Faringdon- edge of the Cotswolds. Oxford 17 miles, Witney 14 miles, Burford 12 miles, Cirencester 21 miles
News,Views and Events
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Archive of Talking points/News and Views from 2002.
SUBSCRIBE to FOLLY FLANNERY -
THE NEWSLETTER that covers the stories about our fabulous duo of Faringdon Follies - the Hill & the Tower - and of course the wonderful woodland that binds them!
Some of the stories are even true. But hang on… is Flannery even a word? Well - it is now.
To find out more - GO TO THE HOMEPAGE ( www.faringdonfolly.org.uk ) and hit the RED SUBSCRIBE BUTTON!
THE NEWSLETTER that covers the stories about our fabulous duo of Faringdon Follies - the Hill & the Tower - and of course the wonderful woodland that binds them!
Some of the stories are even true. But hang on… is Flannery even a word? Well - it is now.
To find out more - GO TO THE HOMEPAGE ( www.faringdonfolly.org.uk ) and hit the RED SUBSCRIBE BUTTON!
Great Barn Fest- this coming weekend- 20/9/23
The Great Barn Festival is a family friendly event celebrating the best of music, theatre, art, and nature in an ancient rural setting.
23rd, 24th September
See https://greatbarnfestival.com/ for the full Saturday and Sunday programme
Botley Road Closure - 20/9/23
Network Rail will be keeping Botley Road closed until October next year. The original plan had been for the road to reopen this October for six months over Christmas.
Read More on
Leader's statement - Botley Road closure - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
New Oxfordshire wide air quality website launched - 19/9/23
A new Oxfordshire air quality website has launched today providing up to date air quality guidance and resources for across the county.
Read about it on New Oxfordshire wide air quality website launched - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
Vale landscape survey: help protect Faringdon, Wicklesham, the Coxwells, Ringdale and Fernham - 18/9/23
Here’s the link to take part: https://south-and-vale-landscape-character-assessment-luc.hub.arcgis.com/
Mark a location on the interactive map and then make your comments on the right side of the page. The deadline is 29 September 2023.
The Vale of White Horse District Council is conducting an online consultation to ask local people about the qualities we value in our local landscape – such as
* peaceful space for wildlife and people to share,
* the beautiful countryside of the Vale Way that leads from Faringdon, past Wicklesham Quarry and then forks across Ringdale to Fernham,
* magnificent views from the Mid-Vale Ridge hilltops of West Oxfordshire Heights Conservation Target Area,
* woods and streams that form the setting of the River Ock,and provide habitats for deer, owls, otters and a variety of bird and insect life,
*dark night skies, unpolluted by electric light, where we can frequently observe the Milky Way.
The character and qualities of landscape can’t be divided up, so that some are kept while others are sacrificed. Neither can they be artificially created somewhere else, as some developers and planners claim to believe. Anyone who walks along the Vale Way and its connecting footpaths beside Wicklesham Quarry will see drifts of pink orchids in summer, loaded blackberry bushes on Galley Hill in September, and the tracks of deer, foxes, rabbits and birds covering the fields after it snows. If you take a walk around dusk the chances are you’ll see deer, as well as buzzards, foxes, owls and kites. One of my favourite walks is through Little Coxwell and Gorse Farm up to Galley Hill, then across to Ringdale’s iron-age fortifications of banks and ditches. It is an idyllic spot, absolutely quiet and peaceful, with views of White Horse Hill, and honeysuckle climbing into the trees. Even the deer just look up casually and carry on grazing as if you weren’t there.
This landscape has supported human settlements for two and half thousand years and probably far longer, and people have extracted the coral stone of the Mid-Vale ridge for centuries to build stone cottages and many of the older houses of Faringdon itself. But the landscape has always been allowed to recover. That is all we are asking for now: to Protect Wicklesham Quarry from Development, and preserve its rare species, vulnerable habitat, and the unique geological resources of one of the oldest SSSIs in the country, that help us understand the origins of the landscape itself.
Please register your thoughts on the value and vulnerability of the beautiful landscapes of the Western Vale before 29 September.
Contact: protectwicklesham@gmail.com
Anna Hoare
Strength and Balance Exercise Classes - 18/9/23
Enabling older adults to keep doing what they love for longer.
Faringdon – The Corn Exchange, Gloucester Street, SN7 7JA
Mondays at 11:00am-12:00pm
active@ageukoxfordshire.org.uk
www.ageuk.org.uk/oxfordshire
Great Barn Fest- 17/9/23
The Great Barn Festival is a family friendly event celebrating the best of music, theatre, art, and nature in an ancient rural setting.
23rd, 24th September
See https://greatbarnfestival.com/ for the full Saturday and Sunday programme
Pickleball at the Leisure Centre - 17/9/23
Starts 25th September
See poster
Wreath making- Coleshill National Trust - 17/9/23
Create a beautiful, environmentally sustainable wreath for Christmas with guidance from local florist Blue and Bohème.
Suitable for all abilities. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you wish to discuss any access needs.
Sunday 3 December, 10am-11.30am at the National Trust Heritage and Rural Skills Centre, Buscot and Coleshill Estate, nr Swindon SN6 7PT.
£55 per person, all tools and materials included.
U3A Open Day Sat 14th October - 11/9/23
Open Day at the Faringdon Corn Exchange 10am - 12am
Saturday October 14th
Come and meet the groups, if it isn't for you, it is definitely for someone you know.
Learn, laugh and live
https://faringdondistrictu3a.com/what-is-u3a/
Broadwell Concert: William Morris and Kelmscott Manor - 11/9/23
Sunday 17th September at 5.00 - 6.30.
A journey through the remarkably varied part music played in the life of William Morris, set in the context of an expert tour by a guide from Kelmscott Manor.
A young man steeped in classical, medieval and renaissance divinity, music, literature, art and architecture, William Morris embarks on life, but to what ends? He and his wife Jane move to Kelmscott Manor in 1871, a hugely inspirational ‘Heaven on Earth’ with fishing and a wonderful garden. He founds Morris, Marshall, Faulkner and Co in 1861, translates swathes of Sagas, writes chants for socialists, fights for historic buildings, promotes design through Kelmscott Press - and inspires Vaughan Williams and Holst.
Tickets: £10 in advance, £15 on the door, BACS Broadwell Parish Vicar and Church Wardens, Sort Code 20-84-58, Acc 60205826, Reference: William Morris
See poster
Regent Cinema in October - 9/9/23
Matinee: Weds 4 October - The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry (12A) (2023 - Drama)
Harold is an ordinary man who has passed through life, living on the side lines, until he goes to post a letter one day...and just keeps walking.
Stars: Jim Broadbent, Penelope Wilton
Film duration: 1 hours 48 mins (no interval)
Matinee Club @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 12.30pm, film starts at 1pm
Advance tickets: £4 from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Matinee Club Membership - Just £24 for 12 films
French: Fri 13 October - School of Life (PG) (2017 -Comedy, Drama, Family)In 1920s France an orphan is adopted by a rustic couple who work for a rural landowner. Left to himself, he soon comes under the spell of the local poacher.
Stars: Francois Cluzet, Jean Scandel Eric Elmosnino
Film duration: 1 hour 56 plus 15-minute interval
French film with English Subtitles
Doors open 7pm, film 7.30pm
In partnership with Faringdon Twinning Associatio
Kids: Weds 25 October - The Super Mario Bros. Movie (PG)
(2022 - Animation, Adventure, Comedy)
A plumber named Mario travels through an underground labyrinth with his brother, Luigi, trying to save a captured princess
Stars: Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlie Day
Film duration: 1hour 32 mins - no interval
Kids Cinema @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 1.30pm, film starts at 2.00pm
Advance Tickets £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family - Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Blockbuster: Fri 27 October - No Hard Feelings (12A)
(2023 - Comedy, Romance)
On the brink of losing her home, Maddie finds an intriguing job listing: helicopter parents looking for someone to bring their introverted 19-year-old son out of his shell before college. She has one summer to make him a man or die trying
Stars: Jennifer Lawrence, Andrew Barth Feldman
Film duration: 1 hr 43 mins plus 15 min interval
Blockbuster @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 7.00pm, film starts at 7.30pm
ADVANCE TICKETS £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Stagecoach bus app - 9/9/23
If you're finding that the Stagecoach bus app on your phone is unreliable. Uninstall and reinstall - you'll get one that works more reliably
Ed
Fibre Broadband- 7/9/23
Re: Fibre optic works.- 7/9/23
It was only a few weeks ago that Gigaclear dug up …
And it ain’t over yet! BT Openreach are coming (or so I hear)..
Tony Tarry
Fibre optic works- 7/9/23
Re my post on the ongoing fibre optic works.
So it’s Oxford CC Highways that gave the permissions and have overall control.
Well, we all know how good, ha ha, that are. Just look at the debacle on the Botley road, and Peartree roundabout, and the blocking off of residential roads.
All they seem concerned about is making council meetings vegan. Is this really what our council tax goes on.
Name and address supplied.
Welcome to Faringdon Town Magazine Edition 8 - 7/9/23
Within this edition, we look back on the beloved FollyFest 2023, which this year was a huge success. Oxford-based Robynne V Photography shares some great shots from the weekend, and while the weather wasn’t entirely on our side, you can see just how much fun was had in spite of the rain.
Also in this issue, Sharon Rich Sculpture & Glass gives us a peek into her studio and tells us about her journey into art. Michelle Heather takes us back in time as we explore the history of Faringdon and beyond and we learn about the complexities behind the iconic Folly Star we all watch out for each Christmas.
We hope you enjoy this edition of Faringdon Town Magazine!
CLICK TO READ: https://library.myebook.com/.../faringdon-town.../5022/
Fibre optic works.- 7/9/23
It was only a few weeks ago that Gigaclear dug up the pavements to install fibre optic cables. Now, we have Virgin digging up the same pavements to lay their fibre optic cables. This is the most stupid and idiotic working arrangements that I have come across in many years.
Was it not possible to discuss with these companies to allow both systems to be installed at the same time. That would have saved time, money, and more importantly, inconvenience for all of the residents.
Yet another example in this town, of nobody taking charge or having knowledge of workings that affect residents.
How many more internet providers are planning to dig up our pavements, and cause problems for the residents.
Name and address supplied.
ED: I believe permissions/management is through Oxford County Council Highways dept
Next Repair Cafe - 3/9/23
Saturday 23rd September 2 - 4pm
Faringdon United Church, SN7 7HA
Bring along your broken electrical items, clothes*, upholstery, software, hardware, blunt instruments and our repairers will try to fix them.
Refreshments available whilst you wait!
For more details contact: Email: sarah.stoves@thepumphouseproject.org.uk
Phone: 07546 905230
Community Capacity grants - 1/9/23
The Community Capacity fund will open again in September/October 2023 for another round of applications, with funding awarded by December. Thanks to Oxfordshire County Council there will be £325,000 to distribute to grassroots organisations throughout Oxfordshire.
Grants will be made to support of the council’s vision “to support the people of Oxfordshire to live well in their community, remaining fit and healthy for as long as possible: to build community resilience and increase independence”, and will prioritise:
Not all the details are available yet, but it might be worth emailing them to make sure you get updates.
The Great Barn Festival is a family friendly event celebrating the best of music, theatre, art, and nature in an ancient rural setting.
23rd, 24th September
See https://greatbarnfestival.com/ for the full Saturday and Sunday programme
Botley Road Closure - 20/9/23
Network Rail will be keeping Botley Road closed until October next year. The original plan had been for the road to reopen this October for six months over Christmas.
Read More on
Leader's statement - Botley Road closure - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
New Oxfordshire wide air quality website launched - 19/9/23
A new Oxfordshire air quality website has launched today providing up to date air quality guidance and resources for across the county.
Read about it on New Oxfordshire wide air quality website launched - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
Vale landscape survey: help protect Faringdon, Wicklesham, the Coxwells, Ringdale and Fernham - 18/9/23
Here’s the link to take part: https://south-and-vale-landscape-character-assessment-luc.hub.arcgis.com/
Mark a location on the interactive map and then make your comments on the right side of the page. The deadline is 29 September 2023.
The Vale of White Horse District Council is conducting an online consultation to ask local people about the qualities we value in our local landscape – such as
* peaceful space for wildlife and people to share,
* the beautiful countryside of the Vale Way that leads from Faringdon, past Wicklesham Quarry and then forks across Ringdale to Fernham,
* magnificent views from the Mid-Vale Ridge hilltops of West Oxfordshire Heights Conservation Target Area,
* woods and streams that form the setting of the River Ock,and provide habitats for deer, owls, otters and a variety of bird and insect life,
*dark night skies, unpolluted by electric light, where we can frequently observe the Milky Way.
The character and qualities of landscape can’t be divided up, so that some are kept while others are sacrificed. Neither can they be artificially created somewhere else, as some developers and planners claim to believe. Anyone who walks along the Vale Way and its connecting footpaths beside Wicklesham Quarry will see drifts of pink orchids in summer, loaded blackberry bushes on Galley Hill in September, and the tracks of deer, foxes, rabbits and birds covering the fields after it snows. If you take a walk around dusk the chances are you’ll see deer, as well as buzzards, foxes, owls and kites. One of my favourite walks is through Little Coxwell and Gorse Farm up to Galley Hill, then across to Ringdale’s iron-age fortifications of banks and ditches. It is an idyllic spot, absolutely quiet and peaceful, with views of White Horse Hill, and honeysuckle climbing into the trees. Even the deer just look up casually and carry on grazing as if you weren’t there.
This landscape has supported human settlements for two and half thousand years and probably far longer, and people have extracted the coral stone of the Mid-Vale ridge for centuries to build stone cottages and many of the older houses of Faringdon itself. But the landscape has always been allowed to recover. That is all we are asking for now: to Protect Wicklesham Quarry from Development, and preserve its rare species, vulnerable habitat, and the unique geological resources of one of the oldest SSSIs in the country, that help us understand the origins of the landscape itself.
Please register your thoughts on the value and vulnerability of the beautiful landscapes of the Western Vale before 29 September.
Contact: protectwicklesham@gmail.com
Anna Hoare
Strength and Balance Exercise Classes - 18/9/23
Enabling older adults to keep doing what they love for longer.
Faringdon – The Corn Exchange, Gloucester Street, SN7 7JA
Mondays at 11:00am-12:00pm
- Rebuild your muscle strength to help make everyday tasks easier.
- Improve your balance to stay confident, mobile, and independent.
- Have fun and meet others in your local community.
- First class free, then £5 per class
- Book via email or telephone
active@ageukoxfordshire.org.uk
www.ageuk.org.uk/oxfordshire
Great Barn Fest- 17/9/23
The Great Barn Festival is a family friendly event celebrating the best of music, theatre, art, and nature in an ancient rural setting.
23rd, 24th September
See https://greatbarnfestival.com/ for the full Saturday and Sunday programme
Pickleball at the Leisure Centre - 17/9/23
Starts 25th September
See poster
Wreath making- Coleshill National Trust - 17/9/23
Create a beautiful, environmentally sustainable wreath for Christmas with guidance from local florist Blue and Bohème.
Suitable for all abilities. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you wish to discuss any access needs.
Sunday 3 December, 10am-11.30am at the National Trust Heritage and Rural Skills Centre, Buscot and Coleshill Estate, nr Swindon SN6 7PT.
£55 per person, all tools and materials included.
U3A Open Day Sat 14th October - 11/9/23
Open Day at the Faringdon Corn Exchange 10am - 12am
Saturday October 14th
Come and meet the groups, if it isn't for you, it is definitely for someone you know.
Learn, laugh and live
https://faringdondistrictu3a.com/what-is-u3a/
Broadwell Concert: William Morris and Kelmscott Manor - 11/9/23
Sunday 17th September at 5.00 - 6.30.
A journey through the remarkably varied part music played in the life of William Morris, set in the context of an expert tour by a guide from Kelmscott Manor.
A young man steeped in classical, medieval and renaissance divinity, music, literature, art and architecture, William Morris embarks on life, but to what ends? He and his wife Jane move to Kelmscott Manor in 1871, a hugely inspirational ‘Heaven on Earth’ with fishing and a wonderful garden. He founds Morris, Marshall, Faulkner and Co in 1861, translates swathes of Sagas, writes chants for socialists, fights for historic buildings, promotes design through Kelmscott Press - and inspires Vaughan Williams and Holst.
Tickets: £10 in advance, £15 on the door, BACS Broadwell Parish Vicar and Church Wardens, Sort Code 20-84-58, Acc 60205826, Reference: William Morris
See poster
Regent Cinema in October - 9/9/23
Matinee: Weds 4 October - The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry (12A) (2023 - Drama)
Harold is an ordinary man who has passed through life, living on the side lines, until he goes to post a letter one day...and just keeps walking.
Stars: Jim Broadbent, Penelope Wilton
Film duration: 1 hours 48 mins (no interval)
Matinee Club @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 12.30pm, film starts at 1pm
Advance tickets: £4 from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Matinee Club Membership - Just £24 for 12 films
French: Fri 13 October - School of Life (PG) (2017 -Comedy, Drama, Family)In 1920s France an orphan is adopted by a rustic couple who work for a rural landowner. Left to himself, he soon comes under the spell of the local poacher.
Stars: Francois Cluzet, Jean Scandel Eric Elmosnino
Film duration: 1 hour 56 plus 15-minute interval
French film with English Subtitles
Doors open 7pm, film 7.30pm
In partnership with Faringdon Twinning Associatio
Kids: Weds 25 October - The Super Mario Bros. Movie (PG)
(2022 - Animation, Adventure, Comedy)
A plumber named Mario travels through an underground labyrinth with his brother, Luigi, trying to save a captured princess
Stars: Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlie Day
Film duration: 1hour 32 mins - no interval
Kids Cinema @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 1.30pm, film starts at 2.00pm
Advance Tickets £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family - Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Blockbuster: Fri 27 October - No Hard Feelings (12A)
(2023 - Comedy, Romance)
On the brink of losing her home, Maddie finds an intriguing job listing: helicopter parents looking for someone to bring their introverted 19-year-old son out of his shell before college. She has one summer to make him a man or die trying
Stars: Jennifer Lawrence, Andrew Barth Feldman
Film duration: 1 hr 43 mins plus 15 min interval
Blockbuster @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 7.00pm, film starts at 7.30pm
ADVANCE TICKETS £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Stagecoach bus app - 9/9/23
If you're finding that the Stagecoach bus app on your phone is unreliable. Uninstall and reinstall - you'll get one that works more reliably
Ed
Fibre Broadband- 7/9/23
Re: Fibre optic works.- 7/9/23
It was only a few weeks ago that Gigaclear dug up …
And it ain’t over yet! BT Openreach are coming (or so I hear)..
Tony Tarry
Fibre optic works- 7/9/23
Re my post on the ongoing fibre optic works.
So it’s Oxford CC Highways that gave the permissions and have overall control.
Well, we all know how good, ha ha, that are. Just look at the debacle on the Botley road, and Peartree roundabout, and the blocking off of residential roads.
All they seem concerned about is making council meetings vegan. Is this really what our council tax goes on.
Name and address supplied.
Welcome to Faringdon Town Magazine Edition 8 - 7/9/23
Within this edition, we look back on the beloved FollyFest 2023, which this year was a huge success. Oxford-based Robynne V Photography shares some great shots from the weekend, and while the weather wasn’t entirely on our side, you can see just how much fun was had in spite of the rain.
Also in this issue, Sharon Rich Sculpture & Glass gives us a peek into her studio and tells us about her journey into art. Michelle Heather takes us back in time as we explore the history of Faringdon and beyond and we learn about the complexities behind the iconic Folly Star we all watch out for each Christmas.
We hope you enjoy this edition of Faringdon Town Magazine!
CLICK TO READ: https://library.myebook.com/.../faringdon-town.../5022/
Fibre optic works.- 7/9/23
It was only a few weeks ago that Gigaclear dug up the pavements to install fibre optic cables. Now, we have Virgin digging up the same pavements to lay their fibre optic cables. This is the most stupid and idiotic working arrangements that I have come across in many years.
Was it not possible to discuss with these companies to allow both systems to be installed at the same time. That would have saved time, money, and more importantly, inconvenience for all of the residents.
Yet another example in this town, of nobody taking charge or having knowledge of workings that affect residents.
How many more internet providers are planning to dig up our pavements, and cause problems for the residents.
Name and address supplied.
ED: I believe permissions/management is through Oxford County Council Highways dept
Next Repair Cafe - 3/9/23
Saturday 23rd September 2 - 4pm
Faringdon United Church, SN7 7HA
Bring along your broken electrical items, clothes*, upholstery, software, hardware, blunt instruments and our repairers will try to fix them.
Refreshments available whilst you wait!
For more details contact: Email: sarah.stoves@thepumphouseproject.org.uk
Phone: 07546 905230
Community Capacity grants - 1/9/23
The Community Capacity fund will open again in September/October 2023 for another round of applications, with funding awarded by December. Thanks to Oxfordshire County Council there will be £325,000 to distribute to grassroots organisations throughout Oxfordshire.
Grants will be made to support of the council’s vision “to support the people of Oxfordshire to live well in their community, remaining fit and healthy for as long as possible: to build community resilience and increase independence”, and will prioritise:
Not all the details are available yet, but it might be worth emailing them to make sure you get updates.
- Amounts available: £5,000 - £20,000
- Opening date 6th September
- Closing date: 28th September
- Community Capacity grants - Oxfordshire Community Foundation
Faringdon Community Choir. New term from Sept 6th - 31/8/23
If you would like to join Faringdon Community Choir in the autumn term just sign up here https://forms.gle/tX3qLfj6zsbNoko69.
All are welcome and it'd be lovely to welcome new people in September.
All you need to do is sign up here and turn up to the first session - either wed 2pm-3.30 or 6pm - 7.30. United Church Hall ( with parking)
Variety of songs. No auditions.
Good fun, friendly, spirit lifting
https://faringdoncommunitychoir.org.uk/
Folly Tower Open - 16/8/23
Open this Sunday - 3/9/23 11-5
Looks as if it will be a fine day - so beautiful views
No need to book. Pay by cash or card.
See Opening Times - Faringdon Folly Tower and Woodland
New Council Headquarters Didcot - 26/8/23
This will be for South Oxfordshire and Vale of the White Horse
https://data.southoxon.gov.uk/ccm/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P23/S2621/FUL#exactline
Deadline for comments 8th Sept
Faringdon Art Society exhibition - 26/8/23
Annual Exhibition of local artists' work opens for free public entry on Friday 29 September 2023 and closes on Sunday 1 October 2023.
Come along to the Corn Exchange and find your favourite pieces...
See details and contacts at www.faringdonartsociety.co.uk
Art Exhibition - Old Town Hall - 26/8/23
From 15-17 September, local artists Marion Flower and Charlotte Lindsay are holding an exhibition of original paintings and textile art at The Old Town Hall, Faringdon.
Friday 15 September 6-8pm
Saturday 16 September 10am - 5.00pm
Sunday 17 September 10am - 3.00pm
The Exhibition is inspired by the artists' love of the natural world and of exploring botanical, wildlife and anatomical beauty through sculpture, embroidery and watercolour paintings. Some artwork will be for sale, together with a selection of cards and other small items.
On display there will also be metal art by Billy Andersson, a local craftsman who draws upon his blacksmithing expertise to create fluid, contemporary metal works in steel. He also specialises in ornamental wrought-iron work.
Marion Flower
Pavements - 26/8/23
The pavement outside my house is being dug up to install fibre optic cable. At least that's as I understand it from a brief conversation with one of the workmen. It's being done for Virgin Media This is within a few weeks of it being dug up to instal fibre optic cable presumably for some other company. How many cables will be enough?
The first time we had some notice. This time the first we knew of it was when the gate was fenced off. I hope somebody's making some money out of it. Personally I can do without it. It's all reminiscent of chaotic early railway days when competing companies would lay track alongside each others. At least the railway companies provided a service. This lot, apart from paying some workmen to block our gates, just want to pump mind numbing crap into our homes.
What's the betting some mealy mouthed apologist comes back and says it'll be wonderful for business.
John King
Have your say on Landscapes - 26/8/23
A new study has launched to better understand, protect and enhance the unique landscapes across South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse and you’re invited to have your say.
South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils are preparing a new Landscape Character Assessment and are calling for residents, businesses and visitors to share what they love about local landscapes and what they think is changing them. The study is being carried out by environmental consultancy Land Use Consultants (LUC) on behalf of the two councils.
Have your say on our landscapes and what’s changing them - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
Faringdon & District Archaeological & Historical Society meetings- 26/8/23
2023
Sep 20th – Speaker - Sarah Somerville ‘Shaw House, Newbury’
Oct 18th - A.G.M. Reports from Officials. Speaker –Bill King ‘The Thames Path Part 6’’
Nov 15th - Speaker – Bjorn Watson ‘The Slide to War’
2024
Mar 20th – Speaker – Nigel Peters ‘Local Archaeology’
Apr 17th – Speaker – Liz Woolley ‘Beer, sausages and marmalade’
May 15th – Speaker – David Dalton ‘Strange Happenings’
Jun 19th – Speaker – Julie-Ann Godson ‘Scandal in High Society, Oxfordshire’
Further info: https://www.fdahs.org.uk/meetings-of-the-society/
Former Budgens site- 16/8/23
Vale Planning Committee has approved this development
https://data.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P21/V3520/FUL
Folly Tower Open - 16/8/23
Open this Sunday - the 20th August.11-5
Looks as if it will be a fine day - so beautiful views
No need to book. Pay by cash or card.
See Opening Times - Faringdon Folly Tower and Woodland
September Films-Regent Cinema 16/8/23
Weds 6 Sept - Book Club: The Next Chapter (12A)
(2023 - Comedy)
Follows the journey of four best friends as they take their book club to Italy for the fun girls trip they never had.
Stars: Diane Keaton, Jane Fonda, Candice Bergen
Film duration: 1 hours 47 mins (no interval)
Matinee Club @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 12.30pm, film starts at 1pm
Advance tickets: £4 from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Matinee Club Membership - Just £24 for 12 films
Fri 22 September - Champions (12A)
(2023 - Comedy, Drama, Sport)
A former minor-league basketball coach is ordered by the court to manage a team of players with intellectual disabilities. He soon realizes that despite his doubts, together, this team can go further than they ever imagined
Stars: Woodey Harrelson, Kaitlin Olson, Matt Cook
Film duration: 2 hr 04 mins plus 15 min interval
Blockbuster @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 7.00pm, film starts at 7.30pm
ADVANCE TICKETS £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Boules pitch - Clos Melois- 16/8/23
There is now a bench seat for spectators
See Clos Mêlois Boules Court - Faringdon Town Council for details of the game
The Volunteer - 7/8/23
Hooray - it has a SOLD sign on it
VWHDC summer activities - 7/8/23
See https://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/school-holiday-activities/
Skateboarding, fitness, dance , play
Some in Faringdon & Shrivenham
Faringdon Community Choir. New term from Sept 6th - 5/8/23
If you would like to join Faringdon Community Choir in the autumn term just sign up here https://forms.gle/tX3qLfj6zsbNoko69.
All are welcome and it'd be lovely to welcome new people in September.
All you need to do is sign up here and turn up to the first session - either wed 2pm-3.30 or 6pm - 7.30. United Church Hall ( with parking)
Variety of songs. No auditions
The Askew Sisters at the Corn Exchange - 5/8/23
Big Ginger Tom Music are pleased that they will be playing at The Corn Exchange, Faringdon on Friday 15th September.
Hazel and Emily are skilled multi-instrumentalists and use great harmonies, fiddles, melodeons, concertina and cello in their innate drive to bring old dance music to life.
Support is from Wednesday’s Wolves.
Tickets available from www.WeGotTickets.com or by contacting Duncan at biggingertommusic@gmail.com or calling 07999 052720.
Doors and bar at 7pm, music at 7:30pm.
Big Ginger Tom Music are very pleased to be able to bring Liverpool based Calum Gilligan and multi instrumentalist Katie Grace Harris to The Corn Exchange on Friday 17th November.
Calum’s honeyed voice and intricate guitar playing bring his contemporary and traditional folk songs to life and Katie, who has recorded with the likes of Phil Beer and Reg Meuross, will entertain with her lovely voice, piano and accordion.
Tickets available from www.WeGotTickets.com or by contacting Duncan at biggingertommusic@gmail.com or calling 07999 052720.
Doors and bar at 7pm, music at 7:30pm.
VOLUNTEER TOUR GUIDES AND GUIDE SUPPORT AT WESTMILL WIND FARM & SOLAR PARK - 5/8/23
Westmill Sustainable Energy Trust (WeSET) promotes sustainable energy deployment / education and focuses its work within a 25-mile radius of the Westmill Wind Farm & Solar Park, near Watchfield.
WeSET is supported by a wonderful team of volunteer tour guides, all with a passion for sustainable energy and a low-carbon future. And we are looking for new, enthusiastic individuals to help us inform, educate and enlighten people about clean, green community energy.
The volunteering will involve meeting and welcoming groups of people (alone, or as part of a team of other guides) and leading them around the Westmill site, telling the story of how the Westmill Wind Farm & Solar Park was created, conveying the importance of renewable energy, describing how our turbines and solar panels were installed and how they operate.
There is no commitment and you can volunteer as little or as much as you like.
For more information and to offer your support, please email visit@weset.org
Play areas across the Vale - 5/8/23
£45,000 investment will ensure more young children can enjoy Vale play areas - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
In Faringdon, children at Marlborough Gardens will soon be able to enjoy a wonderful new roundabout which is specially designed to ensure it can be used by wheelchair users and those with limited mobility.
Wicklesham Development - 3/8/23
See DRAFT-UNAPPROVED-Planning-Highways-Minutes-24th-July-2023.pdf (faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk) to read FTCs discussion at July's Planning & Highways meeting
Walking the Folly - 3/8/23
Just to say walking 50 times in six hours round the wonderful Folly on July 23 I managed to fundraise £1,300 for the RNLI.
Many thanks for support on the day from fellow walkers and runners and those who contributed via JustGiving. Much appreciated.
Dave Thompson
Chairman
RNLI Faringdon
Hi there Faringdon people.- 3/8/23
Its just on the off chance that someone could help me with a very old friend of mine who lived around there in the late sixties. His name was David J LeGassick, he was keen on golf and his father was a colonel in the military I believe. He may have been Sandy LeGassick
I would love to hear from anyone who could possibly put me in contact with him or his family.
Charles Moseley
YELESOM@GMAIL.COM
Vale Planning Fiasco over Wicklesham Quarry Industrial Infrastructure proposal - 3/8/23
Below is a link to the latest update on why the planning consultation was terminated by VOWHDC. https://www.change.org/p/the-vale-of-white-horse-district-council-and-secretary-of-state-michael-gove-protect-wicklesham-quarry-from-development/u/31772164
Please get in touch with any queries or comments: protectwicklesham@gmail.com
Free skate park sessions for young people.- 31/7/23
Funded by the Community Safety Partnership, Soha and Didcot Garden Party, the events will take place across the districts for young people of all ages and abilities.
The events, run by ATB skate shop, will include competitions, skating games, prizes, and music.
Any young person who is interested is encouraged to turn up and take part on the day.
If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me to discuss.
Many thanks in advance for your support,
Lewis Vaughan
Community Safety Officer
South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils
Telephone: 01235 422590
Visit us on:
https://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/school-holiday-activities/
Faringdon Art Exhibition - 31/7/23
Fri 29thand Sat 30th September 10am- 6pm
Sunday October 1st 10am - 4pm
www.faringdonartsociety.co.uk
The Shed- 31/7/23
Wednesday evenings 6pm- 9pm
In the woodworking room in the CDT block at the Community College
Shed activities to help reduce loneliness- and have some fun
Contact mcartwright197@btinternet.com for more information
Rural England Prosperity Fund - 29/7/23
We’ve secured £528,000 worth of funding through the government’s Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF). The fund supports the aims of the government’s Levelling Up White Paper and Future Farming Programme. It funds capital projects for small businesses and community infrastructure to improve productivity and strengthen the rural economy and rural communities.
We’ll be making funding available to help achieve aims set out in our Corporate Plan, including action on the climate emergency, and improving community and economic wellbeing.
Here’s a summary of the types of projects that could be funded in Vale of White Horse.
We’ll be opening a grant scheme to allow organisations to apply for this funding later this year. In the meantime, we’re asking interested parties to complete an expression of interest form (EOI). Completed EOIs will help us to understand local demand and will inform the criterion for our final grant scheme that we expect to be available in Autumn 2023.
Rural England Prosperity Fund - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
VWHDC
NEW: Hop on and Hop off Tourist Bus - 25/7/23
Every Saturday from 5th August. Leaves Faringdon Market place at 12.30
See FTC website for more info and timetable
Wanted : Assistant Supervisor, Faringdon Day Centre for the Elderly - 25/7/23
We are urgently seeking an Assistant Supervisor for Faringdon Day Centre on a temporary basis, initially for a period of three months with the possibility of an extension.
We are looking for somebody, preferably able to start immediately, with a caring and outgoing personality; previous experience of working with elderly people would be an advantage.
We meet in Faringdon Baptist Church Hall and normal hours for staff are Monday and Thursday 8.45am-2.45pm, but we could be flexible.
Pay is at the appropriate National Minium Rate.
For more information contact the Chairman, Sue Thrower on 01367 240 848 or smthrower@tiscali.co.uk .
Faringdon Games Club FREE Open Session - 22/7/23
Get ready for a whirlwind of excitement at the FARINGDON GAMES CLUB - Embark on a Gaming Adventure Like Never Before! Mark your calendars for Sunday, 6th August, from 5pm-9pm at the historic Old Town Hall, Faringdon town centre.
Whether you're a gaming enthusiast, an aspiring card trader, or a curious newbie who's always wanted to dive into the world of tabletop gaming, this is your perfect gateway! Dungeons and Dragons, Pokémon, Magic the Gathering, board games, card trading and more. No booking, no hassle, just turn up! We're ready to welcome game lovers of all ages and skill levels to our community. Come along to chat, play or just to find out more about Faringdon Games Club!
We’re super excited to be joined by Jacob Reid’s Academy for Gaming and Mystic Games (of Witney fame) will also be on hand offering help and advice, as well as providing a pop up shop with snacks, drinks, cards and more!
Help us make this club even better for you! Please spare a few moments to fill out this quick survey. https://forms.gle/PsCvDEPZsimUou4t6
James Reid
Faringdon Writers - Short Story Competition- 21/7/23
Faringdon Writers are once again forging ahead with their efforts to encourage and support all writers in Faringdon and its surrounding villages by holding their first Short Story competition.
The theme is FOLLY (to be interpreted as you wish).
There are three age groups: Primary (age 7-11), Secondary (age 12-17) and Adult (18+).
All entries are free and the Deadline for entries is 1st October 2023
Judges will consist of a panel of local published authors, writers and literacy professionals who will select the winners.
Prizes: Each winner will have their story published in the next Voices from Faringdon Anthology and a there will be a display in Faringdon Library.
Winners and runners-up of each age group will be announced at the Faringdon Writers Book Fair on Saturday 25th November in the Corn Exchange, Faringdon, with winners being invited to read their story out. All winners and runners–up will receive certificates.
For further information and full rules please email: faringdonwriters@gmail.com
Faringdon Community Choir concert Friday July 21st - 17/7/23
Only a few tickets left!
Faringdon Community Choir are so excited about our concert on 21st July.
We hope to see lots of you there.
We still have some tickets left - but not that many! Available from the Information Centre.
We are so chuffed that our post last time encouraged so many of you to contribute to the crowdfunder that the Folly Trust set up. It seems that we may well get our star back this winter! However, it maybe that the money raised at our concert fills the final gap.
So get your ticket, bring some cash to the concert, buy a raffle ticket, buy a drink or two, have a wonderful evening and help get our star back!
Rachel
Connector 8 New bus service to Didcot - 17/7/23
NEW connector X34 & X35 will replace connector 98 and provide greater connectivity for residents of Great Western Park with direct links to Wantage, Faringdon and Newbury. You can find the new timetable from 23rd July here.
Wicklesham Quarry development - 17/7/23
This is an important application. If it's successful it will affect Faringdon, the A420 and the villages.
Whether you support it or object - do have your say on VWHDC website
Regent Cinema films - 17/7/23
Weds 2 August - My Sailor, My Love (12A)
(2022 - Drama)
A retired sea captain and his daughter must reassess their strained relationship after he begins a new romance with a widowed housekeeper
Stars: James Cosmo, Brid Brennan, Catherine Walker
Film duration: 1 hours 43 mins (no interval)
Matinee Club @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 12.30pm, film starts at 1pm
Advance tickets: £4 from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Matinee Club Membership - Just £24 for 12 films
Fri 25 August - Empire of Light (15)
(2022 - Drama, Romance)
A drama about the power of human connection during turbulent times, set in an English coastal town in the early 1980s
Stars: Olivia Colman, Micheal Ward, Colin Firth
Film duration: 1 hr 55mins plus 15 min interval
Blockbuster @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 7.00pm, film starts at 7.30pm
ADVANCE TICKETS £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Weds 23 August - The Super Mario Bros. Movie (PG)
(2022 - Animation, Adventure, Comedy)
A plumber named Mario travels through an underground labyrinth with his brother, Luigi, trying to save a captured princess
Stars: Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlie Day
Film duration: 1hour 32 mins - no interval
Kids Cinema @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 1.30pm, film starts at 2.00pm
Advance Tickets £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family - Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Strength and Balance Exercise Classes- 15/7/23
Enabling older adults to keep doing what they love for longer.
Faringdon – The Corn Exchange, Gloucester Street, SN7 7JA
Mondays at 10:00-11:00am
Rebuild your muscle strength to help make everyday tasks easier.
Improve your balance to stay confident, mobile, and independent.
Have fun and meet others in your local community.
First class free, then £5 per class
Book via email or telephone
01235 849403
active@ageukoxfordshire.org.uk
www.ageuk.org.uk/oxfordshire
Gigaclear work progamme - 15/7/23
See work schedule
Permit information can be found at the website one.network.
This information will also be sent via email to all residents who have previously registered their details.
Any other interested residents can also register for periodic permit updates at //Gigaclear.com/mycommunity
If residents would like to get in touch with us, please ask them to contact our dedicated Customer Operations team on the details below.
Email: networkbuildqueries@gigaclear.com
Phone: 01865 591131
Meeting about Halfpenny Bridge - 15/7/23
Gloucestershire County Council will hold a public meeting in Lechlade to update residents on the repair work to Halfpenny Bridge.
A vehicle collided with the historic bridge in the early hours of Tuesday 20 June, causing significant damage to the wall of the bridge.
A road closure has been put in place on the A361 but remains open to pedestrians and cyclists.
A meeting will be held at Lechlade Memorial Hall, Oak Street, Lechlade-on-Thames, GL7 3AY, at 6pm on Thursday 20 July. The meeting will provide more details on the repair works and takequestions from the public and local businesses
See full new release
.Eagle Tavern Picture - 13/7/23
Does anybody have a larger sized photograph of The Eagle, Coxwell St please?
I want to send it to the 'Closed Pubs' website where The Eagle is listed but they have said that the JPG is too small.(eagle-inn-1992-289x200.jpg)
Grateful for any help
Helen Barter
Pavement Works - 12/7/23
Do you think we could be informed if works are going to be done outside homes. Workmen digging up pavements outside homes making life difficult getting out of your drives throughout the day. Then leaving heaps of rubble on pavements.
Residents should be informed.
Dee England
Wallet lost at the Folly - 10/7/23
I’m sorry to bother you but I believe I dropped a small flower covered wallet at the Folly with credit cards (cancelled), driving licence and £10 x2 notes. If anyone notifies you could you please put me in touch with them.
Many thanks, Annabel Brown
Help needed- 8/7/23
Can you help circulate leaflets to let Faringdon people know about the planned industrial site at Wicklesham Quarry?
Please come to a meeting on Friday 14 July at 7.00pm, petition details here: https://www.change.org/p/the-vale-of-white-horse-district-council-and-secretary-of-state-michael-gove-protect-wicklesham-quarry-from-development/u/31730259
The application is for seven 25metre high buildings, a data centre and 2 multistorey carparks.
Anna Hoare
The application, documents & comments is on VWHDC site : data.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P23/V1476/O#exactline
Faringdon Singers Summer Concert Sunday 9th July - 7/7/23
St. Mary the Virgin Church, Longcot, SN7 7TL
7.00pm.
‘Dreams of the Countryside’
Including works by Vaughan Williams, Saint Saens and Holst
Musical Director: Clare Woodall
Accompanist: Terence Carter
Drinks available before concert
Free Entry, Donations welcome for St. Mary's Church
For more information please contact Dennis Blease d2blease@btinternet.com 07531 189 474
www.faringdonsingers.org.uk
Ferndale St pavement parking - 7/7/23
Please can people stop parking on pavements thinking they are car parks in Ferndale steeet
There’s a car, park over the road
DM England
Folly Path bench - 7/7/23
The broken bench on the path to the Folly has now been replaced- thankyou to Bethia Thomas (OCC cllr) for providing the ££ to buy it, and Town Council staff for installing it.
The path ( and I assume the bench) was the responsibility of OCC for repairs, and VWHDC for cleaning.
Ed
New Folly Star fund raising - 5/7/23
https://www.facebook.com/FaringdonFolly
Please do tick the Gift Aid Box if you are eligible
or via bank transfer
Lloyds Bank Account: Faringdon Folly Tower Trust
Sort Code: 30.93.18
Account no: 18433960
Ref The Star
A bit of background.... Since 2000 ( when the TOWER got POWER.... ) we've been able to have a Christmas beacon shining over the Vale to cheer us up during the cold wet winter months - thanks to the amazing work of PETER WHITE. Thank you Peter!
n the early days, it was a different light every year - but then we somehow settled on our favourite: the Christmas Star! It was built before LEDs became so popular;. It was built with flourescent tubes. This meant chunky fittings & a relatively heavy frame. And it meant that it required scaffolding to keep the 2.5m high star aloft - more than 4m above the viewing platform.
This was also before the time that we took health & safety issues as seriously as we do nowadays!
To cut a long story short; the STAR-MARK-1 was on its last legs; prone to failure - and it would have been unsafe to re-erect it. SO - we're starting again- with cutting edge LED (colour-changing!) technology; lighter, more robust, easier & safer to erect.... But it DOES require specialists to make the tubes & controllers for us; and the frame that the tubes sit on (remember - everything has to fold up so that you can get it up those narrow stairs!) , and the extension poles/guy ropes to keep it aloft... And we want to it to last for as long as it continues to give us pleasure!
We've had a number of quotes from specialist companies; going right up to £15,000 ! Wow.... The best quote we've had for the tubes & controllers is £3700 (incl VAT) - and then RAC on Park Rd have very kindly offered to help with the frame building & installing to keep the costs down. Hence the target amount of £4500.
THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR HELPING MAKE THIS HAPPEN!
National Trust Coleshill Newsletter - 5/7/23
Update on rural skills on the Coleshill estate (pdf) as well as the courses available this year, a new partnership and the new meeting spaces available to hire in
Family Explorer at Folly Park - 5/7/23
Family xplorer orienteering, aimed at preschool and primary aged children, find the markers and explore the park at this free family friendly event!
Faringdon Folly Sports Park, SN7 8BF: Tuesday 1 August, 11am-1pm
Last registration is 12.30pm. All children under 16 should be accompanied by an adult.
To book please go to https://forms.office.com/r/5Qy7T6w64D, email active.communities@southandvale.gov.uk, or turn up on the day!
Petition - Wicklesham Quarry. Deadline for comments 27 July - 5/7/23
You can read about the planning application for an industrial estate at Wicklesham Quarry by clicking on the link. The deadline for comments is 27 July.
https://www.change.org/p/the-vale-of-white-horse-district-council-and-secretary-of-state-michael-gove-protect-wicklesham-quarry-from-development/u/31721620
Anna Hoare
The application on VWHDC site : data.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P23/V1476/O#exactline
Jeff Wilson Cycle Challenge London to Brighton – June 18.- 3/7/23
Many thanks to family and friends who sponsored me for my recent cycle ride. I am very grateful to you all for the wonderful support and encouragement ; particularly Farcycles colleagues, All Saints church members and our local B.H.F. committee, thank you all again
I was pleased to complete the challenge in five hours exactly, including the steep hill to finish !
All money received has now been passed to the British Heart Foundation.
My Just Giving site plus cash sponsorship totalled £1300.
A really fantastic amount ,well done to Faringdon.
Jeff Wilson
Ed: Very well done Jeff. A great result - for you and BHF
Survey about Waste/recycling and street cleaning - 1/7/23
The Vale council are seeking opinions on the quality of the Biffa provided services.
This contract was due to expire in 2024, but I've been told it is 2026 now., so it's important Biffa do a good job over the next couple of years.
Please do the survey - it doesn't take long. Most questions are about Waste & recycling.
Question 12 is about street cleaning. Please do say what you think about this.
Let’s talk rubbish! Tell us what you think of our waste services - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
The deadline is 10th July
One of the Street Angels
Folly Tower Open- 30/6/23
Sunday July 2nd 11-5.
Looks as if it will be a sunny day
Faringdon Town Magazine - 28/6/23
There are copies of the latest edition in the Tourist & Information Office
Abingdon Outdoor Pool open - 28/6/23
Summer season set to start at Abbey Meadow - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
The pool will open ahead of the school summer holidays on Saturday 22 July – a few days earlier than originally advertised – and will be open every day alongside the splash pad in the park until the start of September.
Folly Fest Fringe Classical music events - 22/6/23
To be held from 10.30 - 4pm in Cotswold Flame & Grill ( formerly Floyds Grill) London St
Classical Music Recitals | FollyFest Faringdon (faringdonfollyfest.co.uk)
10.30 Soprano songs from musicals
11.00. Oxford recorders playing Spanish music
11.30 Unaccompanied Bach on baroque viola
12.00 Mixed woodwind pieces
12.30 Virtuoso violin and piano pieces
1.00 Lunch break
1.30 Virtuoso saxophone and piano
2.00 Faringdon U3A Recorder consort
2.30 Baritone voice and piano solos
3.00 5 viols playing early music
3.30 Chopin and other piano pieces
4.00 End
Folly Dollies Summer Social - 22/6/23
Wednesday 12th July. 7:30 pm for 7:45 pm start
Contact Follydollies@hotmail.com for more details.
Repair Cafe last Saturday 17th - 20/6/23
Very successful Day. 35 items that were bought along for repair.
We repaired 15 electrical or mechanical items and 5 textile items . 8 items were sharpened , we gave advice on 5 items on how they could be repaired and just 2 items could not be repaired.
In total we saved 26Kg of goods being sent to Landfill.
Next date is 23rd September, United Church Hall. 2pm-4pm
Contact gary@thebateshouse.co.uk if you can offer help
Thankyou - 20/6/23
I would just like to thank the lady and gentleman who he!ped me yesterday when I had a fall in The Pines. Luckily I was not injured. I was not able to get up without help.
Thanks again.
Roger Davey
Potholes - 15/6/23
The state of the roads in and around Faringdon are getting noticeably worse. The potholes are everywhere, I can not seem to go out in the car with out having to swerve to avoid costly damage to my car. Cyclist must be on high alert as the holes could cause serious injuries.
The roads should be top priority and they do not seem to be. Road users are paying large amounts of Tax and then having to pay extra to repair damage caused by our neglected roads.
Its the councils job to repair the roads and spend tax payers fund wisely, When are they going to start doing this?
Michell Youngs
Report potholes to Oxfordshire County Council, the responsible council, via Fixmystreet
Cost of Living Grants - 15/6/23
Cost-of-living grants 2023 - Oxfordshire Community Foundation
Types of costs
Survey about Waste/recycling and street cleaning - 14/6/23
The Vale council are seeking opinions on the quality of the Biffa provided services.
This contract was due to expire in 2024, but I've been told it is 2026 now., so it's important Biffa do a good job over the next couple of years.
Please do the survey - it doesn't take long. Most questions are about Waste & recycling.
Question 12 is about street cleaning. Please do say what you think about this.
Let’s talk rubbish! Tell us what you think of our waste services - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
The deadline is 10th July
One of the Street Angels
Rural England Prosperity Funds - 14/6/23
REPF Summary Vale (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
UK Rural England Prosperity Funding (REPF):expression of interest form (southandvale.gov.uk)
or contact business.support@southandvale.gov.uk
Repair Cafe - June 17th - 13/6/23
United Church 2-4pm
See poster
Do you know?? - Farm in Longcot in 1850s - 12/6/23
Hello. I am trying to find any information that may be available on Martha Mundy who had to sell her farm at Longcot in the 1849/50 years.
Does anyone know where the farm was or where she moved to.
I know it's a longshot but thought I would give it a try.
Thank you Carol Millar.
Carolmilla@aol.com
June (online) edition of Faringdon Town Magazine- 9/6/23
MYEBOOK - Faringdon Town Edition 7
Fri 28 July - Emily (15) (2022 - Biography, Drama, History)- 7/6/23
"Emily" imagines the transformative, exhilarating and uplifting journey to womanhood of a rebel and a misfit, one of the world's most famous, enigmatic and provocative writers, who died too soon at age 30.
Stars: Emma Mackey, Oliver Jackson-Cohen
Film duration: 2 hr 10 mins plus 15 min interval
Blockbuster @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 7.00pm, film starts at 7.30pm
ADVANCE TICKETS £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family from Faringdon Information Centre Tickets on the door £1 more!
Weds 5 July - Allelujah (12A) (2022 - Drama) - 7/6/23
The story of a geriatric ward in a small Yorkshire hospital threatened with closure Stars: Judi Dench, Jennifer Saunders
Film duration: 1 hours 39 mins (no interval)
Matinee Club @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon Doors open 12.30pm, film starts at 1pm
Advance tickets: £4 from Faringdon Information Centre Tickets on the door £1 more!
Matinee Club Membership - Just £24 for 12 films
Come and Bust a Move, Your favourite 50s, 60s, 70s, music to dance to. - 3/6/23
Your favourite 50s, 60s, 70s, music to dance to.
June 10th 7.30 - 11.00 Pump House, Swan Lane
Tickets, £6, from Acacia Charity shop or phone 01367 243876
Raising funds for British Heart Foundation
See poster
Return Hospital Equipment - 3/6/23
Please help us by returning Occupational Therapy equipment you no longer need to the correct location.
Equipment including commodes, toilet frames and kitchen trolleys should not be returned to the hospital.
They need to be cleaned so they can be reused by other patients, so please send them to Swindon Community Equipment Store located at Enterprise Works, Gypsy Lane, Swindon, SN2 8DT or contact the team on 01793 464777 to arrange collection of this equipment.
Patients in the Swindon locality will have equipment clearly labelled. Patients in other areas will need to contact their own equipment stores.
Please continue to return walking aids such as frames, crutches and sticks to the hospital.
New cost-of-living grant funding opening on 9th June - 3/6/23
OCF will be opening a new round of grant funding to help community organisations tackle the cost of living and build resilience. Applications will open on Friday 9th June and close on Monday 26th June at midday.
Following our recent consultation with local charitable organisations about how the continued high cost of living is affecting them, we have now published a report rounding up the findings of our survey and workshop. View the report >> ( https://e-oxfordshirecommunityfoundation.org/1OSY-8B29V-LUB5YT-55VTUY-0/c.aspx )
We are now drafting the terms of reference for the next round of grant funding from the Cost of Living Fund, based on the conclusions from this consultation.
Due to the shorter-than-usual application period, we wanted to give you as much notice as possible of the key dates, which are:
Application period - from 5pm on Friday 9th June to midday on Monday 26th June 2023r >> ( https://e-oxfordshirecommunityfoundation.org/1OSY-8B29V-LUB5YT-55WFF2-0/c.aspx )
Funding decisions announced - by Friday 4th August 2023 Grants paid - by 31st August 2023 Details of amounts available and eligibility will be published on 9th June along with the online application form. However, we can confirm that this next round of funding will allow applications for core costs, which we hope will help grantees plan for next autumn and winter.
In the meantime, you may be interested to read our top tips for grant applications ( https://e-oxfordshirecommunityfoundation.org/1OSY-8B29V-LUB5YT-55UQHO-0/c.aspx ), to increase the likelihood of a successful application.
Alvestock Alvescot Music Festival- 3/6/23
Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th July
OX18 2PU
11.30am – 10pm
www.alvestock.co.uk
Sat 15th Adults £30, 6-16yrs £10, 5 + under FOC
Sun 16th Adults £25, 6-16yrs £10, 5 + under FOC
See poster
U3a talk - 3/6/23
Thursday 13th July Corn Exchange, 2.30pm
Jessica Beare,Recycling Officer at the Vale of White Horse will talk about *what can and cannot be recycled from our bins.
All of us have questions about this issue, and are uncertain as to what we should put in our black bins. Jessica is very happy to answer all those questions and any other questions about recycling.
Refreshments will be available after the talk. All visitors are required to pay £1.50 for attendance.
https://faringdondistrictu3a.com
Concert in aid of a new Folly Star - 26/5/23
Friday July 21st
Corn Exchange, 7pm for 7.30.
Tickets £3 from The Tourist Information office (from 1/6/23)- cash only
Faringdon Community Choir and Local Vocals from Deddington
Bar & Raffle (cash only)
See poster
Plastic free poppies - 25/5/23
We’re committed to reducing single-use plastic in all our activities in a drive to be economical, sustainable, and less impactful to the environment. So, we’re delighted to share that our poppy will now be made entirely from paper and will be even easier to recycle.
This significant development has been achieved over a number of years in collaboration with external experts and partners and with the hard work of our in-house teams.
Collaborating with experts, we’ve assessed the environmental impact of the plastic-free poppy to ensure its sustainability.
We’ve achieved:
*A 40% reduction in carbon emissions in production
And the paper will be made from: 50% recycled waste from the production of coffee cups and 50% responsibly sourced wood fibre.
The plastic-free poppy keeps the iconic poppy and leaf shape design (or four petals for Poppyscotland) and can still be fastened with a pin or inserted into a buttonhole. Stick on versions will also be available.
Royal British Legion
Faringdon Town Annual Meeting - 24/5/23
Wednesday 31st May 2023 at 7.30pm
Jubilee Room, The Pump House, 5 Market Place, Faringdon
ALL ARE WELCOME, IN PERSON OR ONLINE
All local groups and organisations are invited to to tell us about their activities for the past year.
Please come and tell us:
What Does Faringdon Need?
Grants available for Climate Change projects - 24/5/23
The good news is the Climate Action Fund has opened again this week for applications from town and parish councils and local groups who have proposals which aim to tackle climate change.
This time there is £100,000 up for grabs – double the amount previously available for those applying for grants.
The fund will be open for applications until 14 July.
An hour-long webinar for those wishing to apply has been arranged for Wednesday 7 June at 5.30pm – please contact the climateaction@southandvale.gov.uk or grants@southandvale.gov.uk for more details including the webinar link.
£100,000 now available for community climate projects in Vale - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
Grants for community organisations - 24/5/23
Councils offer financial support for community organisations as food prices continue to rise and increasing numbers of people turn to food banks for essentials.
The voluntary food network – voluntary and community organisations such as food banks, food larders and community fridges for residents – plays a vital role supporting people but demand for their help has surged as fuel and food costs escalate, particularly for everyday staples.*
To help support the voluntary food network South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse district councils are inviting community food groups to apply for a grant of £2,500 for essential supplies.
The grants can be used to help pay for a variety of expenses including food, additional storage and energy bills.
Council grants now available for food banks and community larders - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
Folly Dollies June Meeting - 19/5/23
June Meeting is Wednesday 14th June, 7.30pm for 7.45 pm start at The Old Town Hall, Market Square.
We have a speaker: Helena McBride talking to us on the topic of: “De-Cluttering”
First visit is free
contact: Follydollies@hotmail.com
Faringdon Folly Tower newsletter - 18/5/23
Click the red Subscribe button on Folly Home page to receive an occasional newsletter - 3 or 4 times a year at most
Faringdon Festival of Transport - 18/5/23
June 11th. Free Entry. From 9am
A fabulous day for all the family
Lots of regulars there from previous years!!
All in aid of Great Ormond Street Hospital and Children's Charity
Pump up the Vinyl - 18/5/23
Sunday 28th May, Pump House Project Swan Lane.
9 hrs of music, 11 DJs
1pm - 10pm
See poster
Faringdon's Big Green Day - 18/5/23
Faringdon Town Council along with the Earth and Faith, will be holding a Big Green Day on the 17th of June 2023 during the nationwide Big Green Week later this year.
We would like to hold an event in the Corn Exchange from 10am to 1pm to showcase the wide range of Green activities that are becoming part of our life in Faringdon. The event will give local community groups and ethical green businesses a platform to promote their green activities.
If you would like to take part, please email adele@faringdontowncouncil.govuk
Wantage Orchestra Summer Concert Sunday 2nd July 2023 at 7pm- 16/5/23
Guest conductor - James Longstaffe
Soloist – Chris Terepin
Programme
Mendelssohn 'Hebrides' Overture Walton Cello Concerto - soloist Chris Terepin Schumann Symphony no 3
The Old Mill Hall, School Lane, Grove, Wantage
Oxfordshire, OX12 7LB
Tickets In advance £10 seniors £8, under 18’s are free.
At the door £1 more . Available online www.wantageorchestra.org.uk
Or The Mad Hatters Bookshop Wantage / The Regent Bookshop Wantage
Potholes - 15/5/23
There seems to be no point in reporting potholes, I reported a large sunken hole in Bernards way months ago and was told it was not bad enough to be fixed, how bad does it have to be?
Anthony Volpe
The Coronation - photos from Faringdon- 12/5/23
I've collected together photos of the decorated Market Place and the performers
All on a Coronation 2023 page on this website
Roald Dahl's Matilda The Musical - 12/5/23
(PG) (2022 - Comedy, Drama, Family)
An adaption of the Tony and Olivier award-winning musical. Matilda tells the story of an extraordinary girl who, armed with a sharp mind and a vivid imagination, dares to take a stand to change her story with miraculous results.
Stars: Emma Thompson, Alisha Weir
Film duration: 1 hours 57 mins (no interval)
Matinee Club @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 12.30pm, film starts at 1pm Advance tickets: £4 from Faringdon Information Centre Tickets on the door £1 more!
Fri 30 June What's Love Got to Do with it?- 12/5/23
(12A) (2022 - Comedy, Drama)
In London, an award-winning filmmaker documents her best friend's journey into an assisted marriage in line with his family's Pakistani heritage. In the process, she challenges her own attitude towards relationships
Stars: Lily James, Mim Shaikh, Emma Thompson
Film duration: 1 hr 48 mins plus 15 min interval
Blockbuster @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 7.00pm, film starts at 7.30pm
ADVANCE TICKETS £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Films @ Home - missed a film at The Regent?
The community cinema DVDs are now at Faringdon Library to hire for £2. All proceeds to The Place.
Come and Bust a Move - 10/5/23
Your favourite 50s, 60s, 70s, music to dance to.
June 10th 7.30 - 11.00 Pump House, Swan Lane
Tickets, £6, from Acacia Charity shop or phone 01367 243876
Raising funds for British Heart Foundation
London to Brighton Bike Ride for the British Heart Foundation.- 7/5/23
I was lucky enough to be allocated a place in this years London to Brighton cycle ride.I have been a cyclist for a number of years , completing several short 35 mile charity rides , through the night around London.
I will be cycling 55 miles to Brighton , fortunately through the day , with a steep long hill to finish, on June 18 , 2023.
If you feel you are able to donate to this worthwhile cause, please sponsor me , or if convenient through my Just Giving site, tap 1677419389325 into the search box, or go to Fundraising for British Heart Foundation (justgiving.com)
All expenses will be covered by myself ( entry fees,transport costs to the start in Clapham,return from Brighton )
Alll donations go to the B.H.F.
Jeff Wilson
Coronation flag and bunting - 2/5/23
From the Tourist Information office. FREE.
Available for businesses and residents
Potholes - 2/5/23
I wonder if or when the potholes in the Pines and the roads around Faringdon will be repaired. It's not fair to us motorists who are ripped off paying road tax with nothing done about the disgraceful state of the roads.Anyone visiting the area would think they are in a third world country.
Roger Davey
Potholes can be reported on Fixmystreet
Music in the Market Place - 2/5/23
Music In the Market Place
to Celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III
𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲, 4pm
𝗠𝗮𝘆𝗽𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝟰𝗽𝗺 𝘁𝗼 𝟰:𝟯𝟬𝗽𝗺
Singing Together . Friday 5th May - 2/5/23
New singing group for Adults. Community Singalong, open to all.
Come along for the fun of singing, whatever your ability
cat.attewell@homeinsteadswindon.co.uk
See poster
McColls - 1/5/23
Just heard that McColls ( now Morrisons) will close for 8 days later in May for a refurbishment.
Hopefully good news
Faringdon U3A - 1/5/23
Thursday 11th May in the Corn Exchange *speaker Jeff Evans *talking about 60 years of music on television *- POP on the BOX*. There will be many warm memories and also a few surprises as Jeff reminds us of many different shows such as Six-Five Special right up to Juke Box Jury.
Jeff is an acknowledged expert in popular culture, and has written numerous books about television. This is an afternoon not to be missed.
Refreshments are available but visitors are required to pay £1.50.
Please note that all attendees are required to be in good health, and up to date with their vaccinations.. If in doubt of your health, please stay at home to protect others from Covid 19. 10h ·
Faringdon Games Club FREE Open Session
Get ready for a whirlwind of excitement at the FARINGDON GAMES CLUB - Embark on a Gaming Adventure Like Never Before! Mark your calendars for Sunday, 6th August, from 5pm-9pm at the historic Old Town Hall, Faringdon town centre.
Whether you're a gaming enthusiast, an aspiring card trader, or a curious newbie who's always wanted to dive into the world of tabletop gaming, this is your perfect gateway! Dungeons and Dragons, Pokémon, Magic the Gathering, board games, card trading and more. No booking, no hassle, just turn up! We're ready to welcome game lovers of all ages and skill levels to our community. Come along to chat, play or just to find out more about Faringdon Games Club!
We’re super excited to be joined by Jacob Reid’s Academy for Gaming and Mystic Games (of Witney fame) will also be on hand offering help and advice, as well as providing a pop up shop with snacks, drinks, cards and more!
Help us make this club even better for you! Please spare a few moments to fill out this quick survey. https://forms.gle/PsCvDEPZsimUou4t6
If you would like to join Faringdon Community Choir in the autumn term just sign up here https://forms.gle/tX3qLfj6zsbNoko69.
All are welcome and it'd be lovely to welcome new people in September.
All you need to do is sign up here and turn up to the first session - either wed 2pm-3.30 or 6pm - 7.30. United Church Hall ( with parking)
Variety of songs. No auditions.
Good fun, friendly, spirit lifting
https://faringdoncommunitychoir.org.uk/
Folly Tower Open - 16/8/23
Open this Sunday - 3/9/23 11-5
Looks as if it will be a fine day - so beautiful views
No need to book. Pay by cash or card.
See Opening Times - Faringdon Folly Tower and Woodland
New Council Headquarters Didcot - 26/8/23
This will be for South Oxfordshire and Vale of the White Horse
https://data.southoxon.gov.uk/ccm/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P23/S2621/FUL#exactline
Deadline for comments 8th Sept
Faringdon Art Society exhibition - 26/8/23
Annual Exhibition of local artists' work opens for free public entry on Friday 29 September 2023 and closes on Sunday 1 October 2023.
Come along to the Corn Exchange and find your favourite pieces...
See details and contacts at www.faringdonartsociety.co.uk
Art Exhibition - Old Town Hall - 26/8/23
From 15-17 September, local artists Marion Flower and Charlotte Lindsay are holding an exhibition of original paintings and textile art at The Old Town Hall, Faringdon.
Friday 15 September 6-8pm
Saturday 16 September 10am - 5.00pm
Sunday 17 September 10am - 3.00pm
The Exhibition is inspired by the artists' love of the natural world and of exploring botanical, wildlife and anatomical beauty through sculpture, embroidery and watercolour paintings. Some artwork will be for sale, together with a selection of cards and other small items.
On display there will also be metal art by Billy Andersson, a local craftsman who draws upon his blacksmithing expertise to create fluid, contemporary metal works in steel. He also specialises in ornamental wrought-iron work.
Marion Flower
Pavements - 26/8/23
The pavement outside my house is being dug up to install fibre optic cable. At least that's as I understand it from a brief conversation with one of the workmen. It's being done for Virgin Media This is within a few weeks of it being dug up to instal fibre optic cable presumably for some other company. How many cables will be enough?
The first time we had some notice. This time the first we knew of it was when the gate was fenced off. I hope somebody's making some money out of it. Personally I can do without it. It's all reminiscent of chaotic early railway days when competing companies would lay track alongside each others. At least the railway companies provided a service. This lot, apart from paying some workmen to block our gates, just want to pump mind numbing crap into our homes.
What's the betting some mealy mouthed apologist comes back and says it'll be wonderful for business.
John King
Have your say on Landscapes - 26/8/23
A new study has launched to better understand, protect and enhance the unique landscapes across South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse and you’re invited to have your say.
South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils are preparing a new Landscape Character Assessment and are calling for residents, businesses and visitors to share what they love about local landscapes and what they think is changing them. The study is being carried out by environmental consultancy Land Use Consultants (LUC) on behalf of the two councils.
Have your say on our landscapes and what’s changing them - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
Faringdon & District Archaeological & Historical Society meetings- 26/8/23
2023
Sep 20th – Speaker - Sarah Somerville ‘Shaw House, Newbury’
Oct 18th - A.G.M. Reports from Officials. Speaker –Bill King ‘The Thames Path Part 6’’
Nov 15th - Speaker – Bjorn Watson ‘The Slide to War’
2024
Mar 20th – Speaker – Nigel Peters ‘Local Archaeology’
Apr 17th – Speaker – Liz Woolley ‘Beer, sausages and marmalade’
May 15th – Speaker – David Dalton ‘Strange Happenings’
Jun 19th – Speaker – Julie-Ann Godson ‘Scandal in High Society, Oxfordshire’
Further info: https://www.fdahs.org.uk/meetings-of-the-society/
Former Budgens site- 16/8/23
Vale Planning Committee has approved this development
https://data.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P21/V3520/FUL
Folly Tower Open - 16/8/23
Open this Sunday - the 20th August.11-5
Looks as if it will be a fine day - so beautiful views
No need to book. Pay by cash or card.
See Opening Times - Faringdon Folly Tower and Woodland
September Films-Regent Cinema 16/8/23
Weds 6 Sept - Book Club: The Next Chapter (12A)
(2023 - Comedy)
Follows the journey of four best friends as they take their book club to Italy for the fun girls trip they never had.
Stars: Diane Keaton, Jane Fonda, Candice Bergen
Film duration: 1 hours 47 mins (no interval)
Matinee Club @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 12.30pm, film starts at 1pm
Advance tickets: £4 from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Matinee Club Membership - Just £24 for 12 films
Fri 22 September - Champions (12A)
(2023 - Comedy, Drama, Sport)
A former minor-league basketball coach is ordered by the court to manage a team of players with intellectual disabilities. He soon realizes that despite his doubts, together, this team can go further than they ever imagined
Stars: Woodey Harrelson, Kaitlin Olson, Matt Cook
Film duration: 2 hr 04 mins plus 15 min interval
Blockbuster @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 7.00pm, film starts at 7.30pm
ADVANCE TICKETS £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Boules pitch - Clos Melois- 16/8/23
There is now a bench seat for spectators
See Clos Mêlois Boules Court - Faringdon Town Council for details of the game
The Volunteer - 7/8/23
Hooray - it has a SOLD sign on it
VWHDC summer activities - 7/8/23
See https://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/school-holiday-activities/
Skateboarding, fitness, dance , play
Some in Faringdon & Shrivenham
Faringdon Community Choir. New term from Sept 6th - 5/8/23
If you would like to join Faringdon Community Choir in the autumn term just sign up here https://forms.gle/tX3qLfj6zsbNoko69.
All are welcome and it'd be lovely to welcome new people in September.
All you need to do is sign up here and turn up to the first session - either wed 2pm-3.30 or 6pm - 7.30. United Church Hall ( with parking)
Variety of songs. No auditions
The Askew Sisters at the Corn Exchange - 5/8/23
Big Ginger Tom Music are pleased that they will be playing at The Corn Exchange, Faringdon on Friday 15th September.
Hazel and Emily are skilled multi-instrumentalists and use great harmonies, fiddles, melodeons, concertina and cello in their innate drive to bring old dance music to life.
Support is from Wednesday’s Wolves.
Tickets available from www.WeGotTickets.com or by contacting Duncan at biggingertommusic@gmail.com or calling 07999 052720.
Doors and bar at 7pm, music at 7:30pm.
Big Ginger Tom Music are very pleased to be able to bring Liverpool based Calum Gilligan and multi instrumentalist Katie Grace Harris to The Corn Exchange on Friday 17th November.
Calum’s honeyed voice and intricate guitar playing bring his contemporary and traditional folk songs to life and Katie, who has recorded with the likes of Phil Beer and Reg Meuross, will entertain with her lovely voice, piano and accordion.
Tickets available from www.WeGotTickets.com or by contacting Duncan at biggingertommusic@gmail.com or calling 07999 052720.
Doors and bar at 7pm, music at 7:30pm.
VOLUNTEER TOUR GUIDES AND GUIDE SUPPORT AT WESTMILL WIND FARM & SOLAR PARK - 5/8/23
Westmill Sustainable Energy Trust (WeSET) promotes sustainable energy deployment / education and focuses its work within a 25-mile radius of the Westmill Wind Farm & Solar Park, near Watchfield.
WeSET is supported by a wonderful team of volunteer tour guides, all with a passion for sustainable energy and a low-carbon future. And we are looking for new, enthusiastic individuals to help us inform, educate and enlighten people about clean, green community energy.
The volunteering will involve meeting and welcoming groups of people (alone, or as part of a team of other guides) and leading them around the Westmill site, telling the story of how the Westmill Wind Farm & Solar Park was created, conveying the importance of renewable energy, describing how our turbines and solar panels were installed and how they operate.
There is no commitment and you can volunteer as little or as much as you like.
For more information and to offer your support, please email visit@weset.org
Play areas across the Vale - 5/8/23
£45,000 investment will ensure more young children can enjoy Vale play areas - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
In Faringdon, children at Marlborough Gardens will soon be able to enjoy a wonderful new roundabout which is specially designed to ensure it can be used by wheelchair users and those with limited mobility.
Wicklesham Development - 3/8/23
See DRAFT-UNAPPROVED-Planning-Highways-Minutes-24th-July-2023.pdf (faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk) to read FTCs discussion at July's Planning & Highways meeting
Walking the Folly - 3/8/23
Just to say walking 50 times in six hours round the wonderful Folly on July 23 I managed to fundraise £1,300 for the RNLI.
Many thanks for support on the day from fellow walkers and runners and those who contributed via JustGiving. Much appreciated.
Dave Thompson
Chairman
RNLI Faringdon
Hi there Faringdon people.- 3/8/23
Its just on the off chance that someone could help me with a very old friend of mine who lived around there in the late sixties. His name was David J LeGassick, he was keen on golf and his father was a colonel in the military I believe. He may have been Sandy LeGassick
I would love to hear from anyone who could possibly put me in contact with him or his family.
Charles Moseley
YELESOM@GMAIL.COM
Vale Planning Fiasco over Wicklesham Quarry Industrial Infrastructure proposal - 3/8/23
Below is a link to the latest update on why the planning consultation was terminated by VOWHDC. https://www.change.org/p/the-vale-of-white-horse-district-council-and-secretary-of-state-michael-gove-protect-wicklesham-quarry-from-development/u/31772164
Please get in touch with any queries or comments: protectwicklesham@gmail.com
Free skate park sessions for young people.- 31/7/23
Funded by the Community Safety Partnership, Soha and Didcot Garden Party, the events will take place across the districts for young people of all ages and abilities.
The events, run by ATB skate shop, will include competitions, skating games, prizes, and music.
Any young person who is interested is encouraged to turn up and take part on the day.
If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me to discuss.
Many thanks in advance for your support,
Lewis Vaughan
Community Safety Officer
South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils
Telephone: 01235 422590
Visit us on:
https://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/school-holiday-activities/
Faringdon Art Exhibition - 31/7/23
Fri 29thand Sat 30th September 10am- 6pm
Sunday October 1st 10am - 4pm
www.faringdonartsociety.co.uk
The Shed- 31/7/23
Wednesday evenings 6pm- 9pm
In the woodworking room in the CDT block at the Community College
Shed activities to help reduce loneliness- and have some fun
Contact mcartwright197@btinternet.com for more information
Rural England Prosperity Fund - 29/7/23
We’ve secured £528,000 worth of funding through the government’s Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF). The fund supports the aims of the government’s Levelling Up White Paper and Future Farming Programme. It funds capital projects for small businesses and community infrastructure to improve productivity and strengthen the rural economy and rural communities.
We’ll be making funding available to help achieve aims set out in our Corporate Plan, including action on the climate emergency, and improving community and economic wellbeing.
Here’s a summary of the types of projects that could be funded in Vale of White Horse.
We’ll be opening a grant scheme to allow organisations to apply for this funding later this year. In the meantime, we’re asking interested parties to complete an expression of interest form (EOI). Completed EOIs will help us to understand local demand and will inform the criterion for our final grant scheme that we expect to be available in Autumn 2023.
Rural England Prosperity Fund - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
VWHDC
NEW: Hop on and Hop off Tourist Bus - 25/7/23
Every Saturday from 5th August. Leaves Faringdon Market place at 12.30
See FTC website for more info and timetable
Wanted : Assistant Supervisor, Faringdon Day Centre for the Elderly - 25/7/23
We are urgently seeking an Assistant Supervisor for Faringdon Day Centre on a temporary basis, initially for a period of three months with the possibility of an extension.
We are looking for somebody, preferably able to start immediately, with a caring and outgoing personality; previous experience of working with elderly people would be an advantage.
We meet in Faringdon Baptist Church Hall and normal hours for staff are Monday and Thursday 8.45am-2.45pm, but we could be flexible.
Pay is at the appropriate National Minium Rate.
For more information contact the Chairman, Sue Thrower on 01367 240 848 or smthrower@tiscali.co.uk .
Faringdon Games Club FREE Open Session - 22/7/23
Get ready for a whirlwind of excitement at the FARINGDON GAMES CLUB - Embark on a Gaming Adventure Like Never Before! Mark your calendars for Sunday, 6th August, from 5pm-9pm at the historic Old Town Hall, Faringdon town centre.
Whether you're a gaming enthusiast, an aspiring card trader, or a curious newbie who's always wanted to dive into the world of tabletop gaming, this is your perfect gateway! Dungeons and Dragons, Pokémon, Magic the Gathering, board games, card trading and more. No booking, no hassle, just turn up! We're ready to welcome game lovers of all ages and skill levels to our community. Come along to chat, play or just to find out more about Faringdon Games Club!
We’re super excited to be joined by Jacob Reid’s Academy for Gaming and Mystic Games (of Witney fame) will also be on hand offering help and advice, as well as providing a pop up shop with snacks, drinks, cards and more!
Help us make this club even better for you! Please spare a few moments to fill out this quick survey. https://forms.gle/PsCvDEPZsimUou4t6
James Reid
Faringdon Writers - Short Story Competition- 21/7/23
Faringdon Writers are once again forging ahead with their efforts to encourage and support all writers in Faringdon and its surrounding villages by holding their first Short Story competition.
The theme is FOLLY (to be interpreted as you wish).
There are three age groups: Primary (age 7-11), Secondary (age 12-17) and Adult (18+).
All entries are free and the Deadline for entries is 1st October 2023
Judges will consist of a panel of local published authors, writers and literacy professionals who will select the winners.
Prizes: Each winner will have their story published in the next Voices from Faringdon Anthology and a there will be a display in Faringdon Library.
Winners and runners-up of each age group will be announced at the Faringdon Writers Book Fair on Saturday 25th November in the Corn Exchange, Faringdon, with winners being invited to read their story out. All winners and runners–up will receive certificates.
For further information and full rules please email: faringdonwriters@gmail.com
Faringdon Community Choir concert Friday July 21st - 17/7/23
Only a few tickets left!
Faringdon Community Choir are so excited about our concert on 21st July.
We hope to see lots of you there.
We still have some tickets left - but not that many! Available from the Information Centre.
We are so chuffed that our post last time encouraged so many of you to contribute to the crowdfunder that the Folly Trust set up. It seems that we may well get our star back this winter! However, it maybe that the money raised at our concert fills the final gap.
So get your ticket, bring some cash to the concert, buy a raffle ticket, buy a drink or two, have a wonderful evening and help get our star back!
Rachel
Connector 8 New bus service to Didcot - 17/7/23
NEW connector X34 & X35 will replace connector 98 and provide greater connectivity for residents of Great Western Park with direct links to Wantage, Faringdon and Newbury. You can find the new timetable from 23rd July here.
Wicklesham Quarry development - 17/7/23
This is an important application. If it's successful it will affect Faringdon, the A420 and the villages.
Whether you support it or object - do have your say on VWHDC website
Regent Cinema films - 17/7/23
Weds 2 August - My Sailor, My Love (12A)
(2022 - Drama)
A retired sea captain and his daughter must reassess their strained relationship after he begins a new romance with a widowed housekeeper
Stars: James Cosmo, Brid Brennan, Catherine Walker
Film duration: 1 hours 43 mins (no interval)
Matinee Club @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 12.30pm, film starts at 1pm
Advance tickets: £4 from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Matinee Club Membership - Just £24 for 12 films
Fri 25 August - Empire of Light (15)
(2022 - Drama, Romance)
A drama about the power of human connection during turbulent times, set in an English coastal town in the early 1980s
Stars: Olivia Colman, Micheal Ward, Colin Firth
Film duration: 1 hr 55mins plus 15 min interval
Blockbuster @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 7.00pm, film starts at 7.30pm
ADVANCE TICKETS £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Weds 23 August - The Super Mario Bros. Movie (PG)
(2022 - Animation, Adventure, Comedy)
A plumber named Mario travels through an underground labyrinth with his brother, Luigi, trying to save a captured princess
Stars: Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlie Day
Film duration: 1hour 32 mins - no interval
Kids Cinema @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 1.30pm, film starts at 2.00pm
Advance Tickets £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family - Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Strength and Balance Exercise Classes- 15/7/23
Enabling older adults to keep doing what they love for longer.
Faringdon – The Corn Exchange, Gloucester Street, SN7 7JA
Mondays at 10:00-11:00am
Rebuild your muscle strength to help make everyday tasks easier.
Improve your balance to stay confident, mobile, and independent.
Have fun and meet others in your local community.
First class free, then £5 per class
Book via email or telephone
01235 849403
active@ageukoxfordshire.org.uk
www.ageuk.org.uk/oxfordshire
Gigaclear work progamme - 15/7/23
See work schedule
Permit information can be found at the website one.network.
This information will also be sent via email to all residents who have previously registered their details.
Any other interested residents can also register for periodic permit updates at //Gigaclear.com/mycommunity
If residents would like to get in touch with us, please ask them to contact our dedicated Customer Operations team on the details below.
Email: networkbuildqueries@gigaclear.com
Phone: 01865 591131
Meeting about Halfpenny Bridge - 15/7/23
Gloucestershire County Council will hold a public meeting in Lechlade to update residents on the repair work to Halfpenny Bridge.
A vehicle collided with the historic bridge in the early hours of Tuesday 20 June, causing significant damage to the wall of the bridge.
A road closure has been put in place on the A361 but remains open to pedestrians and cyclists.
A meeting will be held at Lechlade Memorial Hall, Oak Street, Lechlade-on-Thames, GL7 3AY, at 6pm on Thursday 20 July. The meeting will provide more details on the repair works and takequestions from the public and local businesses
See full new release
.Eagle Tavern Picture - 13/7/23
Does anybody have a larger sized photograph of The Eagle, Coxwell St please?
I want to send it to the 'Closed Pubs' website where The Eagle is listed but they have said that the JPG is too small.(eagle-inn-1992-289x200.jpg)
Grateful for any help
Helen Barter
Pavement Works - 12/7/23
Do you think we could be informed if works are going to be done outside homes. Workmen digging up pavements outside homes making life difficult getting out of your drives throughout the day. Then leaving heaps of rubble on pavements.
Residents should be informed.
Dee England
Wallet lost at the Folly - 10/7/23
I’m sorry to bother you but I believe I dropped a small flower covered wallet at the Folly with credit cards (cancelled), driving licence and £10 x2 notes. If anyone notifies you could you please put me in touch with them.
Many thanks, Annabel Brown
Help needed- 8/7/23
Can you help circulate leaflets to let Faringdon people know about the planned industrial site at Wicklesham Quarry?
Please come to a meeting on Friday 14 July at 7.00pm, petition details here: https://www.change.org/p/the-vale-of-white-horse-district-council-and-secretary-of-state-michael-gove-protect-wicklesham-quarry-from-development/u/31730259
The application is for seven 25metre high buildings, a data centre and 2 multistorey carparks.
Anna Hoare
The application, documents & comments is on VWHDC site : data.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P23/V1476/O#exactline
Faringdon Singers Summer Concert Sunday 9th July - 7/7/23
St. Mary the Virgin Church, Longcot, SN7 7TL
7.00pm.
‘Dreams of the Countryside’
Including works by Vaughan Williams, Saint Saens and Holst
Musical Director: Clare Woodall
Accompanist: Terence Carter
Drinks available before concert
Free Entry, Donations welcome for St. Mary's Church
For more information please contact Dennis Blease d2blease@btinternet.com 07531 189 474
www.faringdonsingers.org.uk
Ferndale St pavement parking - 7/7/23
Please can people stop parking on pavements thinking they are car parks in Ferndale steeet
There’s a car, park over the road
DM England
Folly Path bench - 7/7/23
The broken bench on the path to the Folly has now been replaced- thankyou to Bethia Thomas (OCC cllr) for providing the ££ to buy it, and Town Council staff for installing it.
The path ( and I assume the bench) was the responsibility of OCC for repairs, and VWHDC for cleaning.
Ed
New Folly Star fund raising - 5/7/23
https://www.facebook.com/FaringdonFolly
Please do tick the Gift Aid Box if you are eligible
or via bank transfer
Lloyds Bank Account: Faringdon Folly Tower Trust
Sort Code: 30.93.18
Account no: 18433960
Ref The Star
A bit of background.... Since 2000 ( when the TOWER got POWER.... ) we've been able to have a Christmas beacon shining over the Vale to cheer us up during the cold wet winter months - thanks to the amazing work of PETER WHITE. Thank you Peter!
n the early days, it was a different light every year - but then we somehow settled on our favourite: the Christmas Star! It was built before LEDs became so popular;. It was built with flourescent tubes. This meant chunky fittings & a relatively heavy frame. And it meant that it required scaffolding to keep the 2.5m high star aloft - more than 4m above the viewing platform.
This was also before the time that we took health & safety issues as seriously as we do nowadays!
To cut a long story short; the STAR-MARK-1 was on its last legs; prone to failure - and it would have been unsafe to re-erect it. SO - we're starting again- with cutting edge LED (colour-changing!) technology; lighter, more robust, easier & safer to erect.... But it DOES require specialists to make the tubes & controllers for us; and the frame that the tubes sit on (remember - everything has to fold up so that you can get it up those narrow stairs!) , and the extension poles/guy ropes to keep it aloft... And we want to it to last for as long as it continues to give us pleasure!
We've had a number of quotes from specialist companies; going right up to £15,000 ! Wow.... The best quote we've had for the tubes & controllers is £3700 (incl VAT) - and then RAC on Park Rd have very kindly offered to help with the frame building & installing to keep the costs down. Hence the target amount of £4500.
THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR HELPING MAKE THIS HAPPEN!
National Trust Coleshill Newsletter - 5/7/23
Update on rural skills on the Coleshill estate (pdf) as well as the courses available this year, a new partnership and the new meeting spaces available to hire in
Family Explorer at Folly Park - 5/7/23
Family xplorer orienteering, aimed at preschool and primary aged children, find the markers and explore the park at this free family friendly event!
Faringdon Folly Sports Park, SN7 8BF: Tuesday 1 August, 11am-1pm
Last registration is 12.30pm. All children under 16 should be accompanied by an adult.
To book please go to https://forms.office.com/r/5Qy7T6w64D, email active.communities@southandvale.gov.uk, or turn up on the day!
Petition - Wicklesham Quarry. Deadline for comments 27 July - 5/7/23
You can read about the planning application for an industrial estate at Wicklesham Quarry by clicking on the link. The deadline for comments is 27 July.
https://www.change.org/p/the-vale-of-white-horse-district-council-and-secretary-of-state-michael-gove-protect-wicklesham-quarry-from-development/u/31721620
Anna Hoare
The application on VWHDC site : data.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P23/V1476/O#exactline
Jeff Wilson Cycle Challenge London to Brighton – June 18.- 3/7/23
Many thanks to family and friends who sponsored me for my recent cycle ride. I am very grateful to you all for the wonderful support and encouragement ; particularly Farcycles colleagues, All Saints church members and our local B.H.F. committee, thank you all again
I was pleased to complete the challenge in five hours exactly, including the steep hill to finish !
All money received has now been passed to the British Heart Foundation.
My Just Giving site plus cash sponsorship totalled £1300.
A really fantastic amount ,well done to Faringdon.
Jeff Wilson
Ed: Very well done Jeff. A great result - for you and BHF
Survey about Waste/recycling and street cleaning - 1/7/23
The Vale council are seeking opinions on the quality of the Biffa provided services.
This contract was due to expire in 2024, but I've been told it is 2026 now., so it's important Biffa do a good job over the next couple of years.
Please do the survey - it doesn't take long. Most questions are about Waste & recycling.
Question 12 is about street cleaning. Please do say what you think about this.
Let’s talk rubbish! Tell us what you think of our waste services - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
The deadline is 10th July
One of the Street Angels
Folly Tower Open- 30/6/23
Sunday July 2nd 11-5.
Looks as if it will be a sunny day
Faringdon Town Magazine - 28/6/23
There are copies of the latest edition in the Tourist & Information Office
Abingdon Outdoor Pool open - 28/6/23
Summer season set to start at Abbey Meadow - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
The pool will open ahead of the school summer holidays on Saturday 22 July – a few days earlier than originally advertised – and will be open every day alongside the splash pad in the park until the start of September.
Folly Fest Fringe Classical music events - 22/6/23
To be held from 10.30 - 4pm in Cotswold Flame & Grill ( formerly Floyds Grill) London St
Classical Music Recitals | FollyFest Faringdon (faringdonfollyfest.co.uk)
10.30 Soprano songs from musicals
11.00. Oxford recorders playing Spanish music
11.30 Unaccompanied Bach on baroque viola
12.00 Mixed woodwind pieces
12.30 Virtuoso violin and piano pieces
1.00 Lunch break
1.30 Virtuoso saxophone and piano
2.00 Faringdon U3A Recorder consort
2.30 Baritone voice and piano solos
3.00 5 viols playing early music
3.30 Chopin and other piano pieces
4.00 End
Folly Dollies Summer Social - 22/6/23
Wednesday 12th July. 7:30 pm for 7:45 pm start
Contact Follydollies@hotmail.com for more details.
Repair Cafe last Saturday 17th - 20/6/23
Very successful Day. 35 items that were bought along for repair.
We repaired 15 electrical or mechanical items and 5 textile items . 8 items were sharpened , we gave advice on 5 items on how they could be repaired and just 2 items could not be repaired.
In total we saved 26Kg of goods being sent to Landfill.
Next date is 23rd September, United Church Hall. 2pm-4pm
Contact gary@thebateshouse.co.uk if you can offer help
Thankyou - 20/6/23
I would just like to thank the lady and gentleman who he!ped me yesterday when I had a fall in The Pines. Luckily I was not injured. I was not able to get up without help.
Thanks again.
Roger Davey
Potholes - 15/6/23
The state of the roads in and around Faringdon are getting noticeably worse. The potholes are everywhere, I can not seem to go out in the car with out having to swerve to avoid costly damage to my car. Cyclist must be on high alert as the holes could cause serious injuries.
The roads should be top priority and they do not seem to be. Road users are paying large amounts of Tax and then having to pay extra to repair damage caused by our neglected roads.
Its the councils job to repair the roads and spend tax payers fund wisely, When are they going to start doing this?
Michell Youngs
Report potholes to Oxfordshire County Council, the responsible council, via Fixmystreet
Cost of Living Grants - 15/6/23
Cost-of-living grants 2023 - Oxfordshire Community Foundation
- Amounts available: £500–£10,000
- Group annual income: Under £2,000,000
- Type of cost: Ongoing running costs, including full cost recovery, project, capital and promotional costs
- Closing date: Tuesday 27th June, midday
- Minimum award: £500
- Maximum award: £10,000
- Funds cannot be awarded to cover costs already paid for
Types of costs
- Ongoing running costs, including full cost recovery
- Project costs
- Capital costs
- Promotional costs
- Status: charity / CIO / registered company with charitable status / social enterprise / community group operating in Oxfordshire
- Income under £2 million
- Minimum one year of operation; if you have been constituted for less than one year but have been active for longer, you will be asked to demonstrate this activity
- Reserves are generally expected to be a minimum of three months’ running costs, and if they are more than 12 months, an explanation will be requested
Survey about Waste/recycling and street cleaning - 14/6/23
The Vale council are seeking opinions on the quality of the Biffa provided services.
This contract was due to expire in 2024, but I've been told it is 2026 now., so it's important Biffa do a good job over the next couple of years.
Please do the survey - it doesn't take long. Most questions are about Waste & recycling.
Question 12 is about street cleaning. Please do say what you think about this.
Let’s talk rubbish! Tell us what you think of our waste services - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
The deadline is 10th July
One of the Street Angels
Rural England Prosperity Funds - 14/6/23
REPF Summary Vale (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
UK Rural England Prosperity Funding (REPF):expression of interest form (southandvale.gov.uk)
or contact business.support@southandvale.gov.uk
Repair Cafe - June 17th - 13/6/23
United Church 2-4pm
See poster
Do you know?? - Farm in Longcot in 1850s - 12/6/23
Hello. I am trying to find any information that may be available on Martha Mundy who had to sell her farm at Longcot in the 1849/50 years.
Does anyone know where the farm was or where she moved to.
I know it's a longshot but thought I would give it a try.
Thank you Carol Millar.
Carolmilla@aol.com
June (online) edition of Faringdon Town Magazine- 9/6/23
MYEBOOK - Faringdon Town Edition 7
Fri 28 July - Emily (15) (2022 - Biography, Drama, History)- 7/6/23
"Emily" imagines the transformative, exhilarating and uplifting journey to womanhood of a rebel and a misfit, one of the world's most famous, enigmatic and provocative writers, who died too soon at age 30.
Stars: Emma Mackey, Oliver Jackson-Cohen
Film duration: 2 hr 10 mins plus 15 min interval
Blockbuster @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 7.00pm, film starts at 7.30pm
ADVANCE TICKETS £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family from Faringdon Information Centre Tickets on the door £1 more!
Weds 5 July - Allelujah (12A) (2022 - Drama) - 7/6/23
The story of a geriatric ward in a small Yorkshire hospital threatened with closure Stars: Judi Dench, Jennifer Saunders
Film duration: 1 hours 39 mins (no interval)
Matinee Club @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon Doors open 12.30pm, film starts at 1pm
Advance tickets: £4 from Faringdon Information Centre Tickets on the door £1 more!
Matinee Club Membership - Just £24 for 12 films
Come and Bust a Move, Your favourite 50s, 60s, 70s, music to dance to. - 3/6/23
Your favourite 50s, 60s, 70s, music to dance to.
June 10th 7.30 - 11.00 Pump House, Swan Lane
Tickets, £6, from Acacia Charity shop or phone 01367 243876
Raising funds for British Heart Foundation
See poster
Return Hospital Equipment - 3/6/23
Please help us by returning Occupational Therapy equipment you no longer need to the correct location.
Equipment including commodes, toilet frames and kitchen trolleys should not be returned to the hospital.
They need to be cleaned so they can be reused by other patients, so please send them to Swindon Community Equipment Store located at Enterprise Works, Gypsy Lane, Swindon, SN2 8DT or contact the team on 01793 464777 to arrange collection of this equipment.
Patients in the Swindon locality will have equipment clearly labelled. Patients in other areas will need to contact their own equipment stores.
Please continue to return walking aids such as frames, crutches and sticks to the hospital.
New cost-of-living grant funding opening on 9th June - 3/6/23
OCF will be opening a new round of grant funding to help community organisations tackle the cost of living and build resilience. Applications will open on Friday 9th June and close on Monday 26th June at midday.
Following our recent consultation with local charitable organisations about how the continued high cost of living is affecting them, we have now published a report rounding up the findings of our survey and workshop. View the report >> ( https://e-oxfordshirecommunityfoundation.org/1OSY-8B29V-LUB5YT-55VTUY-0/c.aspx )
We are now drafting the terms of reference for the next round of grant funding from the Cost of Living Fund, based on the conclusions from this consultation.
Due to the shorter-than-usual application period, we wanted to give you as much notice as possible of the key dates, which are:
Application period - from 5pm on Friday 9th June to midday on Monday 26th June 2023r >> ( https://e-oxfordshirecommunityfoundation.org/1OSY-8B29V-LUB5YT-55WFF2-0/c.aspx )
Funding decisions announced - by Friday 4th August 2023 Grants paid - by 31st August 2023 Details of amounts available and eligibility will be published on 9th June along with the online application form. However, we can confirm that this next round of funding will allow applications for core costs, which we hope will help grantees plan for next autumn and winter.
In the meantime, you may be interested to read our top tips for grant applications ( https://e-oxfordshirecommunityfoundation.org/1OSY-8B29V-LUB5YT-55UQHO-0/c.aspx ), to increase the likelihood of a successful application.
Alvestock Alvescot Music Festival- 3/6/23
Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th July
OX18 2PU
11.30am – 10pm
www.alvestock.co.uk
Sat 15th Adults £30, 6-16yrs £10, 5 + under FOC
Sun 16th Adults £25, 6-16yrs £10, 5 + under FOC
See poster
U3a talk - 3/6/23
Thursday 13th July Corn Exchange, 2.30pm
Jessica Beare,Recycling Officer at the Vale of White Horse will talk about *what can and cannot be recycled from our bins.
All of us have questions about this issue, and are uncertain as to what we should put in our black bins. Jessica is very happy to answer all those questions and any other questions about recycling.
Refreshments will be available after the talk. All visitors are required to pay £1.50 for attendance.
https://faringdondistrictu3a.com
Concert in aid of a new Folly Star - 26/5/23
Friday July 21st
Corn Exchange, 7pm for 7.30.
Tickets £3 from The Tourist Information office (from 1/6/23)- cash only
Faringdon Community Choir and Local Vocals from Deddington
Bar & Raffle (cash only)
See poster
Plastic free poppies - 25/5/23
We’re committed to reducing single-use plastic in all our activities in a drive to be economical, sustainable, and less impactful to the environment. So, we’re delighted to share that our poppy will now be made entirely from paper and will be even easier to recycle.
This significant development has been achieved over a number of years in collaboration with external experts and partners and with the hard work of our in-house teams.
Collaborating with experts, we’ve assessed the environmental impact of the plastic-free poppy to ensure its sustainability.
We’ve achieved:
*A 40% reduction in carbon emissions in production
And the paper will be made from: 50% recycled waste from the production of coffee cups and 50% responsibly sourced wood fibre.
The plastic-free poppy keeps the iconic poppy and leaf shape design (or four petals for Poppyscotland) and can still be fastened with a pin or inserted into a buttonhole. Stick on versions will also be available.
Royal British Legion
Faringdon Town Annual Meeting - 24/5/23
Wednesday 31st May 2023 at 7.30pm
Jubilee Room, The Pump House, 5 Market Place, Faringdon
ALL ARE WELCOME, IN PERSON OR ONLINE
All local groups and organisations are invited to to tell us about their activities for the past year.
Please come and tell us:
What Does Faringdon Need?
- A discussion about what residents would like to see the Town Council do over the next four years.
- Recreation Space in Faringdon. To discuss current situation and future need.
- Public Speaking Time Discussion on any matters the townspeople want to raise
Grants available for Climate Change projects - 24/5/23
The good news is the Climate Action Fund has opened again this week for applications from town and parish councils and local groups who have proposals which aim to tackle climate change.
This time there is £100,000 up for grabs – double the amount previously available for those applying for grants.
The fund will be open for applications until 14 July.
An hour-long webinar for those wishing to apply has been arranged for Wednesday 7 June at 5.30pm – please contact the climateaction@southandvale.gov.uk or grants@southandvale.gov.uk for more details including the webinar link.
£100,000 now available for community climate projects in Vale - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
Grants for community organisations - 24/5/23
Councils offer financial support for community organisations as food prices continue to rise and increasing numbers of people turn to food banks for essentials.
The voluntary food network – voluntary and community organisations such as food banks, food larders and community fridges for residents – plays a vital role supporting people but demand for their help has surged as fuel and food costs escalate, particularly for everyday staples.*
To help support the voluntary food network South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse district councils are inviting community food groups to apply for a grant of £2,500 for essential supplies.
The grants can be used to help pay for a variety of expenses including food, additional storage and energy bills.
Council grants now available for food banks and community larders - Vale of White Horse District Council (whitehorsedc.gov.uk)
Folly Dollies June Meeting - 19/5/23
June Meeting is Wednesday 14th June, 7.30pm for 7.45 pm start at The Old Town Hall, Market Square.
We have a speaker: Helena McBride talking to us on the topic of: “De-Cluttering”
First visit is free
contact: Follydollies@hotmail.com
Faringdon Folly Tower newsletter - 18/5/23
Click the red Subscribe button on Folly Home page to receive an occasional newsletter - 3 or 4 times a year at most
Faringdon Festival of Transport - 18/5/23
June 11th. Free Entry. From 9am
A fabulous day for all the family
Lots of regulars there from previous years!!
All in aid of Great Ormond Street Hospital and Children's Charity
Pump up the Vinyl - 18/5/23
Sunday 28th May, Pump House Project Swan Lane.
9 hrs of music, 11 DJs
1pm - 10pm
See poster
Faringdon's Big Green Day - 18/5/23
Faringdon Town Council along with the Earth and Faith, will be holding a Big Green Day on the 17th of June 2023 during the nationwide Big Green Week later this year.
We would like to hold an event in the Corn Exchange from 10am to 1pm to showcase the wide range of Green activities that are becoming part of our life in Faringdon. The event will give local community groups and ethical green businesses a platform to promote their green activities.
If you would like to take part, please email adele@faringdontowncouncil.govuk
Wantage Orchestra Summer Concert Sunday 2nd July 2023 at 7pm- 16/5/23
Guest conductor - James Longstaffe
Soloist – Chris Terepin
Programme
Mendelssohn 'Hebrides' Overture Walton Cello Concerto - soloist Chris Terepin Schumann Symphony no 3
The Old Mill Hall, School Lane, Grove, Wantage
Oxfordshire, OX12 7LB
Tickets In advance £10 seniors £8, under 18’s are free.
At the door £1 more . Available online www.wantageorchestra.org.uk
Or The Mad Hatters Bookshop Wantage / The Regent Bookshop Wantage
Potholes - 15/5/23
There seems to be no point in reporting potholes, I reported a large sunken hole in Bernards way months ago and was told it was not bad enough to be fixed, how bad does it have to be?
Anthony Volpe
The Coronation - photos from Faringdon- 12/5/23
I've collected together photos of the decorated Market Place and the performers
All on a Coronation 2023 page on this website
Roald Dahl's Matilda The Musical - 12/5/23
(PG) (2022 - Comedy, Drama, Family)
An adaption of the Tony and Olivier award-winning musical. Matilda tells the story of an extraordinary girl who, armed with a sharp mind and a vivid imagination, dares to take a stand to change her story with miraculous results.
Stars: Emma Thompson, Alisha Weir
Film duration: 1 hours 57 mins (no interval)
Matinee Club @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 12.30pm, film starts at 1pm Advance tickets: £4 from Faringdon Information Centre Tickets on the door £1 more!
Fri 30 June What's Love Got to Do with it?- 12/5/23
(12A) (2022 - Comedy, Drama)
In London, an award-winning filmmaker documents her best friend's journey into an assisted marriage in line with his family's Pakistani heritage. In the process, she challenges her own attitude towards relationships
Stars: Lily James, Mim Shaikh, Emma Thompson
Film duration: 1 hr 48 mins plus 15 min interval
Blockbuster @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 7.00pm, film starts at 7.30pm
ADVANCE TICKETS £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Films @ Home - missed a film at The Regent?
The community cinema DVDs are now at Faringdon Library to hire for £2. All proceeds to The Place.
Come and Bust a Move - 10/5/23
Your favourite 50s, 60s, 70s, music to dance to.
June 10th 7.30 - 11.00 Pump House, Swan Lane
Tickets, £6, from Acacia Charity shop or phone 01367 243876
Raising funds for British Heart Foundation
London to Brighton Bike Ride for the British Heart Foundation.- 7/5/23
I was lucky enough to be allocated a place in this years London to Brighton cycle ride.I have been a cyclist for a number of years , completing several short 35 mile charity rides , through the night around London.
I will be cycling 55 miles to Brighton , fortunately through the day , with a steep long hill to finish, on June 18 , 2023.
If you feel you are able to donate to this worthwhile cause, please sponsor me , or if convenient through my Just Giving site, tap 1677419389325 into the search box, or go to Fundraising for British Heart Foundation (justgiving.com)
All expenses will be covered by myself ( entry fees,transport costs to the start in Clapham,return from Brighton )
Alll donations go to the B.H.F.
Jeff Wilson
Coronation flag and bunting - 2/5/23
From the Tourist Information office. FREE.
Available for businesses and residents
Potholes - 2/5/23
I wonder if or when the potholes in the Pines and the roads around Faringdon will be repaired. It's not fair to us motorists who are ripped off paying road tax with nothing done about the disgraceful state of the roads.Anyone visiting the area would think they are in a third world country.
Roger Davey
Potholes can be reported on Fixmystreet
Music in the Market Place - 2/5/23
Music In the Market Place
to Celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III
𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲, 4pm
𝗠𝗮𝘆𝗽𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝟰𝗽𝗺 𝘁𝗼 𝟰:𝟯𝟬𝗽𝗺
- 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗖𝗲𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗵 𝟰.𝟯𝟬-𝟲.𝟬𝟬𝗽𝗺
- 𝗙𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗱𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗖𝗵𝗼𝗶𝗿 𝟲.𝟬𝟬𝗽𝗺 -𝟲.𝟯𝟬𝗽𝗺
- 𝗕𝗿𝗮𝘀𝘀 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝟲.𝟯𝟬𝗽𝗺 -𝟳.𝟬𝟬𝗽𝗺
- 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗴𝗶𝗲 𝗠𝗲 𝟳.𝟬𝟬𝗽m -𝟵.𝟬𝟬𝗽𝗺
Singing Together . Friday 5th May - 2/5/23
New singing group for Adults. Community Singalong, open to all.
Come along for the fun of singing, whatever your ability
- Mainly 60/70/80’s songs, but a few older anthems. Bring along suggestions.
- no music notation. The emphasis is on having fun, enjoying the experience of singing in community rather than singing ability.
cat.attewell@homeinsteadswindon.co.uk
See poster
McColls - 1/5/23
Just heard that McColls ( now Morrisons) will close for 8 days later in May for a refurbishment.
Hopefully good news
Faringdon U3A - 1/5/23
Thursday 11th May in the Corn Exchange *speaker Jeff Evans *talking about 60 years of music on television *- POP on the BOX*. There will be many warm memories and also a few surprises as Jeff reminds us of many different shows such as Six-Five Special right up to Juke Box Jury.
Jeff is an acknowledged expert in popular culture, and has written numerous books about television. This is an afternoon not to be missed.
Refreshments are available but visitors are required to pay £1.50.
Please note that all attendees are required to be in good health, and up to date with their vaccinations.. If in doubt of your health, please stay at home to protect others from Covid 19. 10h ·
Faringdon Games Club FREE Open Session
Get ready for a whirlwind of excitement at the FARINGDON GAMES CLUB - Embark on a Gaming Adventure Like Never Before! Mark your calendars for Sunday, 6th August, from 5pm-9pm at the historic Old Town Hall, Faringdon town centre.
Whether you're a gaming enthusiast, an aspiring card trader, or a curious newbie who's always wanted to dive into the world of tabletop gaming, this is your perfect gateway! Dungeons and Dragons, Pokémon, Magic the Gathering, board games, card trading and more. No booking, no hassle, just turn up! We're ready to welcome game lovers of all ages and skill levels to our community. Come along to chat, play or just to find out more about Faringdon Games Club!
We’re super excited to be joined by Jacob Reid’s Academy for Gaming and Mystic Games (of Witney fame) will also be on hand offering help and advice, as well as providing a pop up shop with snacks, drinks, cards and more!
Help us make this club even better for you! Please spare a few moments to fill out this quick survey. https://forms.gle/PsCvDEPZsimUou4t6
Tesco recycling - 29/4/23
Take it to the Faringdon Store (Container in store entrance)The collection points will allow customers to return all their previously unrecycled soft plastic, such as the clear film used to wrap meat and fish, crisp packets, fruit and veg bags and sweet wrappers, rather than having to throw it away. Most councils don’t collect soft plastic from homes for recycling so it typically goes to waste.
In a recent sample, Tesco was able to recover over 80% of the soft plastic returned by customers. It is now working with recyclers to explore what can be done with the remaining 20%, which is currently sent for energy recovery.
Recycling points at every large Tesco store in the UK (tescoplc.com)
New S6 bus timetable - 26/4/23
See S6_April 2023.pdf
No Town Council election on May 4th- 25/4/23
14 people applied to become a Town Councillor. AS there are 14 seats, no election is necessary.
Faringdon Town Councillors from May 2023 are listed here
Gigaclear schedule - 21/4/23
List in Gigaclear schedule file
Permit information can also be found at the website one.network This information will also be sent via email to all residents who have previously registered their details. Any other interested residents can also register for periodic permit updates at //Gigaclear.com/mycommunity
If residents would like to get in touch with us, please ask them to contact our dedicated Customer Operations team on the details below.
Email: networkbuildqueries@gigaclear.com
Phone: 01865 591131
Potholes - 14/4/23
According to the latest flyer from the LibDems, one of their priorities is the state of the roads in Faringdon
Well, all I can say, is they have not travelled on many roads in the town recently. Gravel Walk has a very large hole, on the bend, which has been there for a very long time. It was there, to a lesser degree, when they closed Gravel walk to fix the other holes, why wasn’t it fixed at the same time, or is that too logical.
It is also quite clear that they haven’t been down Canada Lane. This is the only road on and off the estate, and if is not only a disgrace, it is dangerous, especially to cyclists or for motor cycles.
If this is what they stand for, or consider this to be acceptable, then it is a sad endictment of their priorities.
Name and address supplied.
Folly Tower Open this Sunday 16th - 14/4/23
11am-5pm
Pay on the door - contactless or cash
www.faringdonfolly.org.uk
Faringdon Community Choir - 14/4/23
Faringdon Community Choir starts up again for the summer term Wednesday 19th April, United Church Hall
If you'd like to give us a go, please fill out the google form https://forms.gle/zXGnjE7VbGv3dNLy5 to let me know you're coming along.
If you're new, you can come along to a trial session before you commit to the term.
The times are 2pm - 3.30pm or 18.00 - 19.30pm
https://faringdoncommunitychoir.org.uk/
Weds 3 May - Mr Malcolm's List (PG) (2022 - Comedy, Drama, Romance)- 13/4/23
A young woman courts a mysterious wealthy suitor in 19th Century England
Stars: Freida Pinto, Sope Dirisu, Oliver Jackson-Cohen
Film duration: 1 hours 57 mins (no interval)
Matinee Club @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon Doors open 12.30pm, film starts at 1pm
Advance tickets: £4 from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Matinee Club Membership - Just £24 for 12 films
Fri 26 May - A Man Called Otto (15) (2022 - Comedy, Drama)- 13/4/23
Otto is a grump who's given up on life following the loss of his wife and wants to end it all. When a young family moves in nearby, he meets his match in quick-witted Marisol, leading to a friendship that will turn his world around.
Stars: Tom Hanks, Mariana Travino
Film duration: 2 hr 6 mins plus 15 min interval
Blockbuster @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 7.00pm, film starts at 7.30pm
ADVANCE TICKETS £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Weds 31 May - Epic Tails (U) (2022 - Animation, Adventure, Comedy)
Life in Yolcos, a beautiful and prosperous port city in ancient Greece, is peaceful until the population is threatened by the wrath of Poseidon.
A young, adventurous mouse and the cat who adopted her help the aged Jason and the Argonauts in their quest to save the city.
Stars: Kaycie Chase, Christophe Lemoine
Film duration: 1hour 35mins - no interval Kids Cinema @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 1.30pm, film starts at 2.00pm Advance Tickets £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family - Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Faringdon's Census information - 13/4/23
See Faringdon (Ward, United Kingdom) - Population Statistics, Charts, Map and Location (citypopulation.de)
I believe it excludes the Fernham Fields and Steeds development - once in Gt Coxwell Parish, but now in Faringdon
See Faringdon's figures since 1911
Faringdon Dramatic Society 'Be my baby' - 12/4/23
Forthcoming production of: Be My Baby Be My Baby 2023 - Faringdon Dramatic Society (FDS)
A play by Amanda Whittington
Wednesday 17 May 2023 - Saturday 20 May 2023 Buscot Park Theatre
Directed by Debbie Lock A bittersweet play set in 1964 about young mothers forced to give up their babies for adoption.
Tickets available online now and only until Saturday 13th May (nowhere else)
Please visit our website for further details & to purchase tickets: Be My Baby 2023 - Faringdon Dramatic Society (FDS)
FARINGDON REPAIR CAFÉ SATURDAY 22ND APRIL- 5/4/23
2-4PM THE UNITED CHURCH 8 COXWELL STREET
Faringdon Repair Café is a community pop up event where people who like to fix things meet people who have things that need to be fixed!
We want to help people to use things for longer – saving money and reducing waste.
Repair Café volunteers are local people who like fixing and getting the most out of things. They are not necessarily professionals but people who are willing to get stuck in!
We don’t charge for repairs but do ask if you can make a donation – however large or small – to help us cover the costs of putting on the event.
At this up-coming event we can offer the following fixes:
small electrical, sewing, computer repairs
Faringdon U3A. Thurs 11th May - 5/4/23
Speaker Jeff Evans will talk about Pop on the Box, a story of 60 years of music on television. The talk will be fully illustrated, and will contain many warm memories of shows like SIx-Five Special and Juke Box Jury. Jeff is an acknowledged expert in popular culture and has written numerous books about television. This is an afternoon not to be missed. Refreshments for everyone will be provided after the talk. VIsitors are required to pay £1.50
Please ensure that you are in good health if attending, and have had all the vaccinations. if in doubt please stay at home!
Whats on and Local Events for April - 2/4/23
Can be found on What's on - Faringdon Community Website.
Take it to the Faringdon Store (Container in store entrance)The collection points will allow customers to return all their previously unrecycled soft plastic, such as the clear film used to wrap meat and fish, crisp packets, fruit and veg bags and sweet wrappers, rather than having to throw it away. Most councils don’t collect soft plastic from homes for recycling so it typically goes to waste.
- Bread bags
- Fruit and vegetable packaging
- Crisp packets
- Salad bags
In a recent sample, Tesco was able to recover over 80% of the soft plastic returned by customers. It is now working with recyclers to explore what can be done with the remaining 20%, which is currently sent for energy recovery.
Recycling points at every large Tesco store in the UK (tescoplc.com)
New S6 bus timetable - 26/4/23
See S6_April 2023.pdf
No Town Council election on May 4th- 25/4/23
14 people applied to become a Town Councillor. AS there are 14 seats, no election is necessary.
Faringdon Town Councillors from May 2023 are listed here
Gigaclear schedule - 21/4/23
List in Gigaclear schedule file
Permit information can also be found at the website one.network This information will also be sent via email to all residents who have previously registered their details. Any other interested residents can also register for periodic permit updates at //Gigaclear.com/mycommunity
If residents would like to get in touch with us, please ask them to contact our dedicated Customer Operations team on the details below.
Email: networkbuildqueries@gigaclear.com
Phone: 01865 591131
Potholes - 14/4/23
According to the latest flyer from the LibDems, one of their priorities is the state of the roads in Faringdon
Well, all I can say, is they have not travelled on many roads in the town recently. Gravel Walk has a very large hole, on the bend, which has been there for a very long time. It was there, to a lesser degree, when they closed Gravel walk to fix the other holes, why wasn’t it fixed at the same time, or is that too logical.
It is also quite clear that they haven’t been down Canada Lane. This is the only road on and off the estate, and if is not only a disgrace, it is dangerous, especially to cyclists or for motor cycles.
If this is what they stand for, or consider this to be acceptable, then it is a sad endictment of their priorities.
Name and address supplied.
Folly Tower Open this Sunday 16th - 14/4/23
11am-5pm
Pay on the door - contactless or cash
www.faringdonfolly.org.uk
Faringdon Community Choir - 14/4/23
Faringdon Community Choir starts up again for the summer term Wednesday 19th April, United Church Hall
If you'd like to give us a go, please fill out the google form https://forms.gle/zXGnjE7VbGv3dNLy5 to let me know you're coming along.
If you're new, you can come along to a trial session before you commit to the term.
The times are 2pm - 3.30pm or 18.00 - 19.30pm
https://faringdoncommunitychoir.org.uk/
Weds 3 May - Mr Malcolm's List (PG) (2022 - Comedy, Drama, Romance)- 13/4/23
A young woman courts a mysterious wealthy suitor in 19th Century England
Stars: Freida Pinto, Sope Dirisu, Oliver Jackson-Cohen
Film duration: 1 hours 57 mins (no interval)
Matinee Club @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon Doors open 12.30pm, film starts at 1pm
Advance tickets: £4 from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Matinee Club Membership - Just £24 for 12 films
Fri 26 May - A Man Called Otto (15) (2022 - Comedy, Drama)- 13/4/23
Otto is a grump who's given up on life following the loss of his wife and wants to end it all. When a young family moves in nearby, he meets his match in quick-witted Marisol, leading to a friendship that will turn his world around.
Stars: Tom Hanks, Mariana Travino
Film duration: 2 hr 6 mins plus 15 min interval
Blockbuster @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 7.00pm, film starts at 7.30pm
ADVANCE TICKETS £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Weds 31 May - Epic Tails (U) (2022 - Animation, Adventure, Comedy)
Life in Yolcos, a beautiful and prosperous port city in ancient Greece, is peaceful until the population is threatened by the wrath of Poseidon.
A young, adventurous mouse and the cat who adopted her help the aged Jason and the Argonauts in their quest to save the city.
Stars: Kaycie Chase, Christophe Lemoine
Film duration: 1hour 35mins - no interval Kids Cinema @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 1.30pm, film starts at 2.00pm Advance Tickets £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family - Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Faringdon's Census information - 13/4/23
See Faringdon (Ward, United Kingdom) - Population Statistics, Charts, Map and Location (citypopulation.de)
I believe it excludes the Fernham Fields and Steeds development - once in Gt Coxwell Parish, but now in Faringdon
See Faringdon's figures since 1911
Faringdon Dramatic Society 'Be my baby' - 12/4/23
Forthcoming production of: Be My Baby Be My Baby 2023 - Faringdon Dramatic Society (FDS)
A play by Amanda Whittington
Wednesday 17 May 2023 - Saturday 20 May 2023 Buscot Park Theatre
Directed by Debbie Lock A bittersweet play set in 1964 about young mothers forced to give up their babies for adoption.
Tickets available online now and only until Saturday 13th May (nowhere else)
Please visit our website for further details & to purchase tickets: Be My Baby 2023 - Faringdon Dramatic Society (FDS)
FARINGDON REPAIR CAFÉ SATURDAY 22ND APRIL- 5/4/23
2-4PM THE UNITED CHURCH 8 COXWELL STREET
Faringdon Repair Café is a community pop up event where people who like to fix things meet people who have things that need to be fixed!
We want to help people to use things for longer – saving money and reducing waste.
Repair Café volunteers are local people who like fixing and getting the most out of things. They are not necessarily professionals but people who are willing to get stuck in!
We don’t charge for repairs but do ask if you can make a donation – however large or small – to help us cover the costs of putting on the event.
At this up-coming event we can offer the following fixes:
small electrical, sewing, computer repairs
Faringdon U3A. Thurs 11th May - 5/4/23
Speaker Jeff Evans will talk about Pop on the Box, a story of 60 years of music on television. The talk will be fully illustrated, and will contain many warm memories of shows like SIx-Five Special and Juke Box Jury. Jeff is an acknowledged expert in popular culture and has written numerous books about television. This is an afternoon not to be missed. Refreshments for everyone will be provided after the talk. VIsitors are required to pay £1.50
Please ensure that you are in good health if attending, and have had all the vaccinations. if in doubt please stay at home!
Whats on and Local Events for April - 2/4/23
Can be found on What's on - Faringdon Community Website.
Folly Tower Open- 28/3/23
This Sunday 2nd. 11am - 5pm
More open dates
Health Service Survey - 28/3/23
Since I was elected as your MP in 2019, many local residents have been in touch with me to share their concerns about the availability of health services locally – particularly the lack of new GP surgeries. This is something I have been campaigning on a lot in Parliament.
As there is a clear desire from local residents to see an improvement in our access to health services, I want to hear from you and ask you to take part in my new ‘Health Services Survey’.
Closes 17/4/23
https://www.david-johnston.org.uk/health
Holiday activities and food programme- 28/3/23
We have news about the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme that might be of interest to you and to the families that you support.
The programme offers free holiday activities to school-aged children who have started Reception – Year 11, and who are in receipt of benefits-related free school meals.
This Spring (Easter) 2-week holiday, there are a wide range of activities available, including football, multi-sports, art, and drama. Eligible children and young people are entitled to:
At least 4 hours each day.
In order to book onto the activities, families will receive a code from their schools to enable them to book on this website: https://coordinate.cloud/haf-oxfordshire-county-council/
The Oxfordshire HAF team can be contacted to check eligibility and attain a code either at activitiesoxfordshire@oxfordshire.gov.uk or by calling 01865 328 460.
VWHDC
Community Bus service on hold - 21/3/23
The Faringdon Community Bus has had to be taken off the road with immediate effect.
The electric sliding passenger door has become unreliable and may not open when required.
Passenger Safety is Paramount.
Spare parts have been ordered and further notification will be made when repairs have been carried out.
Our apologies for the inconvenience caused.
Gigaclear Astro Hunt - 21/3/23
We would like to invite you to our Faringdon ‘hunt the astronaut’ event. We will have our cardboard cut outs of 'Astro' hidden around town. Each Astro has a letter and when all Astros are found will spell a word. We will be basing ourselves opposite Marriots Estate Agents in the Market Place. All those that participate and find what the word spells will get a free ice cream!
Those that register their interest on the day will get a free Easter Egg!
A fun day out for all the family to get involved.
We look forward to seeing you there! See poster
Opposite Marriots Estate Agents, Market Place SN7 7HL
22nd of April 10:00am - 1:00pm
Longcot Flower Festival 6th-14th May 10am-4pm and Concert Sat 13th May at 6.30pm - 21/3/23
To celebrate the forthcoming Coronation of King Charles III the village of Longcot is holding a special flower festival and concert in St. Mary’s Church. The theme for the festival this year is ‘Ring for the King’ and will include displays inspired by the coronation colours of gold, purple and white and reflecting the joy of the occasion.
The concert by the Clarinet Collective will feature music from across the centuries with a royal connection, including works by Mozart, Handel and Benny Goodman. Admission to both events is free with donations; all profits will go to the Longcot Village Trust to help fund future community events. No booking is needed for the flower festival, however all seats for the concert will need to be reserved in advance by emailing victorialmedcalf@gmail.com
Bar open from 6 pm and at the interval.
Re: Dragon on Gravel Walk?- 21/3/23
The bookshop on Gravel Walk (by the White Hart) used to have a dragon coming out of the loft hatch above the shop.
Steve Hunt
Family History HELPDESK at Faringdon Library - 19/3/23
Friday 24th March 2.30-6.00.
Whether you're a beginner or have hit a 'dead-end' in your research, join our experienced volunteer Family History Researcher.
Library has free access to Ancestry and Find My Past.
For a 1-2-1 40 min session please either
EMAIL faringdon.library@oxfordshire.gov.uk
call 01367 240311
Dragon on Gravel Walk? - 19/3/23
Does anyone remember the house on Gravel Walk that had a dragons head sticking out of the window?
My Grandmother lived on Meadow Bank and it was easily spotted on our walks into town during our summer holiday visits.
I can find no photographs but fairly certain it existed (around the 80’s-90’s)
miss.christine.c.hill@gmail.com
Tunnels Leaflet - 19/3/23
Now available in the Pump House Information Centre . Cost £1.
Tunnels - 14/3/23
Tunnels.
When I left school in 1967 I went to work for Russell Spinage who had a contract to renovate areas of the Crown. I remember being part of the workforce knocking down the old lathe and plaster ceiling in the ballroom from above, standing on the rafters and using shovels to bash through with all the rubble falling on the floor below, no health and safety back then just some pieces of old dust sheets ripped up and tied around our mouths as the dust resembled a thick fog.
While we were working at the Crown I well remember going down into the cellar and being shown what was part of an old tunnel which had become exposed due to the bricks becoming perished and being replaced with new ones. It didn't go far as it had caved in, but it was a tunnel. I was told that it led to the church and came up under the pulpit, how much of this was fact or just winding a young lad up I don't know but I believed it. Several years before this I did hear that when the pontoon bridge was put up and they came to replace the old sewerage pipes that part of a tunnel was discovered but was quickly filled in.
Name supplied.
Freedom to Roam petition - 13/3/23
Greater Freedom to Roam petition
Ramblers Association
Household Recycles Centres - Short closure for refresh. - 13/3/23
See Household waste recycling centres set for refresh in March and April (oxfordshire.gov.uk)
The closing dates are:
Older Drivers forum. Free webinars- 12/3/23
Monday 13th 2pm
Tuesday 14th 2pm
Register link below
https://olderdriversforum.com/webinars/
Family xplorer orienteering Monday 3rd April - 12/3/23
Aimed at preschool and primary aged children, find the markers and explore the park at this free family friendly event!
Faringdon Folly Sports Park, SN7 8BF: Monday 3 April, 10am-midday.
Last registration is 11.30am. All children under 16 should be accompanied by an adult.
To book please go to https://forms.office.com/r/5Qy7T6w64D, email active.communities@southandvale.gov.uk, or turn up on the day!
Dates for your Diary - 12/3/23
Music in the Market Place
King’s Coronation
Saturday 6th May 2023
Faringdon Market Place 4pm to 9pm
Faringdon’s Big Green Day
Saturday 17th June 2023
Faringdon Corn Exchange 10am to 1pm
Faringdon’s Health Day
Saturday 23rd September 2023
Faringdon Corn Exchange 10am to 1pm
Faringdon’s Christmas Light Switch On
Saturday 2nd of December 2023
2:30pm to 5:30pm Faringdon Market Place
For any of these, please email adele@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk if you would like to get involved.
Walks in and around around Faringdon - 6/3/23
These walk sheets (pdf) were produced by Andy Baker. They provide detailed instructions to follow, such that maps are not needed.
They all start and end in Faringdon Town Centre.
https://www.faringdon.org/faringdon-walks.html
The Tunnels under the Market Square - new leaflet- 6/3/23
Fabulous new Faringdon tunnels leaflet which will be available for £1 from the info centre from April
Written by Cllr. Rosalind Burns and designed by Liza Whitney FTC Communities and Marketing Officer
You can see it n ow on https://www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/information/tunnels-leaflet-by-cllr-burns/
Botley Road Closure - 4/3/23
First road closure
11 April to October 2023
Botley Road closed to traffic at the railway bridge between Cripley Road and Frideswide Square for diversion of utilities
Railway closure
29 July to 6 August 2023
Lines through Oxford closed for track and platform work
Road closure
March to October 2024
Botley Road closed to traffic for highway work
Railway closure
August 2024 -date to be confirmed
Four day closure for bridge replacement
How will I get into the city with the road closure?
April Films - 4/3/23
Weds 5 April - Living (12A) (2022 - Drama)
In 1950s London, a humourless civil servant decides to take time off work to experience life after receiving a grim diagnosis.
Stars: Bill Nighy, Aimee Lou Wood
Film duration: 1 hours 42 mins (no interval)
Matinee Club @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 12.30pm, film starts at 1pm
Advance tickets: £4 from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Matinee Club Membership - Just £24 for 12 films
Weds 12 April - Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway (U)
(2021 - Adventure, Comedy, Crime)
Thomas and Bea are now married and living with Peter and his rabbit family. Bored of life in the garden, Peter goes to the big city, where he meets shady characters and ends up creating chaos for the whole family.
Film duration: 1hour 25mins - no interval
Kids Cinema @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 1.30pm, film starts at 2.00pm00] 0
Advance Tickets £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family - Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Fri 28 April - Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody (12A)
(2022 - Biography, Drama, Music )
A joyous, emotional, heart-breaking celebration of the life and music of Whitney Houston, one of the greatest female R&B pop vocalists of all time, tracking her journey from obscurity to musical superstardom.
Stars: Naomi Ackie, Stanley Tucci
Film duration: 2 hr 24 mins plus 15 min interval
Blockbuster @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 7.00pm, film starts at 7.30pm
ADVANCE TICKETS £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
March Whats on and Local events - 3/3/2023
Now on Whats on Calendar page
U3A Monthly Meeting - 3/3/23
Agatha Christie, her life, her books and characters including her disappearance.
The speaker is Lynda Warren. Lynda will also talk about some of her most famous characters like Hercule Poirot, the retired Belgian inspector, and Miss Marple, the amateur detective and elderly spinster. Lynda's talk will remind us all about many of our favourite books.
The talk will take place in Faringdon Corn Exchange at 2.30pm, but will be preceded by the AGM.
Refreshments with cakes will follow after the talk. All members are welcome to attend but visitors are required to pay £1.50.
Please note that all attendees are required to be in good health and to be up to date with the vaccinations. If in doubt please stay at home.
Singing Together -28/2/23
New singing group for Adults. Community Singalong, open to all.
Come along for the fun of singing, whatever your ability
cat.attewell@homeinsteadswindon.co.uk
See poster
Community Capacity Grants - 23/2/23
Community Capacity grants - Oxfordshire Community Foundation
Closes March 13th
Health Day in Faringdon- 26/2/23
I am pleased to announce the first Faringdon Health Day will take place on Saturday 23 September 2023, 10am-1pm at The Corn Exchange and would like to invite your group/organisation to have a stall for the event.
The aim of the event is to showcase all things Health and Physical Activity and for residents to find out what is going on locally, along with any networking with other stall holders.
On top of myself advertising the event through the District Council channels, the town council will be promoting the event alongside other local promotions. Once stall holders are confirmed a poster will be made.
Please return the booking form by the end of March if you are able to join. There may be space for some demonstrations, so please let me know if this is something you would like to offer too.
Please ask if you have any questions
Many Thanks
Ashley Chapman
Active Communities Officer
South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Council
Mobile: 07717714477
Grants available- 24/2/23
The Community Capacity programme, first launched in autumn 2022, is now open again for a second round of applications. We are pleased to have approximately £60,000 still available to distribute to grassroots organisations throughout Oxfordshire.
Community Capacity grants - Oxfordshire Community Foundation
Funding in Rural areas - Survey - 23/2/23
Independent research commissioned by the Rural Services Network (RSN) in summer 2022 shows rural areas are suffering more acutely from the cost of living crisis compared to urban areas.
To lend more weight to the argument for more funding for rural areas the RSN is calling on as many rural residents as possible to complete a Rural Cost of Living Household Survey.
Suffering from the rural cost of living? Make your thoughts known in household survey - Rural Services Network (rsnonline.org.uk)
Deadline 31/3/23. Under 5 mins to complete.
BECOMING A LOCAL COUNCILLOR - 22/2/23
As a local councillor you can become a voice for Faringdon and make a real change. Councillors are community leaders and represent the interests of the communities they serve.
Local councillors have four main responsibilities:
Engaging with local residents
Decision-making
Monitoring
Getting involved locally
More information. www.electoralcommission.org.uk/media/5016
Job vacancy at Kelmscott Manor - 22/2/23
We have an exciting new opportunity to join us at Kelmscott Manor as our Visitor, Volunteer & Groups Co-ordinator.
We are looking for an enthusiastic customer focused individual who is keen to give our visitors the best experience every time they visit.
The successful candidate will support the Visitor and Volunteer Manager in the recruiting, training and supervision of our committed volunteer team, assist with the day-to-day operation of the site, as well as being the first point of contact for our organised group booking market, working with other staff to make sure that the administration and organisation of the day goes smoothly.
As the Manor launches it’s new friends scheme, there will be an opportunity to engage with our visitors on a more personal level with regular newsletters, emails and special events.
For a full job description and to apply please visit
https://www.sal.org.uk/about-us/who-we-are/vacancies/
Regent Cinema - 17/2/23
Have a look at the Poster Notice Board for Whats on at the Regent Cinema.
Block buster - last Friday of the month. Wed matinee- first Wed of month
Weds 1 March - Joyride (15)
(2022 - Comedy Drama)
A headstrong solicitor's plan to offload her newborn baby to her sister, is derailed when a vulnerable but opinionated teenager steals their taxi.
Stars: Olivia Coleman, Charlie Reid
Film duration: 1 hours 34 mins (no interval)
Matinee Club @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 12.30pm, film starts at 1pm
Fri 31 March - Don't Worry Darling (15)
(2022 - Drama, Thriller)
A 1950s housewife living with her husband in a utopian experimental community begins to worry that his glamorous company could be hiding disturbing secrets
Stars: Florence Pugh, Harry Styles
Film duration: 2 hr 03 mins plus 15 min interval
Blockbuster @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 7.00pm, film starts at 7.30pm
Membership tickets £2 (to be bought in advance of screening)
St Deny’s Handbell Ringers- 13/2/23
Come and join our handbell ringing group!
If interested, please e-mail: StDenys.HBR@btinternet.com
See poster
Oxford Playhouse seeking Board members - 13/2/23
Oxford Playhouse is seeking two experienced and committed non-executive members for its Board of Trustees.
Oxford Playhouse is an iconic venue in one of the UK’s most exciting and vibrant cities. It showcases
international, national, regional, amateur and student companies, with 850+ events per year on its
main stage, as well as the Burton Taylor Studio theatre, offsite, and online. Just as vital as the work
on stage, is Oxford Playhouse’s exciting and diverse programme of creative learning and community
work for all ages and abilities.
www.oxfordplayhouse.com/jobs/trustee
Faringdon Singers Spring Concert – A Journey Through the Psalms - 10/2/22
Saturday 25th March
St. Mary's Church Uffington SN7 7RD 7.00pm
Free Entry, donations in aid of St. Mary's Clock Restoration Fund
and
Sunday 26th March
St, Mary's Church Buckland SN7 8QR 7.00pm.
Free Entry, Donations in aid of Ukraine
Programme includes: Beatus Vir by Monteverdi, The Lord is My Light and My Salvation by Rutter and works by Howells, Faure and Brahms
Musical Director: Clare Woodall
Accompanist: Terence Carter Violinists: Anna Nemchuk and Katherine Payne
refreshments
More information from Geoff Foster 07989-127811, g.foster81@outlook.com
www.faringdonsingers
Superstars of Wrestling - 4/2/23
Faringdon Corn Exchange
Saturday 11th February. Doors open 7pm Start.7.30pm
Tickets from £10 0121 472 6688. www.ticketsellers.co.uk
2 hours of live all action family entertainment with wrestlers from all over the world taking on the very best of Great Britain.
Come see live what the rest of the world see on TV
See poster
GP Survey- 31/1/23
See Practice Comparison (gp-patient.co.uk)
The GP Patient Survey is an independent survey run by Ipsos on behalf of NHS England. The survey is sent out to over two million people across England.
February Whats on and Local events - 27/1/23
Now on Whats on Calendar page
This Sunday 2nd. 11am - 5pm
More open dates
Health Service Survey - 28/3/23
Since I was elected as your MP in 2019, many local residents have been in touch with me to share their concerns about the availability of health services locally – particularly the lack of new GP surgeries. This is something I have been campaigning on a lot in Parliament.
As there is a clear desire from local residents to see an improvement in our access to health services, I want to hear from you and ask you to take part in my new ‘Health Services Survey’.
Closes 17/4/23
https://www.david-johnston.org.uk/health
Holiday activities and food programme- 28/3/23
We have news about the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme that might be of interest to you and to the families that you support.
The programme offers free holiday activities to school-aged children who have started Reception – Year 11, and who are in receipt of benefits-related free school meals.
This Spring (Easter) 2-week holiday, there are a wide range of activities available, including football, multi-sports, art, and drama. Eligible children and young people are entitled to:
At least 4 hours each day.
- Four days maximum over the 2-week Spring Holiday period
- A nutritious meal each day they attend the camp.
In order to book onto the activities, families will receive a code from their schools to enable them to book on this website: https://coordinate.cloud/haf-oxfordshire-county-council/
The Oxfordshire HAF team can be contacted to check eligibility and attain a code either at activitiesoxfordshire@oxfordshire.gov.uk or by calling 01865 328 460.
VWHDC
Community Bus service on hold - 21/3/23
The Faringdon Community Bus has had to be taken off the road with immediate effect.
The electric sliding passenger door has become unreliable and may not open when required.
Passenger Safety is Paramount.
Spare parts have been ordered and further notification will be made when repairs have been carried out.
Our apologies for the inconvenience caused.
Gigaclear Astro Hunt - 21/3/23
We would like to invite you to our Faringdon ‘hunt the astronaut’ event. We will have our cardboard cut outs of 'Astro' hidden around town. Each Astro has a letter and when all Astros are found will spell a word. We will be basing ourselves opposite Marriots Estate Agents in the Market Place. All those that participate and find what the word spells will get a free ice cream!
Those that register their interest on the day will get a free Easter Egg!
A fun day out for all the family to get involved.
We look forward to seeing you there! See poster
Opposite Marriots Estate Agents, Market Place SN7 7HL
22nd of April 10:00am - 1:00pm
Longcot Flower Festival 6th-14th May 10am-4pm and Concert Sat 13th May at 6.30pm - 21/3/23
To celebrate the forthcoming Coronation of King Charles III the village of Longcot is holding a special flower festival and concert in St. Mary’s Church. The theme for the festival this year is ‘Ring for the King’ and will include displays inspired by the coronation colours of gold, purple and white and reflecting the joy of the occasion.
The concert by the Clarinet Collective will feature music from across the centuries with a royal connection, including works by Mozart, Handel and Benny Goodman. Admission to both events is free with donations; all profits will go to the Longcot Village Trust to help fund future community events. No booking is needed for the flower festival, however all seats for the concert will need to be reserved in advance by emailing victorialmedcalf@gmail.com
Bar open from 6 pm and at the interval.
Re: Dragon on Gravel Walk?- 21/3/23
The bookshop on Gravel Walk (by the White Hart) used to have a dragon coming out of the loft hatch above the shop.
Steve Hunt
Family History HELPDESK at Faringdon Library - 19/3/23
Friday 24th March 2.30-6.00.
Whether you're a beginner or have hit a 'dead-end' in your research, join our experienced volunteer Family History Researcher.
Library has free access to Ancestry and Find My Past.
For a 1-2-1 40 min session please either
EMAIL faringdon.library@oxfordshire.gov.uk
call 01367 240311
Dragon on Gravel Walk? - 19/3/23
Does anyone remember the house on Gravel Walk that had a dragons head sticking out of the window?
My Grandmother lived on Meadow Bank and it was easily spotted on our walks into town during our summer holiday visits.
I can find no photographs but fairly certain it existed (around the 80’s-90’s)
miss.christine.c.hill@gmail.com
Tunnels Leaflet - 19/3/23
Now available in the Pump House Information Centre . Cost £1.
Tunnels - 14/3/23
Tunnels.
When I left school in 1967 I went to work for Russell Spinage who had a contract to renovate areas of the Crown. I remember being part of the workforce knocking down the old lathe and plaster ceiling in the ballroom from above, standing on the rafters and using shovels to bash through with all the rubble falling on the floor below, no health and safety back then just some pieces of old dust sheets ripped up and tied around our mouths as the dust resembled a thick fog.
While we were working at the Crown I well remember going down into the cellar and being shown what was part of an old tunnel which had become exposed due to the bricks becoming perished and being replaced with new ones. It didn't go far as it had caved in, but it was a tunnel. I was told that it led to the church and came up under the pulpit, how much of this was fact or just winding a young lad up I don't know but I believed it. Several years before this I did hear that when the pontoon bridge was put up and they came to replace the old sewerage pipes that part of a tunnel was discovered but was quickly filled in.
Name supplied.
Freedom to Roam petition - 13/3/23
Greater Freedom to Roam petition
Ramblers Association
Household Recycles Centres - Short closure for refresh. - 13/3/23
See Household waste recycling centres set for refresh in March and April (oxfordshire.gov.uk)
The closing dates are:
- Alkerton, near Banbury: Monday 20 and Tuesday 21 March
- Ardley, near Bicester: Thursday 23 and Friday 24 March
- Dix Pit, Stanton Harcourt: Monday 24 and Tuesday 25 April
- Drayton, near Abingdon: Thursday 30 and Friday 31 March
- Oakley Wood, near Wallingford: Thursday 20 and Friday 21 April
- Redbridge, Oxford: Monday 17 and Tuesday 18 April
- Stanford, near Faringdon: Monday 27 and Tuesday 28 March.
Older Drivers forum. Free webinars- 12/3/23
Monday 13th 2pm
Tuesday 14th 2pm
Register link below
https://olderdriversforum.com/webinars/
Family xplorer orienteering Monday 3rd April - 12/3/23
Aimed at preschool and primary aged children, find the markers and explore the park at this free family friendly event!
Faringdon Folly Sports Park, SN7 8BF: Monday 3 April, 10am-midday.
Last registration is 11.30am. All children under 16 should be accompanied by an adult.
To book please go to https://forms.office.com/r/5Qy7T6w64D, email active.communities@southandvale.gov.uk, or turn up on the day!
Dates for your Diary - 12/3/23
Music in the Market Place
King’s Coronation
Saturday 6th May 2023
Faringdon Market Place 4pm to 9pm
Faringdon’s Big Green Day
Saturday 17th June 2023
Faringdon Corn Exchange 10am to 1pm
Faringdon’s Health Day
Saturday 23rd September 2023
Faringdon Corn Exchange 10am to 1pm
Faringdon’s Christmas Light Switch On
Saturday 2nd of December 2023
2:30pm to 5:30pm Faringdon Market Place
For any of these, please email adele@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk if you would like to get involved.
Walks in and around around Faringdon - 6/3/23
These walk sheets (pdf) were produced by Andy Baker. They provide detailed instructions to follow, such that maps are not needed.
They all start and end in Faringdon Town Centre.
https://www.faringdon.org/faringdon-walks.html
The Tunnels under the Market Square - new leaflet- 6/3/23
Fabulous new Faringdon tunnels leaflet which will be available for £1 from the info centre from April
Written by Cllr. Rosalind Burns and designed by Liza Whitney FTC Communities and Marketing Officer
You can see it n ow on https://www.faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk/information/tunnels-leaflet-by-cllr-burns/
Botley Road Closure - 4/3/23
First road closure
11 April to October 2023
Botley Road closed to traffic at the railway bridge between Cripley Road and Frideswide Square for diversion of utilities
Railway closure
29 July to 6 August 2023
Lines through Oxford closed for track and platform work
Road closure
March to October 2024
Botley Road closed to traffic for highway work
Railway closure
August 2024 -date to be confirmed
Four day closure for bridge replacement
How will I get into the city with the road closure?
- Motorists that usually use Botley Road to get into the city are advised to either use the Seacourt Park & Ride or to take an alternative route into the city
- Buses will turn around just before the rail bridge allowing passengers to continue their journey into the city centre on foot
- Pedestrians, mobility scooters and cyclists will have access throughout the work
- Local residents’ access to their homes will remain at all times, with some diversions in place.
April Films - 4/3/23
Weds 5 April - Living (12A) (2022 - Drama)
In 1950s London, a humourless civil servant decides to take time off work to experience life after receiving a grim diagnosis.
Stars: Bill Nighy, Aimee Lou Wood
Film duration: 1 hours 42 mins (no interval)
Matinee Club @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 12.30pm, film starts at 1pm
Advance tickets: £4 from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Matinee Club Membership - Just £24 for 12 films
Weds 12 April - Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway (U)
(2021 - Adventure, Comedy, Crime)
Thomas and Bea are now married and living with Peter and his rabbit family. Bored of life in the garden, Peter goes to the big city, where he meets shady characters and ends up creating chaos for the whole family.
Film duration: 1hour 25mins - no interval
Kids Cinema @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 1.30pm, film starts at 2.00pm00] 0
Advance Tickets £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family - Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
Fri 28 April - Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody (12A)
(2022 - Biography, Drama, Music )
A joyous, emotional, heart-breaking celebration of the life and music of Whitney Houston, one of the greatest female R&B pop vocalists of all time, tracking her journey from obscurity to musical superstardom.
Stars: Naomi Ackie, Stanley Tucci
Film duration: 2 hr 24 mins plus 15 min interval
Blockbuster @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 7.00pm, film starts at 7.30pm
ADVANCE TICKETS £3 U18s, £4 Adult, £10 Family from Faringdon Information Centre
Tickets on the door £1 more!
March Whats on and Local events - 3/3/2023
Now on Whats on Calendar page
U3A Monthly Meeting - 3/3/23
Agatha Christie, her life, her books and characters including her disappearance.
The speaker is Lynda Warren. Lynda will also talk about some of her most famous characters like Hercule Poirot, the retired Belgian inspector, and Miss Marple, the amateur detective and elderly spinster. Lynda's talk will remind us all about many of our favourite books.
The talk will take place in Faringdon Corn Exchange at 2.30pm, but will be preceded by the AGM.
Refreshments with cakes will follow after the talk. All members are welcome to attend but visitors are required to pay £1.50.
Please note that all attendees are required to be in good health and to be up to date with the vaccinations. If in doubt please stay at home.
Singing Together -28/2/23
New singing group for Adults. Community Singalong, open to all.
Come along for the fun of singing, whatever your ability
- Mainly 60/70/80’s songs, but a few older anthems. Bring along suggestions. I will canvas the group for songs they like and develop it to their taste as we go, very much tailored to audience.
- words on screen on wall (there won’t routinely be words on paper – only as a back up)
- no music notation. The emphasis is on having fun, enjoying the experience of singing in community rather than singing ability.
cat.attewell@homeinsteadswindon.co.uk
See poster
Community Capacity Grants - 23/2/23
Community Capacity grants - Oxfordshire Community Foundation
Closes March 13th
Health Day in Faringdon- 26/2/23
I am pleased to announce the first Faringdon Health Day will take place on Saturday 23 September 2023, 10am-1pm at The Corn Exchange and would like to invite your group/organisation to have a stall for the event.
The aim of the event is to showcase all things Health and Physical Activity and for residents to find out what is going on locally, along with any networking with other stall holders.
On top of myself advertising the event through the District Council channels, the town council will be promoting the event alongside other local promotions. Once stall holders are confirmed a poster will be made.
Please return the booking form by the end of March if you are able to join. There may be space for some demonstrations, so please let me know if this is something you would like to offer too.
Please ask if you have any questions
Many Thanks
Ashley Chapman
Active Communities Officer
South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Council
Mobile: 07717714477
Grants available- 24/2/23
The Community Capacity programme, first launched in autumn 2022, is now open again for a second round of applications. We are pleased to have approximately £60,000 still available to distribute to grassroots organisations throughout Oxfordshire.
Community Capacity grants - Oxfordshire Community Foundation
Funding in Rural areas - Survey - 23/2/23
Independent research commissioned by the Rural Services Network (RSN) in summer 2022 shows rural areas are suffering more acutely from the cost of living crisis compared to urban areas.
To lend more weight to the argument for more funding for rural areas the RSN is calling on as many rural residents as possible to complete a Rural Cost of Living Household Survey.
Suffering from the rural cost of living? Make your thoughts known in household survey - Rural Services Network (rsnonline.org.uk)
Deadline 31/3/23. Under 5 mins to complete.
BECOMING A LOCAL COUNCILLOR - 22/2/23
As a local councillor you can become a voice for Faringdon and make a real change. Councillors are community leaders and represent the interests of the communities they serve.
Local councillors have four main responsibilities:
Engaging with local residents
Decision-making
Monitoring
Getting involved locally
More information. www.electoralcommission.org.uk/media/5016
Job vacancy at Kelmscott Manor - 22/2/23
We have an exciting new opportunity to join us at Kelmscott Manor as our Visitor, Volunteer & Groups Co-ordinator.
We are looking for an enthusiastic customer focused individual who is keen to give our visitors the best experience every time they visit.
The successful candidate will support the Visitor and Volunteer Manager in the recruiting, training and supervision of our committed volunteer team, assist with the day-to-day operation of the site, as well as being the first point of contact for our organised group booking market, working with other staff to make sure that the administration and organisation of the day goes smoothly.
As the Manor launches it’s new friends scheme, there will be an opportunity to engage with our visitors on a more personal level with regular newsletters, emails and special events.
For a full job description and to apply please visit
https://www.sal.org.uk/about-us/who-we-are/vacancies/
Regent Cinema - 17/2/23
Have a look at the Poster Notice Board for Whats on at the Regent Cinema.
Block buster - last Friday of the month. Wed matinee- first Wed of month
Weds 1 March - Joyride (15)
(2022 - Comedy Drama)
A headstrong solicitor's plan to offload her newborn baby to her sister, is derailed when a vulnerable but opinionated teenager steals their taxi.
Stars: Olivia Coleman, Charlie Reid
Film duration: 1 hours 34 mins (no interval)
Matinee Club @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 12.30pm, film starts at 1pm
Fri 31 March - Don't Worry Darling (15)
(2022 - Drama, Thriller)
A 1950s housewife living with her husband in a utopian experimental community begins to worry that his glamorous company could be hiding disturbing secrets
Stars: Florence Pugh, Harry Styles
Film duration: 2 hr 03 mins plus 15 min interval
Blockbuster @ The Regent Cinema, Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Doors open 7.00pm, film starts at 7.30pm
Membership tickets £2 (to be bought in advance of screening)
St Deny’s Handbell Ringers- 13/2/23
Come and join our handbell ringing group!
- Relaxed and friendly group
- Welcoming all ages
- No prior musical experience required (although good rhythm is a plus!)
If interested, please e-mail: StDenys.HBR@btinternet.com
See poster
Oxford Playhouse seeking Board members - 13/2/23
Oxford Playhouse is seeking two experienced and committed non-executive members for its Board of Trustees.
Oxford Playhouse is an iconic venue in one of the UK’s most exciting and vibrant cities. It showcases
international, national, regional, amateur and student companies, with 850+ events per year on its
main stage, as well as the Burton Taylor Studio theatre, offsite, and online. Just as vital as the work
on stage, is Oxford Playhouse’s exciting and diverse programme of creative learning and community
work for all ages and abilities.
www.oxfordplayhouse.com/jobs/trustee
Faringdon Singers Spring Concert – A Journey Through the Psalms - 10/2/22
Saturday 25th March
St. Mary's Church Uffington SN7 7RD 7.00pm
Free Entry, donations in aid of St. Mary's Clock Restoration Fund
and
Sunday 26th March
St, Mary's Church Buckland SN7 8QR 7.00pm.
Free Entry, Donations in aid of Ukraine
Programme includes: Beatus Vir by Monteverdi, The Lord is My Light and My Salvation by Rutter and works by Howells, Faure and Brahms
Musical Director: Clare Woodall
Accompanist: Terence Carter Violinists: Anna Nemchuk and Katherine Payne
refreshments
More information from Geoff Foster 07989-127811, g.foster81@outlook.com
www.faringdonsingers
Superstars of Wrestling - 4/2/23
Faringdon Corn Exchange
Saturday 11th February. Doors open 7pm Start.7.30pm
Tickets from £10 0121 472 6688. www.ticketsellers.co.uk
2 hours of live all action family entertainment with wrestlers from all over the world taking on the very best of Great Britain.
Come see live what the rest of the world see on TV
See poster
GP Survey- 31/1/23
See Practice Comparison (gp-patient.co.uk)
The GP Patient Survey is an independent survey run by Ipsos on behalf of NHS England. The survey is sent out to over two million people across England.
February Whats on and Local events - 27/1/23
Now on Whats on Calendar page
Gigaclear build- 22/1/23
This information will also be sent via email to all residents who have previously registered their details. Any other interested residents can also register for periodic permit updates at //Gigaclear.com/mycommunity
If residents would like to get in touch with us, please ask them to contact our dedicated Customer Operations team on the details below.
Email: networkbuildqueries@gigaclear.com
Phone: 01865 591131
If residents would like to get in touch with us, please ask them to contact our dedicated Customer Operations team on the details below.
Email: networkbuildqueries@gigaclear.com
Phone: 01865 591131
Footpath Cleared by Vale Path Volunteers - 22/1/23
Vale Path Volunteers’ (VPV) have pruned along Faringdon FP17, the path that goes from end of Southampton St, along Volunteers Way, then over Park Road to Wicklesham. (The VPV is the path maintenance team of the VOWH Ramblers group.)
Brambles had reached the ground from up above on the town end section of the path (to the health centre), and part of the lovely stone wall was obscured again. On the other side of Park Road the brambles had grown in from the side, reaching the path. Saplings were encroaching further up. This time we paid more attention to the 20 metres of so of path to the south of the A420, going to Wicklesham. So, we decided to spruce it up before it got really bad. I have attached some before and after photos.
We are particularly keen to maintain this path as it is used by so many people on a daily basis.
All being well it won’t need doing for another three years.
See photos
Dave Cavanagh
For VOWH Ramblers
All about Recycling - 22/1/23
Confused about recycling?
Come and listen to Jessica Beare, Waste and Recycling Officer at South Oxfordshire District Council ‘talk rubbish’ to find out what goes into each of your bins, what’s actually recyclable and what happens to your rubbish after you throw it away.
Feel free to bring along any items you are not sure about as there will be plenty of time for questions.”
Recycling Talk
Faringdon Corn Exchange
Wednesday 22/2/23 at 7.00pm.
Community Bus - Back on the road - 19/1/23
The FCB is back on the road and will resume the No 61 service tomorrow (Friday 20th).
NMV Ltd deserve a medal for repairing the bus so quickly.
FCB
Apologies from Faringdon Community Bus - 17/1/23
Regrettably we have had to take the Community Bus off the road due to mechanical failure (the whole AdBlue system needs replacing).
It went off the road at 11:00 this morning (Tuesday 17th) and will probably be off for the remainder of this week.
Apologies for the inconvenience.
Faringdon Community Bus
Netball in Half Term at St Hugh's School - 17/1/23
Diamond Netball provides the opportunity for children (school years 2-7) to develop their Netball skills and help to build confidence through a fun and safe environment. Delivered by two experienced PE teachers and Netball coaches, we cater and differentiate for all levels of ability.
Two separate sessions; one for school years 2,3&4 and another for years 5,6&7.
Diamond Netball is running a Netball Camp on Monday 13th February 2023, St Hugh's School, Faringdon and a 10 week block of sessions on Saturday Mornings, Larkmead, Abingdon. These sessions will commence on Saturday 25th February 2023:
Singing Together - 6/1/23
New singing group for Adults. Community Singalong, open to all.
Come along for the fun of singing, whatever your ability
cat.attewell@homeinsteadswindon.co.uk
See poster
Regent Cinema for February 2023- 17/1/23
Matinee: Weds 1 Feb - The Lost King (12A)
(2022 - Comedy, Drama)
An amateur historian defies the stodgy academic establishment in her office to find King Richard III's remains, which were lost for over 500 years.
Stars: Sally Hawkins, Shonagh Price
Film duration: 1 hours 48 mins - no interval
Doors open 12.30pm, film starts at 1pm
Kids: Weds 15 Feb - Lyle Lyle Crocodile (PG)
(2022 - Animation, Adventure, Comedy)
Feature film based on the children's book about a crocodile that lives in New York City
Stars: Shawn Mendes (voice) Javier Bardem
Film duration: 1 hour 46 mins - no interval
Doors open 1.30pm, film starts at 2.00pm
French: Fri 17 Feb - I Got Life! Aurore (15)
(2017 -Comedy, Drama)
A French woman hits menopause quits her job as a waitress and feels everything is going downhill. But then she meets her old love from before she got married, had 2 daughters and got divorced. Is this a new beginning?
Stars: Agnes Jaoui, Thibault de Montalembert
Film duration: 1 hour 29 plus 15-minute interval
French film with English Subtitles
Doors open 7pm, film 7.30pm
In partnership with Faringdon Twinning Association
Blockbuster: Fri 24 Feb - The Banshees of Inisherin (15)
(2022 - Comedy, Drama)
Two lifelong friends find themselves at an impasse when one abruptly ends their relationship, with alarming consequences for both of them.
Stars: Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson
Film duration: 1hr 54 mins plus 15 min interval
Doors open 7pm, film 7.30pm
Changes to this website- 4/1/23
Have a look at the new Whats On and Regular events pages. They now show the pages from THE ADVERTISER - the monthly publication that comes though your door. The pages will be changed each month.
If you want your event to appear contact lou@theadvertisermagazine.net by the 20th of the month.
I will continue to promote events on this site, but they will appear on this News, Views and Events page or if you send a poster on the Poster Notice Board.
Some of you may have noticed that I have removed the For Sale pages and the Jobs and Volunteering pages.
Best wishes
Gene
Want to get singing ? - 2/1/23
Hey there Faringdonians, and those nearby! Want to get singing? Want to meet new people? Want to have some fun?
Come join the wonderful gang at Faringdon Community Choir.
No auditions. No need for previous experience. No need to read music. Just a desire to sing and improve your voice and musicality. Click here https://forms.gle/djQD7Sf4Q7q8qAKc6 for the sign up form - all the info on times and cost on here too.
We look forward to seeing you on the 11th January
Rachel
Have a listen to a couple of our songs https://faringdoncommunitychoir.org.uk/#recentperformances
Vale Path Volunteers’ (VPV) have pruned along Faringdon FP17, the path that goes from end of Southampton St, along Volunteers Way, then over Park Road to Wicklesham. (The VPV is the path maintenance team of the VOWH Ramblers group.)
Brambles had reached the ground from up above on the town end section of the path (to the health centre), and part of the lovely stone wall was obscured again. On the other side of Park Road the brambles had grown in from the side, reaching the path. Saplings were encroaching further up. This time we paid more attention to the 20 metres of so of path to the south of the A420, going to Wicklesham. So, we decided to spruce it up before it got really bad. I have attached some before and after photos.
We are particularly keen to maintain this path as it is used by so many people on a daily basis.
All being well it won’t need doing for another three years.
See photos
Dave Cavanagh
For VOWH Ramblers
All about Recycling - 22/1/23
Confused about recycling?
Come and listen to Jessica Beare, Waste and Recycling Officer at South Oxfordshire District Council ‘talk rubbish’ to find out what goes into each of your bins, what’s actually recyclable and what happens to your rubbish after you throw it away.
Feel free to bring along any items you are not sure about as there will be plenty of time for questions.”
Recycling Talk
Faringdon Corn Exchange
Wednesday 22/2/23 at 7.00pm.
Community Bus - Back on the road - 19/1/23
The FCB is back on the road and will resume the No 61 service tomorrow (Friday 20th).
NMV Ltd deserve a medal for repairing the bus so quickly.
FCB
Apologies from Faringdon Community Bus - 17/1/23
Regrettably we have had to take the Community Bus off the road due to mechanical failure (the whole AdBlue system needs replacing).
It went off the road at 11:00 this morning (Tuesday 17th) and will probably be off for the remainder of this week.
Apologies for the inconvenience.
Faringdon Community Bus
Netball in Half Term at St Hugh's School - 17/1/23
Diamond Netball provides the opportunity for children (school years 2-7) to develop their Netball skills and help to build confidence through a fun and safe environment. Delivered by two experienced PE teachers and Netball coaches, we cater and differentiate for all levels of ability.
Two separate sessions; one for school years 2,3&4 and another for years 5,6&7.
Diamond Netball is running a Netball Camp on Monday 13th February 2023, St Hugh's School, Faringdon and a 10 week block of sessions on Saturday Mornings, Larkmead, Abingdon. These sessions will commence on Saturday 25th February 2023:
- Years 2,3&4 9.30-10.15am
- Years 5,6&7 10.30am-11.15am.
Singing Together - 6/1/23
New singing group for Adults. Community Singalong, open to all.
Come along for the fun of singing, whatever your ability
- Mainly 60/70/80’s songs, but a few older anthems. Bring along suggestions. I will canvas the group for songs they like and develop it to their taste as we go, very much tailored to audience.
- words on screen on wall (there won’t routinely be words on paper – only as a back up)
- no music notation. The emphasis is on having fun, enjoying the experience of singing in community rather than singing ability.
cat.attewell@homeinsteadswindon.co.uk
See poster
Regent Cinema for February 2023- 17/1/23
Matinee: Weds 1 Feb - The Lost King (12A)
(2022 - Comedy, Drama)
An amateur historian defies the stodgy academic establishment in her office to find King Richard III's remains, which were lost for over 500 years.
Stars: Sally Hawkins, Shonagh Price
Film duration: 1 hours 48 mins - no interval
Doors open 12.30pm, film starts at 1pm
Kids: Weds 15 Feb - Lyle Lyle Crocodile (PG)
(2022 - Animation, Adventure, Comedy)
Feature film based on the children's book about a crocodile that lives in New York City
Stars: Shawn Mendes (voice) Javier Bardem
Film duration: 1 hour 46 mins - no interval
Doors open 1.30pm, film starts at 2.00pm
French: Fri 17 Feb - I Got Life! Aurore (15)
(2017 -Comedy, Drama)
A French woman hits menopause quits her job as a waitress and feels everything is going downhill. But then she meets her old love from before she got married, had 2 daughters and got divorced. Is this a new beginning?
Stars: Agnes Jaoui, Thibault de Montalembert
Film duration: 1 hour 29 plus 15-minute interval
French film with English Subtitles
Doors open 7pm, film 7.30pm
In partnership with Faringdon Twinning Association
Blockbuster: Fri 24 Feb - The Banshees of Inisherin (15)
(2022 - Comedy, Drama)
Two lifelong friends find themselves at an impasse when one abruptly ends their relationship, with alarming consequences for both of them.
Stars: Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson
Film duration: 1hr 54 mins plus 15 min interval
Doors open 7pm, film 7.30pm
Changes to this website- 4/1/23
Have a look at the new Whats On and Regular events pages. They now show the pages from THE ADVERTISER - the monthly publication that comes though your door. The pages will be changed each month.
If you want your event to appear contact lou@theadvertisermagazine.net by the 20th of the month.
I will continue to promote events on this site, but they will appear on this News, Views and Events page or if you send a poster on the Poster Notice Board.
Some of you may have noticed that I have removed the For Sale pages and the Jobs and Volunteering pages.
Best wishes
Gene
Want to get singing ? - 2/1/23
Hey there Faringdonians, and those nearby! Want to get singing? Want to meet new people? Want to have some fun?
Come join the wonderful gang at Faringdon Community Choir.
No auditions. No need for previous experience. No need to read music. Just a desire to sing and improve your voice and musicality. Click here https://forms.gle/djQD7Sf4Q7q8qAKc6 for the sign up form - all the info on times and cost on here too.
We look forward to seeing you on the 11th January
Rachel
Have a listen to a couple of our songs https://faringdoncommunitychoir.org.uk/#recentperformances
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You can read talking points back to 2002. Quite interesting to see whether issues are still the same now as in the past.
You can read talking points back to 2002. Quite interesting to see whether issues are still the same now as in the past.