Launton Spring Fair raises over £630 for Parish Hall Improvement Project
A sunny morning on Saturday 9 May saw The Friends of Launton Parish Hall hold a Spring Fair at the Hall.
RobertCornford, The Chair of The Friends, said, “We’re very pleased with the amount raised -£630 - which will help fund the next stage of the Hall project, being led by the Parish Council. Last year, FoLPH helped fund the new roof, to make the Hall waterproof. This year we plan to make the Hall warmer and nicer to use.
“The work will provide proper insulation on all exterior walls, a new heating system, new toilets, and will open up the inside to make a more usable space. We also plan to take out the current suspended ceiling.
“The project has secured funding of £93,576 from The FCCCommunities Foundation towards most of the interior building and renovation work, and from The DorisField Charitable Trust towards hot water systems. There will also be PVcells on the roof and storage batteries to help power the heating, funded with a grant of £20,000 from The National Lottery Community Fund. FoLPH itself is contributing nearly £75,000 to this stage of work. All fundraisingevents go to the project to Save Our Hall.
“The Spring Fair featured the popular Grow a Sunflower competition: we’llreport on the results in September.”
The AGM of The Friends of Launton Parish Hall will be on 18 June in the Hall - unless work has started by then! (see page 31 for more details.)
Photo shows members of the team running the Spring Fair, with the bunting provided by The National Lottery Community Fund to mark the grant of £20,000 to the installation of a PVsystem with storage batteries and inverters.
The cover shows a photo from the late 1970s(probably 1978) of the Launton Ladies FCteam. It came from ShirleyJohnson, who played for many years. Can readers put names to faces here? Cover designed by Matt Hill. Photo from ShirleyJohnson
The Editor writes
Our front cover this month features a photo passed to us by ShirleyJohnson (our Distribution Manager) of a team photo from the late 1970sof the Launton Ladies Football team for which Shirleyused to play. After the coverage in the May issue of the successes of both the Ladies and the senior Men’steams this year, it seemed a good idea to celebrate the earlier years of football success for village teams. Can anyone give names to the team members? Are any players (apart from Shirley) still living in Launton?
In the Parish Council Report (pages 4-6) is the news that we have a new Chair of the Council; after filling the role for the last 18 years, Simon Turner has stood down as Chair and been replaced by Jacqueline (Jackie) Webber.There is also a new vice-Chair, JackieHackett.There is more change in Launton as the school has a new Head Teacher: page 7 introduces Gill Walker to the village. Page 29 reports the results of May’s local election.
Looking forward to future events, pages 8 and 40 cover the Launton Handbell Ringers’ 75th Anniversary Concert on Saturday 13 June, and the late-summer StMary’sFayre alerts on page 28, with information and entry forms for the linked Art and Craft Show on pages 32-33, and pages 23 and 39 tell of the unseasonalVillage Players’ Summer Show - Frozen:The Musical . We welcome back two contributors: JasonWilliams provides a Vet’sVoice on pages 26-27, and the Grumpy Old Men speak on page 30.
The FoLPH AGM and Open Meeting features on page 31, and the regular recipe on page 19 suggests a delicious rhubarb cake for late spring. Please support our advertisers, and mention Launton Lines when you use them.
Chair: Vacant | Secretary: KateGreig | Editors: RobertCornford, Matt Hill
Treasurer: Vacant | Distribution: ShirleyJohnson | Advertising: Tom Sowler
Contact the Parish Council
Wenowhavealocumclerk,Gill Peacock.You can contact the Councilbyemailatclerk@launtonpc.gov.uk or on the Council’smobile at 07305303889.
To book the Parish Hall
Contact:JoanPacker Phone:07922042 133
Parish Hall Committee: The Parish Council has now established a new Management Committee
LIGHT UP A LIFE
Would you like to sponsor an evening’sfloodlighting at St. Mary’sChurch in memory of a loved one, to give thanks for the birth of a child, or to celebrate a baptism, a birthday, or a wedding?
A minimum donation of £10 is suggested which can be Gift Aided. Please contact JoanPacker on 01869 241694 by 20 June 2026 for entry in the July 2026 edition.
LAUNTON PARISH COUNCIL
Notes from the Parish Council meeting held on Thursday 7 May 2026 at 7.30pm in The Boardroom at Grange Mews, Station Road, Launton.
Councillors present: MrGlynAustin, MrAndyBriant, Mrs Jackie Hackett, MrSimonTurner and Mrs JaquelineWebber(Chair) In attendance: 4 members of the public.
At the time of writing, the recruitment process for a permanent Clerk closed on Friday 24 April, however, the Council agreed that they would think about alternative strategies. There are also still vacancies for two Councillors, details of which may be found on the Parish Council website.
1. Island Pond Wood - Councillor Hackettagreed to represent the Parish Council.
2. Launton Community Communications Group - Councillor Webber agreed to represent the Parish Council.
Finance
The Finance Report is available with full details of all transactions on the Parish Council website. The Council approved a grant of £250.00 to Launton Environmental Legacy Fund upon receipt of their Grant Application, from the General Grants budget.
Planning
All planning applications, which include the links to Cherwell’sPlanning Portal, are put on the Parish Council website when they are received (www.launton-pc.gov.uk-inthe Agenda and Minutes section). There were no new applications this month.
If a villager has concerns or comments about a planning application, they are welcome to come along to Parish Council meetings to bring them to the attention of the meeting. Villagers are also welcome to contact Councillors or the Clerk to make comments.
Guidance on how the Parish Council is able to respond is on the Parish Council website at https://www.launton-pc.gov.uk/planning-applications/
Parish Hall
The Council reported that the replacement kitchen door had been held up due to unforeseen circumstances and would be constructed shortly. The Council confirmed that the relevant paperwork for the grant application to FCChad been completed and submitted to them.
The Council confirmed earlier agreement with the Parish Hall Advisory Working Group’srecommendations regarding preferred contractors and to apply for planning permission in respect of the heating system.
The Council reported that BThad been contacted regarding the installation of a broadbandconnection, and a response was awaited regarding the feasibility of the potential connection.
The Council also reported that the existing ad-hocarrangement for cleaning the Parish Hall would continue at present and would be reviewed once the works had been carried out.
Maintenance - The Council reported that the dusk-to-dawn switch had been fitted to the lights alongside of the Parish Hall and the extra light for the car park would be fitted when new stock was available.
We still need additional volunteers to join the Parish Hall Management
Committee to help with the management of the Hall! If you think you could help out, please contact JaquelineWebber(jackie.webber@launtonpc.gov.uk) for more information.
Highway and Traffic Issues
A member of the public advised the Council that a recent collision at the bottom of the new Station Road bridge, where a vehicle had overtaken two slow-moving vehicles as one was turning into the entrance by the barns, and had struck the turning vehicle then crashed off the road itself. A member of the public asked whether a "caution: vehicles turning" sign (or similar wording) be placed around the entrances in the vicinity. It was agreed that this item be added to the agenda for the next meeting.
Speed Indicator Devices
The Council reported that despite a promise from OCCto rectify the issue with the SIDon Station Road, this had not been turned back to face in the proper direction and no progress had been made on downloadingdata from the devices.
OCCHighways engagement
The Council reported that they had not been notified of two recent sets of traffic-light-controlled roadworks in the village and it was agreed that the locum clerk would enquire if notification should have been given, or whether this only applied for full closures.
Village upkeep
The Council reported that the planters outside the Parish Hall would be re-planted in due course. The Council reported that further information had been received regarding the land ownership for the protected poplar trees between Forest Close and The Spinney: the owner of one of the Forest Close properties, who has owned it since new, confirmed that the trees were owned by the Forest Close properties in whose back gardens they were sited. It was agreed that further investigations should be carried out.
Agenda items and dates of the next meetings
The next meeting will be on Thursday 4 June 2026 in the Parish Hall, starting at 7.30pm. If you’dlike to chat with a Councillor, do come along after 7.15pm.Suggestions for agenda items for the 2 July meeting need to be with the clerk by 18 June.
If you’re not signed up to our mailing list to receive news from the Parish Council, you can find a signupform at the bottom left-hand menu of the Parish Council website at www.launton-pc.gov.uk/
GettoknowthenewHeadofLauntonSchool
We asked the new head at Launton School some questions so we could get to know a bit more about her. Here are Gill Walker’sanswers.
HowwelldoyouknowLaunton?
I’m still getting to know Launton, but I’m really enjoying becoming part of the area. I’velived in Oxfordshire since 1999, mostly in a small village about four miles north-west of Oxford. Although I’veworked in the Bicester area since 2002, it’sonly in the past couple of years that I’velived closer by, which has given me the chance to spend more time in and around Launton. I’m looking forward to getting to know the village and its community much better.
Howlonghaveyoubeenteaching?
I began teaching in September 2002, so this is now my 24thacademic year. It’shard to believe how quickly the time has passed, and how much I’veseen and learned along the way.
WheredidyougotoPrimarySchool?
I went to NunthorpePrimary School in Middlesbrough, which is about 200 miles from here. It feels a long way from Oxfordshire, but it’swhere my school journey first began.
Wherewasyourlastteachingjob?
My previous teaching role was at Five Acres Primary School in Ambrosden, Bicester, where I spent my entire teaching career up to now. It’sbeen a big part of my life over the years, and I’vebeen fortunate to work with so many wonderful children, families and colleagues during that time.
The most important reason I wanted to become Headteacherof Launton is because it is a school with strong values that genuinely put children first. It is clear that Launton is a caring, inclusive community where pupils are encouraged to be kind, honest, and resilient, and I want to build on that and help every child thrive both in their learning and personal development.
Whatdoyouenjoydoinginyourfreetime?
In my free time, I enjoy reading a good book, spending time with my family, and socialising with friends.
FrederickSharpe, 1905 - 1976
Launton Historical Society will be putting on a display in the church on 13 June to celebrate the life and achievements of this man, when the Launton Handbell Ringers mark the 75th anniversary of their foundation and the 50th anniversary of MrSharpe’sdeath. His achievements have already been mentioned in articles by Tony Jeacockand Peter Allenin last month’sedition of Launton Lines. We have also traced FrederickSharpe’sbackground. Through his mother, he has a direct ancestral line in Launton back to a marriage in 1740; and through his father, we have traced his ancestors to a similar date in small village called Dunton, near to Winslow.
We are trying to identify which two houses he lived in as a child - one in Bicester Road, one in Station Road, before he built Derwen, next to the Parish Hall, where he lived after his marriage.
We have assembled a collection of newspaper articles about his life in bells, both church bells and hand bells, and also his expertise in the repair and restoration of church towers; his years as President of the Central Church Bellringers, and his books on church bells; his work as a church warden and lay preacher, keeping services going here in the 1960’swhen Launton was without a member of the clergy.
Furthermore, we have his cap from his years playing with the village cricket team (he was secretary from 1930 until it folded in 1961) and his logbook written as Chief Air Raid warden in 1941-1945.
In addition, we plan to have a working model of how a church bell is rung.
Pat Tucker for the Launton Historical Society
LauntonWatercolourArtGroup
The Watercolour Art Group normally meets on Mondays in the Parish Hall between 2pm and 4pm.
In June we will meet on every Monday, so 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29 June, in the Parish Hall, assuming that the building work has not started on the Hall renovation.
We have some new joiners this season, and more people will always be welcome.
Here is a work from David Meeks, our tutor, of a rural scene in (I assume) Kent or Herefordshire.
If you are interested in attending the watercolour art group, please emailPaul.Ebberson@gmail.com
Footpaths and Gates in the village
One of the farmers in Station Road recently reported that two of the field gates on her property had been left open and the sheep and cattle had strayed into several fields where they should not be. One gate is on the bridle path off Station Road and the other is not on a footpath, but on the farmer’sland.
The Countryside Code states “Leave gates and property as you find them”. Please consider your actions when walking on the land around our village, and remember that this is someone’sproperty and their livelihood. This inconsiderate action created a lot of work for the farmer and could have resulted in an accident or loss of livestock. If you have any information about this incident, please contact us.
This photo is for location only. It is not the gate that was left open.
STMARY’S FAYRE
The Fayrein the front garden of the Old Rectory, and the Arts and Crafts Show in the Church, will be held on Saturday 5 September between 2pm and 4pm.
See page 28 for more information about the Fayre and pages 32-33 for more about the Arts and Crafts Show and an entry form on page 32.
100 Years Ago, from TheBicesterAdvertiser
Friday 18 June 1926
CHOIR OUTING The members of the Congregational Church choir had an enjoyable outing on Tuesday to Weston-super-Mare.The party (including the minister) numbered 28, the members providing their own expenses. It was conducted by MrF Reeves. Launton was left at 6amand the journey to the sea was taken via Oxford, Swindon and Bath. A halt was made at Cheddar to gaze at the wonderful spectacle of the gorges. Westonwas reached about mid-day. The homeward journey was commenced at 6 o’clock and the route taken was via Bristol and Malmesbury.Home was reached shortly after midnight.
LAUNTON FETE A Great Success
Again Launton’ssecond annual fete yesterday was successful up to a part, and then at five o’clock rain began to fall and completely spoilt the function. It was a
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hard-working band of workers and they had a fine cause to labour for, viz, that of a parish room, a most essential need for a village the size of Launton. . .
Friday 25 June 1926
THE
GARDEN
FETE
Although the fete on Thursday in last week was completely spoilt after five o’clock owing to the heavy downpour of rain, yet such good work was done whilst the weather was fine, that the final result was distinctly encouraging. In fact the sum of £99 8s 6dwas taken, compared with £120 the previous year. The expenses are estimated at £20. On some of the sideshows, the bowling for the pig especially, the takings were even greater that at the first fete. There will be, we understand, another fete during August, when an effort will be made to dispose of the goods unsold. The Marsh Gibbon band will play for dancing in the interval. It was in the attendance that Thursday’sfete suffered. The number of visitors was 438, compared with about 900 last year. . .
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LAUNTON ENVIRONMENTAL SOCIETY
NEGATE…What does it mean?
Our ‘friends’ at AI have come up with the following: “To Negate means to cancel out, invalidate, or nullify the effect of something. It can also mean to deny the truth of something.” I find this all very fascinating when it comes to our Green House Gases Problem. Useful in a way for the three main views on this issue to be explained. There are the ‘New Denialists’, they seem to believe that ‘there is no problem, it is a hoax’. A view advocated by he who shall remain nameless. Say no more!
There are many that accept the problem exists and its severity is real, but find it difficult to cope with the concept especially in these worrying times. Who could blame them! The problem may be out of sight and mind. Depressing though it may be, it is still there. Thentherearepeoplelikeusthatwanttodotheirbesttohelpcancelout theprobleminsomealbeitsmallway.ThisiswhereOurELFishelpful.
Our Environmental Legacy Fund was established to enhance biodiversity and help move away from the weather extremes that we are currently experiencing and help to restore the much-needed balance to mother nature.
A short walk in Our Woodland does seem to have a calming and more positive influence. Very helpful in improving our personal wellbeing. I’m looking forward to the day when we and our children will be able to have a longer refreshing walk in Our WildflowerMeadow.
We are on our way to making that happen. At the time of writing, we/you, have raised a Downpaymentof £2,500. It is a start; there is still a very long way to go. We hope to turn that into £5,000 in the coming weeks, and then apply for a matching fund grant! We will get there quicker especially if more of you join the campaign!
Donations to Our ELF (Environmental Legacy Fund) can be made via Card Net, Just Giving, BACS(Launton Environmental Legacy Fund,
Sort Code 30-54-66, Account Number 62684760), Cheque or Cash via any member of Our Elf Team, or at The Bull Inn or at The Village Coffee Shop. Thank you for taking the time to read this!
EdHamill Founder and Chair of LES
Submitted by EdHamill: May 2026
Launton Historical Society reporting . . .
It’san intriguing title, The Secret Gardens of Oxfordshire and the Birth of Modern Science. StephenWasswas very enthusiastic and he paced around. He’sa professional archaeologist specialising in historical gardens, spending lots of time at Stowefor example, as there’salways something going on there. The secret gardens were water gardens and they were hugely important and fashionable back in the 17thcentury. Those involved in creating the gardens were also involved in modern scientific thought. Then the gardens became completely forgotten, and hardly anything remains of them.
Basically the water gardens were on country estates and they were massive landscaped constructions demanding huge technical expertise and providing defence, fishing and spectacle. At the heart of their development was Sir Francis Bacon, a courtierand philosopher who was interested in scientific method and technology. He built himself a water garden at his house near StAlbans.As a man with a water garden, he didn’tlike pools. He thought they were unhealthy, all flies and frogs. His social circle revolved around the court, people who were thinking about scientific progress. WalterCope was a member of that circle, and he built a water garden at Cope Castle in Holland Park. It was very geometric and complex and he compared notes with Bacon. Water gardens were becoming fashionable. Cope Castle became Holland House and it’snow to be found under Kensington High Street. The chances of digging it up to find the water garden are quite slim.
WalterCope’solder brother Sir Anthonybuilt a huge water garden at HanwellCastle near Banbury.It included a series of dams running down a valley. It was heavy duty engineering for the 17th century. He spent a lot of money on that garden and the King visited. The great and good assembled at Hanwelland plotted and planned. The gardens became known as the House of Diversion and they contained some of the most significant garden buildings in the history of science. Archaeological investigations have taken place and garden pots, tobacco pipes and bottles found. TherewerealsowatergardensatTackley,constructedin1620ontheestate ofJohnHarborne.Thesegardenstoowerestateoftheart,withsquareand triangularponds,centralislands,causeways,a Continued on page 18
At Enstonetoo there was a water garden. ThomasBushellwas in the service of Bacon. He inherited from Bacon and rented an estate, developing the garden in 1620. It had water powered special effects, quite the thing. There was a banqueting house, waterworks, cascades, grottoes. Thecivilwargotinthewayatthispointbutthewatergardenlasteduntil the19thcenturywhenitwasdemolished.Asmallamountremainsinthe formofastonetankunearthedinsomeone’sgarden.
The civil war turned everything upside down. But spectacular water gardens were a big Oxfordshire thing in the 17thcentury and earlier. We have just heard AndrewLong speak about the Naming of Oxfordshire Pubs and on 25 June TimHealeywill tell us all about StGilesFair, at 7.30 in the Parish Hall, unless the renovation work has started in the Hall, in which case there will be an alternative venue.
GwenSkinner
OxfordshireArtWeeksinBicester.
Two members of the Launton Watercolour Art Group (see page 9 of this issue) joined with seven others from the area exhibiting work as Bicester Artists@Cinch. The venue for the display was Cinch Self Storage, at 1 ArkwrightRd, Bicester OX264SU, one of many venues taking part. It was open for 6 days in the middle of May. We hope to have a fuller write-up in the July issue of Launton Lines, when the organisers have recovered from the event.
The Launton-based artists who took part were JennieFairweatherand Paul Ebberson.Here are examples of their work.
Golden Yellow plants from up Station Road
Two photos from Peter Cox from Folly Cottage.
On the left, what Peter describes as a Buttercup Ley. And to the right is a yellow Peony that Peter has been trying to coax to flowering for over 10 years. What extraordinary shades of yellow!
Launton VillagePlayers reporting
FrozentheDisneyMusical
For the first time in forever, get ready to let it go and step into the magical world of Arendelleas we bring our production of Disney’s Frozen The Musical to the stage!
Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature film, join Anna, Elsa, Olaf, Kristoff, and Svenon a heart-warming adventure filled with courage, love, and a little bit of icy magic. Packed with unforgettable songs, magical moments, and plenty of laughs along the way, this is a show for all ages to enjoy.
Join us for one of five magical performances in the Big Shed Theatre at Hare LeysFarm, Launton (OX265AB):
Friday 10 July - 6:30pm
Saturday 11 July - 2:00pmand 6:30pm
Sunday 12 July - 10:30am(Relaxed Performance) and 3:00pm
Our 10:30amrelaxed performance on Sunday is designed for anyone who would benefit from a gentler theatre experience. The show remains the same enchanting production, with a few thoughtful adjustments:
Music played at a lower volume
A designated chill out area
A visual story available beforehand
A welcoming, flexible approach to audience movement and noise
Tickets are selling fast! Grab yours at www.ticketsource.co.uk/lvp- £12 for adults, £7 for children. Delicious refreshments will be available which can be booked with your tickets, or purchased at the show, including Pimm’s, prosecco, fruit juice, teas, coffees, homemadecakes, and ice creams.
If you need assistance or have any questions, call us on 07864 715708 or emailus at tickets@launtonvillageplayers.org.uk
There is plenty of parking, hired in ‘posh’ toilet facilities, and there is disabled access. We hope you’lljoin us for a wonderful weekend of entertainment and help us raise funds for the Friends of Launton Parish Hall. Thank you for your support - we can’twait to welcome you! The LVP Team
Launton WIReporting . . . on our May 2026 meeting
There was dancing at the WIin May. A good crowd of members took to the floor. Line dancing experts Paulaand Rostaught us many, many steps. Key advice - have spatial awareness and don’tcrash into people. Many members danced but some of us sat and watched - and got appointed as judges. Mainly we were kind. We marvelled at the stepsso many of them, such a need to remember them all. We saw right toe heel, left toe heel, out in out in out, cross turn, side, start again. Later we encountered heel switches and shoulder wiggles. We learnt that if you go wrong, it’sjust called a variation - and it’sfair to say there was quite a bit of variation in the shoulder wiggles though the wiggling was generally praised.
To show us how it’sreally done, Paulaand Rosthen gave showcase performances, commanding the whole floor and not crashing into anyone.
And, by the end, with music (Billy Cyrus’s Achy BreakyHeart) the Launton WIline dancers filled the floor and it was a proper line dance on a proper dancing floor.
We learnt that choreographed line dancing evolved in the 19th Century from European folk dances mixed with North American country and western. In the 1950sand 60s, the dance became more modern, in the 1970sthere was a disco influence and in the 80sand 90sa country boom had influence and that’swhen the Achy BreakyHeart came in.
Paulagot into line dancing in 1997 after it had featured on Emmerdale. She taught it as a full time job for 20 years but stopped for a while when Covidlanded. Now she works with Rosand they have classes on Tuesday nights at the CliftonCentre in Bicester.
Everyone enjoyed themselves - plenty of laughs and fitness too. And as well as the line dancing, Marettaand Janedisplayed their beautiful cards, there was a vote on whether to sing Jerusalem (on special
occasions was the answer), an announcement of an evening meal at The Bull, an outing to BroughtonGrange Garden, and the annual croquet match. Eleanorwon the competition for something linked to cowboys, with a half bottle of bourbon and a cowboy hat. So a good time was had by all. Next month, on 11 June, the WIhas a speaker on the Greatest Englishwoman of the Last Century - turns out it’s GertrudeBell. Plenty to find out there. The meeting will be in the Parish Hall, starting at 7.30pm - but we will need to move our meetings when work starts on the Hall renovation. Watch out for updates.
GwenSkinner
BraveDarcieBouncesBackAfterKneeSurgery
Brave, bright and already recovering well, Darciethe Rottweileris heading home after knee surgery, having once again shown just what a wonderful patient she is.
Three-year-old RottweilerDarcieis proving that courage can come with a wagging tail and a very gentle nature. This lovely girl has just undergone MMPsurgery for a ruptured cruciateligament in her right knee, and only two days later she is already showing everyone what a superb patient she is. Darciehas been a great patient throughout, charming the team with her calm nature and sweet temperament. Her story is especially remarkable because this is the second time she has faced the same problem. Last December she needed surgery on her left knee for the same condition, making this recent operation on the right side an unwelcome repeat. Happily, she has taken it all in her stride and is recovering beautifully. Senior Veterinary Nurse SophieRowellRVNsaid: “Darciehas been so easy to deal with; she is a joy to have at the practice. It’slovely to see her responding so well to the surgery.”
Darcie’sprocedure involved opening the knee joint to inspect the damage inside the stifle, the canine equivalent of the knee. We then created a precise drill hole and bone cut, known as an osteotomy, in the tibia. The front section of the bone was gently advanced forward so that a titanium wedge could be placed into the new position. A pin and titanium staple were used to hold everything securely while healing takes place. It is a clever technique designed to change the forces through the joint, helping to stabilise the knee without relying on the damaged ligament. The post-opxray(a little fuzzy) shows the implants in place.
The good news is that Darciewill be going home today, where her recovery can continue in familiar surroundings. For now, life will need to stay calm and controlled. Gentle lead walks in
the garden will begin from day one, giving her a safe start to using the leg again while protecting the healing bone. She will stay on pain-relieving antiinflammatory medication for around four weeks, and her exercise will gradually increase as healing progresses. Although it will likely be two to three months before the leg is ready for running, she should be enjoying longer lead walks well before then. If her progress so far is anything to go by, Darciehas every chance of making another excellent recovery.
Cruciateligament disease is sadly very common in Rottweilers, although dogs of almost any size or breed can develop it. In many cases, the problem is caused not by one dramatic accident, but by a gradual degenerative process that weakens the ligament over time inside the stifle joint. The first sign owners notice is often a sudden lameness in a back leg, when the weakened ligament finally gives way during normal exercise. Because the disease process often affects both knees, it is not unusual for dogs like Darcieto experience problems on one side and then the other. Thanks to modern orthopaedic techniques such as the Modified MaquetProcedure, however, many dogs can return to a happy, active life. Well done Darcie!
JasonWilliams, Bicester Vets
“Save the Date” | StMary’sFayre
Saturday 5 September 2026
Once again, the popular StMary’sFayrewill take place in the garden of The Old Rectory, (our thanks to Rebeccaand Tom Sowler) and in St Mary’sChurch on Saturday 5 September. It will run from 2.00pmuntil 4.00pm
We will have all the usual Fayrestalls for you to enjoy: cakes, plants and produce, tombola, books and toys. There will also be children’sgames, a craft activity and hopefully some other attractions. Watch this space! Refreshments will be served with a choice of tea, coffee and cakes, and a chance to sit and catch up with friends, old and new.
We will be having the Arts and Crafts Competitions in the Church: watch out for the entry form on pages 32-33 (also available in Church) and do enter. Classes will be judged and trophies awarded.
Donations of cakes (with an ingredients list please) and plants along with tombola items and good toys are welcome, so please bring these along to the Church on Friday 4 September from 6pmuntil 8pmor Saturday 5 September between 9.30amand 11.30am.
More information about the Fayreis on our StMary’sFacebookpagehttps://www.facebook.com/stmaryschurchlaunton/?locale=en_GB
So save the date and we look forward to seeing you at the Fayreon Saturday 5 September.
The SMFTeam
Bicester Road closure in June 2026
Bicester Road will be closed to all vehicle traffic, 24 hours per day, around the entrance to Manor Farm from 8 June until 11 June (anticipated completion date). This is to install a new water supply connection. A signed diversion will be in place. The traffic management plan is available for inspection.
Election result for Launton and Otmoor
At the election for a Councillor on Cherwell District Council held on 7 May 2026 for the
Timothy
The Grumpy Old Men of Launton 2026
It seems like an age ago that we met to set the world to rights. Since then, there has been a long and wet winter and early spring followed by three days of record-breaking heat. For the more elderly of our group it brings back memories of the 1976 summer. We had a brief discussion about who from the current Cabinet would be the best Minister for Drought later in the summer. In 1976 it was DennisHowellwho was rapidly transformed to be Minister for Floods as the heavens opened at the end of the summer. We have managed a few meetings in 2026 but are delighted to report that The Bull has settled down under its new landlord, ChrisMorley.It has wellkept ale – the recent Landlord was excellent, and we all agree that it should be one of the permanent pumps. The Bull under the Morleyfamily has reminded us all of what a village pub should be. We’?re also delighted that there are three Aunt Sally teams based there, and darts is part of the project.
All our group are reminded of how easy it was for The Bull to lose its sparkle, and we now know what happens when a pub closes if only for a few weeks. Rebuilding is a long-term project, and we all wish Chrisand the Bull staff good luck for the future, as we continue to meet there
There seems to be ongoing good news of pubs in local villages: The Red Lion in StrattonAudleyis now back on its feet; The Plough in Marsh goes from strength to strength, and we have heard that The WhitmoreArms in Hethe(aka The Muddy Duck) is due to reopen this summer. We are also looking forward to the BastilleDay Beer Festival on 11-12 July at The Horse and Groom at Caulcott.
But enough of hostelries – there are other topics we have covered. We’ve been delighted and baffled simultaneously by the County Council’?s approach to fixing potholes in the village. Some parts of Blackthorn Road are so well kept that – if we were prone to conspiracy theories, we would swear that there are a few County bigwigs living along the road as potholes seem to be filled very selectively. A short stretch is smooth as a billiard table, then the next part is pockmarked like the skin of an elderly acne-sufferer. And while on the County Council, Why, oh Why have they not yet fixed the vandalised speed indicator device (SID) on Station Road?
And while on Station Road, we’re enjoying the Bus Stop Library. The range of books on offer tell you so much about the literary taste and travels of Launton. Who was in Chicago’sO’Hare Airport in the late 1980sand bought a novel by SarahParetsky? There is a whole detective story right there!
Friends of Launton Parish Hall
Annual General Meeting and Open Meeting
Thursday 18 June 2026
7.30pm in the Parish Hall
Come and find out about the current plans for the Hall in this second stage of Save Our Hall:
About the insulation,
The new heating system,
The PVcells and battery storage,
Taking out the suspended ceiling and the proscenium wall,
Replacing the concrete floor with an extended wooden floor,
Opening up the roof space,
Restoring the windows at the top of the front wall,
Patching up and waterproofing the outside walls,
And installing two new disabled toilets.
Catch up on how it’sbeing paid for, including grants from FCCCommunities Foundation
National Lottery Community Fund
DorisField Charitable Trust
Friends of Launton Parish Hall
Bring along your ideas for future fundraisingevents.
If you have some time to give, FoLPH needs a Secretary and a Treasurer, and the Chair will stand down next year.
Students from Launton school will design a greetings card from Launton to be distributed to local care home residents. Entries will be submitted through the school
RULES & INFORMATION
Entry is free
Judging will take place at noon on 5 September, no late entries (after 11.30am on 5 September, the day of the Fayre) will be accepted and the judge’s decision is final
All entries must be accompanied by an entry form
Entries can be dropped off at StMary’schurch on Friday 4 September 6.008.00pmand Saturday 5 September 9.30-11.30am
Entries to be collected on Saturday 5 September from StMary’schurch by 4.00pm. Any items left after this time will be disposed of at the organiser’s discretion
Trophies
Gold Cup, Hackling Cup and Jenny BrindCup – Launton residents and/or members of StMary’schurch are eligible
PatsyStephenscup – all entrants are eligible
Photography - maximum of two entries per class per person
For further information, please contact Paulaon 07713 069 259
2 June 1876
LAUNTON PROVIDENT SOCIETY’S FESTIVAL AND RURAL SPORTS.
This festival, which is looked forward to with interest by the parishioners of Launton, took place on Wednesday last, May 31. The day was very fine and a large number of persons visited the village. At this festival there were again, through the exertions of MrCRKillby, of the Manor Farm, rural sports, in a field kindly lent by that gentleman, who is always willing to assist where his services are desired. The members of the society, headed by the Bicester Brass band, marched to church, where divine service was held. The prayers were read by the Rev JCBlomfield, rector, and a suitable sermon was preached by the Rev WHDraper, rector of MiddletonStoney. After the service the members returned in procession to the schoolroom, where a substantial dinner awaited them . . . [the lunch was followed by speeches, then the sports and a list of the race winners] . . . the band played at intervals during the afternoon. At about half-past five a tea was provided on the lawn in front of the rector's house, for the members, their wives, and families and others. Some hundreds partook of the cheerful repast. Dancing was kept up with spirit during the evening to the strains of the band. Various games were spiritedly entered into. Mrs Staples-Brownedistributed the prizes after tea to the successful competitors...[The report concludes with the members’ supper, again with many long speeches].
LAUNTON COMMUNITY COMMUNICATIONS GROUP
Launton School reporting . . .
Today, some Year 6 children are talking to us about their recent SATs exams, and the week of celebrations that followed.
The week of the SATs was emotional, stressful, exciting, and boring. We had to sit exams in reading, SPaG(which stands for spelling, punctuation and grammar) and maths.
For the reading exams we had to read two fiction texts and one nonfiction text. We had to read and answer questions on all three of the texts.
For SPaGwe had to add punctuation to sentences that were provided on the exam paper, according to what the question asked us to do to the sentence. Some of the thing we had to do were use the correct, commonly confused word in a sentence, form plurals, use capitalisation correctly, and identify common and proper nouns. For maths we had to do multiplication, algebra, fractions and addition. We had to use reasoning to work out mathematical word problems.
Once the exams were over, it was time to celebrate. Our teacher made a hot chocolate station in the classroom. There was cream and sprinkles, and we were allowed to use the special visitor mugs to enjoy our drinks in. We played some games on the laptopsand completed a wordsearch.We were allowed to have extra-long breaktimesto play football. We also got to decorate cookies with our buddy (a student from a different year group). On the last day of the week of celebrations, we were allowed to come in non-uniform, next week everything goes back to normal!
We had to use all our school values to get through the exams; they are resilience, integrity, compassion and courage. We are all looking forward to going up to secondary school, although we will miss Launton Primary School.
Edi, Benjamin, Sebastian, Rupert, Adriana, Ellaand Erin– Year 6
Memories of an ex-Launton Boy
This month, the ex-Launton Boy remembers the Maytimeractivities of his youth, and starts with words sung by VanessaRedgrave.
It’sthis time of year when I always think of the lyrics sung by VanessaRedgravein the film, Camelot; “It’sMay! It’sMay! The lusty month of May”.
It’sfair to say that the weather has been a bit ‘iffy’ during this particular month of May, especially over the long Bank Holiday weekend at the beginning of the month (but the Editor updates to say that the second holiday weekend was a scorcher.)
As we were taught as kids; “March winds and April showers brings forth May’sflowers.” And we were taught; “Ne’er cast a clout till May is out.” Although, I was never sure as to whether that meant until the end of the month of May or until the May blossom is out, the latter generally coming before the former.
No matter, May means lots of different things to lots of people. For example, I am reminded when I think back to my childhood in Launton of the things we used to get up to in order to keep ourselves occupied and amused at this time of year, whilst at the same time learning about nature, as we country folk were prone to do.
Bird nesting is a phrase which for some at first spells out cruelty by way of stealing bird’seggs. I am happy to say that the group of kids that I mixed with in this annual venture never ever stole any bird’seggs. Instead, we found immense joy in the hunting and finding bird’snests, some of which had been abandoned the year before and fallen into disrepair whilst other abandoned nests were still in quite good order thus displaying how good certain species of bird were at nest building. With others, we might see the female sitting on the nest, incubating her clutch of eggs, but the real joy was finding one where the parents were off foraging for food or additional nesting material, with a clutch of eggs in the nest. With wild life pocket books in hand, we could identify the species by the size, colour and markings of the egg shells, after which we would walk on, leaving the parents to return to their incubating duties undisturbed.
We would find, low down in the hedgerows the nest of Jenny Wrens and slightly higher up, but within the reach of prowling cats, blackbird nests, often hearing the piercing alarm calls when perceived predators were lurking.
But they were not the only eggs we were in search of at this time of year, as around ponds we would hunt for frog spawn, toad spawn and newt spawn, as well as the adult creatures themselves, simply to observe.
In our childhood innocence, we used to gather around the small stream of flowing water that ran to the left of West End, just beyond the big house on the right, where with jam jars we would fish for Sticklebacks and Redthroats, which in our ignorance we would take home expecting them to live and very disappointed and upset when they died.
Something we were able to preserve though was wild flowers and other wild plants by way of ‘flower-pressing’ between sheets of paper weighed down with a ton of books until the specimens were completely dry, whereupon we would stick them onto an A4page and write the name of the species, where and when it was found to create a record alongside the plant. This was something done by both boys and girls, an activity we could share on an equal footing, combining innocence with learning and pleasure, the pleasure being in the learning of which plants were safe (and legal) to pick and what they were used for, whether eating or creating dyes or creating garden pest repellents.
Sadly, today, if it doesn’tcome out of a tin or a packet, for many, it doesn’texist. And with modern houses having next to no garden, there is little encouragement to ‘grow your own’ and even less inclination among the young to cook using fresh vegetables. No wonder obesity is on the rise in this country. Whatever happened to domestic science and nature studies in schools?
By the time you read this, we’llbe hurtling towards the Summer Solstice . . . already! My, doesn’ttime fly.
Keep healthy and stay SAFE!
TonyJeacock, MInstRE | The ex-Launton boy | June 2026
DiaryDates:June2026
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