The Journal Blog

New artists' directory launched in Oxfordshire

2009-12-01T16:40:00.001Z

A new website which paints a picture of all aspects of the Oxfordshire art scene has been launched.www.OxOnArts.info provides information for anyone wishing to find local artists and arts organizations in the county, and has been put together by the Oxfordshire Arts Partnership (OAP).All art forms are catered for, including visual arts, dance, film and music.Those involved in the arts locally can

Kingham Hill pupilsurprises David Cameron with impromptu 'thank you'

2009-12-01T16:26:00.004Z

A boy who faced being sent to a different primary school from his two brothers surprised Witney MP David Cameron by thanking him personally for stepping in to sort the problem out.When the Tory party leader visited Kingham Hill School, Hector Mahony, 11, took the opportunity approach the MP to say thanks for helping solve the problem.Hector approached David Cameron minutes before he officially

Xmas appeal for animal toys and prezzies

2009-12-01T15:25:00.002Z

The Blue Cross animal charity has launched a 'Turkey and Tinsel' appeal in aid of needy pets who will be spending the festive season at its adoption centres in Oxfordshire this year.Staff at the centres in Lewknor and Burford are asking animal lovers to donate toys, blankets and treats to the centre to cheer up homeless animals over Christmas.Nikki Smith, Blue Cross centre manager at Burford,

Plans for Bicester Market square go on show

2009-11-26T16:37:00.002Z

Plans to revamp Bicester's Market Square are on display at a public exhibition in the town.Oxfordshire County Council and Cherwell District Council are giving people the chance to see first hand the three project proposals for the area's redevelopment from 10am to 6pm on Friday, November 27, and from 10am to 4pm on Saturday, November 28, in the exhibition in Unit 7 opposite WH Smith in Crown Walk

Win a free weekend in Woodstock this Saturday (November 28)

2009-11-26T15:47:00.002Z

Win a weekend of a lifetime on Saturday (November 28) in Woodstock.To coincide with the town’s Christmas lights switch on, participating businesses are offering one lucky winner the chance to stay, eat, drink and shop in Woodstock from Friday night to Monday morning over a weekend in April for free.The prize includes:the use of an ‘All New C Class Mercedes-Benz’ for the weekend,a night at The

BBC Oxford collecting messages for troops in Afghanistan

2009-11-26T13:42:00.002Z

The team at BBC Radio Oxford are appealing for people to help them compile a DVD of messages for members of the armed forces serving in Afghanistan this Christmas.The messages will be taped, collected together and sent to the troops via RAF Brize Norton on December 8.BBC Oxford staff will be at the following places this Saturday, November 28, and want to hear from you if you are in the area and

Warm welcome ahead for 23 Pioneer Regiment

2009-11-25T13:44:00.004Z

Bicester’s 23 Pioneer Regiment will receive a warm welcome home on Saturday with a parade through the town.The parade stars at 2pm with troops marching down Sheep Street towards the Market Square with the salute being taken en-route.The soldiers will then continue to The Garth in Launton Road to meet town dignitaries and members of the public.Councillor James Porter, mayor of Bicester, said: “For

Oxford Journal Blog: The Answer

2009-11-23T13:57:00.005Z

It’s a classic rock’n’roll cliché – the band declared an overnight success that have actually spent years gigging and honing their craft before grabbing their slot in the limelight.But that is story of Belfast rockers The Answer, who stand on the verge of stardom after nearly a decade playing together, and come to the Oxford O2 Academy on December 5.The band, who formed in

The Oxford Journal Interview: Mysticsippi Harry Manx

2009-11-20T17:50:00.001Z

He plays a 20-stringed instrument called the Mohan Veena and bought a house in Canada with the cash he made busking in Japan, so its fair to say Harry Manx has come a long way from his Isle of Man roots.Dubbed the essential link between the music of the East and West, the guitarist known as the Mysticsippi blues man brings his unique blend of Indo-Blues to The Brasenose Arms, in Cropredy, on

Guide to protecting Oxfordshire's wildlife launched

2009-11-20T11:26:00.001Z

A new guide to protecting Oxfordshire’s wildlife has been launched by Oxfordshire County Council’s Countryside Service.The handbook – Biodiversity and Planning in Oxfordshire – has been put together to give local authorities and planners information on special sites, habitats and species in the county and how to preserve them.Craig Blackwell, Oxfordshire County Council's Ecologist, said: "I have

Ashmolean Dining Room opens to public

2009-11-20T10:59:00.003Z

The newly re-opened Ashmolean Museum in Oxford also boasts a new restaurant, The Ashmolean Dining Room. The UK’s oldest public museum opened its doors after a £61m redevelopment on November 7, with the restaurant situated on the roof of the building.Created by Ben and Hugo Warner, the brothers behind the successful benugo brand, the restaurant has a 90-cover dining room, outside rooftop terrace

Bicester shoplifter bites off more than he can chew

2009-11-19T14:09:00.002Z

A shoplifter in Bicester didn’t realize what he was getting himself into when he took on the town’s crime partnership.The suspected thief was spotted in one of the town’s stores, with staff using their store-net radios to follow his progress as he went from store to store, but unable to apprehend him.Tim Davies, one of Cherwell District Council’s street wardens, picked up the call on patrol and

How are you getting home this winter?

2009-11-19T13:26:00.001Z

Festive revellers have been warned to make sure they only use official taxis after a woman was assaulted in Banbury on Saturday, October 24.The woman was picked up at around 2.40am in the High Street by a man claiming to be a taxi driver, who then made inappropriate conversation with her and touched her leg during the journey.She demanded he stop the car and then ran for safety, alerting police

Oxfordshire landscape picture comp winners on display

2009-11-19T12:37:00.001Z

The winners of a competition to find the best photo of an Oxfordshire landscape have been announced by Science Oxford Live.The Overall Winner was Jem Hayward for her picture of Hook Norton village, while Jamie Unwin was the under 16 runner-up for his picture of Sunrise over Otmoor (pictured).The competition invited local people to send digital photos of their favourite local landscape, with more

Food waste scheme a hit in north Oxfordshire

2009-11-19T12:09:00.003Z

A new food waste collection scheme in north Oxfordshire has reduced the amount of mixed waste going to landfill by 20 per cent.Almost 11,000 homes in Cherwell are part of the scheme, with more towns and villages set to join later this year and in 2010.Since the first brown caddy collection on October 20, the amount of mixed waste in the green bins has gone down by a fifth and Councillor George

Get crafty at Oxfordshire Museum

2009-11-19T11:25:00.002Z

Visitors to the Oxfordshire Museum in Woodstock can buy hand-made items from some of the county's finest contemporary craft designers at a festive exhibition.The annual Oxfordshire Craft Guild Christmas display brings together artistic skills such as furniture, jewellery, textiles, glass, pottery and woodturning.The show in the county council-run museum's Brewhouse and Garden galleries runs from

Award-winning mobile library hits the streets of south Oxfordshire

2009-11-18T17:29:00.002Z

An innovative children's mobile library for primary schools in south Oxfordshire has been launched.The library boasts roof-mounted solar panels and curved shelves full of books, and recently won the President's Award for the Best Small Mobile Library at the annual National Mobile Library Meet - before it was even in service.The library houses more than 2,700 books in its colourful book shop-style

Hockney exhibition at Creative Art Gallery, Woodstock

2009-11-18T16:18:00.003Z

A collection of original etchings by renowned British artist David Hockney goes on display at the Creative Art Gallery in Woodstock on Saturday, November 21.One of the most influential artists of the second half of the 20th century and an important contributor to the Pop Art movement of the ‘60s, Hockney illustrated six classic fairy tales by the Brothers Grimm in 1969.Rather than illustrating

A design for life-saving ambulances

2009-11-18T15:49:00.005Z

Four engineering undergraduates from Oxford University aiming to design the ambulance of the future visited South Central Ambulance Service NHS Trust’s (SCAS) Oxford City Resource Centre as part of their research.Jayce Homersham, Megan Duffy (pictured left), Daniel Nehme and Kiron Athwal are each applying knowledge learned during their studies to design a specific aspect of tomorrow’s

Insure you don't get ripped off on car insurance

2009-11-18T15:17:00.003Z

By Daniel GeogheganIf you're a driver you will no doubt be aware of just how expensive car insurance can be, especially if you are a driver under the age of twenty-five. However, there are things you can do to reduce the cost of your premium.The type of car you drive will have a big impact on your premium. The way the insurer sees it is that the smaller the engine of your car, the less likely you

BBC search for extraordinary true tales

2009-11-13T14:09:00.002Z

The BBC is looking to hear Oxford resident’s extraordinary true-life stories, with the best tales from across the country to be published in a book.The My Story competition comes to Blackbird Leys Library in Oxford on Tuesday, November 17, from 3pm.Adult Learning Service staff will be on hand to help people with their stories, which can be on any subject but must be true and based on the author’s

In the back mum, you're in Cheryl's seat

2009-11-13T13:32:00.001Z

In earth-shattering news, research compiled by tyre manufacturer Bridgestone has revealed one third of people in Oxford would pick Cheryl Cole as their ideal traveling companion.The insightful survey, which brings us news 33 per cent of people in the city would like to sit next to one of the UK’s richest, most attractive and popular females for an extended period of time, also reveals:A fifth of

Essex schoolboys tackle Oxford Blues

2009-11-10T15:34:00.002Z

A group of Dagenham sixth formers spent a day at Oxford University under the watchful eye of Oxford’s Head of Rugby Steve Hills after starting their own rugby academy.The 22 pupils from Robert Clack School in Essex had a tour of the city and took part in a training session with Hills before watching the Oxford Blues rugby squad in action.A decade ago the comprehensive was struggling with only 16

Abingdon clean air zone to expand?

2009-11-10T14:59:00.003Z

Homes in Ock Street and Marcham Road could be included in an expanded Abingdon town centre air quality management area (AQMA).Vale of White Horse District Council is consulting residents about the proposal, after tests showed levels of nitrogen dioxide are higher than the national standards in Marcham Road, and close to exceeding the standard in Ock Street.The council declared the town centre an

Charity quiz night @ The Duke's Cut, November 10

2009-11-09T16:19:00.001Z

Recruitment firm Hays is hosting a quiz night to raise money for charity Action for Children on Tuesday, November 10.The event, at The Duke’s Cut, in Park End Street, Oxford, kicks off at 7pm and staff hope to raise more than £300 for the charity.Action for Children is one of the UK's largest children's charities working with more than 156,000 children, young people and their families at around

print exhibition @ Dorchester Abbey

2009-11-09T14:00:00.001Z

A major exhibition of artists’ prints is being held at Dorchester Abbey from November 6 to 15.The event, which includes work by printmakers from the Oxford Printmakers Co-operative and Bath Artist Printmakers, also offers a rare opportunity to see John Piper’s magnificent painting of Dorchester Abbey.More than 100 framed prints will be available for purchase, with many more unframed prints, at a

Port Mahon re-opens under new owners

2009-11-03T17:24:00.002Z

The once popular Port Mahon pub in St Clements has been re-opened after being closed for several months by new owners Nick Bassett and Joe Hill.Bucking the trend of pub closures, the venue has undergone extensive re-decoration and one of the two bar areas has been turned into a Sports Bar with TV screens and Sky Sports.The new landlords are also revitalising the renowned Port Mahon music room

Dirty Nails Book-Signing, Waterstones Oxford, Oct 25

2009-10-22T16:29:00.002+01:00

Writer and gardener Joe Hashman aka Dirty Nails will be signing copies of his new book On The Plot With Dirty Nails at Waterstone’s in Broad, Street, Oxford, on Sunday, October 25, from 11am to 2pm.The green-fingered, Dorset-based writer, best known for his column in the Blackmore Vale Magazine, has produced a step-by-step guide for ensuring healthy crops all year round at the allotment and in

Face your eight-legged fears

2009-10-22T16:15:00.002+01:00

Cotswold Wildlife Park launching its first ever Feeling Calm with Spiders course on Saturday, October 31.Aimed at people with a phobia of spiders and hosted by hypnotherapist Pippa Shay, the three-hour session aims to dispel myths about spiders and teach techniques to help people remain calm and in control around them.There will also be an opportunity to get up close to some of the Park’s spiders

Radcliffe Infirmary to host music soundscape

2009-10-22T15:55:00.003+01:00

The Radcliffe Infirmary in Oxford is to host a special sound project by Berlin-based artist Susan Philipsz.Titled You Are Not Alone, Philipsz has recorded 1920s and 30s radio interval signals from around the world on vibraphone that will be broadcast from four FM transmitters at Modern Art Oxford to receivers at the 18th century observatory, at Green Templeton College.From October 31 to December

Wolvercote Viaduct shut overnight October 23 and 24

2009-10-22T14:43:00.006+01:00

The A40 is to be closed overnight on Friday and Saturday (October 23 and 24) as part of the Wolvercote Viaduct replacement scheme for demolition of the old southbound carriageway.The road will be shut between Wolvercote Roundabout and Cassington between 10pm Friday night and 6.30am Saturday morning, and from 10am on Saturday to 7am on Sunday morning.The road could also be shut overnight on Sunday

Fight Hunger by dining out this October

2009-10-21T16:29:00.002+01:00

Until the end of October, The Mission Mexican restaurant in Oxford is inviting diners to eat out in aid of Action Against Hunger.The restaurant, which has branches in St Michael’s Street and King Edward’s Street, will donate 50p from each sale of its guest menu to the campaign, which helps malnourished children and their families in more than 40 countries.“This is an extremely worthwhile campaign

Buttercross Needle installed at Marriotts Walk

2009-10-21T15:53:00.003+01:00

A public art centrepiece for Witney's new leisure and retail development Marriotts Walk was installed earlier this month.Designed and created by sculptor and public artist Michael Fairfax (pictured), the ‘Buttercross Needle’ has been commissioned by West Oxfordshire District Council and funded by the developers, the Simons Group.Using modern materials of predominantly stainless steel and glass,

Vale of White Horse councillor joins criticism of court closure

2009-10-21T15:40:00.002+01:00

Jenny Hannaby, Vale of White Horse District Councillor for Wantage Segsbury Ward, has spoken out against the proposed closure of Wantage Magistrates' Court.Earlier this month, the Ministry of Justice announced proposals to shut the court, leaving south Oxfordshire residents with just one working court in Didcot.Wantage MP Ed Vaizey has already criticised the plans, and coun Hannaby said: “I am

Oxford family dance event, November 1

2009-10-21T15:30:00.003+01:00

Oxford’s family dance experience takes place at Oxford Town Hall on Sunday, November 1.Expert dance tutors will be helping teach a range of styles and there will also be performances by two of Oxford’s most popular dance companies – Crossover Intergenerational Dance Company and Hip Hop dance troupe Messy Jam.The event, which is aimed at the whole family, runs from 10am to 3pm, with a number of

Oxford MP to listen to OAPs at special meeting

2009-10-21T14:57:00.002+01:00

Oxford MP Andrew Smith is to meet some of the city’s older residents at a listening event organized by Age Concern Oxfordshire. The MP will speak to older people at the Town Hall, in St Aldates, on Friday (October 23) from 10am to noon. The event is one of a number happening across the country so people can have their say on how the care system can be improved ahead of proposed Govt reforms.Paul

Abstract works a part of Art in Woodstock Festival

2009-10-21T13:45:00.003+01:00

The Creative Art Gallery in Woodstock is exhibiting a mix of unseen and new abstract works as part of this year’s Art in Woodstock Festival, which runs from October 24 to November 1.International renowned artist Barbara Delaney, George Taylor and Martyn Brown all have pieces in the Fuse exhibition at the gallery in Oxford Street, which is open Tuesday to Saturday, from 10am to 5pm, and Sundays,

New north Oxfordshire Job Club website to be launched

2009-10-13T16:56:00.003+01:00

Cherwell District Council is launching a job club website to build on the success of job clubs schemes in Bicester and Banbury.The website will be formally launched on Friday, October 16, at the Bicester Job Club by north Oxfordshire MP Tony Baldry, who helped pioneer the scheme in the county.Baldry has personally written to every business in his constituency encouraging them to take advantage of

Wantage MP Ed Vaizey criticises proposals to shut town court

2009-10-13T16:42:00.003+01:00

Ed Vaizey MP has come out against plans announced today by Jack Straw to close Wantage's magistrates court.The Ministry of Justice has published a shortlist of 20 court's in England that it wants to close down including the Wantage court, with all cases in the south of the county to be held in Didcot.The court, described as "underused and inadequate" by the government department, has been rarely

Nicola Blackwood PPC: Live from Manchester

2009-10-07T17:22:00.004+01:00

Nicola Blackwood is the Conservative prospective parliamentary candidate for Abingdon & Oxford West.This week she was at the Tory party conference in Manchester, and kept a diary of her hectic schedule.If you've ever wondered what actually goes on at these events, here is her take on the lead up to the conference, and the first day.Nicola Reports Back…Sunday:11.45am Interview with Adam Boulton at

Henley Literary Festival, October 2 to 4

2009-10-07T17:05:00.004+01:00

The Journal sent roving reporter David Sarjent along to this year's Henley Literary Festival to mix with the stars, ask the tough questions and breath in the heady mix of freshly printed pages.In just its third year, the Henley event sold more than 8,000 tickets to around 70 events as punters flocked to see famous authors and TV personalities, including Irvine Welsh, Jeremy Paxman and Gyles

Why is his monkey on his shoulder?

2009-10-07T17:01:00.003+01:00

A question we all want answered, I’m sure.Oddly-named Scottish whisky company Monkey Shoulder are holding a future-themed ‘Evolution’ party at Raoul’s Bar in Walton Street, Oxford, on Wednesday, October 14, from 7pm. What exactly will be futuristic about it I don’t know, as you still drink whisky orally as far as I am aware, just as people have…for centuries.Nevertheless, the press release

Lamb's Spiced Rum Autumn Garden Party @ The House

2009-10-07T16:29:00.005+01:00

When I was 13 a friend and I liberated a bottle of rum from his dad’s drinks cabinet and quickly necked half each in the woods by his house.Several hours later I abandoned his semi-comatose body on his parents’ doorstep, rang the bell and staggered away.Needless to say, my parents were less than impressed with me proceeding to spend two days in bed with alcoholic poisoning, and grounded me for

Stratfield Brake family day a tree-mendous success

2009-10-07T15:56:00.007+01:00

On Saturday, October 3, the Woodland Trust hosted a free family day at Stratfield Brake woods near Kidlington, with over 120 locals attending. Activities included willow weaving, making clay faces on trees, a scavenger hunt, wetland wildlife spotting, giant colouring wall and a magical storyteller, as well as a BBQ of locally sourced produce. The Trust’s James Luxton

Oxford man aims to complete famous route for charity

2009-10-05T17:27:00.001+01:00

An Oxford resident is set to cycle his way the length of the UK to raise money for charity the Blood Pressure Association. Al Turnbull, 29 (pictured left), sets off on the famous epic journey from Lands End to John O’Groats on Sunday, October 11, and hopes to complete the 950-mile cycle in 11 days, with friend Mark Hooley (pictured right). “Knowing we are supporting the Blood Pressure Association

Jazz for Katherine House

2009-10-05T17:07:00.001+01:00

Banbury’s Mill Arts Centre is to host a charity jazz concert in aid of an Adderbury Hospice on Tuesday, October 20.The event has been organised by local construction firm Morgan Ashurst, which built the hospice nearly two decades ago, to raise money for Katherine House.In 2008, the jazz event attracted a sell-out crowd and raised £1,000 for Cancer Research UK.Award-winning sextet 6pac (pictured)

Oxford Journal Interview: Andy Powell, Wishbone Ash

2009-10-02T11:10:00.004+01:00

The story goes that Wishbone Ash guitarist Andy Powell helped land the group a record deal in 1970 by walking out on stage with Deep Purple virtuoso Richie Blackmore and engaging him in a jammin’ guitar duel.With Blackmore instrumental in recommending the group to US record label Decca shortly after, it’s also a tale Powell is happy to repeat, as Wishbone celebrate their 40th year in the music

Sign up for Cumnor litter pick

2009-09-29T13:37:00.001+01:00

Vale of White Horse residents are being urged to join more than 50 volunteers in Cumnor for a large-scale community litter pick on Saturday, October 3.The community clear up has been running twice a year for several years.The event will also include an information point outside the newsagent on Oxford Road where organisers will be on hand to give out free car litter bags and information leaflets

New music rooms for Henry Box

2009-09-29T13:31:00.003+01:00

Work to build a brand new music faculty at the Henry Box School in Witney is underway.The £1.36m county council-funded project will create a purpose-built music building at the Church Green school, with work expected to be completed in autumn 2010 to coincide with the school's 350th anniversary.The building will include three music rooms, an ensemble room, seven music practice rooms, a recording

Brainy Bratt a step closer to Formula One dream

2009-09-29T13:19:00.002+01:00

Banbury racing driver Will Bratt feels he is closer than ever to making the grade as a professional driver after picking up his degree in English from Oxford University.The aspiring GP2 series racer and Euroseries 3000 Championship title contender graduated this week and will celebrate by testing for the upcoming GP2 event at Jerez in Spain on Wednesday, October 7.Now he has his degree firmly in

Electric vehicle to clean city's streets

2009-09-29T13:04:00.002+01:00

Oxford City Council is trialing an electric powered vehicle that produces no exhaust fumes and is virtually silent.The vehicle, a 3.5 tonne Nissan Cabstar, will be out collecting rubbish in the city after it was placed with the council by Bampton-based company CBL Electric Vehicles.The trial will show the company how their vehicle, which uses no other fuel, performs over a longer of period of

Help for Heroes charity pub quiz

2009-09-29T12:58:00.002+01:00

An ex-Royal Marine is set to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania to raise cash for forces charity Help For Heroes.Gavin Stewart is hoping to raise £3,000 for the charity, which helps injured servicemen and women, and is holding a fundraising quiz night at Chinnor Rugby Club, near Thame, on Friday, November 13, to raise more money towards the climb. Entry costs £5 per person with a maximum team of

Pop Up Pool help for Oxon fire service

2009-09-29T12:48:00.000+01:00

Firefighters in Oxfordshire can tackle fuel pollution quicker thanks to new kit that has been bought by the Environment Agency.Around £2,300 has been spent on 40 pop-up pools for Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, which can be used to contain oil and chemical leaks and spillages at road accidents and in domestic and commercial premises.The pools’ size means they can easily slide under vehicles

Oxford Journal Interview: Peter Hook

2009-09-23T17:07:00.003+01:00

It was the most famous and notorious nightclub in the world, heralded as the birth place of rave music and the Madchester scheme but blighted drugs and violence, and it lost its owners a fortune.Now former part-owner Peter Hook has revealed just what went on behind the doors at Manchester’s most iconic nightspot in The Hacienda: How Not To Run A Club.As a member of the hugely successful bands Joy

Apple Day at Grey's Court, Henley-on-Thames, Sept 19

2009-09-16T15:34:00.003+01:00

Celebrate the great British apple at the Grey’s Court National Trust property on Saturday, September 19.Apple Day aims to raise awareness of the plight of the orchard.Hundreds of traditional orchards have been lost in the last century due to the intensification of food production. Campaigners The National Trust and environmental charity Common Ground have saved and restored many of Britain’s

The Fiery Furnaces: Eleanor Friedberger Interview

2009-09-16T15:08:00.003+01:00

They have released an album featuring their grandmother on vocals, referenced Egyptian grammar and Navajo basketball coaches but the Fiery Furnaces might have produced the biggest left-turn of their career so far – a straight-forward rock album.I’m Going Away is brother-and-sister-duo Matt and Eleanor Friedberger’s eighth studio album in the past decade, a period during which they have enjoyed

Help with housing fair

2009-09-10T14:36:00.001+01:00

By Nadia AbdeljaberA fair offering housing support will be held at Oxford Town Hall on Wednesday, September 16, between 10am and 3pm.The fair aims to help those in need of short term housing assistance such as the homelessness, young people, teenage parents and those living with a mental illness.Agencies and housing providers will be on hand to raise awareness on the services designed to help

Witney choir an Italian smash

2009-09-10T14:19:00.003+01:00

Witney-based singing group Voice Box are back in the UK after two successful performances in the Italy.The group (pictured) traveled to the town of Castello Tesino for five days as guests of the local deputy mayor, Livio Gecele, singing with the local male voice choir, Coro Lagorai.“It was an opportunity we could not miss,” said Voice Box musical director Lesley Morris.“The chance not only to

Know Your Numbers!

2009-09-10T13:58:00.003+01:00

By Nadia AbdeljaderDo you now your numbers? Your blood pressure numbers, that is.Between September 7 and 13, charity The Blood Pressure Association is offering free blood pressure checks to people in Oxfordshire as part of Know Your Numbers! Week, the nation’s biggest blood pressure testing event.‘Pressure Stations’ will be set up at pharmacies, shopping centres and community venues around the

Earthwatch fundraiser a success

2009-09-09T15:09:00.002+01:00

Oxford-based environmental charity Earthwatch raised £35,000 at its second annual SustainaBall on Saturday, September 5.The ball, which included an exhibition of photos, auction and dinner, was held at Henley Business School.It was attended by 150 guests including Dr. George McGavin (pictured), currently starring in the BBC television series Lost Land of the Volcano, and explorer and Earthwatch

Oxford film set to feature at London festival

2009-09-09T14:22:00.001+01:00

Oxford filmmaker Sharon Woodward's documentary Thank You Skinhead Girl is to be screened at the Portobello Film Festival in London.The 45-minute film is a personal recollection of Sharon’s time in care and of being a skinhead during the late 70s and early 80s through the use of poetry, Super 8 footage and interviews.The film features music from reggae ban Symarip, Oxford ska group The Inflatables

Monkey Whisky rebellion night

2009-09-09T12:09:00.002+01:00

By Nadia AbdeljaberGet in the cocktail spirit with a special whisky event at Thirst Lodge in Oxford on Wednesday, September 16. Contemporary Scotch whisky Monkey Shoulder is taking Oxford back to the 1950s with a Rock'n'Roll Rebellion night, with two free cocktails thrown in for good measure.The night runs from 7pm til late, and visitors can sample the 1950s themed Monkey

Oxon pubs hit the heights

2009-09-09T10:35:00.003+01:00

Four Oxfordshire pubs have joined the elite in the Michelin Eating Out in Pubs Guide 2010.The Swan Inn, at Ascott-under-Wychwood, Highway Inn, in Burford, Black Boy Inn, at Headington (pictured), and the Fish, in Sutton Courtenay, join 26 Oxon pubs already listed in the prestigious tome.Guide editor Derek Bulmer said: “Judging by the number of new entries we have found for this year’s guide it

Oxfordshire Voted Good for Business

2009-09-04T09:42:00.005+01:00

By Marta SkorupinskaA new survey by recruitment consultancy Allen Associates reveals company chiefs think Oxfordshire is a good place to run a business despite the economic recession.According to the survey, more than half of local companies (63 per cent) reported to be quicker than national businesses to adapt to changes like the recession. Thirty per cent of Oxfordshire

Anti-incinerator protestors to protest council meeting

2009-09-03T15:20:00.003+01:00

Members of Sutton Courtenay Against the Incinerator (SCAI) say they are to hold a peaceful protest outside County Hall on Monday (September 7).Oxfordshire County Council's cabinet is meeting at 2pm to decide the location of a £100m incinerator to deal with the county's waste, either Sutton Courtenay or Ardley. Cabinet members will be voting ‘blind’ to select a preferred bidder - either Tender 1

Lindy Hoppers Hit Oxford

2009-09-03T15:07:00.002+01:00

A new community group in Oxford is helping revive the Lindy Hop, a popular dance from the 1920s to 1940s.Every Thursday, from September 17, Oxford Lindy Hoppers will recreate the atmosphere of the legendary 1920s New York nightclub ‘The Cotton Club’ at East Oxford Community Centre, in Cowley Road.At the club there will be beginner and intermediate Lindy Hop lessons, music from the 1920s through

Thames exhibition at the River & Rowing Museum

2009-09-02T15:50:00.002+01:00

A new exhibition by the renowned artist Alexander Pemberton at the River & Rowing Museum in Henley captures the rarely seen industrial side of the working Thames.Pemberton has been painting the Thames near where he lives for more than 15 years, and his work “examines the river’s relationship with the urban landscape and industrial figures” (museum press release).The exhibition opens on September

Life begins at...?

2009-09-02T15:31:00.002+01:00

First 50 was the new 40, then 60 became the new 50, and after hearing of the exploits of 91-year-old Benson artist Peggy Jones, who knows when life is supposed to begin.At the suggestion of local Wallingford Rotary Club member Dave Churm, Peggy displayed a painting she produced last year at the annual Streatley Art Exhibition, held over the Bank Holiday weekend in aid of local charities.Sure

Oxford coffee shop free drink giveaway

2009-09-02T14:33:00.002+01:00

Giraffe coffee shop in George Street is to give away a free cup of coffee or tea between September 14 and 18 from 8am to 10am each day.Thirsty visitors can pick up a free 8oz latte, cappuccino, expresso or one of three teas to take away.The Brazilian coffee shop and restaurant also offers a brunch menu until 4pm.

CS gas used by Abingdon police to prevent potential suicide

2009-08-07T14:22:00.004+01:00

Police officers in Abingdon had to use CS gas to disarm a woman who was holding a bread knife to her own throat and threatening to kill herself after being told she was being recalled to a mental health hospital.The officers were called to the flat in the town by a nurse at around 2.30pm on Thursday, July 9, to help execute a Section 135 warrant, which allows police to enter a premises, by force

Williams' new driver slow out of the blocks

2009-08-06T14:29:00.003+01:00

Saw these boys working hard at the Williams F1 Conference Centre today when I popped along for the DVLA number plate auction. Inside, people were paying huge sums for number plates including F1 HAM and the such, while these lads worked on there tyre changes.I'm not sure they have what it takes to make it in the cut-and-thrust world of motor racing, but I applaud the grounds keeper (he must really

Oxfordshire designers head north for fame and fortune

2009-08-05T17:20:00.002+01:00

Oxfordshire jewellery designers Tamsin Howells and Sarah Pulvertaft have been chosen to showcase their work at this year’s Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair.The pair were chosen from a list of more than 300 of the best craft makers in the country by a panel of expert judges.Tamsin uses old and vintage fabrics to produced one-offs or limited edition jewellery, while a wrap-around ring made by

Skunk Advance, See?

2009-08-05T14:46:00.002+01:00

Cotswold Wildlife Park is celebrating after its first delivery of a sackful of mini Pepe Le Pews. Parents Sid and Nancy the skunks have had their very first litter, a total of 10 kits.Park curator Jamie Craig said: “Keepers were amazed to find 10 inquisitive babies nestled with their mother. Even shortly after birth they are all ‘armed and loaded’, so keepers exercise caution when cleaning their

Local Lads sign up for Queen and Country

2009-08-05T14:25:00.002+01:00

Ten Oxfordshire young men took the Queen’s Shilling this week by enlisting into the Army and swearing their Oath of Allegiance at a ceremony in Oxford Town Hall.The ceremony, in the Old Library room, was attended by The Lord Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, Tim Stevenson OBE, senior Army personnel, family and friends of the men, who pledged their allegiance to the Queen and the Army.The 10 local lads

Win copies of Oxford United: The Complete Record

2009-08-05T14:11:00.003+01:00

The Oxford Journal Blog has five copies of Oxford United: The Complete Record to give away.Written by Martin Brodetsky, this huge and comprehensive book follows the story of Oxford United FC from its beginnings as Headington United in the 19th century to the present day, in fascinating detail.A definitive guide to the U’s, the book includes profiles of the club’s greatest players, all the

Faringdon farm shop open for business

2009-08-05T14:01:00.003+01:00

Little Lodge farm shop is officially open for business.The shop at Wicklesham, just south of the A420 at Faringdon, sells free-range eggs and seasonal garden produce, as well as home-made cakes, jams and ice creams.Little Lodge was officially opened on Friday, July 31, by Faringdon’s new town mayor, Dr Mike Wise.It was Dr Wise's first official opening since taking office. He said: “It is always a

Oxford United go into new season with high hopes

2009-08-05T11:13:00.003+01:00

A double dose of Potter magic ensured Oxford United go into the new season on a high after a 2-0 win over an Aston Villa XI at the Kassam Stadium on Tuesday.Tricky winger Alfie Potter scored twice in the first half, latching onto a Alex Rhodes cut back to sidefoot home and then taking a Rhodes flick-on calmly to dispatch the ball past exposed Villa ‘keeper Parish to make it 2-0.Little and large

Journal Live Review: Arbouretum, The Railway Tavern, Winchester, July 28

2009-08-04T17:16:00.004+01:00

I never expected to have a transcendental experience in the back of a pub in Winchester, but then life throws all sorts of surprises your way.One of those surprises was just how the utterly brilliant four-headed rock monster Arbouretum came to be headlining an intimate gig at the Railway Tavern on a Tuesday night when they should have been blowing minds at a string of enormo-domes across the

Journal Album Review: The Only Woman in the World, Florence Rawlings

2009-07-31T13:15:00.002+01:00

Florence Rawlings certainly has pedigree. At 13, she auditioned for millionaire Wombles songwriter and producer Mike Batt alongside a certain Katie Melua, who with Batt’s writing talents behind her went on to record a trio of massive-selling albums in the UK and around the world.With her 2007 album Pictures announced as the last time Melua and Batt would be working together, the pop impresario

Oxford Cavaliers new players appeal

2009-07-30T14:06:00.003+01:00

Oxford Cavaliers Rugby League FC is looking for new players to don the jersey and join the club.The side, which formed in 1996, recently finished fifth in the Co-operative Rugby League Conference 2009 - London & South division, and players train every Wednesday at 7pm at the Stratfield Brake Sports Ground, in Kidlington.Club captain John Connaughton said: “As a club we are always looking to

Border Agency swoop on Londis workers in Headington

2009-07-29T15:07:00.003+01:00

Four illegal workers have been arrested after the UK Border Agency acting on a tip-off raided Londis in Headington.The raid, on Tuesday morning, led to the arrest of four Indian men aged between 21 and 36 for immigration offences.One of the four was also arrested on suspicion of possessing a counterfeit Belgian passport and National Insurance card.The Border Agency said two of the men remain in

If you go down to the wood today, you're sure of a big surprise...a bag of grass and some knuckledusters

2009-07-29T12:49:00.002+01:00

Or eight bags of cannabis and two pairs of knuckledusters, to be precise.That was the haul nabbed by Bicester street warden Tim Davies when he investigated what he thought was fly-tipping behind a tree on the Greenwood Estate.But instead of finding litter, he stumbled upon the shoe box full of drugs.“I was out in broad daylight at around 1.30pm and saw a package behind a tree. It looked a bit odd

Shops still open in Banbury despite pedestrianisation scheme

2009-07-28T17:36:00.003+01:00

Councillors in Banbury worried shoppers will ignore stores in Parson’s Street during a £2.1m pedestrianisation project have reminded locals the area is still open for business.Work has started on the pedestrianisation scheme, which includes Church Lane and Church Walk, Cornhill and Market Place.The main access routes to the shopping area are shut, but Cherwell District Council’s portfolio holder

Witney - centre of the music world

2009-07-28T16:58:00.004+01:00

A new initiative aims to bring the best unsigned and indie label artists to West Oxfordshire, and turn Witney into a major centre for live music.Glovebox is the brainchild of online promoter Ade Phillips, the man behind online music community www.tunatheday.comOnce a month, Fat Lil’s in Corn Street, Witney, will host acts playing anything and everything from hip-hop to world, pop, rock, folk,

On a mission for a decent burrito...

2009-07-24T15:19:00.004+01:00

Tried out the new branch of The Mission in King Edward Street on Thursday while waiting to interview Lord Adonis about electric trains.Good-sized burrito with steak, rice and pinto beans for £5.45, bottle of Sol £3.20, was good value for money and I can see why the owners have been making a few quid and decided to expand. The staff were very helpful, which wasn't hard as I was the only one in

It could have all been so different...

2009-07-24T14:44:00.004+01:00

"Declutter. More space. Buses out of Queen Street. Pedestrianisation for all!" That is the mantra from Oxfordshire County Council and Oxford City Council whose Transform Oxford scheme is well under way, and will surely have cleaned our city's streets clear of unwanted cars, buses, and no doubt all the messy people clogging up our fair roads.But it is interesting to find out just how different

Video bits and bobs from Carnival in the Park

2009-07-08T09:41:00.004+01:00

Just a few odds and sods shot at the Carnival, badly, by me, then edited, badly, by me, for your viewing displeasure.Ric

Carnival in the Park

2009-07-06T21:30:00.003+01:00

Really enjoyed Carnival in the Park despite only being able to stay for a few hours in the afternoon.The weather was brilliant, the atmosphere was mellow and the crowds beat even the high hopes of the organisers.An estimated 25,000 made their way through South Park during the day, which is huge by anybody's standards, but it never seem too busy.Saw some great dancing, listened to some great

U Dance at Carnival in the Park

2009-07-02T17:04:00.002+01:00

Don’t know about you, but I’m really looking forward to the Oxford Carnival in the Park on Sunday.As well as all the usual music, food art and culture, this year’s event will have a dedicated dance stage with a whole afternoon of lively, colourful and exciting dance performances called U Dance.The event is free for everyone to enjoy and involves some of the very best in Oxford’s youth and

David Saw at Chalky's

2009-07-02T12:42:00.003+01:00

Singer-songwriter David Saw visited Chalky's record store in Banbury on Wednesday to perform his new single, Buy My Record.The Aylesbury-born musician is travelling indie record stores across the country where he is being filmed for a video for the song, which was released on June 29.Now based in the US, the single is the first of his mellow new album, Broken Down Figure.David, whose songs have

Skye's the limit for Faringdon man in 48-hour non-stop challenge

2009-07-02T11:10:00.018+01:00

Two ex-soldiers from Faringdon are close to raising £5,000 for a charity that supports servicemen and women wounded in combat and their families after successfully completing a two-day non-stop kayak and mountaineering challenge.Tommy Kelly (left) and Keiron Ross paddled 25 miles along the coast of Skye, completed a traverse of the Cuillin Ridge, one of the longest alpine-style rock-climbing

Businesses ditch traditional advertising for social media

2009-07-01T13:07:00.004+01:00

Working in local media at the moment is very much like being trapped inside Katie Price’s mind; no one in here knows what’s going to happen next.Advertising revenue for newspapers and magazines fell 11.8 per cent in 2008, fuelling worries about declining circulation figures and leading to pretty savage cuts in the news room.A serious number of titles have closed, with newspaper groups reacting to

Consortium steps forward to develop proposals for North west Bicester Eco-Town

2009-06-29T17:06:00.004+01:00

Developers P3Eco have declared an interest in creating proposals for an eco-town to the north west of Bicester.Put forward by Cherwell District Council as an alternative to the unpopular eco-town proposed for Weston Otmoor, the council says the site could provide 5,000 eco-homes and 5,000 jobs for local people if the Government gives it the green lightAccording to the council, P3Eco Ltd is a

Win tickets to Bjorn Again at Newbury Racecourse

2009-06-26T17:19:00.005+01:00

Get your glad rags on and dig out those platforms, because the Oxford Journal Blog is taking you back to the 70s.No, not the three-day week, recession or electro-pop (hang on, aren’t we there already?), but the spangly wonder of glam rock and all it’s rhinestone-covered goodness.The Blog is offering readers the chance to join it at Newbury Racecourse on Friday, July 10, for Party in the Paddock

'Mega' probation centre campaigners to hold fundraising street sale

2009-06-26T14:33:00.004+01:00

Families in Oxford fighting plans for a ‘mega’ probation centre in a residential area are holding a street sale to raise money for their campaign.Organisers from the West Oxford Community Against the Mega Probation Centre (WOCAMP) expect hundreds of families to turn out for the event, with all proceeds raised used to fund any future legal battle against the probation service, which is looking to

Say it ain't so, Joe...

2009-06-25T20:58:00.004+01:00

I am a big rugby union fan, and nothing gets the fires burning like a Lions tour. On the 2005 tour of New Zealand, I watched every minute of every match, getting up at 6am to catch all the games of what must rank as the most disastrous tour in living memory.Despite being demolished in every test, I have been looking forward to and talking about the tour to South Africa with mounting excitement

"Mum, I've bumped the car. No, it's not bad..."

2009-06-25T20:43:00.004+01:00

Couldn't help but laugh when I drove past this chap heading home through Newbury. I'm not sure who he was on the phone to, but at least he had the decency to look sheepish after taking out the entire traffic light system at this roundabout in Newbury.I think he should be applauded, for three reasons.One, he didn't disappear after causing the damage.Two, for the number of traffic cones he managed

Bid to rejuvenate Wantage after damning newspaper article kicks off

2009-06-25T17:29:00.003+01:00

A group that aims to revive Wantage’s fortunes is holding its first ever event on Sunday, July 5, with a family fun day in the Market Square.Wantage Rejuvenated was recently formed by members of Wantage Chamber of Commerce who want to breathe some new life and vibrancy back into the town.“We want to encourage new businesses into Wantage and make the community feel proud of their home town again,”

Abingdon...transform!

2009-06-25T14:25:00.002+01:00

…If you’re a Transformers fan, anyway.Toymaker Hasbro is sending a Chevrolet Camaro to Tesco Extra in Abingdon to promote the new blockbuster sequel, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, which is currently at the box office.The distinctive, slick, yellow and black Camaro in the film is the Autobot Bumblebee, and will be at the store on Saturday, June 27, from 8am to 10pm.

Oxford Brookes artists showcase in Brick Lane

2009-06-24T14:55:00.018+01:00

A group of artists from Oxford Brookes University is showcasing its work at the Truman Brewery in Brick Lane, London.Called ‘Plus One’, the group of recent graduates and current postgraduates will display an eclectic mix of work created during the initial stages of their time as independent artists. Among the work displayed will be that of 2008 graduate Loredana Faraon. She said: “Since Free