Faringdon News & Views

faringdon-online community web site home	talking points
	january - february 2007

Re: IHT e-Petition - 27/2/07 Perhaps the e-signers of this petition would like to suggest how the IHT lost would be offset - higher income tax, VAT or council tax perhaps? (Or maybe by scrapping recycling schemes since everybody moans about them.....) I for one do not agree with a petition requesting that the poor living should subsidise the rich dead! Name supplied
On the subject of recyling - 25/2/07 I'm not sure the finger should be pointed directly at the recycling operators - I have witnessed some of the 'youth' of Faringdon on their evening walk abouts and nightly mischief making sessions upsetting the contents of our green bins, throwing the lids around and generally causing chaos etc. On the subject of mischief making 'they' seem rather preoccupied with throwing themselves off the scaffolding on Gloucester Street, and throwing things at passers by for the time being. We have just painted our green boxes, 'stolen from ....' - perhaps that might embarrass folk into returning them should they too go walkabout!!! Elsie
Rubbish ! -25/2/07 In West Swindon after a visit from the bin men collecting recyclables or general rubbish there is hardly ever any leftover mess. Householders are provided with a free smart wheelie bin which must be left in an easily accessible position but that isn't too much of a hardship. So why can their binmen leave a nice tidy environment and Faringdon's can't? It could be because their bins are only emptied every other week, they must not contain more than 4 bags and the lid must be fully closed. In Faringdon there is a weekly collection and you are allowed to put out unlimited bags, which are sometimes torn, and almost ANYTHING will be taken away. In addition you have a local tip where the helpful staff give the impression that they enjoy sorting through rubbish. Your binmen may not be perfect but they could be a great deal worse and I know what I am talking about!! Harold Steptoe
HIYA HARRY. - 25/2/07 Well, I have given you a misspelled word for you to feel superior about, as agreed in our rules of engagement ( How to put people in their place,Book 4, revised 1999, page 7, paragraph 4, available from Faringdon Online Publishing, £29.99.). It seems that this time around you have chosen to be the victim, a roll you play so well, my friend, so let games comence. my opening salvo is this, If your nature didn't lead you to trample everyone in your path that cannot spell, or is not able to be grammatically correct, with vindictive glee, you might just be tolerable. kindest regards, Jim Horton.
RE: RE: Work Pride - 25/2/07 I agree with you but, Have you seen the speed at which the recycling men work at, I suggest its a little less to do with work pride on there part and more to do with a lack of time given to them to do there job to a decent standard by there employers. Perhaps extra staff, vehicles and funding are required in the long term. or maybe a follow up vehicle I suggest we help them out by dividing our rubbish further so they don't have to sort it at the wagon. Perhaps if we do that they could help us by not throwing our boxes around the street when there done, spewing any left overs around with them. Mark
RE: Work Pride?? - 24/2/07 I quite agree. We are getting fed up having to go out and pick up all the recycling the gangs drop in our road. This is usually an assortment of plastics, broken glass (do they go out of their way to smash the glass on the road), tin can lids etc. It's so bad now that we are considering boycotting the scheme completely. All we ask is that they take a bit of pride in what they do and pick up what they drop. Is it too much to ask? Annoyed
Jim/Harry Identity - 23/2/07 In July 2006 I posed the same question as "confused of Faringdon" about the relationship between Jim and Harry. At the time there was another suggestion that they are both a wicked invention of the Editors who resurrect them periodically when the site appears to be getting too serious for too long. As far as is known they (if indeed there are two them) have never come to blows because it is very obvious that while one of them is a belligerent troublemaker and the other is a patient friendly type it is impossible to decide which one is which. Whatever the truth of the matter the occasional bit of friction does the site no harm. In fact I would be interested to hear if anyone knows of any locally produced site which can match this one for information or entertainment. Doubting Thomas
Town Councillors wanted - 23/2/07 If you are passionate about our Town and how it is run and would like to take part in the decision making process you would be a perfect candidate for the Town Council. Applications for potential councillors are now under way - if we have more than 14 people standing we will need to have an election, something that we have not had for a number of years! If you are interested please contact June Rennie, Town Clerk, at the Town Council Offices in The Corn Exchange on 01367 240281. PLEASE HELP MAKE THIS TOWN A DEMOCRACY!! ITS YOUR TOWN, YOU HAVE A VOICE!! Name supplied
Odds and Ends Update -23/2/07 1. 18 Coxwell Road. The first phase of this development will be installing the access road and that will be fairly soon. The main work will begin in mid summer. So I am told. 2. I think The Folly Star is now extinguished .so for the last time this year...Thank you Peter 3. The e-petition against the Inheritance Tax has attracted over 91,000 signatures so far and has another month to run. If you're interested go to http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/ihtcrusade and register your displeasure. Probably no-one will take any notice but it will make you feel better. HGM
Work pride ?? - 23/2/07 Just picked up my green recycling bin from the front of the house. Instead of replacing the lid, or at least putting it in the bin, the collectors kindly threw it onto some daffodills that had been growing. Work pride eh!! Grumpy
THAR'S RITE ON FORM HARRY -22/2/07 I knew, just like a hornets nest, if I poked you hard enough with a barbed stick you would come out buzzing. Of course this cannot be a battle of wits between you and I, as I never pick on an unharmed man! Jim Horton
Confused of Faringdon - 22/2/07 Now I'm confused! Are Harry and Jim one and the same perhaps?! Name supplied
What Happened to the Real Jim Horton? -20/2/07 At first I thought the message had really come from Jim. But when I looked more closely I could see it wasn't him. The childish challenge fooled me for it was just his style. And the pointless "Yah Boo" attitude did fool me for a while. But then I had another look and knew it was a fake Lots of words, but unlike Jim's, not even one mistake. Harry
WHERE'S HARRY? -20/2/07 Harry, it all looks like it needs livening up, are you coming out to play? I have not had a good argument for ages. Any subject you like, what role would you like?. It surely must be your turn to be the antagonist. What about this proposed tax to drive a car into the centre of Faringdon? Having the Christmas light all year round up at the Folly? We owe it to the "Ladies of the site" See you at break time. Jim Horton Ed: Yes Harry - where are you?
FAF Writing Comp? - 19/2/07 Have just been on the FAF blog and there's mention of a writing competition but no details. Does anyone know what it's all about? Name Supplied
Increased Flickering -18/2/07 Thanks to Talking Points, for helping us raise the profile of Flickr in Faringdon. Since my posting here last Monday the group has nearly doubled in size from 10 to 19, which is brilliant. There's plenty of room for more people who take photos to join. The virtual group is planning to meet up soon, so take a closer look at www.flickr.com/groups/faringdon/ and dive into the photo pool. Al Cane
Madd Mayfest - 18/2/07 M.a.D.D. Mayfest is opening it's festival this year with a concert by The Soothsayers in the Market square. Friday 4th May 9pm Sam Prince
Road Pricing - 14/2/07 The idea of tracking every vehicle at all times is sinister and wrong. Road pricing is already here with the high level of taxation on fuel. The more you travel - the more tax you pay. The proposed new road pricing and travel tax will be an unfair tax on those who live apart from families and poorer people who will not be able to afford the high monthly costs. You have until the 20th of February to add your name to a petition (currently running at over a million people). If there are not enough signatures against this then this Government will impose this on everyone. The government's proposal to introduce road pricing will mean you having to purchase a tracking device for your car and paying a monthly bill to use it. The tracking device will cost about £200 and in a recent study by the BBC, the lowest monthly bill was £28 for a rural florist and £194 for a delivery driver. A non working mother who used the car to take the kids to school paid £86 in one month. On top of this massive increase in tax, you will be TRACKED!!!!. Somebody will know where you are at all times. A George Orwellian 1984 Big Brother scenario will be a reality. They will also know how fast you have been going, so even if you accidentally creep over a speed limit in time you can probably expect a Notice of Intended Prosecution with your monthly bill. If you care about our freedom and stopping the constant bashing of the car driver, please sign the petition on No 10's new website (link below) and encourage as many other people as possible to add their names to the list. http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/traveltax Name Supplied
Just Faffing About! - 13/2/07 Some might think that Faffing about is simply wasting time, but in fact in sunny Faringdon to FAF is simply divine! To FAF round here is lots of fun - music,dance and beer Yes you've guessed, by FAF I mean the Arts Festival is near! The end of the week, a balmy night and what is there to do? Come join the festive market place and have a drink (or two!...) The stage is up, the bands are ready and music (not too loud!) Fills the air and permeates the ears of the awaiting crowd! Friday night goes down a treat - the planning was not in vain. Saturday comes, we've all recharged and come back to do it again! This time children run about, there's dancing shows and clowns, Faces painted, spirits up, there are no tears and frowns! 'So what's the reason for this rhyme?' I hear you readers say! Well volunteers are what we need (I'm sorry we can't pay!) So if you're free to lend a hand, either now or on the day Pick up the phone, give Julie a call - act now please don't delay! Anon (For obvious reasons - I won't give up the day job!) Faringdon Arts Festival will run on July 6th,7th and 8th. If you are able to lend us a hand we'd love to hear from you! Contact Julie Farmer 01367 246003 or email at julie@mypabusiness.com
MADD - 13/2/07 As part of this years M.A.D.D. May Fest Saturday night (5th May), at the Junior school, it will be made available for local musicians to take centre stage,preceeding Faringdon's KIFF. Slots for the night are limited. Please contact Sam or Hilary on 01367-243806. sam@nprince.fslife.co.uk
TOWN CENTRE "IMPROVEMENTS" -13/2/07 Has anyone else noticed thealarming dip in the road or pothole (if you prefer it ) right slap in the middle of the narrowest bit of the "improved" town centre - the carriageway between the Nut Tree and Bargain Centre ? I wonder for how many weeks the traffic flow will be disrupted while this obviously botched piece of road is repaired ? Perhaps someone from the Town/District/CountyCouncil would like to put us all in the know about when this is to be fixed and how long it will take. While I am on, congratulations to whoever it was who removed the ridiculous anti-nuclear poster which was displayed prominently a column of the old town hall last Saturday. Obviously, like me, the person concerned was tired of having the political views of the few forced fed down his/her throat. Peter Hawkins
Roadworks last year - responses - 13/2/07 regarding london street road works last year they started in january and finished march I hope that helps Denise Palmer Melanie, i can't remember when the work took place but it was at the beginning of the year as it was cold. You could ask in the barber shop as I remember that they were mightily miffed by the whole thing. Ray Ed: Thanks both of you
Flickering Faringdon -12/2/07 Just to let readers know that there are now 10 local photographers in the Faringdon and District Flickr group. For the uninitiated Flickr is a free to join photo sharing on line service, hosted by Yahoo. The Faringdon group was formed by Ivor Hunt last November,(and he administers it) and now has well over 250 photos on it, all from the local area, and growing by the day. There are many photos of last week's snow scenes on it, taken by at least three of its members. The beauty of it is that it is free to join, easy to use, but you do need a camera and a broadband connection, and you can leave a comment on any photo you see. Every conceivable subject on the planet is represented somewhere within it. To go straight to the Faringdon bit of it, go to www.flickr.com/groups/faringdon/ Anyone with a camera is invited to join or just have a look. I must stress that Flickr is not elitist and doesn't differentiate between happy snapper and professional. Al Cane (one of the 10)
Waste watchers - 12/2/07 On the 10th March Faringdon Waste Watchers will be co-ordinating another Swap Shop to build on the success of last year's event - it's a great opportunity to get rid of all your unwanted clutter on the principle of 'One man's meat...', and help reduce the amount that Faringdon sends for landfill - if you see anything you want just take it! If you need them, green balloons advertising your participation will be available from Andy, please call 241289 for details. -- or find out more on 24/2/07, Old Town Hall, 9.30am - 12.30 CAG info on www.cagoxfordshire.org.uk:80/ Andy Ed: Where is it? What do I do with Green balloons?
Faringdon Arts Fest - 12/2/07 Have you seen this blog spot. Go have a look http://www.faf07.blogspot.com/ Name supplied
London St Roadworks - when?- 12/2/07 Can anyone tell us when the major work to London Street was undertaken in 2006 approximately? The reason I need to know is because a lorry diverted itself down Ferndale street and has damaged our wall. In order to claim on our insurance we need to report it to the police but we need to know when it happened to do so. Can anyone help? I tried phoned the Highways agency in Oxford but they were all out. Melanie Lane
Lost watch - 11/2/07 Watch lost outside Faringdon Baptist Church in Bromsgrove, Sunday 11th February. I'd be so grateful for its return - of sentimental value. Thanks Sarah 07795 034 843
A UK First:Faringdon First - 10/2/07 I'm delighted to have my 'Framed Poetry' for sale on the internet by Le Ruepress.com I'm also hoping to draw attention to the courses starting up at the Community College on the 19th Feb. Do you have an interest in Creative Writing? Contact the College for details. Or take a look at my 'Framed Poetry'in the window of theTrevor Wynn('Nut Tree') in Faringdon. The owner is a Chamber of Commerce member and keen to promote the town,as we all are. http://linktiles.com?tile=641 Cleveland W. Gibson
Young artists - congrats - 9/2/07 My only excuse is that I was so busy enjoying the lights, Christmas tree and all that Faringdon has to offer over the Festive Season that I didn't get round to this before. I guess it's never too late to applaud the young talent in Faringdon and, of course, those who encourage its development. So, congratulations to the budding artists and to Paul for displaying their drawings in the window of Harpers Estate Agents for the third year running. Sheila. PS If any pupils of Faringdon's schools wants to design a poster for the Arts Festival, go to www.faf07.blogspot.com to register your interest. (You might want to tell your teacher about it too!)
The Firebird. -9/2/07 Apt name for a cold night. A few comments from people who were at the Corn Exchange. "Beautiful and heart warming on a cold eve. Thank you- will be back when you are". Really enjoyable show,enchanted us all. Please come back to Faringdon again". " I liked it so so so so so so MUCH, it was really cool" There are many more comments but I would like to say it was a pleasure to be involved with the Oxfordshire Touring Theatre Company and look foward to the next time. A very professional performance. Sam and Hilary (M.A.D.D.)
Maps of Faringdon - 8/2/07 Hopefully most of you will still have the free map of the town- distributed last year. We had quite a few printed, and have some spare ones. Has anyone any ideas of how these could be used.?? Maybe schools could make use of a few - to support a project based around Faringdon. Similarly brownies, cubs may be interested. But that is the limit of my ideas!! Anyone got any more? Gene Webb
"Free" Christmas Lights -8/2/07 Ray's comments about the Peter White v Council in-fighting are understandable but he misunderstands the situation. This website doesn't make business decisions. All it does, and does very well, is provide a forum for differing views. It is obvious that most of the decision makers who really have the good of the community as a priority now take into account the opinions expressed here though it is equally obvious that some still adopt an outdated patronising attitude. As far as discussion about the financial background to Peter's contribution is concerned I personally enjoy the bickering. I assume that we never get the full story but am not too bothered as long as we continue to benefit each year. HGM
Operations Controller wanted - 7/2/07 Simplyicons are looking to recruit a full-time Operations Co-ordinator. Based in Faringdon, this is a new position within a growing company. The role would ideally suit someone with previous experience of Operations, order processing or co-ordination. Really someone who is used to prioritising and problem solving within an office environment. They would also be responsible for the day to day running of the office as well as liaising with customers (at all levels) and suppliers. MS Office is essential. This is an exciting role within an enthusiastic team who are expanding to meet demand. To apply please send your CV to info@simplyicons.com or for further details call Paula on 0845 859 8000.
Happy Snapping - 6/2/07 I have just noticed that the Vale of the White Horse District Council are holding a Photographic Competition which has the theme 'Beauty and Blight'. The competition aims to capture images of the beauty or the blight of the Vale, or a combination of the two. There are four categories Primary School, Secondary School, Adults and Groups and the closing date is 16th Feb. I thought some of TP readers might enjoy this opportunity to capture Faringdon's beauty and blight (I can just imagine the photo's of the latter if TP is anything to go by!). The poetry competition found lots of talented poets - perhaps we also have lots of talented photographers too?! Further details here: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/council_and_democracy/council_news/news0012.asp Happy snapping! Anna
With regard to these free Christmas lights -6/2/07 As laudable as Pete White's offer is, I don't think a forum on a community website is the best place to make a business decision. If he wants to give Faringdon free Christmas lights then surely he should put in a tender like anyone else wanting to do business with the council? That way the council can weigh up his proposal against the existing arrangement and then make a rational decison. At the moment it seems (to me at least) that there is some personal animosity between Mr White and various councillors and making the offer here is a way to playing to the public gallery. I think it would be great to get free lights that were as good or better than this year's (which were excellent)and thus spend the money on something else. I just don't think this is the place to make the decison. Thanks Ray
Cars magazine - 6/2/07 I have 2 largish bundles from 1974 and 1976 - not in pristine condition, but not bad Any suggestions as to where I might find out their worth? Gene Webb
Something new? Something different? -5/2/07 Why not try an evening short course or workshop at Faringdon Community College? Digital Photography for Beginners – 5 weeks An Introduction to Acting (for adults) – 5 weeks Scrapbooking – 5 weeks Cookery for You – 5 weeks Modern Medicines – 1 session Food Additives – 1 session What More Can my Computer Do? – 1 session COST £25 for 5 week session / £5 for 1 session Week beginning 19th February 2007 - on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Log on to the school website: www.faringdon-cc.oxon.sch.uk , under adult learning and lifestyle for more information . . or Email: jd0051@faringdon-cc.oxon.sch.uk
xmas lights -4/2/07 I think Pete whites offer is great because the good causes in Faringdon will benefit. It will also keep the money local, if you have a group or charity in the area that will benefit from this, than why not put your name forward on this website, then maybe the council will take notice. Name supplied
Faringdon Arts Festival & the Faringdon Community Action Group recycling initiative Swap Shop and recycling - 4/2/07 In his post Andy Hayter mentioned another year dedicated to Re-using, Reducing and Recycling - and swop shops - well there could be a really grateful recipient of recyling - The July Faringdon Arts Festival They need a lot of help to be able to put on an important historical display of Antique Needlework tools, workboxes and textiles - but to do this they need to find suitable display cases - see this month's Folly on Page 15 ref the exhibition .......... and also the festival blog at http://faf07.blogspot.com/2007/01/needlepoint-exhibition.html So... Before you throw away those velvet curtains (Needed to line display boxes & provide a nice backdrop to displays) - or auntie's glass doored china cabinet or even your Austin Powers 1970's glass fronted bookcase/cocktail cabinet - we "may" be able to adapt it & recycle it - Wouldn't it be great if we managed to put on this exhibition without buying or destroying new resources - WE could even put up a sign - Yes we KNOW the display cabinets don't match - BUT they are not meant to - In the spirit of the original creators of these exhibits we are attempting to make do, mend & borrow too!! So.......If you are an antiques dealer or car booter expert - do you have one of those glass lidded tabletop displays we can borrow to display tiny precious items? Are you an ace DIY'er or carpenter or picture frame maker - can you help us turn unwanted and unloved junk into a secure way of displaying these beautiful items? Are you an electrician that can help fit lighting into these display cases? Can you fit locks to cabinets? Or do you have some spare padlocks? If we find some donated items do you have a van or estate car to help move it to or around Faringdon from the donor? Do you have some storage space available where these recycled treasures can be stored pre and post makeover before they are used for the exhibition? PLEASE contact 07847 106577 or 01367 24155 or 0845 859 1720 with any donations of potentially suitable display cabinets - or e mail us via faringdon@nostalgianeedlework.info many thanks Nostalgia Needlework
Health Walk scheme a reality for Faringdon & Shrivenham -3/2/07 Residents in Faringdon and Shrivenham have welcomed the idea of having a Health Walk scheme. This was demonstrated by the number of calls that have been received on the subject and the very good turn out at the Public Meeting and Taster walk that was held in the Pump House on 25th January. Local Public Health Manager, Anne Ambler, gave a brief overview of the health benefits of taking more physical activity and stressed the importance of reversing the trend of inactivity and becoming fitter and healthier, thus stemming the tide of medical conditions such as coronary heart disease and type 2 diabetes which are often preventable. This was followed by a bracing walk around Faringdon in the beautiful Winter sun which everyone enjoyed. Health Walk schemes rely on local people coming forward and volunteering to lead walks for other people, a role which is both fun and surprisingly satisfying. The walks are very safe for people who have done little or no activity recently, or those who are recovering from an illness or operation. The reason why they are so safe is because there are 2 leaders on every walk and they receive training to ensure that they know how to tailor the walk for different people and enable everyone to enjoy the activity. We would now like to recruit further volunteer leaders to enable this scheme to start off and continue with a flourish. To build on the enthusiasm of residents in Faringdon and Shrivenham we have arranged a training session for potential walk leaders on Thursday 1st March, starting at 9.30am and finishing at 3pm. Undertaking the walk leader training does not commit walkers to lead the walks, but it is hoped that many may go on to do so. Please contact Brian Conroy, 01993 704007, or Anne Ambler, 01235 205588, if you would also like to attend. A nice lunch will be provided and also there will be a walk in the afternoon starting from outside the Tourist Information Office, which anyone would be most welcome to come to.
Petty Crime - 3/2/07 Victim of a strange petty crime on Friday. Door bell rang about 8.30pm and no one there. Neither was the door bell push. It had been ripped off the door and someone no doubt nearby; then kept ringing it. We had a radio type of door bell so all we had to do was switch it off. But why steal a door bell push?. Havent bothered to report it as see no mileage in it. Colin Eddy
DEATH TAX -3/2/07 There is a petition on the Downing Street website asking that the Inheritance Tax should be scrapped. It might not do any good but it can't do any harm so if you feel like adding to it have a look at the website or just go to http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/ihtcrusade Hopeless optimist Ed: Done!! but not holding my breath!
Pianist wanted - 31/1/07 I know of lots of people in Faringdon who would love to sing for pleasure - people who may not be able to read music and who want something recreational rather than serious singing - a sort of community choir. I know of one musician who is prepared to get involved, but she'd like somone to play the piano, while she directs. It won't be a week in week out sort of thing - perhap 2 lots of 6/8 weeks in the Autumn and Jan- March- not the summer Faringdon has many many musicians - is there someone who would liked to get involved?? Gene Webb
DJing and MCing -30/1/07 When Stephen Day moves to glorious Faringdon I would be glad to hear from him. Could he contact me on allan.oconnor@oxfordshire.gov.uk. And if there is anyone who would like to trim the hedge at the front of the Cromwell Centre I would also like hear from them. Allan O'Connor
Writers Group - 29/1/07 I have now made contact about a Writing Group. Rather surprised at what happened to those who were members of a writing group some time ago, as advertised in the 'Faringdon What's On'. Any writers or poets still left in Faringdon? I wonder... http://linktiles.com?tile=641 Cleve Gibson
Writers Group - 29/1/07 Hi, I'm interested in joining a local Writer's group, but I'm not hugely computer savi and haven't managed to make contact online. Could anyone give me contact details, or could the Ed send my contact detail on? Thanks for helping. Sarah Fuller Ed: sent to Cleve Gibson
ROOFERS -29/1/07 Anyone have any recommendations for good roofers out there? I have a flat roof that needs replacing and can't find anyone who wants to take the job on. Is a ground floor extension roof. Also, need the back of my house repointing. Would be great to get done at the same time if possible. Any help would be gratefully received. Thanks Sue
Lasting lights - 26/1/07 I think Peters proving that his lamp bulbs last longer than the Town Councils. Charlie Harman
Award winning Enterprise Gateway - 26/1/07 Congratulations to the Faringdon Enterprise Gateway, who have just won another award in recognition of their hard work. In 2006 the Enterprise Gateway was awarded PROUSE STATUES for their support in helping women in Business. This week they received an award from the Oxfordshire Education Business Partnership as Investors in Education. David North the Gateway Director and Jane Haynes the Gateway Co-ordinator went to collect the award. Well done and congratulations to you both, for all your hard work in making the Enterprise Gateway a success and the flagship of all Gateways. Without such organisations as the Gateway new and young business could struggle to find the support that you generously provide for FREE. Faringdon has a lot to thank you for. As a shameless advert, anyone thinking about setting up a business or needs business advice contact David or Jane on 0845 458 3080 or visit the website at www.faringdongateway.co.uk Julie Farmer myPA Busienss Ltd
New to Faringdon - 25/1/07 Mr & Mrs M I moved to Faringdon in July 2006 from Didcot and have to say that I really love living here. Everyone is really friendly - people actually acknowledge you on the street! There are some good shops, restaurants and pubs too! I'd say look forward to moving and enjoy everything the town has to offer! Sue
PETER PANIC. -25/1/07 Last seen going off to Never-Never land to sort out a nasty ticking of a clock, if you need to contact him, it's third star on the right, and carry straight on to morning, hope this helps. Tink xx
DJing and MCing for Youth - 25/1/07 Hello all, my partner and I are soon to move to Faringdon from the even more backwater town of Didcot. I have to say that the youth culture that you experience in Faringdon is no different and no greater in problems to that in Didcot. The only way to help stop the vandalism etc is to give young people a place to go (the new youth club should help) and something to do. I've been working in a voluntary capacity with a youth project in Didcot for over year now getting Young People into DJing and MCing. The project has been made a success by getting young people who would be deemed a "nuisance" off the streets for a night and channeling their efforts into something more rewarding. I'm not suggesting that a project like this will be resolve all of Faringdons problems but it may well help give a nights respite to the town as a whole. If the organizers of the Youth Club read this and wish to implement something like this I would be happy to help out and give some advice once i'm settled into Faringdon life. Stephen Day Ed: Welcome to Faringdon and thankyou for your offer of help. The County Youth worker who has made the Youth Club possible is Allan O'Connor
Corn Exchange - Sound Proofing - 25/1/07 I've just heard that FTC have budgetted £16k for the sound proofing of the Corn Exchange, but whether it is done depends on discussions with VWHDC about the terms and conditions of the lease Gene Webb
Peter where are you ? - 24/1/07 I know that Santa Claus exists because the mince pie and carrot which I left out for him disappeared. I am not too sure about the Tooth Fairy or the Easter Bunny. I have always believed that anyone leaving their decorations up after Twelfth Night will be taken away by the Fairies and much as I enjoy the Folly Star which is still giving pleasure to Faringdonians I am a bit concerned about Peter White. Gene said she saw him on the 13th. The Town decorations were splendid this year but I would hate to think that next Christmas, when we will need Peter again, he is reported as missing. Has anyone else seen him recently? Worried
Town Meeting 22/1- 24/2/07 Many people attended - I would guess about 60, made up mostly of fire fighters and live music supporters- usually there are fewer than 10 members of the public at these meetings I didn't stay for all of it, but the 2 subjects I did hear were a presentation from the Fire Service and the sound proofing issue in the Corn Exchange. Fire Service It seems there has been about 40% of occasions when the second appliance in Faringdon has not been used due to lack of crew. Each appliance costs £250000, so it is unacceptable that they should not be fully utilised. The fire service are looking at a number of possibilities - recruiting more crew, asking existing crew to commit more hours, moving the 2nd appliance to Wantage. If Faringdon is to keep the second appliance, then more retained(part time) crew are needed. Read the consultation document and comment online Corn Exchange The discussion was about whether the Council should budget £20k to soundproof the Corn Exchange windows, so that live music may continue. It should be noted that the Corn Exchange belongs to VWHDC, and until the sound issues recently, discussion about the lease conditions between FTC and VWHDC were taking place. There is currently no lease Options put forward by Town Council 1 No sound proofing, use the building for anything except live music. Discos probably OK 2 Install sound proofing, cost of £20k for initial work. No guarantees that this will resolve the sound issues, and there will be no further complaints 3 Choose not to lease the Corn Exchange from VWHDC, and move Council offices to Pump Rooms. It is not known what VWHDC would do with the building. 4 Consider franchising the hall operation to local music promoters, who would take on licensing and sound proofing costs The vote was as indicated in the post below. FTC indicated that this would not necessarily mean that they would decide to soundproof the hall Further information FTC are obliged to budget £5k pa to build a maintenance fund for the Corn Exchange One councillor said that the draft lease indicated that if FTC, having formally leased the building, decided not to continue the lease, FTC (us!!) would be obliged to redecorate and renew the floor on termination. The Corn Exchange needs updating - the cloakrooms(are they hygienic??), the bar, the decor (that's my view) FTC have spent many £'000s on the Pump House, and it is underused(the Mayor's words). There is space for FTC to move their offices there VWHDC run the cash office, and this is under threat of closure The Junior School governors may not be willing for their hall to be used more frequently than once a month My View It's a tricky one - the live music in Faringdon and it's spin offs, is wonderful.--it must continue. It and the Festivals have transformed the vitality of the town But the Corn Exchange, our only community hall, is unsuitable for some events- Faringdon Dramatics. It is in much need of updating- it is not up market enough to be used for private functions- so there is much more money to spend What we really need is a purpose built community hall/performance venue- but where could it go? Where would the money come from? I like the idea of developing the Junior School hall to become a community hall - maybe build a greenroom and bar. It is a publicly owned building, but I guess if the education authority and the governors don't want it to happen, then it won't. It just seems to make sense - school buildings are mostly only used for 30ish weeks of the year, and seldom in the evenings by the school. Towns the size of Faringdon can't sustain 1 of everything - so we need to be imaginative and cooperative to make the most of what we have. Thoughts anyone? I think FTC were to make the decision Wed 24/1 Gene Webb
Car Parking -23/1/07 Why should Budgens be to blame for the ticket machines?? It has been pointed out before that the carpark is maintained by the council. Of Mels £7.50 I'd guess that about 30% of that is Budgens mark up so they have around £2.50 to pay for wages, electricity, gas, telephone charges, buildings insurance, employees insurance, pension funds, tax, national insurance, rates and all the other costs in running a business. That is why there is a minimum of £10.00!!! Do people think that if you give a shop say, £7.50, that this is ALL profit??? I also thought it was common knowledge that you can park anywhere in Faringdon as there is no policing of the car parking because of lack of resources. Therefore, why not just stop outside Bugdens, placing your hazard lights on so not to cause an accident, run in, do your shopping and return to your car. This way, you need not pay for parking, there is no local police presence to worry about, the response time from Wantage police is about 20 minutes and you can stop the boy racers from speeding too by gridlocking Faringdon, excellent!!!! Max Packing
Corn Exchange - Town Meeting -22/1/07 I'd just like to say a big thank you to Steve Leniec and Siobhan Vinall for their support, great preparation and presentation at tonight's Town Meeting and to all of you who attended. Option 2 to support the funding of the secondary double glazing received 53 votes, the other 3 options polled 2 votes between them. The Town Council still need to approve this spend but with such overwhelming support, this surely won't be an issue? Dave Porter
Car Parking Again -22/1/07 Further to last year's postings about the despised tight-fisted parking ticket machine at the council car park near Budgens - I went there this morning just to pick up a pint of milk on my way back from Oxford. Making sure I obtained a receipt so Budgens could give me my 40p back I went into the shop. Got milk, bread, cheese and a paper and went to the checkout to be informed that I couldn't have a refund unless I spent £10. I'd spent £7.50 I'm going to the garage for emergency supplies in future. Mel Lane
Christmas Lights reply to Gene Webb - 21/1/07 As Chair of Faringdon Retailer Group we are in the process with the council of replacing all none working christmas lights. When testing individually they seemed to work when all switched on others failed to but rather then getting into all this maybe you can come into Presentations and discuss or maybe other interested parties can and actually find out the correct facts! Denise Palmer Ed: I have no interest in Christmas lights(bah humbug) - but I did comment on the lack of response to Peter Whites generous offer( 3/1/07). It is he you need to make contact with and encourage his involvement - as an experienced electrician, he could probably diagnose the problem as well as provide a solution
New to Faringdon - 21/1/07 My Wife and I are moving to Faringdon in March/April. We have stayed over to get a feel of the place and had a walk around the Folly, ate out at the lovely Market restaurant, had drinks in the pubs and stayed in the Bell all of which were very good indeed. We think the place is beautiful and everybody seems very friendly. I was wondering if there are any other good or bad points you may want to share with us, the ONLY thing we can find as a bad point may be parking, but we realise it's a busy little town. Is there any parking spaces for rent or is there a car park that will provide parking near by, or is there anybody who lives in the Gloucester Street area who can tell us how they cope with parking? Any info will be greatly appreciated. Many thanks! Mr&Mrs M. Ed: Welcome!! You can buy a permit for £100 pa for the Gloucester St carpark. See http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/transport_and_streets/parking/parkingpermits.asp I think Faringdon is a good place to live - but we do have our share of litter, dog mess, yobbish behaviour
Youth Centre - 19/1/07 At a meeting of the Planning and Regulations Committee (County Council) approved the change of use for the Cromwell Centre to become a youth centre. We will occupy the building in the next 4 weeks although some repair and refurbishment is required and will take several months to complete before we fully open. Young people from the town were fundamental in securing the necessary approval and this is their success. Allan O'Connor Youthworker
Please support Council Meeting 22/1/07 - 19/1/07 Further to Dave Porter's rallying cry to support the town council meeting next Monday...please also note that there are well deserving causes that benefit from fund raising gigs held in the Corn Exchange. Failure to resolve the Corn Exchange sound reduction plan will have a knock on effect throughout the whole community - please support! Name supplied
Re: Important Planning Application 18/01/07. - 19/1/07 I have tried to access VWHDC online planning system several times, particularly for more info on the Coxwell Road development, which I understand includes proposals to change the road layout, but I'm having some difficulty. The site invites me to go to menu on the site but it doesn't exist! I recently tried to access the Bloor Homes application and after several failed attempts discovered that access could be achieved only by reversing the information provided in VWHDC letter to properties on the boundaries of the site, and then only by completing one of the two required fields. It would appear that VWHDC are not making it as easy to view these planning proposals as they would have us believe. Hang in there and after half a dozen e-mails to the address on the site, you might manage to access the information you want to look at. Of course, you could go to the council offices (if you're not at work 9-12.30am weekdays) and wade through boxes of papers... Personally, I'm quite happy with Bloor Homes proposal, having taken the trouble to visit their exhibition in the Pump House, but would like to know more about Winslow House, Coxwell Road development. However, I understand from informed sources that there is no obligation on the developers to stick with their proposed plan (or perhaps no planning dept 'policing'?) once planning permission has been granted. Can this be true? Am I just being paranoid here? Click on the link given on this site, and maybe you can get closer to the nitty-gritty than I have managed. But then this computer stuff is all a bit beyond the grasp of this pensioner. If I attend the meeting on 23 January at the Corn Exchange will I be able to object to the Coxwell Road development? Will it make any difference? If 1 or 2 people can stop live music in the Corn Exchange, what are the chances that protests exceeding this magic number of 2 can stop or change development proposals? I think we should be told! Name supplied Ed: Click the link, http://planning.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/publicaccess/default.aspx, choose planning from menu on the left, then application search, then enter the computer application reference (shown on item 18/1), or the Alternative reference number if you know it - usually starting with GFA for Faringdon application - you csn see plans and application docs
Portwell Bar Quiz - 18/1/07 Paul Cornell has come up with a great fun quiz idea, and at his request I am delighted to administer it. Around the end of this month I'll be sending out a list of 40-or-so questions relating to the year ahead. For example, in which month (if any) will England win their next test match? Or how many more speed bumps will be introduced to the town this year? Quiz entrants then make their predictions in response to each question. The entry fee will be £5 per entry. More than one entry will be allowed per person, but at £5 per entry. 25% of the funds will be awarded to the winner at 31st December 2007, 15% to second place, and 10% to third. 50% of the funds will be donated to the Jacob Robinson fund, raising much-needed monies for the John Radcliffe Children's Unit which saved young Jacob's life last year. Jacob lives in Faringdon. I'll send out results and current standings at least monthly. Please let me know by Sunday 28th January if you would like to enter, and forward this to anyone you think may be interested Martin Phillips. portwellbar@aol.com
Environmental Study - 18/1/07 I have heard that Bloor Homes have done a detailed environmental study of Faringdon - presumably to make sure the new buildings are in keeping with the sty6le of the town, and that natural habitats are not destroyed(maybe)- I don't really know as I haven't seen it yet. It is weighty I believe - but available for you all to see in Faringdon Council offices Gene Webb
Important Planning Applications - 18/1/07 Town Council's Planning & Highways Committee is due to consider two major planning applications at its next scheduled meeting on Tuesday, 23 January 2007 at 7.15 pm in the Corn Exchange. The first application is the Bloor Homes development off Park Road (Appn ref 06/01939/OUT) and the other is for a proposed development of 40 dwellings on the land adjoining Coxwell House and Winslow House, Coxwell Road, Faringdon. (Appn ref 06/01928/OUT) A representative from Bloor Homes will be present on the night. All council meetings are open to the public to be present. Both sets of plans are available for scrutiny in Faringdon at either the District Council's local office or the town council office between 9.00am -12.30pm. or you can use VWHDCs online planning system to see the associated documents or make a comment, using the application references above. Hilary Sherman Deputy clerk to Faringdon Town Council
Faringdon Arts Festival -17/1/07 Check out our blogspot for updates about exhibitions and events planned for the 2007 Faringdon Arts Festival http://faf07.blogspot.com/
CAG Meeting time - correction It's 20.15, 24/1/07, 18 Fernham Road See entry dated 14/1/07 for more details
Corn Exchange -16/1/07 If you care about the future of the Corn Exchange as a live music venue and a venue for Wedding receptions, 21sts, 40ths and parties etc., please attend the town council meeting next Monday 22nd Jan 7:30pm at the venue itself. On the agenda, the funding for the secondary glazing to reduce noise leakage. This will secure the future of the building, which is, of course, the centre of this fantastic community. Dave Porter
Youth Centre - 16/1/07 Well done to Alan & Jackie for helping the youth of faringdon get a youth centre it will be amazing when it is all finished and we finally have somewhere to go. Thanks for taking me to oxford to the meeting Alan !!! Some youth in this town have lived here a long time and been moaning and complaining about nothing to do and i am so happy that we finally do. i hear we are havin more houses built in faringdon so it will be an amazing oppertunity to meet and make those people feel welcome! Thanks again to everyone that has taken part in trying to get the youth centre its amazing ! Ella Williams x and i am sure that Grace bouwers who is the chair person of the committee will think the same x x Get well soon hunni x
Youth Center YES -16/1/07 I would also like to thank all the people who have supported us in so many ways. As a Youth Support Worker and resident of Faringdon I thank you, and all the young people of Faringdon for backing us. Jackie Williams
Phones and ink collection - 16/1/07 Faringdon First Responders are collecting old mobile phones & ink cartridges for South Central Ambulance Service League of Friends. The LOF fundraise to provide the Ambulance Service and First Responders with a huge amount of necessary equipment and resources. Without the LOF and local fund raising and donations Faringdon First Responders would not exist. Your empty ink cartridges and old mobile 'phones are worth a lot on money and that money will be put to excellent use. There are three recycling boxes in the town; the Bargain Centre, the Chemist and the Leisure Centre. We are extremely grateful to the people who have already used these recycling boxes..... please keep them coming! Thank you. Sarah Oliver Faringdon First Responders
Congrats! -16/1/07 Great news about the Youth Club! Perhaps Faringdon's musicians and youth can get together to make the town event more vibrant than it started to become in 2005/6 Mark Harrison
Music in the Corn Exchange ... -16/1/07 There is another option that has not yet been explored: Mediation. This would cost almost nothing, introduce a level of fairness and is the RECOMMENDED WAY FORWARD on the VWHDC's own website! (see http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/environment_and_planning/pollution/pollution_control_-_noise/) Mark Harrison
Well done - 16/1/07 well done jackie and alan on the securing the youthcentre. mandy evans
Youth Club - 16/1/07 To Allan O'Connor and all the hard work everyone has put in to getting the Youth Club. Well done. It's great news for Faringdon and our Youth. If the Faringdon Area Project can help in anyway please let us know. Well done to you all. Julie Farmer
A Youth Club in Faringdon - YES - 16/1/07 After 4 years of looking and 11 months of negotiating, at 3.30 on the 15th Jan, the County Council Planning and Regulation Committee approved the application to turn the empty Cromwell Centre on Highworth Road into a youth centre. I would like to thank all who supported the scheme and particularly those who supported me in the last few months when despair began to set in. Those who deserve particular mention are local County Councillor Judith Heathcoat and local young person Ella Williams who stood up before the committee and sucessfully made our case. I would also like to thank another local young person- Grace Bouwers, who has campaigned for the Cromwell Centre from the start but was too ill to attend the meeting today. Get well soon Grace. There will be a period for the paperwork to be finalised before we move in and then we will fundraise and refurbish thecentre before opening some time in the summer. All those who offered to help should now beware!! especially Graham. Allan O'Connor ( Youth Worker) Ed: Great news Allan- do use this site for calls of help of any sort - and of course to let us know when the club will open
TOWN COUNCIL ELECTIONS IN MAY.- 15/5/07 Not sure if the post on 13th counts as editorial comment or not, however on the basis that it wasn't in italics I will assume that it was the editors personal opinion. Firstly all 14 places will be vacant and fought for regardless of retirements. I sincerly hope that there will be an election, however if there isn't as last time the candidates who put themselves forward for election are elected unapposed not co opted. I think that I was one of the last to actually be elected to the council in a by election 12 years ago! I would urge correspondents to stand, grappling with the challenges we face and making a difference for our community is important. The down side is that "name supplied" anonimity is not allowed and we are ultimately accountable for our actions. It can be frustrating to see volunter town councillors blamed for just about everything when our other salaried representatives seem to escape unscathed no matter what the Vale and County inflict on us. But hey we wouldn't put ourselves forward if we didn't have thick skins! So come on Gene, you were prepared to stand for District last time, what about standing for town this time and setting an example which other .orgers can follow. Steve Leniec Ed: Just trying to drum up support. But it's not for me - be glad -I'd be nothing but trouble!!
STATUS QUO UNSATISFACTORY. - 15/1/07 It would be electoral suicide to Clash with the Status Quo appreciation society whilst trying to reach the Nirvana of a New Order in the town. Now that would be a line up to test the secondary double glazing!! Steve Leniec (Live music appreciation society)
Youth Club- well done - 15/1/07 Let me be one of the first to congratulate Alan, Jackie and their team for all the hard work they put in to securing the youth centre. I was very pleased to hear that the go ahead has finaly been given for the cromwell centre and look forward to my invite to the official opening well done all Graham Cook
STATUS QUO, UNSATISFACTORY? - 15/1/07 Shame on you Mr Leniec, I think you are wrong in your last post concerning the brilliant band Status Quo. We at the Faringdon Status Quo Appreciation Society think that after rocking all over the world, having them play at the Corn Exchange would in fact be very satisfactory. Yours, extremely disgruntled, Francis Rossie.
Corn Exchange Sound Test - 15/1/07 Firstly, I'd like to acknowlege Steve Leniec's reasoned and fair approach to this debate and his attempts to reach a resolution. However, there does seem to be an air of unfairness in this whole saga. Last Tuesday's "test" was, in my view, completely biased. Why? Because at the end of it we ended up with a level of sound that merely appeased ONE person. Now there is talk of spending £20,000 on secondary glazing that in Steve's own words could result in "no absolute guarantee that any future complaints over noise would not be upheld." Why, oh why is consideration being given to spend so much money on a building that belongs to someone else simply on the basis that that ONE person finds the sound level slightly disturbing? I make no apology for saying this but this is wrong, wrong wrong! What happened to the compromise we all sought? David Reynolds
CORN EXCHANGE SOUND TEST - 14/1/07 Thank you to everyone who took part in the sound test on Tuesday evening, the results will help Council to take an informed decision on the future use of the building. Martin Waymark's post gives a fair account of the proceedings and the decision proccess that will follow. The only meeting he has missed out being Finance on Thursday 18th January which will in effect set the provisional budget for the whole Council including Venues. As promised before Christmas I have placed an agenda item for the Town meeting on 22nd January to enable residents to voice their opinion on the options facing Council. This will be posted with the agenda for the meeting on the Council notice board on Monday, however to enable residents to prepare their thoughts and provide feed back I will post it here. "Corn Exchange future options. The Town Council as tenant has yet to agree a lease for the use of the building with it's Landlord, the Vale of White Horse District Council. Following complaints about the level of noise escaping the building during live music events the Council has explored a range of possible options for the future of the building. Because the decision taken will have a fundemental impact on the future use of the building by the town it is appropriate to allow residents to express their view. Options: 1. Continue to operate at a reduced noise levelwhich excludes almost all live music,but should allow most discos and other community events to continue. Cost: significant loss of income and loss of a live music venue. 2.Install sound containment measures as outlined in the Noise Consultants report. Allow live music performances subject toconditions on timing and the use of the noise limiter. Cost: £20,000 for initial work offset by additional income generated, however there can be no absolute guarantee that any future complaints over noise would not be upheld. 3.Hand the building back to the VWHDC and move the Council offices to the Pump rooms. Cost: Probable loss of a live music venue and community building unless VWHDC decide to run the hall themselves. Town council would have to balance this against savings on precept,the move to the Pump rooms would incure some initial costs. 4.Consider franchising the hall operation to local music promoters who would then take on responsibility for licensing and any work which may be needed to operate as a live venue. Cost: Possible income from franchise set against potential grant applications for soundproofing and possible loss of the hall for community events. These options or variations of them do not necessarily exclude any other proposals which may come to light during our deliberations over the future of the hall. Council recognises that a live music venue is a vital component of the vibrant music and arts scene in the town. The question we face is whether this building can be adapted to meet that aim or would precept money be more appropriately spent on another project?" No doubt posting this will stimulate debate which I welcome, however the main forum will be the public meeting on 22nd January where all councillors will hear your views. Some of you will be disapointed that the "Casino" option has not featured in Council deliberations! I think my opinions are known on the subject and I feel that we must take a clear unequivical decision now in order to move forward. If we miss this chance it will effectively be another year before anything other than the current unsatisfactory status quo can be considered. Please come along to the meeting on the 22nd, everyone will have a chance to air their views. Steve Leniec Ed: Hopefully each option will be costed/projected (income and expenditure) to help take a considered view- even though of course, it's not just about cost
The Faringdon Community Action Group- 14/1/07 CAG will be starting another year dedicated to Re-using, Reducing and Recycling with a meeting on 24th January at 18 Fernham Road, 20.15 to plan events for the coming year. We plan to hold another Swap Shop in the next few weeks, so make sure you hold on to anything that would otherwise go to landfill, and this year we'll be trying to involve more of the town than last year's 'pilot'. Come along on the 24th to find out how you can help, or if you're just curious to see what's involved in a CAG. We look forward to seeing lots of you. Andy Hayter
More buses for Faringdon?? - 14/1/07 I've heard it said that when the 400+ houses are built, this will take us to another level for bus services - and there will be 3 buses per hour between Oxford and Swindon Let's hope so I can feel the bus pass being well used!! Gene Webb
Christmas Lights - 13/1/07 Happened to see Peter White in town today - he told me that not one member of the Town Council has contacted him about his generous offer to put up our Christmas lights FOR FREE. Extract from 'Christmas Lights 3/1/07' "So I would like to make this offer from my company, Faringdon Electrical Services, who would be prepared to install Faringdon's 2007 Christmas lights free of charge, subject to agreement, and the Town Council agreeing to donate the estimated £5,000.00 fee they are paying the existing contractor for installing the Christmas lights(which are still not working correctly) to local good causes which otherwise would not have benefited" I can't believe that FTC will not be interested in this offer - it is an opportunity to spend the £5k on worthwhile things for residents and groups in the town. Hopefully someone from FTC will contact Peter before the Budget/Precept meeting on 22/1 or at least respond to this site so that everyone can know what is to happen. Gene Webb
Town Council Elections in May? - 13/1/07 I have heard that quite a few councillors are not intending to stand for another term(from May 2007) Wouldn't it be great if enough people decided to stand so that for the first time for years(10?? 15??) we had a proper election so that councillors were voted in, rather than co opted as they have been for so long No doubt we'll soon hear some encouraging words from the Council, as it makes an effort to get people to come forward Gene Webb
Recycling Christmas Cards -12/1/07 Thankyou Martin. If I can't find anything in Faringdon I'll take you up on your kind offer and drop my cards into the Portwell Bar for you to take to work on Monday. This seems like a much more sensible option than driving to the nearest Tesco. Perhaps other residents will do the same. Sheila
Faringdon Youth Centre- offer of help - 11/1/07 Allan, Jackie and all at the youth centre have our complete support from the Army Cadets I believe that the only thing stopping the youth centre going ahead at present is the lack of pavement on that side of the road & the cost that comes with it but im sure with the amount af ground workers within Faringdon this should not be a problem If the council are worried about the cost I'm quite willing to give up my free time to help build this path myself & I'm sure the builders of faringdon would all so do the same & donate the materials needed for this small job. You have our support If there is anything we can do give me a call Graham Cook Ed: What a fantastic offer, Graham. I could probably get a few 60+ friends to help too!! Allan, is this something the County would be willing to accept? How can we make it happen??
Corn Exchange Sound Test -11/01/07 The sound check took place on Tuesday evening this week with Kiff providing the music and various observers, including members of the Venues Committee, taking sound level readings inside and outside the Corn Exchange and at the homes of two of the Gloucester Street residents who had previously lodged complaints. The proceedings were chaired by Siobhan Vinall, chair of the Venues Committee. The Vale's Environmental Health department declined to participate as they felt any involvement could potentially compromise their impartiality if any further complaints were received in the future. Music was played at a range of levels to try to determine an acceptable compromise that would allow a band to perform without causing undue disturbance to the residents. Each time, the noise limiter was reset to ensure it would cut out at the agreed level in the hall. While both residents were willing to agree to a level for the noise limiter that was slightly higher than currently set, this was not sufficient to allow a full band to perform at a satisfactory level (a view shared by other musicians present). This means that despite the best efforts of all involved, amplified live music is still not possible in the Corn Exchange as things currently stand. The information gathered on sound levels and the responses of the residents present will now be used to support an application to the Town Council (and probably the Vale) for funds to install secondary glazing on all windows in the Corn Exchange. The Venues Committee will be meeting on Tuesday 16th at the Corn Exchange to consider this, together with a report from an independent sound consultant. Any recommendations will then be presented at the public meeting on Jan 22nd, when the various council sub-committees will present their proposals for the 2007/08 budget to Faringdon residents, before being considered at the Town Council precept meeting on Jan 24th. Amongst other factors, the Council will undoubtedly be considering local support for continued usage of the Corn Exchange as a venue for live music when weighing up whether to include the request for funding in their precept. Those with an interest in this should therefore try to attend the meetings on 16th, 22nd and 24th, which are all open to the public. Martin Waymark
Recycle Christmas Cards - 11/1/07 At my office in London we have a charity recycling point for Christmas cards. Hopefully there is a local charity organisisng something, but if not I'll be glad to take them to London if you drop them into The Portwell Bar. Martin Phillips
faringdon youth centre.10/1/07 please can the people of the town get behind Allan, Jackie and all the young people trying their hardest to secure the cormwell centre for a youth centre. at the moment the situation is in the balance what allan and Jackie need is our support. This is our best chance to help the youth of the town get their centre. so why don't we all email Allan and show our backing. there is a lot of complaining about the youth and the problems of the youth now we have an answer to the problem. so come on faringdon get writing. because the bigger the voice the better the chance of success. a friend Ed: Hope you don't mnd Allan - I've provided your email address faringdon.youth@oxfordshire.gov.uk
Army Cadets -10/1/07 The Army cadets have been looking for the past few years to move location to Faringdon without success. Does anyone know if there would be room at the Folly park for a couple of porta cabins? or if there is any land that would be suitable ? The Army cadets offer 12-18 year olds the opportunity to do something different. They can take part in the Duke of Edingburgh awards & gain a BTEC in public services ( 4 grade a GCSE ) adventure training, sports, weekends away and two weeks annual camp. If you are interested in joining the army cadets please come along on a monday night from 1930Hrs-2130Hrs we are located next to the collage nursery at watchfield Come along and have some fun Graham Cook
Corn Exchange sound test? - 9/1/07 Does anyone know if the sound test has been conducted at the Corn Exchange yet? Ray
BT Online Bill users Beware. - 9/1/07 My daughter and I use BT online billing. A check of both accounts shows that during slightly different periods in November 2006 all our calls have been duplicated and presumably charged for twice. I'm still waiting for an explanation from BT ! Name supplied
Bizarre! -8/1/07 Now you're talking. What a weird town. Perhaps it's the people with four heads, one for each hairdressing establishment or is it the restaurant for rats that never opens? Perhaps it's the bulb planting mayor in Civil War costume or even the headless ghost in the churchyard or maybe even the mysterious Faringdon yodeller. Or could it be the traps in Talking Points laid out for gullible people to fall into? Do we live in the Faringdon Triangle, where strange things happen? Come back soon Robert Quianton and make it even more strange, what can you bring to the bizarre party? Frank Lee Strange
Recycle Christmas Cards - 8/1/07 Is there a recycling point anywhere in Faringdon for Christmas cards, or do I consign them to a green box? Sheila
Bizarre Faringdon - 6/1/07 now to be fair faringdon is truely one of THE MOST BIZARRE places i have ever experienced in my entire life! i spent one weekend there whilst working away from home and i can safely say I SO WILL BE COMING BACK!!!"!!!!!!! Robert Quianton Ed: Why Bizarre - do tell us!
Calling all yobs!! -4/1/07 My partner and I are both in the Army and have both reached the rank of Sergeant - we bring home a joint yearly salary of £65,000. We've travelled extensively with the Army to places like Cyprus, Dubai, Barcelona, Canada, Oman, Norway, Iceland and of course Iraq and Afghanistan - we have earned 11 medals between us. You too could achieve this - so please stop joyriding, drugtaking and beating up poor kebab shop men (you know who you are!) and pop into an Army careers office - take some pride in your appearance and yourself, it's better than being on the dole!!! Name and address witheld for security reasons.
BASS /KEYBOARD PLAYER WANTED. -4/1/07 Myself,Emma, Graham and Nigel are looking for a bass and keyboard player, first gig is in March, so you will have to be fairly competent to complete the line up. The music style is pop/rock,(Free, Bad Company, Brian Addams ect) if you are interested, or may know someone that is, then contact me on, HORTON@hortonsn77ug.fslife.co.uk.
Nice place to live - 4/1/07 I would also like to welcome the soon-to-be Faringdonian. Regardless of what is posted here about roaming gangs of thugs and boy racers, this town is basically very sedate. I've lived here 14 months now (having lived in London, Luton and Manchester) and can highly recommend it. It does need a few more things (better bus service, somewhere for the kids to go in the evening, a few more shops and the Corn Exchange sorted out), but it is a nice place to live with a lot of people working to maintain and improve its vibrancy. Ray
SING AWAY STRESS - 4/1/07 The Pump House, Faringdon. 8pm - 9.15pm. £5/£3 per session (Tues9th January and for the following 3 weeks) Come along and discover an enjoyable stress release activity... No ability to sing or read music required! Exercises include structured breathing & vocal release... Learn to produce stressless sound... Sing some simple rounds and harmony songs from around the world... And more importantly ENJOY yourself. For further information & to book, contact Nina on 0777 262 2102, E: easternvoices@naturalvoice.net
Christmas Lights - 4/1/07 What a treat the Christmas lights have been this year. Well done and thanks to all concerned. Loads of visitors have commented on how great the centre of Faringdon looks. Name supplied
Welcome to the New Faringdonian.-3/1/07 First of all Welcome and if you are prepared to keep on offering your comments to this website you're doubly welcome. But I feel you ought to have a bit of background before you condemn the moaners and complainers. A few years ago, in fact pre-Faringdon.org, too much power was in the hands of too few people. I suppose meetings which decided what went on in the town were theoretically open to public scrutiny but in fact very few people knew, or even cared, what happened. We just accepted that THEY, whoever THEY were, knew what they were doing and naively assumed that it would always be in our best interests. That situation ceased when our Eds became tired of good works and dog walking and decided to start this site. Now there can be very little chance of private meetings in smoke filled rooms because there is always someone who will spot and pounce on any dodgy decisions. There will always be arguments but the 'Moaners and Complainers' have become a vital part of our democratic system here in Fun Filled Faringdon. You have the opportunity to bring a refreshing new view of our little squabbles so don't be shy.. For example what do you think of our Parking, Town Centre, Christmas Lights, Music Scene, Folly Park ? We'll be interested in your comments. HGM
To Name Supplied -3/1/07 If you wish to have a go at particular individuals by name, (names you know because they have had the courage to supply them) at least have the GOOD MANNERS to supply yours! If you are not polite enough to do so, you should find something else to do with your time other than hurling personal insults around! Trish Reynolds
FOR THOSE WHO TAKE THEMSELVES FAR TO SERIOUSLY, MAY THE FARCE BE WITH YOU. -3/1/07 Number one. There is no Casino, it was a joke to lighten up the posts before Christmas, can you not see that?, everyone else did. Number two, Trish Reynolds, Stu Lusher, try reading the posts that got up your nose again, only this time with your tongue firmly in your cheek as the writer did, (aged 37). Try to remember in future that not everything on here needs a contrary position to be taken, just a sense of humour, it's all about shade, not everything in life is black and white,surely it's the same here, if every post was only concerned about the gloomier side of Faringdon it would soon become stale and boring. So for those of you living on the dark side, lighten up! Name supplied
Well done people of Faringdon. -3/1/07 More shops closing down. When will we learn that if we don't support our local stores they can't survive - and we all then have to pay to drive out of town everytime we want something. Rumour has it that at least one of the pet shops is going and our outdoor clothing shop. Ok - maybe two pet shops wasn't a good idea but I doubt very much that the other one can continue for long. Why do people want to line the pockets of these huge Petsmart/PetsAtHome type places ?. The staff have little knowledge of animals, they certainly don't know your pet (which the Faringdon staff often do) and the prices you pay are higher because of the overheads. The Outdoor shop and the Petshops in our town - you'd have to look far and wide to find more helpful people. So now more empty shops in Faringdon - to be filled eventually with what ?. More charity shops ?. Name supplied
Don't moan, don't complain - 2/1/07 Just a comment from an outsider soo n to become a Faringdonian. Don't moan, don't complain, just ensure you realise that you live in a special place. There are some scary towns out there. Thank God Faringdon is not one of them. Name Supplied Ed: Lots of us really like living here - hope you will too
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS -3/1/07 As we are now in a New Year, and we all like to start afresh and try to make the new year better than the one we have left behind, we would like to make the following offer to Faringdon and Faringdon Town Council regarding Christmas lights. As you may have read, Steve Leniec and I have said a few words on the subject of Christmas lights, and I feel that what we need now is action, not words. So I would like to make this offer from my company, Faringdon Electrical Services, who would be prepared to install Faringdon's 2007 Christmas lights free of charge, subject to agreement, and the Town Council agreeing to donate the estimated £5,000.00 fee they are paying the existing contractor for installing the Christmas lights(which are still not working correctly) to local good causes which otherwise would not have benefited. I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Happy New Year and we look forward to a reply from the Town Council. Peter White
Crowdy's?? - 3/1/07 Does anyone know if Crowdys of Regal way is still in business & how to get hold of them? Martin Shaw Marlow Ed: I tried the number on this site - unobtainable - sorry
Casino! Music! - 1/1/07 I have just taken my periodic look through the notes and seen the writer of the compliant about the Casino and music in the Corn exchange. This writer is clearly the selfish and miserable type that gives 'old soldiers' a bad name. Plenty of others fought and died in order to give - freedom that also includes the right of enjoyment both in music and a 'casino'. Most happen to be more open minded about the needs of a local community and not their own selfish wants and needs. Towns like Faringdon have always held dances and played music in their town halls and long may they continue to do so. This is what freedom we serve to maintain - not to insist on Cromwellian restrictions and sanctions! In the case of another of his tirades, I am a soldier, I have been and served in wars like my father and grandfather and like them like a good dance and party as they did, even in their old age. I grew up in a town like this and I fully support our local bands having a chance to play to a local audience and to help keep our youth entertained - better that than have them drinking and fighting when they are bored. If this bloke wants quiet maybe he should have used a bit of gumption and made the not too blindingly obvious assumption that a town hall might be used for entertainment and not just craft fairs. Perhaps there might be a monastry or house in the back end of beyond where he can get the quiet and isoalation he clearly craves. Oh and I am not afraid to have my name published when I want to say something about the town! Stu Lusher

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