I'd like to stick a poster! http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/326679.pdf David Reynolds
Declare UDI? - 26/6/08 Maybe it's time to declare independance from the VWHDC and the formation of the People's Republic of Faringdon. Ray
ECOWEEK POSTERS - 25/6/08 Talking Points is buzzing with postertalk & ecoweek feedback. Yes - it's surreal that environmental officers were "caught" taking down posters advertising environmental events, and it's certainly brought the whole discussion to a head - which is clearly needed. Big Brother from Abingdon comes stomping in to suppress community-led initiatives and prevent events from being a success. Bizarre. What do they actually want? A vibrant community, or a sterile town displaying only their black&white threat notices telling us what we are NOT allowed to do? It reminds me of "The Grinch who Stole Christmas". Do the Vale REALLY want to be seen as spoilers? Obviously it's not just ECOWEEK that's affected - although this seems to have been the first event to have really suffered from the new regime. There IS a meeting I'm told - tomorrow at 4pm - with Sjoerd Vogt (main organiser of ECOWEEK), District Council, Town Council & Chamber of Commerce - to try to sort out this mess & rediscover an element of common sense in all of this. And one more point. In spite of the Fahrenheit-451 treatment of the ECOWEEK posters, it seems as if most if not all the ECOWEEK events were very well supported. Certainly, the ECOFAIR and ECOSWAP events on the first Saturday had well over 500 people between them - which is excellent. I also went to ECOMILL - the Venn Mill Open Day - and they had nearly 200 visitors. Good flour by the way - and a VERY interesting event. But - how many MORE people would have come to the ECOWEEK events if the Posters had stayed up? There is a message here perhaps. Posters are just one way of publicising events. Even if the posters and the road signs DO all get ripped down by those spoilers from Abbey House, you CAN still get your message out. The ECOMAP that was delivered door-to-door was very good - and I've shown it to friends and family far afield as evidence of a community that really seems to be working together on the issues that matter. It was fantastic to see how the schools, shops, businesses, farms, shoppers, home-owners, cyclists, walkers, bird-lovers, swapshoppers & cream-tea-lovers all came together & got involved. I've already got two of the new canvas Faringdon shopping bags. SO - WELL DONE FARINGDON! Andy Hayter
Big Faringdon Gig - 25/6/08 Saturday 5th July at the Junior school Doors open at 11.15am Tickets from Budgens and Sandwich Phillers and from the The Crown We now have 16 confirmed bands playing a huge variety of sounds and styles - and it will all be original music. There are two prices for entry - an all day pass to both rooms will be £10. On the day at 7.30 pm (so just the evening slot - but still with three bands) tickets will be £5. £5 tickets cannot be purchased in advance At £10 for 16 bands that works out at 62.5p to see each band (no it's not £187.5 just to see the three bands you want to see). SUPPORT YOUR COUNCIL!!!!!!! - not (VALE NOT TOWN) Some of you may have seen my advertising around the town - this is temporary publicity for a community event that benefits a charity and the community (profits from the BFG will go to Helen House Hospice and Faringdon Arts Festival) The signs will it have to go as the little man from the Vale council is threatening to prosecute me, the school any band associated with the publicity and anyone benefiting from events associated with such publicity i.e. Helen House Hospice and Faringdon Arts Festival .....so the signs will be coming down.....so much for Community spirit..... who do these people work for??? All of you that run fund raising event, village fetes, bonfire nights Xmas events etc...it could be you next for committing such evil crimes. They even told me ( the planning department at the Vale) the RAF Fairford Air Tattoo billboard near Longcot is now subject to review even though it got planning permission. MR VERY ANGRY Sean Hodgson PS But hope to see you on the 5th July at the BFG...please spread the word www.bigfaringdongig.com ED(GW) There's a VWHDC planning poster outside the chemist dated May 2008 - will VWHDC fine itself?
Arts Festival posters banned - 25/6/08 Hi Everyone We have just been told that we are no longer allowed to put our big signs up to advertise the Faringdon Arts Festival which is going to give us a bit of a problem as one of the common complaints about events in Faringdon is that they are not advertised enough. We have been told that the VWHDC will sue us and anyone who is associated with the event. We will be having our brochures out soon, we have our website up and running www.faringdonartsfestival.co.uk. There are some signs in the doors of many of our shops and pubs. Please could you also spread the word for us as we would like as many people there as possible. Its an excellent event for all the family so please come along and take part. The first event is Sean's and Amanda Big Faringdon's Gig on the 5th July at the Junior School. Please come along and support us. We look forward to seeing you at the BFG and the Arts Festival. Julie Farmer 01367 246003
Ecotalk - 25/6/08 I went to the Mark Dowd Talk on the Thursday - which was excellent. Plenty of people, and clearly riveted by what he had to say. Mark had not only spent the whole day with the Junior School, but he'd also done a lot of original research for his evening talk. He blew away many of the misconceptions that we have relating the Climate Change evidence being a recent phenomenon (it's not. In the US there were urgent calls for action going as far back as 1957) and he highlighted the many campaigns of misinformation and suppression of information relating to climate change that go right up to presidential level. There are many parallels with the smoking lobby of course, and how long it took for significant change to come about - in spite of overwhelming medical evidence. Anyway- we were very privileged to have such a good speaker coming to Faringdon. Mairead Boyce
ENERGY FROM WASTE - PLASMA TOUR - 25/6/08 I'd just like to add my thanks to the organisers of the eco week. I went on the very well organised Tetronics Plasma tour which was over-subscribed. I'm just sorry for those who had to be turned away, because this was really hot stuff - literally! People had signed up from as far away as Reading and Maidenhead - although how they found out about it is anyone's guess. On the minibus, I overheard one of the Reading people asking "so --what's so special about Faringdon that it has all this stuff going on?" Hopefully, this tour will be repeated. Helen Hand
ECOBIRDS - 25/6/08 Yes, there were 62 people who came for the Bird walk - more than the 12 that we'd planned for! We saw lots of birds and it was great fun, although the biggest problem was to stop people chatting... Adam & Lorna Symonds
NEW WORLD RECORD **************** - 24/6/08 Yes - another first! We're now the holders of the first turbine hugging world record - with officially 345 people taking part, all holding hands to make the shape of the hub, the three blades and perimeter circle. In spite of the weather (the turbines enjoyed it) , there were approximately 1000 people who came to the Windfarm's first public Open Day; enjoying the stalls, organic burgers, kites, tours of the substation, film show about the construction, tractor rides, children's workshops & juggling displays. Thanks to all those who helped make the day a success! A great way to end ECOWEEK. Sjoerd Vogt
Ecoweek Bird Walk - 24/6/08 Talking about ECOWEEK, I went on the Bird Walk round Kilmester Farm by the Thames on the Friday evening - and it was just fantastic. Great walk, with two hours of observations & information from an RSPB tour guide who was stunningly good. We weren't just seeing birds, we were hearing their calls & studying their regurgitated meals. Well done for putting this on and well done for a great week. David Williamson
Special Folly Tower opening days - 24/6/08 To coincide with the Arts Festival and the Battle for Faringdon, the Folly Tower will be open on both the Saturday and Sundays of each weekend. 12th and 13 th July, 19th 20th July 11.00am till 3.00pm Adults £1, Children 11-16 20p, Children under 11 free
Removal of adverts - 23/6/08 As for the removal of adverts/boards for EcoWeek events, I was one who noticed the Vale's Environment Warden walking around with a 'forest' of Eco Week boards under his arm. I thought to myself how ironic that is. (He was here also doing the dog fouling initiative, which I'm heavily in favour of). When I asked him why he said that it's illegal and they had to be taken down as no permission had been sought to put them up. (As if it would be granted!) But it's a very selective application, there are posters up from last autumn on Gravel Walk, although I feel that people who put them up in the first place should be responsible and take them down once the event is over. Some solution can surely be found and a compromise reached. And on another point there are other publications in town that advertise and notify of events, What's On, The Folly and The Faringdon Advertiser to name but three, it's not just through this website, useful and informative as it is. Bill Posters
Big Clear out - 23/6/08 We're having a big clear out (apologies to the Eco Week organisers - we didn't get our act together in time for the Swap Shop) and we were wondering if anyone is organising any kind of summer fete or jumble sale who would appreciate various bric a brac, books, clothes etc. If you can help, please can you email us at garthpool@btinternet.com by Friday this week or we will be swamping the local charity shops at the weekend. Many thanks Mel
Fly posting fines- 23/6/08 It seems that the Environmental chaps from VWHDC are cracking down on the display of posters on walls, telegraph poles etc. - I understand they removed ones advertising the Ecoweek events(bizarre!!) I gather VWHDC are starting to implement the law and start dishing out £75 (per board) fines to anyone displaying unauthorised boards- I assume boards include posters- see http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/Environmental_health/Fly-tipping_litter_and_envirocrimes/DetailPage-1918.asp Putting posters up around the town is almost the only way we can publicise community events(apart from here); it will be very difficult to spread the word without them. Surely the law could be interpreted as not putting posters up too soon and taking them down afterwards (say within a week after the event)- fining those who don't keep to these rules. As a matter of interest, I have often seen Planning permission and Traffic regulation notices displayed(by VWHDC)- are these considered fly posting? They are sometimes guilty of not removing them in a timely way There is a meeting about it on Thursday 4pm(venue not known). Do make comments here - it may help to feed the debate Gene Webb
Corn Exchange noise - resolved? - 23/6/08 I'm just wondering that as the Jam Club is now opening at the Corn Exchange whether this means the noise problem has been solved? Ray
Cheapest fuel from Esso garage? - 23/6/08 I am reading with interest the comments regarding the Esso Garage on Park Road. I was listening to Jack FM, the local radio station, the other day and they have a service whereby listeners ring in with the cheapest fuel in the local community. Apparently the cheapest place to buy fuel in Faringdon is the Esso Garage in Park Road!! Is there anywhere else we can buy fuel in town? I keep looking for a forecourt near Budgens, but so far no luck! Ray Hunt
Wind turbine hugging - 23/6/08 Despite the poor weather at the beginning of Saturday many cyclists, walkers and other visitors gathered at the wind farm and joined in the hugging. At a guess there were 500/600 people (I'm sure Sjoerd will tell us more precisely) I thought we'd just gather round, but in a masterpiece of organisation we formed the shapes of the turbine blades, and joined these in a circle. Sadly the aeroplane that was to fly over and take photographs could not, as the cloud was too low. However - it seems we are now the World record holders for wind hugging!! It was a really good event Gene Webb
The Jam Club at the Corn Exchange. - 23/6/08 M.A.D.D. is pleased to announce the return of The Jam club. Previously a blues club it will now encompass a wider range of music. The new season will commence in the Autumn on Friday Oct 3rd and then every first Friday of the month. For all information and updates please see www.maddfaringdon.co.uk
Join in the battle for Faringdon - 21/6/08 Please do not be frightened if on Saturday 20th June a large crowd of English Civil War re-enactors appear in the Market Place. Sir Marmaduke Rawdon's Regiment of Foote are conducting a final survey of the Church Path Farm battlesite to prepare for the large battle and re-enactment displays over the weekend of 19/20 July. Having looked at the ground during the morning Rawdons will, as usual, base themselves in the Crown Hotel and advertise the forthcoming event. If anyone wishes to take part in the forthcoming Battle for Faringdon, this is their chance to join up! Rawdons have a good stock of spare uniforms for recruits and plenty of space in the pike block to get seriously bruised and abused. Alternatively my wife and I prefer to take part in Living History and explain what life was like in 1645. We have fond memories of peeling onions to go into a stew in front of children who thought onions only came frozen, peeled, cut or in pasties.... We roasted a leg of venison over an open fire to exclamations like "Oh the poor Bambie" until a man from Uganda tried to wrap the leg in cooking foil, saying we did not know how to cook. Unfortunately aluminium cooking foil did not exist in 1645 and in England we do not have such a problem with flies as he has in Uganda. We agreed to differ on cooking methods, but it showed what fun Living History can be. So if anyone wants to join the Sealed Knot to re-enact Civil War era battles and Living History, now is your chance. The recruiters will be out in the Market Place during Saturday. Or if you miss this event just email me on jgillman@btinternet.com to be put in contact with the Rawdons Regiment recruiters. John Gillman
Esso Fuel Shortage - 19/6/08 An extract from forecourttrader.co.uk 10-Jun-2008 Esso has reassured its retailers that it has "contingency plans" in place if the threatened strike by Shell drivers goes ahead this week. Karen Dickens, Esso's executive director, fuels marketing UK & Ireland, said she hoped drivers would work through the industrial action to maintain supplies and get product through to sites. Speaking at the company's Dealer Forum at The Belfry hotel in Sutton Coldfield last week, she told the audience: The haulier provides drivers for Shell and Esso. If the dispute is not resolved, we hope drivers will be prepared to go through picket lies to maintain supplies. We have been building stocks in the terminal to make sure their is sufficient product. We have contingency plans to make sure the right stock is on site." I have found that Esso forecourts at Challow and Stratton were out of stock. Maybe there is a clue in the quote? http://www.forecourttrader.co.uk/news/fullstory.php/aid/2331/Esso_hopes_drivers_will_work_through_Shell_strike.html
Swap Shop success - 18/6/08 358kg!!!!!! OK, so it's slightly less than the 402kg we saved from landfill in March, but not a bad figure at all considering we didn't have the Corn Exchange at our disposal. Many thanks to all involved, especially the newcomers to the cause, Mark, Malcolm and Val. And the best result was that we raised a whopping £71 for Pre-school, mainly down to the generousity of Angie Cartwright, who found a cello in perfect condition. Hubby Mike has wanted to play the cello since childhood, and was thrilled to bits to find one at the Swap Shop, complete with bow, so Angie made a very generous donation. Mike has promised to keep us all entertained at the next CAG event! Andy Hayter
Still no fuel - 18/6/08 Still no diesel or "normal" unleaded petrol at the Esso petrol station on Park Road. Surely by now they must have had a delivery and I find it hard to believe that there is still panic buying, given that the Shell delivery strike is over. As Peter said "What is going on?" Kat
Faringdon Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) - 18/6/08 Faringdon Fossil Trust has been formed, and is soon to be the owner of the SSSI site on the Fernham Road. The Trust will take over the maintenance of the site from the builder Ede, who gave the site to town as part of a 106 agreement. Fernham Gate Estate is limited on its (roughly) eastern side by a quarry face about 3 metres high and 100 metres long. This gives excellent exposure of the Faringdon Sponge Gravels - a geological formation that has for some 200 years been famous for the fine specimens of various fossils that it yields. Much of it also provides an excellent gravel, which has been extracted for over 150 years and used in pathway and building construction . Members of the Trust are, Norman Snelling (Chair), Bill Horsfield of the Oxfordshire Geology Trust and town councillors Alan Hickmore and Mike Wise The town councillors are in discussion with Jonathon Ede to finalise ownership and discuss the clearing and fencing work that still needs to be done. Faringdon Fossickers represents a group of people who at various times have expressed an interest in the setting up of a geology and natural history reserve on the old Faringdon Sponge Gravel pit in the Coxwell Rd. If you're interested in becoming a Faringdon Fossicker, and want to contribute to the running of the site, please contact Norman Snelling on 01367 240601 Norman Snelling
Faringdon on TV - 18/6/08 BBC has been filming from the top of the faringdon folly for a new BBC program named "Britain from Above" http://www.bbc.co.uk/britainfromabove Eddie Williams (chair of "The Friends of the Folly") was interviewed by Andrew Marr. The program is due to go on air mid to late August of this year. It will be a 3 part program shown on BBC1, probably at 8 or 9pm on Sunday evening, so primetime. Exact details are not known yet. Raoul van Eyndhoven
Southampton St to Southampton?? - 17/6/08 Simon Cook on the 13th asked on Talking Points if Southampton Street went to Southampton. The answer is yes it did for drovers, but not carriages. The route I have traced goes up Southampton Street, past the tennis courts and then go right to Rogers Concrete, Coles Pits, Fernham, Uffington, the Blowing Stone etc and on to Hungerford, where the coach roads started again. But the drovers did not like sharing roads with wheeled traffic, so beyond Hungerford they probably went on very minor roads of paths. The attached file nvtp Faringdon map1670.doc shows the coach road map for London services dated 1670. Faringdon is on a Y Junction, right for Gloucester, straight on for Stratton (turn left for Marlborough) with Marlborough Street basically linking London to Bristol. Note that Radcot Road goes straight in to the Market Place from Faringdon House. Wadley Manor is called Waddy Farm meaning boggy ground farm. Also shown is the coach road map from 1670 showing the importance of Faringdon on the strategic coach network. The main Bristol service ran to Colnbrook, Maidehead, Henley, Dorchester, Abington, Faringdon, Margret. I will scan the town map for the Lechlade route, asp, but it is basically the same. John Gillman Ed(GW) Thanks John- I thought you would know
Don't Panic Peter - 17/6/08 The tanker driver's strike might have caused some isolated fuel problems at Shell petrol stations but it wouldn't have worried me. But when this government told me not to panic that did worry me and I immediately went to the Park Road Esso Station and filled my car. I never usually do this as it takes fuel to carry fuel. Many others have the same lack of faith in Gordon Brown's lot and that, Peter, is why there was a problem. Did you really not know ? Name Supplied
Police Station - 16/06/08 Wouldn't it be better to actually contact the police re the opening times and use of the station rather than rely on guesswork, speculation & hearsay? You will find the local contact details here www.thamesvalley.police.uk/bcu/oxfordshire/local-police-area/VOWH/faringdon-west.htm The police station car park is in constant use and needs to be available for emergencies. Name Supplied
Police Station Car Park - 15/6/08 According to Gene the police station is only open about 8 hours a week. Couldn't some Marlborough Street residents be given permits to use it during the remaining 160 hours Name Supplied Ed(GW) It looks as if it's only the front office where opening times have changed. I guess(I hope) the station is open for officers as it always has been
Field for film wanted - 16/6/08 I am currently searching for a field to film in for a short film entitled "The Firework". I grew up in Faringdon, so I know the surrounding countryside is perfect for my film. The location I had selected has fallen through, so I now have one week to find a suitable replacement. I'm posting in the hope that someone may be able to help me in my search. The field I am looking for has to be away from houses and developed areas. Crucially, I need the field to have a single tree or group of trees with climbable branches, around which most of the film's action takes place. I am willing to compromise, so if you think you know of somewhere vaguely similar please be in touch. I can be contacted at phil.hurst@gmail.com Many thanks Phil Hurst
Fuel supplies - 14/6/08 What on EARTH is going on at the Esso station on Park Road? They've had no diesel since at least Thursday - I had to go and get ripped off at the BP at Buckland today. Others cry "support your local filling station or it'll be gone"... what use without fuel? I have contacted Esso UK and put the question - does anyone have any inside info? I know there's a Shell tanker driver strike but fail to see how this would affect Esso so badly so quickly Peter McGurk Ed(GW) Sorry for the delay in posting - been away.
Residents parking won't solve the problem - 13/6/08 Residents parking in Gloucester Street will increase costs but not the number of parking spaces. The problem is more residents' vehicles than available kerb space. Better parking would help - one jeep is parked in the middle of a space that would take 2 cars off the lines, and has not moved for 3 days. What we need is additional parking space which could be achieved by building a multistory car park on one of the existing sites. A temporary car park could be set up for the duration of building work, if the will was there, on the site of the Peugeot showroom when that is redeveloped. At present the Gloucester Street commuters set off in the morning and are replaced by Faringdon workers and shoppers. In the evening the workers and shoppers go home and the commuters return. That is a fair and efficient use of the available space - we just need more of it. A Gloucester Street Resident Ed(GW) Fish Bros have permission to build houses on the Peugeot garage site. I vote for an underground car park - just needs somewhere and a few £m
Arts Festival is soon - 13/6/08 Hello everyone The Arts Festival is only a few weeks away. You should have started to see our posters around the town. We have now put up a small website for you to have a look at. www.faringdonartsfestival.co.uk Once again, anyone who would like to volunteer to help out during the festival, please give me a call on 01367 246003. Julie Farmer
Did southampton street ever go to southampton? - 13/6/08 just a question for the more informed locals did southampton street ever go to southampton as all other roads head towards there names eg glous st london st marl st. southampton street heads toward that way and the os map shows that the footpath still heads that way though the volly way pass oriel cottages and toward wickelsham but stops at the farm any insight into this would be much welcomed. simon cook
Faringdon Community College is outstanding - 12/6/08 Faringdon is second 'outstanding' Oxfordshire secondary school An Oxfordshire County Council run community college in Faringdon has become the third Oxfordshire school in a few months to be rated 'outstanding' by education watchdog Ofsted. The college's inspection report, published this week, shows Faringdon Community College provides an 'outstanding, caring and supportive environment' in which students flourish both as individuals and as part of the community. See nvpressrelease.htm for more info
To the new resident in Gloucester Street. - 12/6/08 First I would like to welcome you to Faringdon I also live on Gloucester Street and know that parking can be an issue we also only have one car. There is parking available in the Gloucester Street Car Park it is possible to get an annual permit as a resident although this comes at a price! I have thought about contacting the council to find out if they have investigated the option of residents parking on Gloucester Street and London Street as this would make it a more affordable option to all the residents. I would be interested to know what the residents of Gloucester Street think of residents parking as an option. Name Supplied
Can you help? - 12/6/08 I am a young man seeking a daytime assistant while completing my studies at the Defence Academy, provisionally until the end of July. Wages are £7.50/hour and hours would provisionally be between 9-10am and 4-5pm (6-8 hours), although some flexibility and a job share is possible. The ideal candidate would be able to drive our car to the Defence Academy. Once there they would then help me get set up with the task at hand and provide intermittent assistance while I complete the task. In the mean time, they would keep themselves occupied, at the adjacent desk space, while I work (so hopefully they would enjoy reading!). Also, they would have to be comfortable providing a small amount of personal care (although no lifting is involved). There is the possibility of an extension of employment beyond the end date depending on available funding. If interested, please call 240659, or send me an e-mail to mike@leyondar.co.uk Mike Gibson
Music in the Autumn - 12/6/08 Whilst I know there is a wealth of live music coming up a bit of advance notice about a couple of events after the summer. I'm mindful of recent posts about not expecting an audience just because an event is booked but obviously have to let everyone know that it is on. Sat 20 September at The Crown - Jake Shillingford + Supports, better known as the frontman of My life story who were major players in the britpop movement working with such luminaries as Oasis and Pulp and himself an NME award winner is stopping off in Faringdon on his national solo tour. Get a flavour of his music from www.myspace.com/jakeshillingford. On Sat 29 November at The Junior School - This date has been in the whats on diary since the start of the year but can now reveal the headline act as Tommy Hale and The Snakes. Tommy hails from Dallas and teams up with the London based Snakes whenever he tours the UK They are often compared to Neil Young meets Steve Earle meets Exile on Main Street Stones era but with their own unmisstakeable charisma. More info from www.myspace.com/tommyhale Tickets for both shows with at least 2 support slots will be only £5 each. Any questions please mail me at fbpromotions@tiscali.co.uk Hamish Millar
Campaign against dog fouling - 10/6/08 This is a response to an email to VWHDC Environment Warden by a Faringdon Resident applauding the action they are taking to reduce dog fouling and pointing them to the comments on this forum. "The campaign has highlighted certain areas in Faringdon where dog fouling has become a problem in the town. The Council does provide dog bins as a public service in areas of high demand, but has to balance provision against the overall cost to all council taxpayers - i.e. it would be unreasonable to have dog bins all over the place. Wrapped dog waste can be put in a normal litter bin if a dog bin is not available. If no bins are available, dog owners should take dog waste home. Lack of a nearby bin is no excuse to break the law and fail to clean up after your dog, or even, worse, to leave a bag of dog waste lying about. Those people that left bags on our signs were highly irresponsible. The Environment Wardens are working hard to raise awareness to the irresponsible dog owners who do not pick up after their dog. The message we are trying to get across, is that they must clear up after their dog. This would then improve the local environment for all the residents and visitors of Faringdon. The minority of dog walkers who don't pick up will be fined to re-enforce the message that it is an offence not to pick up after your dog. The postings on www.faringdon.org/talkingpoints were interesting to read and the comments will help the council improve the area of Faringdon." Name Supplied
Necessary Pavement Parking!- 10/6/08 On checking this site today (I am fairly new to the area). I have to say that I began to feel rather angry and saddened by the comments about Pavement Parking. I live in the centre of the town (Gloucester Street to be precise) and sometimes have no option but to park on the pavement. I have to say that I only do so when there is no other space available (e.g on my road). When I do park there I must be the only person who actually thinks about whether or not people can pass by - particularly as there are lots of children passing in the morning with younger brothers and sisters in buggies. I also have to add that when I did find a space on my road on one occassion I was kindly blocked in by a neighbour (welcome to the area!) as obviously I didn't see the sign that said it was reserved! Perhaps it would be a good idea if we were all a little bit more tolerant of each other and don't assume that the space outside our house is always ours! I also have to add that I am a one car household. Name Supplied
Using the Bus lane, and police station open times - 10/6/08 I happened to see a vehicle rush up the bus lane yesterday - a posh black land rover type vehicle, with the name French, I think James French on the door. A woman under the town hall waiting for a bus said she had seen 4 other vehicles do the same in a matter of minutes Seems to me that the police only have to lurk about there for a short while to catch quite a few people. I thought I'd go and suggest it to them, but found a notice on the Police Station door to say that the office was only open Tues and Thurs, something like 11 til 3. Not sure if these are now the regular opening times, or just temporary( It used to be every day 10-3) Gene Webb
Council owned Listed buildings - the responsibilities and rules - 9/6/08 I emailed English Heritage asking them for information of the obligations of owners of listed buildings, as often information points to the local Council as the enforcer of the rules. It was not clear what happens if the owner is the enforcing council, as is the case with the Corn Exchange and VWHDC. This was prompted by a comment from a Faringdon councillor at a meeting indicating that VWHDC could do what they wanted with the building as they were the enforcing council. English Heritage said "The legislation governing listed buildings is set out in the Planning (Listed Building and Conservation Areas Act 1990) supported by guidance in Planning Policy Guidance (PPG) 15: Planning and the Historic Environment September 1994. You may find it surprising to learn that there isn’t an explicit statutory duty for an owner of a listed building to maintain it in good repair. This is because the majority of listed buildings are in what is known as beneficial use and therefore it is in the owner’s interest to maintain them and their value. Where there is evidence of an owner deliberately neglecting a building in the hope that it will decay to such an extent that repair is not viable or will fall down, releasing a plot for redevelopment, there are powers in the legislation for the local planning authority and the Secretary of State to take action. The Act does not differentiate between private and public sector owners (i.e. councils) except in the system to determine planning applications and listed building consent applications for those buildings owned by county of district councils. Where the local planning authority both own the building and are the determining authority, any applications for changes have to be referred to the Secretary of State who is advised by English Heritage. The Secretary of state and English Heritage expect local authorities to set a good example in the stewardship of their own historic estates and we have produced advice on managing local authority assets (see the English Heritage website or go to www.HELM.org.uk ). Where a local authority is failing to look after its historic buildings without good reason then the Secretary of State has powers he can exercise but does so very rarely. There are no regulations barring a council from selling a listed property, although the disposal of council assets is governed by other regulations regarding obtaining best value. Any applications for change of use would be considered by the Secretary of State in the usual fashion with reference to the advice of English Heritage. If the council cannot afford to maintain the building then it is open to them to consider disposal or alternative uses which would have to show that they are appropriate and preserve the special interest of the listed building." Then I asked So as I understand it, the council must apply to the secretary of state for any planning application, change of use, or to sell it, and the sec of state office will always contact English Heritage. Please confirm if any of these did happen,- it would be important for local people to know at an early stage- what are the consulting/communication obligations of the council/sec state if any? Would Eng Heritage involve the community? "Essentially that is correct. What usually happens is that a local authority will refer an application direct to the EH regional office and get our advice first and then send the application with EH comments attached to the relevant Government Office (in this case GOSE) who represent the Secretary of State. This is suggested as best practice in the PPG but doesn’t always happen. If the applicant is a County council then they will also consult the relevant local planning authority. All councils have to advertise the applications in the same way as they would “ordinary” private applications. This is usually done through a planning notice on the site and also in the case of a listed building consent application an advert in a local paper. EH act as specialist advisers to both the council or SoS and therefore we do not “involve” the community” Our advice is governed by national policies on the historic environment and whether proposals conform to those policies and preserve the special interest or significance of an individual heritage asset. You might like to take a look at our HELM (Historic Environment Local Management) website which has all of our policy advice and case studies etc and other information on the historic environment go to www.HELM.org.uk" I hope this is useful- it may help FTC and residents (FTC have said we will be consulted if they consider moving offices from the Corn Exchange) decide the best course of action with regard to the Corn Exchange Gene Webb Sorry it's a bit long!
Re- Dog-nappies - 9/6/08 That sounds like something which will have to be bio-degradable? To me it is simple - being a simple soul myself. You have a child, and you have a responsibility to keep it clean. If you have a dog, you have a responsibility to keep it clean, and that means picking up and disposing of its poo. There are 'doggy' bins around the town to put your bagged 'stuff' into and a responsible dog owner will use these. I am a dog owner too, in case you wondered. Mind you I wondered if the Council or whoever is responsible for the bins, could please remove one section of the fencing at the bin next to the Library, please? It's a bit hard to climb over in a skirt! Fiona Merrick
Re: Dog Poo Puzzle - 08/06/08 I completely agree with Mel. Myself also a dog owner and walker around the Folly every day, I do not understand why it is so much to ask, after picking up the poo and putting it in the bag, not to be able to put it in the designated bin. On another note. The signs posted have had a positive effect. I believe that more people are now cleaning up after their dogs. How do I know?... Well have a look at the Dog Bin at the bottom of the path up to the folly. The bin is full and people now have to leave the bags on the ground around the bin. I now hope that the vale will do their part and empty the bin more frequently. I do like to ask the vale if the following would be possible : 1) Add a Dog Bin at the bottom of the main gate on to the Folly fields and folly tower. The gate where cars can go through to go up to the folly or the water works. 2) I bag dispenser. I have seen this in Wales. This is where people can put their spare "plastic" bags so dog walkers can pick one when they have "forgotten" to bring one. This will then leave no excuse for not having one. Raoul van Eijndhoven
Coming Shortly…Dognaps (Diapers for dogs) - 08/06/08 These have been popular in the United States for over two years. As a fashion accessory they are available in many different colours but initially the UK version will only be available in brown and in three sizes. They will be available soon in Faringdon and it is hoped that the dog poo problems and the references to it on this site will both be a thing of the past. Look out for adverts in the local paper. Name supplied
Dirty thoughts - 08/06/08 Being a dog owner who goes out of town for the daily trudge, I'm not familiar with the Folly path, but perhaps the protestors feel that the council should provide frequently sited bins for the doggy disposals? These days there is a cultural expectation that everything should be provided for us, and that we shouldn't have to take responsibility for our mess, doggy, or otherwise. Name supplied
Dog Poo Puzzle - 08/06/08 It is with a weary sigh that I once again put fingers to keyboard, this time, not dog fouling itself but the bizarre behaviour of some dog owners who are now picking up the mess their dog leaves behind, placing it in bags but then proceeding to hang the bag off a sign warning that dog owners not picking up after their dogs at all will be fined. Can anyone tell me the objective behind this peculiar protest? I mean, if you've gone to the length of picking the thing up in the first place, what's the point of then leaving it somewhere? Being a dog owner myself and a frequent complainant to the council and on this site about lazy dog owners not acting responsibily, I would be grateful if one of the protesters would enlighten me as to the purpose of this action. Without an explanation I am bound to continue my general understanding that there is a significant number (NOT ALL RESIDENTS BY ANY MEANS !!!) of residents in Faringdon who are just downright bloody minded, beligerent and like nothing better than to oppose something, anything whether there is a sensible or plausible argument or not. To the residents undertaking their protest I would say that your action lumps you in quite tidily with the people who don't clear up after their dogs, even makes you worse than them since plastic bags don't easily bio-degrade. It's possible that eventually, and due to your seemingly pointless action, dogs may be banned from areas such as the Folly altogether. And since I'm on a roll, I'll throw in that I bet at least one of these protesters whined about the travellers leaving litter on that field. Mel
Food for (canine) thought? - 07/06/08 do the vwdc have the power to inforce on parts of the folly my understanding is there is a public footpath over from the stanford road and around the top and across from the bottom of stanford rd toward old london road. so if you are fouling one of the many tracks around the folly that is is on private land it is nowt to do with the council???. i might be wrong ???? that does not make it right to foul the area . as many of the walker roam the area if it was there own back garden not someones crop. One of worst things is that dog poo spoiling hay made for cattle feed . a well used dog walking field next to orchard hill suffers from this . the farmer has to throw many bales away due to cattle no wanting to eat hay with poo in it. cant blame them????? food for thought for the dog owners of faringdon. Name supplied
FAF Young Film Makers Competition - 07/06/08 Still some Places left on the Workshop being held on the 5th July at Faringdon Business Centre to find out what you can do with Windows Movie Maker. First Prize is a Sony Camcorder. Book your Places by emailing fjsproductions@tiscali.co.uk SCOTT This years Kids Events co-ordinator
Dog Fouling - 06/06/08 Since the Vale of the White Horse District Council have decided to take action against the many people who leave dog mess on the paths leading to the Folly, the situation has got worse. Instead of leaving the mess, people are now bagging it and leaving the bags littering paths, trees and hanging from the Vale of the White Horse signs. As a dog owner I am disappointed and embarrassed with my fellow dog owners’ behaviour and am finding it hard to understand what the problem is. Dog excrement on pavements and verges is truly unpleasant. If you object to the use of plastic bags, find an environmentally friendly option, but don’t bag it and leave it as this is ruining the joy of the folly for everyone else. Would one of the many people who have taken such a strong objection to the signs like to explain why they are now committing the offence of litter instead of the offence of dog fouling? I for one will certainly be giving details of offending owners to the District Council. Name supplied
re: the Fruit & Veg stall first comment - 06/06/08 Well Faringdon is a "Market Town" so let us enjoy any market whether it be on Tuesdays or everyday! Name supplied
FRUIT AND VEG. - 06/06/08 I personally think that anything that has wheels, wheelcairs, pushchairs, prams, buggy's, should be forced to use the roads. Perhaps then I could walk the streets without getting my ankles knocked. I like the fruit and veg stall where it is, much better than skateboarders or idiots on bikes, sorry, what am I thinking, must'nt upset the little darlings, they are so sensitive dont you know! There are so many more important thing to moan about than something that actually makes the market place look good, and as for children being frightened of lorries, ye Gods, someone needs to get out more, we are breeding a generation of pampered over indulged spoit brats, who have little or no respect for us oldies as it is! There we go people, there enough there for you to be incandesent with rage about, pick the bones out of that lot. Victor Meldrew.
Fruit and Veg - 05/06/08 All you have to do is ask them to move something if you are having problems, They are very nice people. Simple really!! Name supplied
Concerned, of Faringdon - 05/06/08 I hope that wheelchair was not using the slip road. Ray
Wheelchair - 05/06/08 I've just noticed a wheel chair zipping accross the market square in between the flowers with no problem!! Name suplied
Fund Raising Opportunity - 03/06/08 Does your voluntary group need to raise funds? The Sealed Knot will be re-enacting the 1646 Battle for Faringdon on 19th & 20th July at Church Path Farm, Faringdon. John Gillman and Focus on Faringdon, the organisers of the event, are keen to involve local community groups and help them to raise funds. Close to the entrance gate, there is an area where we can put some stalls. If your group would like to get involved by having a stall, then please contact Jane Haynes at jane.haynes@bordengate.com or phone 08456 580510 Jane Haynes
More Fruit'n'veg - 03/06/08 I love the fruit/veg/flower stall. It makes the town look alive and if you were driving through it might just encourage you to stop and spend some money! There are paths all the way around the Market Square please let the middle be a market. Name supplied
Fruit'n'veg - 03/06/08 I would like to confirm that I too have experienced little difficulty negotiating the fruit and veg stall. I managed this on Saturday while pushing a pushchair and managed to avoid crashing into anything. I think the stall look fine and stops the Market Place looking like a non-market place. Ray
Pavement Parking - 03/06/08 I don’t think any one believes they have the RIGHT to use the footpaths for parking and I’m sure they don’t do it to make life difficult for pedestrians particularly little old ladies with Zimmer frames. Most simply have nowhere else CONVENIENT to park so are prepared to risk getting a fine. As the risk is minimal, in fact virtually non existent, there will be no change until the police “do something” Name supplied
Fruit/Veg/Flowers - 03/05/08 Is it that tricky ?. I've found it ok with plenty of room to walk about - the middle bit is empty. Considering before the 'improvements' you had to dodge around cars and buses I think it's much nicer and actually looks like a market town should. Now - cars blocking pavements is another matter. Do the owners of the vehicles which park opposite the church, near the Faringdon Clinic really feel it necessary to park across the path ?. I saw an elderly lady with a walking frame trying to pass there last week and couldn't so she had to walk around the car and into the road. This seems to be happening all over the place now - London Street, Ferndale Street also. Why do people feel they have the right to use the path as a car park ?. There are some very thoughtless and selfish people about. Name supplied
THE FRUIT AND VEG STALL COME FLOWER STALL. - 02/06/08 I am just writing to see if anyone feels the same as me about the stall that is now in the Market Place. This stall that was once a fruit and veg. stall has now decided to sell flowers and take up all the pavement in the middle of the town. Their flowers are spread out all over the pavement making it difficult to get past with wheelchairs, pushchairs and even as a pedestrian. Does the stall have permission to take up all this space? Other peoples comments on this matter would be appreciated. Name supplied
Big Faringdon Gig, Junior School Saturday 5th July -02/06/08 It was good to hear the much awaited new music from David Reynolds new band on Saturday evening at the 15 minute club and I eagerly await the opporutinty to hear the full set. The full set of course will be premiered at the Big Faringdon Gig. We are still looking for a few more volunteers to help out on the bar and the door. If you can help please get in touch via our website. Tickets are now on sale at Budgens and 'Sandwich Phillers' www.bigfaringdongig.com Sean Hodgson
Volunteers needed, Windmill Open Day - 02/06/08 WESTMILL WINDFARM OPEN DAY 21st June 11am-4pm, Volunteers needed for general stewarding & car parking. Can you help for a couple of hours perhaps? Call 01367-241707, or email sjoerd@ecoweek.info Sjoerd Vogy
Re:Litter. - 02/06/08 Absolutely agree with you. However, trying a letter to the Town Council, who can pass it on to the District Council whose responsibility it is, might have more effect. The Town Council is here in an advisorately capacity. They can't make any rules and as the councillors are Independent, Labour and Conservative, whereas the District Council is Lib Leb they are there in a lose, lose situation. Please volunteer to join the council. We need new members!! Councllor J Boulton
15 Minute Club - 01/06/08 Well if you haven't been to the monthly 15min club then you are all seriously missing out. We all went along last night and the now infamous Dave Reynold's pulled another rabbit out of the hat with a great selection of performers and all for two small quid each! Its on every last Saturday of the month at the Coaching Inn, try it out, if you like a variety of live music you'll love it to death. Andy Patyra

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