9 february 2017 oxford paper

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Thursday, February 9, 2017 No.26

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War of words erupts over unitary plans

Out of this world again with Harwell-based space agency

NEWS Pages 4&5

NEWS Pages 20&21

Weekly leisure guide for in & around Oxford

Out& About

THE OXFORD PAPER Don’t let half-term be a washout...

Plenty of ideas to keep your little ones entertained Pages 28&29

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of the best

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Bouque your lov ts for ed on e page 37

Your guide for your leisure time in & around Oxfordshire

Latest film review > p28

Comedy hits the Mark >

p30

Jacobs Inn review > p35

Three cheers for community pub owners These villagers have plenty of reason to enjoy a pint or two after their hard work saved a pub from closure and made it a community asset – turn to page 3 for full story

MORE HOMES NEEDED IN THE RIGHT PLACES Government pledges £3bn to help as county prices hit 12-15 times average salary George Welch and Eva Astreinidou: Reporters ‘HOUSING in Oxfordshire is simply unaffordable for many people’.

That’s the message from a housing association chief after it was revealed

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the average price of a house in the county now costs 12.3 times the average salary.

The National Housing Federation’s South East Home Truths 2016/17 report shows the average price in Oxfordshire is £380,526 while the average earnings are £30,846.

The report also reveals the average rental property in Oxford costs £1,206 per month, meaning an outgoing of half most people’s salary.

The figures come as a Government White Paper was unveiled announcing plans for £3billion to build more affordable homes after ministers

admitted England’s housing market is “broken”.

Plans to fi x the country’s housing crisis were revealed by Communities Secretary Sajid Javid on Tuesday after the Government admitted to lagging behind its schedule of building 250,000 homes a year.

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th

VALENTINES GIFT WITH DEPARTMENT STORE OXFORD

The Government’s new housing strategy for England, as outlined in the White Paper, aims to get the right homes built in the right places, speed up house building and to diversify the market.

Continues on page 2

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2 Thursday, February 9, 2017

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Meet the team who bring you the news Group Editor: Karen Neville - 01235 516931 karen@taylornewspapers.co.uk Chief Reporter: Adam Flinn - 01235 516933 adam@taylornewspapers.co.uk Reporters: Christian Wilson - 01235 516930 christian@taylornewspapers.co.uk George Welch - 01235 516912 george@taylornewspapers.co.uk Samantha McGregor - 01235 516908 sam@taylornewspapers.co.uk Eva Astreinidou - 01235 516932 eva@taylornewspapers.co.uk Feature Writers: Alex Iszatt - 01235 516938/07484 509965 alex@theoxfordpaper.co.uk James Richings - 01235 516938 jamesr@taylornewspapers.co.uk

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Continued from front page To do this, local councils would be forced to produce an up-to-date plan for housing demand and would be given greater powers to pressure developers to start building on land they own.

“With prices continuing to sky rocket, if we don’t act now, a whole generation could be left behind” Communities Secretary Sajid Javid The £3bn funding pot would also help smaller building firms challenge major developers, as 60 per cent of new homes are currently built by just 10 big building firms.

Outlining the plans, Mr Javid said: “Walk down your local high street today and there’s one sight you’re almost certain to see. Young people, faces pressed against the estate agent’s window, trying and failing to find a home they can afford.

“With prices continuing to skyrocket, if we don’t act now, a whole generation could be left behind. We need to do better, and that means tackling the failures at every point in the system.

“The housing market in this country is broken and the solution means build-

ing many more houses in the places that people want to live.”

In Oxford, the average house cost is £471,599, 16 times the average of £29,406, while in south Oxfordshire, an average house costs £441,889 – 12.5 times the district’s average income.

Didcot-based Soha Housing said the report proves “that there is an acute housing crisis in the region”.

Chief executive of Soha Housing, Richard Peacock, added: “This report evidences what we all know – that housing in Oxfordshire is simply unaffordable for many people.”

In west Oxfordshire, where salaries average £27,862, the typical worker would need a £50,582 pay rise (181 per cent) to get a mortgage for an average home in the district, according to Cottsway Housing Association Ltd. The Government has also committed to protecting green belt land, which can only be built on “in exceptional circumstances”.

The Government White Paper comes a week after Mr Javid announced a cash boost of £24.16 million for Oxfordshire to help create jobs, support businesses and encourage growth.

OxLEP CEO Nigel Tipple said the growth deal will provide “real opportunity for Oxfordshire to continue to drive economic growth locally and nationally”.

OUTLOOK FOR FRIDAY TO SUNDAY: Remaining cold and at times breezy making it feel bitter for many. Often cloudy with snow showers, perhaps becoming more widespread for a time over the weekend. Widespread overnight frosts.

WEEKEND SUMMARY FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

DAY 2OC NIGHT 0OC

DAY 3OC NIGHT 1OC

DAY 4OC NIGHT 2OC

Hi-tech view of heart disease

A POWERFUL new heart scanner weighing the equivalent of 11 Mini Coopers has been installed at Oxford University to help improve the treatment of heart disease.

The state-of-the-art device – funded in part by a £1m British Heart Foundation (BHF) grant – will help scientists create detailed images of the heart, allowing them to learn more about its

Police to be given spit hoods to stop spread of infectious disease Eva Astreinidou: Reporter

THURSDAY: Thursday will be cold and cloudy for many with further wintry showers in the east. The west will see the best of any sunshine, however it will also turn breezier.

© Crown Copyright 2017, The Met Office

Government plans to fix the ‘broken’ housing market

THAMES Valley Police officers will be issued with spit guards to prevent them from being spat at by suspects and potentially contracting infectious diseases.

Following consultation in conjunction with Hampshire Police, the new see-through guards will be used from the start of February, once full training has been competed.

Since April 1 2016, 306 officers have reported being spat at by suspects after arrests have been carried out.

Thirty officers reported being exposed to risk of blood-borne virus contamination as a result of fluid from the subject entering their mouth, nose, eyes or open wound.

Officers have had to attend A&E as part of the health and safety policy, because spitting bodily fluids such as blood and saliva can pose a risk of transmitting a range of infectious diseases including Hepatitis C. The use of spit guards will reduce

the potential for transmission.

A number of forces across the country are already using the spit guards.

David Hardcastle, Assistant Chief Constable Operations, Hampshire and Thames Valley lead on joint operations, said: “Spit guards are being introduced to help protect officers, other emergency services personnel and members of the public from this unacceptable and potentially dangerous behaviour.

“Our officers put themselves at risk every day and we want to ensure that they have the appropriate equipment to deal with the challenges they face.

“Everyone should be able to go to work without the possibility of being

assaulted, including being spat at.

“The management team has listened to concerns raised by officers and the Police Federation, as well as taking on board recent recommendations from the National Police Chiefs’ Council and have taken the decision to provide them to all front line officers across the Force.”

The NPCC issued guidance last year which recommended that “forces give serious consideration to the issue of spit protection to all front line officers.”

As part of their training, officers will receive guidance on how to safely use the equipment, and will be shown how to record incidents in which spit guards have been used.

Officers will be required to monitor the suspect after the spit guard has been used as well as explaining the reason for its use.

Spit guards will only be used on suspects who have already spat at officers, or who are thought to be about to spit, and only when a suspect has already been handcuffed.

Thursday, February 9, 2017 3

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Boy, 9, stable after hit by car A NINE-YEAR-OLD boy is in a stable condition with serious injuries after being hit by a car on Monday.

Just before 11.55am, a collision took place between a black Peugeot 207 and the child, at a pedestrian crossing on Botley Road, near to the junction with Henry Road.

The child sustained serious injuries and was taken to John Radcliffe Hospital by ambulance. The boy’s condition is currently described as stable.

The driver of the Peugeot, a 95-year-old man, was not injured.

Road closures were in place while emergency services attended.

Investigating officers would like to speak to the occupants of a Nissan Juke and a silver Audi A4 who were believed to be stopped at the pedestrian crossing at the time of the collision.

If you have any information call Thames Valley Police on 101.

Missing man

structure and function.

While the scanner is just over two metres long, it weighs over 13 tonnes and a special crane had to be used to unload the equipment.

Oxford University’s Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research is considered one of the leading centres of cardiovascular imaging in the world.

The centre already has two

powerful MRI scanners, but the latest scanner in its fleet – Siemens 3T Prisma – is capable of producing higher resolution images.

The additional machine will boost capacity and enable more imaging work to be done to help scientists improve the treatment, diagnosis and care of heart disease.

Professor Stefan Neubauer, head of cardiovascular medicine at

Oxford University, said: “Advances in MRI imaging are opening up incredible new possibilities for scientific discovery.

“Fifty years ago, the only images that we could take of the heart were x-rays which were useful, but limited. Now we’re able to take highly sophisticated images of the beating heart and examine it in much greater detail.”

Dr Shannon Amoils, senior research adviser at the BHF, said: “The University of Oxford is a world leading centre of heart research, so it is crucial we give their scientists the tools they need.

“Funding investments like this is a vital part of making discoveries happen and turning them into medical advances to transform and save lives.”

CHINNOR: Police are “increasingly concerned” for the welfare of a man who has gone missing from Crowell, near Chinnor.

Mark Robinson, 53, was last seen on Thursday, January 26 at around 7am in Chinnor Road.

He is white, 5ft 10ins tall, of medium build, and balding grey hair. He was possibly last seen wearing a suit and a grey overcoat with a black leather shoulder bag. Mr Robinson is thought to have access to a grey Mazda 3.

Contact police on 101.

Community opens arms to welcome pub THE much-loved Abingdon Arms is now under community ownership following a campaign by locals and £3.6m worth of help.

The fi nancial help from More than a Pub Programme, funded by the Department for Communities and Local Government and Power to Change, as well as a variety of community contributions means that the Beckley pub has been saved after a six-month long campaign.

The 17th-century pub was put up for sale in May 2016 by Brakspear.

After word spread about the prospect of losing the village pub, a committee was formed.

Their fi rst point of action was to list The Abingdon Arms as an ‘Asset

of Community Value’, which then gave the team a six-month window to prepare a bid to buy the pub for the village.

A group of locals set up the Beckley & Area Community Benefit Society and raised over £475,000 in the fi rst month of their community share scheme.

Mike Hobbs, chair of the Beckley & Area Community Benefit Society, said: “We have had a fantastic response to our campaign to save The Abingdon Arms in Beckley and are now the proud owners of a community pub! It has been heart-warming to see so many people supporting the project and has created a real sense of community cohesion.”

Community Pubs Minister Andrew Percy said: “Thanks to the More Than a Pub programme and local campaigners, The Abingdon Arms will now stay at the heart of the community. This is a great reason to celebrate with a pint, and I hope the other new owners benefitting from the programme will raise a glass or two to the success of their businesses too.”

The committee is interested in hearing from anyone who wants to work with a community-owned pub.

The group hopes to develop The Abingdon Arms into a community hub to include a local shop, a café, a bike repair service, a parcel collection service and a venue for music evenings.

TEL. 01865 777 303 UNIT 5, 16 A PONY ROAD, HORSPATH INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, COWLEY OXFORD OX4 2RD MONDAY - FRIDAY 8.30AM - 5.30PM SATURDAY 10AM-1PM WWW.OXFORDSTONECRAFTSMANSHIP.CO.UK

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One Oxfordshire: war of words develops as councils state their cases

Two districts support idea for one authority Eva Astreinidou: Reporter THE campaign for One Oxfordshire has gained the support of South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse councils, much to the dismay of opposing local authorities Cherwell, West Oxfordshire and Oxford City.

Two weeks after the proposal was published, the two councils have agreed to work together with Oxfordshire County Council and will submit a joint bid to government.

They released a joint statement on Monday that said: “Having looked at all the evidence, we are convinced that a single unitary council for Oxfordshire provides the best prospect for maintaining high quality services and securing badly needed investment in infrastructure.”

The joint bid put forward by South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse is building on the foundation of the draft One Oxfordshire proposal, with some improvements.

In their statement they added: “Enhancing local democracy and autonomy should be at the heart of the new model, so that different areas can continue to make decisions that work for them. There can be no onesize-fits-all approach.”

One of the main focus points is

‘strengthening the model of local accountability’ at a more local level rather than relying on the area executive board model, an idea put forward in the initial proposal.

Another point was a revised model of council tax ‘harmonisation’ that would take place across the county over a reasonable period of time.

“...a single unitary council for Oxfordshire provides the best prospect for maintaining high quality services and securing investment in infrastructure”

SODC and Vale

Matthew Barber, leader of Vale of White Horse District Council, said: “The Vale will play an important role in developing the fi nal joint proposals for a unitary council ensuring they have a strong local influence and impact and offer our communities value for money.”

John Cotton, leader of South Oxfordshire District Council, added: “Helping to shape the future of our county is of the utmost importance to South Oxfordshire and I am commit-

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ted to ensuring our local communities across the district continue to benefit from a council that understands local people’s needs and aspirations.”

And Ian Hudspeth, leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “I hope that other districts and city councils will join us to get the best out of the new council for their areas.

“Once people fi nd out more, I think they will see that one unitary council offers the best way to protect services from future cuts and get the investment in roads and infrastructure that Oxfordshire urgently needs.”

Ed Vaizey, MP for Didcot and Wantage, was also pleased with the proposals.

He said: “I’m delighted that unitary proposals are being taken forward.

The leaders of the Vale and South Oxfordshire have shown that cooperation can deliver savings, better services and keep local accountability. It’s vital that any unitary proposal does this, and I am confident that it will. I urge the government to look at this proposal urgently.”

The three councils plan to jointly submit the bid to the Secretary of State in March.

Savings delivered by ‘One Oxfordshire’ through merging of services and functions between the six councils could be up to £400,000 a week.

Oxfordshire County Council leader Ian Hudspeth and councillors Richard Webber and Liz Brighouse present the proposal for One Oxfordshire last month

More protest against Trump travel ban Eva Astreinidou: Reporter A SECOND wave of protests against US President Donald Trump’s travel ban kicked off in Oxford and London last weekend.

Saturday’s protest at Carfax Tower, on Cornmarket Street, gathered around 100 people who were standing up against the US president’s executive order which blocks people from seven Muslim-majority countries entering the United States.

The protest was organised by Oxford Stand Up To Racism, Oxford Stop the War Coalition, Oxford Peoples Assembly and Oxford Momentum.

It followed one of the biggest demonstrations in Oxford in the last 10 years with an attendance of 2,500 people.

Thousands of protesters also marched from the US Embassy to Downing Street on Saturday.

Mariam Ahmed, joint chair of Oxford Stand Up To Racism, said: “There is a link between inflammatory statements by politicians and racist attacks and hate crimes on the street. The huge protests against Trump’s immigration ban show the potential to push the racism back into the gutter where it belongs.”

Fellow joint chair Anjum Ahmed added: “The protests have put Trump and Theresa May under huge pressure, and we can see cracks appearing.

“We have to increase the pressure now with more and bigger protests to make sure we win.”

Protestors demonstrating in Oxford: Picture: Oxford Stand Up To Racism Cathy Augustine, Momentum Oxford Steering Committee member, said: “In a recent letter to Theresa May, Jeremy Corbyn demands that she withdraws her offer to Donald Trump of a state visit while Trump continues to propagate his antiwomen, anti-Muslim and anti-Mexican policies.

“Momentum Oxford fully supports the stance of the Labour Party leader.

We are pleased to join our voices with other Oxford groups opposing the racist, misogynistic, divisive policies of Trump – and telling Theresa May that she does not speak for us in her endorsement of them.”

Oxford City Green councillor Craig Simmons said: “We must not let Trump get away with his vile victimisation of Muslims. It is convenient for him to scapegoat others when it is his own Government that is being divisive and extreme.”

President Trump imposed the order on January 27.

The ban has sparked protests globally, led to a UK-wide petition to block the president’s state visit and has also led to a major legal battle in the US. The US appeals court denied the White House’s attempt to reinstate Mr Trump’s controversial travel ban on Sunday morning.

Thursday, February 9, 2017 5

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for and against unitary proposal for six to become one

Plan would ‘wipe out 1,000 years of city government’

THE One Oxfordshire campaign has led to a war of words between Oxfordshire councils, splitting those for and against right down the middle.

South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse district councils have joined up with Oxfordshire County Council (OCC), much to the dismay of councillors from Oxford City, Cherwell and West Oxfordshire.

Leader of Oxford City, Bob Price, opposes the new set of revisions put forward by the campaign’s two recent supporters.

He said: “The county council and South and Vale district councils have caused chaos and confusion by launching a new set of proposals.

“The creation of a unitary council is unacceptable to the city.

“A thousand years of city government for Oxford would be wiped out and replaced with little more than a parish council.

“A unitary council for the whole county would not give the city the priority and focus it needs.”

He added: “Together with our colleagues in Cherwell and West Oxfordshire, we would urge the other councils not to waste time and spend taxpayers money on expensive promotion of this destructive bid.”

Barry Wood, leader of Cherwell District Council, said: “When the county

council’s proposals for a single unitary authority were fi rst unveiled, Cherwell stood united in opposition with Oxford City and the county’s other district councils – including South and Vale.

“The fact that these two fickle councils have now defected to support the county’s proposals does not alter my position or opinion that these plans would wreak devastation on the very

“A unitary council for the whole county would not give the city the priority and focus it needs”

Leader of Oxford City Council, Bob Price

people I am elected to protect.

“Time and again Oxfordshire County Council has proven it is inept at managing its budgets and responsibilities; its council tax has gone up year on year but service provision has gone down. Cuts were made to children’s centres, highway maintenance and bus routes.

“The idea of a one-size-fits all council is ludicrous. And we certainly should not be placing such power in

the hands of an authority which cannot manage the services it has now.

“By proposing a single point of contact, Oxfordshire County Council – with the support of South and Vale – is merely proposing a single point of failure and it is our residents who will suffer the consequences.”

James Mills, leader of West Oxfordshire District Council, said: “The One Oxfordshire proposal may sound attractive on the surface, but digging a little deeper, we soon see the adverse impacts it will have on our residents and how it is likely to change our district.”

He added: “One Oxfordshire is proposing savings of £20m a year, but this is a small sum when considered as part of the proposed authority’s total budget of over £821m.”

He said that the plans to join up all six councils could also threaten the free parking across West Oxfordshire.

He added: “A large ‘One Oxfordshire’ authority will not have the agility and ability to work as efficiently as the smaller district councils.

“We are already seeing how OCC, as a large authority, is not managing its budgets.”

He concluded: “My purpose as an elected representative is always to put residents fi rst and ‘One Oxfordshire’ simply does not do that.”

Behaviour order for teenager with stun gun A TEENAGER has been served with an eight-month detention and training order after being caught in Oxford with a knuckle duster stun gun.

The 16-year-old boy was subject to a criminal behaviour order (CBO), under which he was under a curfew between 8pm and 7am unless supervised by an appropriate adult over the age of 21.

But at 11.50pm on October 7, he was arrested in Oxford city centre, not under the supervision of an appropriate adult.

He was caught unsupervised again at around 2.30am on October 27, this time in possession of a knuckle duster stun gun, a knuckle duster accessory that can deliver a powerful electric shock similar to a taser.

The boy was charged on December 12

last year and sentenced at Oxford Magistrates Court on Tuesday last week.

He had pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing on January 4 at the same court.

Investigating officer PC Andy Hurst, of Local CID based in Oxford, said: “This individual failed to surrender to the conditions as set out by the CBO imposed on him. Hopefully the training order and detention imposed on him will make him think about his actions.

“I am pleased an offensive weapon has been seized and taken off the streets, and we would warn anyone thinking of carrying such weapons that if you are caught carrying such weapons you will be dealt with to the full extent of the law.”

To report anti-social behaviour, contact police on 101.

Pete Doherty to star at Truck S T E V E N T O N: Headliners for this year’s special 20th year anniversary of Truck Festival have been announced.

Leading the celebrations this July will be rock and roll bad boy Pete Doherty and his band The Libertines.

Franz Ferdinand, Maximo Park and The Wombats have also been confi rmed for the independent music festival at Marston Hill Farm.

The festival, which boasts seven stages of music, takes place from July 21 to 23.

More than half the tickets have already sold out.

To secure your tickets, go to truckfestival.com

Hospice ‘not always safe’ OXFORD: Hospice charity Helen & Douglas House in Oxford has been described as “not always safe” following the death of a young adult in its care.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspected the Magdalen Road centre unannounced in December last year after the death of a patient in May 2016.

The health watchdog, which found two breaches of health regulations and is considering what action to take, rated the service safety as ‘inadequate’, and said its leadership ‘requires improvement’.

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Woman threw chips in racial abuse attack POLICE are on the hunt for a woman who threw chips at and racially abused two teenagers in a revolting attack in Oxford last week.

Thames Valley Police said the woman threw the chips at a 16-year-old boy and a 16-year-old girl before punching one of them ‘a number of times’ in the racially aggravated attack.

The pair were approached by the woman at about 5.45pm on Thursday last week on Oxford High Street.

The victims tried to take shelter in Hardy’s Sweet Shop to avoid the woman

but she followed them into the shop and punched one of the teenagers in the face and the head.

Police said the woman made racist comments towards the pair and the boy received minor injuries, but did not require hospital treatment.

Police described the woman as white with a skinny build and shoulder length curly dark hair.

She is aged in her late 20s and was wearing a dark coloured vest top with dark bottoms.

She had a large tattoo on her upper

right arm, and Asian symbols on her upper back. She was holding a number of shopping bags, the force added.

Investigating officer PC Robb Prout, from Cowley police station, said: “This was obviously a very upsetting and concerning incident for the victims.

“This incident took place at a busy time of the day, and there would have been a number of people inside the shop at the time who may have vital information regarding this incident.”

Contact police on 101 if you have any information that could help.

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Passions run high at Brexit meeting

More than 150 people gathered at Didcot Civic Hall to discuss Brexit with MP Ed Vaizey Pictures: @edvaizey

A MEETING where ‘passions ran high’ was held by Wantage MP Ed Vaizey when frank views on Brexit were exchanged on Friday.

Before the meeting, Mr Vaizey said: “Before the end of March this year, Theresa May will formally invoke Article 50 and our negotiations to leave the European Union will begin.

“These negotiations will impact us all, and with that in mind, early in 2017 I will be holding public meetings to hear my constituent’s views and concerns.”

After the meeting at Didcot Civil Hall, he said: “We had a great meeting with more than 150 people in attendance.

“People feel very strongly about

Medical centre’s future in George Welch: Reporter THE future of Witney’s threatened Deer Park Medical Centre lies in the hands of Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt following a landmark council meeting for the centre’s patients.

Members of Oxfordshire County Council’s Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee (HOSC) met at County Hall on Thursday last week to unanimously vote to refer the decision to shut the surgery to the Secretary of State.

The breakthrough referral came just a day after campaigners fighting to save the medical centre lost a High Court battle for a judicial review into the Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group’s (OCCG) decision to close the practice.

The legal case was rejected on the grounds of timing of bringing action, not the merits of the arguments made.

Nevertheless, all 12 HOSC members agreed that the closure of Deer Park represents a ‘substantial change’ and should

be referred to Mr Hunt.

The Secretary of State will now consider the proposed closure, and may refer it to the Independent Reconfiguration Panel (IRP).

The Edington Square medical centre, which looks after around 4,400 patients, is supposed to shut its doors for the fi nal time on March 31.

“The practice is so important to the people of West Witney and villages that this decision should never have been made so lightly”

Witney MP Robert Courts

Witney MP Robert Courts, who wrote to the chairman of HOSC to convince them the closure is a ‘substantial change’, welcomed the decision due to the “critical role this surgery plays in Witney”.

He said: “I am very pleased that the HOSC has listened and have

unanimously agreed that the consultation around Deer Park was woefully inadequate.

“The practice is so important to the people of west Witney and the surrounding villages that this decision should never have been made so lightly.

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Horton campaigners boosted by referral to health secretary Decision over maternity services goes to Jeremy Hunt Samantha McGregor: Reporter

this issue, and it’s right they have the chance to air their views.

“Most people focused on the rights of EU citizens, and the risk that leaving Euratom would pose to local jobs. While passions ran high, the meeting was goodnatured, and I certainly got a fair reflection of my constituents’ views.”

On Wednesday last week, MPs voted by a majority of 384 to allow the Prime Minister to get Brexit negotiations under way, after a legal battle to bring sovereignty back to Parliament.

MPs backed the government’s European Union Bill, supported by the Labour leadership, by 498 votes to 114.

THE decision to suspend consultantled maternity services as a Banbury hospital has been referred to the Health secretary.

Last week, the Joint Health & Overview Scrutiny Committee (HOSC) unanimously voted to refer the Oxford University NHS Foundation Trust’s (OUHFT) decision to suspend obstetric services at the Horton General Hospital to the Secretary of State for Health.

The health trust suspended services last October over concerns about patient safety after problems recruiting “middle-grade” doctors at the hospital.

Nine middle-grade doctors should be in post to run the service safely – but so far the trust has not recruited enough staff.

The suspension has remained in place following two successive quarterly reviews.

Oxfordshire MPs Victoria Prentis, Banbury, and Robert Courts, Witney, welcomed the referral.

Mrs Prentis said: “HOSC’s decision is a major breakthrough for all of us who have been campaigning hard against the downgrade. The cross party nature of this campaign is apparent in the unanimity shown.

“It will be interesting to see how the decision to refer will impact the Oxfordshire Transformation Programme split consultation exercise which is ongoing, and about which I

Campaigners hope a referral to the health secretary Jeremy Hunt will reverse the downgrading of maternity services at the Horton General Hospital continue to have grave concerns. The fight continues, but I am confident that the Secretary of State will take this issue very seriously.”

Mr Courts said: “The ramifications of the suspension of obstetric services at the Horton go far beyond the residents of Banbury.

“This matter needs more scrutiny and consultation and should never have been so light.”

At last Thursday’s Health and Scrutiny meeting, Cllr Kieron Mallon (Bloxham & Easington Division), Eddie Reeves (Conservative candidate for Calthorpe Division) and Ian Davies, Director of Operational Delivery at Cherwell District Council, raised major concerns about the way the trust took the decision to suspend consultant-led maternity services and the detrimental impact that decision “has had on patient safety

hands of Secretary of State

“Deer Park has been my top priority since being elected and I am delighted at this result.

“I will do all I can at this level to ensure that we get the right result for patients and Witney as a whole.”

The MP added that he has already met David Mowat, the under secre-

tary of state at the Department of Health, and has contacted Mr Hunt directly, asking him to investigate.

Witney town and county councillor and HOSC member Laura Price has called for Deer Park’s contract to be extended while its future remains in the balance.

She said: “HOSC recognise the urgency and I hope that the Secretary of State acts quickly – it will be up to Jeremy Hunt to decide the next steps but I hope he recognises that it would be wrong for the surgery to close by default because of timing.

“My personal opinion is that there should be an extension of the contract while a fi nal decision is taken.”

In a poster for Deer Park patients, the Patient Participation Group (PPG) is continuing to urge patients to stay put.

The Save Deer Park Medical Group Facebook page, which has more than 200 likes, echoed the PPG. It said: “I know some people are fi nding it hard to believe, but HOSC really did vote for ‘substantial change’ concerning the closure of Deer Park.

“The vote was unanimous (12-0).

So we are now in a very different position.

and choice in North Oxfordshire and beyond”.

Both Banbury’s Labour and Conservative groups wrote open letters to the committee ahead of the meeting.

Banbury Labour group leader Sean Woodcock said: “I welcome this decision from HOSC. In 2008, it was referred to the then Secretary of State, Labour’s Alan Johnson who made the correct decision to retain services at the Horton.

“We can now hope that history repeats itself and that Jeremy Hunt will make the right call for the people of Banbury and beyond.”

Campaign group Keep The Horton General said: “It is gratifying that the members of HOSC listened to the MPs who submitted a letter, the two Banbury Councils who submitted a letter, KTHG who submitted a copy of the job advert for Consultants from Staffnurse.com, a copy of the survey (available on the KTHG website containing more than 250,000 words) plus a letter pleading with them to do the right thing for the people of Banburyshire.

“There is undoubtedly a long way to go but it has, at last, given everyone a much-needed fi llip.”

MILTON MANOR HOUSE MILTON VILLAGE Between Didcot & Abingdon

“I hope he [Jeremy Hunt] recognises that it would be wrong for the surgery to close by default because of timing”

Witney town and county councillor Laura Price

“There is now every reason for patients to stay at Deer Park.

“Please do not move elsewhere, because the patient register at Deer is closed, and you will not be able to return in the near future.”

The group is organising a Deer Park Medical Centre bingo night at Minster Lovell Hall from 7pm on Wednesday, February 22.

It was confi rmed in October that the surgery was to close after contract negotiations between Virgin Care, the care providers at the centre, and the OCCG proved unsuccessful.

The centre was due to only remain open until November 3 last year, but following a meeting with the PPG, the OCCG extended this until March.

Around 300 of its patients have left since the closure was announced.

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Council u-turn over funding gives family centre a lifeline Eva Astreinidou: Reporter THE under-threat South Abingdon Children’s Centre could be saved by £30,000 from Abingdon Town Council should they devise the right business plan for staying open thereafter.

Abingdon Town Council pledged to provide the centre with £30,000 a year for the next three years to help save it from closure after Oxfordshire County Council cut funding.

The South Abingdon centre, which has one of the country’s most deprived areas within its catchment, was one of 31 out of the county’s 41 centres that were due to have funding cut in March.

In October 2016, Abingdon Town Council turned down a proposal to support the centre with a £60,000 grant.

The proposal, which was initially put forward in July 2016, split the council, with Lib Dems voting for and Conservatives against.

Town councillor Monica Lovatt defended the council’s position at the time, saying: “We are very aware of the children’s centre and the need to keep it open.

“But £60,000 is a big ask when we are a small council, and it’s not as if we have slammed the door on children’s centres, they can still apply for a community grant.”

Last Friday she said: “I have been a member of the Abingdon Children’s Centre Advisory Group since 2011 and know the valuable work that they do particularly for those living in South Abingdon and the families at Dalton Barracks. I am a fully committed supporter.

“Abingdon Town Council was approached to give £60,000 for five years with no paperwork/formal application, which is a lot of money to commit to with the pressures that the Town budget has.

“We have now agreed to set aside £30,000 for three years await-

“As long as we can demonstrate that we have most of the costs covered we can then qualify for future grants”

Councillor Samantha Bowring at South Abingdon Children’s Centre

ing a formal application that we require for any grant/funding for the safeguarding of taxpayers money.

“I would hope that as the Town Council has offered support that more permanent funding will be forthcoming.”

Councillor Samantha Bowring, who set up the South Abingdon Community Group to devise a business plan to save the centre, said: “One of the hardest things is that the county council kept moving the goal posts for the rent.”

She said: “I want to say that I am entirely confident but [at least] we have got something. I’m quite frustrated we didn’t get the yes sooner so that the new services

could have taken over.”

She added: “As long as we can demonstrate that we have most of the costs covered we can then qualify for future grants.” She said there are potential partnerships in the pipeline but this is not for certain at the moment.

In reference to the council’s decision to u-turn, she said: “I think what made the difference is county elections. Nothing focuses the mind like an election.”

Mrs Bowring said the centre will close at the end of March pending the final cabinet decision in June.

Mrs Bowring is hopeful that the centre will reopen to full capacity in September, if not sooner.

Oxfordshire’s top 10 most popular baby names JACK and Lily have been named as Oxfordshire’s most popular baby names in 2016.

A total of 8,347 births were registered in the county during 2016 with popular name choices similar to those in 2015, Oxfordshire County Council’s (OCC) Registration Service has said.

For girls, Amelia dropped to second place behind Lily while Ava, Sophia, Evie and Sophie entered the top 10 in 2016.

For boys, Jack leapt straight in to the top 10 at number one with Joshua, Thomas and Samuel also entering the top 10 in 2016.

Alicja Gilroy, Superintendent Registrar at OCC’s Registration Service, said: “It’s always interesting to gather the figures together and look at the most popular Christian names in

Oxfordshire’s most popular girl names for 2016 (2015)

Oxfordshire’s most popular boy names for 2016 (2015)

1. Lily 2. Amelia 3. Olivia 4. Isla 5. Emily 6. Ava 7. Sophia 8. Evie 9. Isabella 10. Sophie

1. Jack 2. Henry 3. Harry 4. George 5. Oliver 6. Joshua 7. Thomas 8. William 9. Samuel 10. James

(Amelia) (Lily) (Isla) (Emily) (Olivia) (Grace) (Isabella) (Matilda) (Alice) (Ella)

Oxfordshire.

“This year we can see a continued trend toward very traditional Christian names – names that have stood the test of time and that our grandparents or great grandparents may have been

(Oliver) (Harry) (William) (Henry) (Alexander) (Jacob) (Noah) (Oscar) (George) (Edward & James)

christened with in the fi rst half of the 20th century.

“There’s a temptation to refer to these names as ‘old-fashioned’, but given how popular they are in the here and now they are quite clearly the reverse.”

Energy funding grants on offer OXFORD: Private sector landlords in Oxford can now apply for funding to improve the energy efficiency of their properties following legislation changes in April last year.

It is now a legal requirement for private landlords to consent to a tenant’s reasonable request for energy efficiency improvements where fi nance is available.

But landlords can now benefit from a new pot of funding from The Ebico Trust that can be used towards improvements such as loft insulation, thermostatic radiator valves and pipe insulation, and draught proofi ng.

Oxford City Council will carry out improvement work.

To register interest for grants of up to £1,500 per property for up to five of their properties, go to www.oxford. gov.uk/preeg or email PREEG@ oxford.gov.uk

Waste service W OXON: Letters are being sent to west Oxfordshire residents encouraging them to sign up for a new opt-in garden waste collection service.

The new subscription-only service starts from the beginning of April and costs £30 per bin a year for fortnightly wheelie-bin collections.

For many years garden waste collections have been free in West Oxfordshire, but due to the loss of external funding, a small charge is now being made.

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Closing bridge will not ‘solve the problem over air quality’ Eva Astreinidou: Reporter TALKS to close Wallingford Bridge to cars at peak times are still unresolved after the initial round of consultations.

A public consultation on the proposals launched in September 2016 and the ban proposal was aimed at tackling poor air quality as a result of queuing cars and the build-up on the single-track bridge.

Tony Harbour, South Oxfordshire District Council (SODC) cabinet member for environmental health, said the second round of consultations started two weeks ago with suggested revisions.

He said: “The people in Wallingford have to make a decision what is more important to them, their health and the health of their children, or driving around the town.”

He added that suggestions like a ‘living wall’, a vertical wall of plants, would improve the area’s air quality and mean that keeping the bridge open would be more viable.

Cllr Harbour added: “The worst case scenario is to close the bridge at key times but the Wallingford people have to decide what’s most important.”

The plans, which could exclude

A consultation is running over a plan to close Wallingford Bridge hybrid and electric cars, have divided leaders on Wallingford Town Council.

County councillor for Wallingford Lynda Atkins is campaigning for the bridge to stay open.

Cllr Atkins said: “Air quality is a very serious issue. I believe, though, that we need to make sure that in solving one problem we don’t create others.

“The traffic going over the bridge would not disappear. It would have to

come into the town across one of the other bridges, taking a longer route, travelling for longer and creating even more emissions.

“In the meantime, local businesses would suffer from lost trade.

“There are other measures that can be taken such as signs asking drivers to switch off their engines perhaps combined with signs on traffic lights showing how long it will be until the lights change. People

who have spoken to me want those ideas and many others to be properly looked at before any changes are made.”

Wallingford Town councillor Adrian Lloyd said the proposal is ‘bonkers’ and ‘absolutely ridiculous’ and that there is an overwhelming response that the bridge should not be shut.

An online petition to ‘Keep Wallingford bridge open’ has collected over 960 signatures.

Cllr Lloyd added: “I don’t believe it will solve pollution problems.

“It’s likely it will make it worse because of congestion in other areas of the town. What is required is a proper detailed traffic survey that looks at how all the traffic moves across the town.”

In 2014, air quality levels in Wallingford were breaking UK and European standards.

SODC then launched a drive to cut nitrogen dioxide levels, warning it could have chronic health effects.

Wallingford’s air pollution is about 25 per cent above the air quality limit.

Banning cars from using the bridge could reduce emissions by 12 per cent.

The cabinet meeting to discuss this will be held next month.

MP’s visit to OXFORD West and Abingdon MP and under secretary for health Nicola Blackwood visited an Oxford hospital on World Cancer Day to highlight the importance of UK scientific research in beating cancer.

The Public Health and Innovation Minister visited the Oxford Cancer Centre at Churchill Hospital on Saturday to see state-of-

01865 920025

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Tackling online safety for all

She added: “Adults are not digital natives and so equally need to be aware of the risks too!”

OXFORD: Pupils and parents were shown the importance of dealing with online risks as part of this year’s Internet Safety Day. Internet safety company Smoothwall hosted talks at Rye St Anthony School in Oxford on Tuesday.

As well as talks on topics like social media risks, stranger danger, online gaming, and Facebook check-ins, the sessions were interactive and gave children the opportunity to get involved in video and picture competition.

Claire Stead, Online Safety Expert at Smoothwall, said: “Online safety should be treated just as importantly as any other issue; as children’s digital IQ increases by the year, it’s crucial that children understand the risks and dangers involved when using their devices online.”

Social housing firm nominated DIDCOT: Local social landlord Soha Housing has been shortlisted for three prestigious accolades at the UK Housing Awards.

The awards recognise best practice in meeting the needs of social housing tenants across the country.

Soha is a fi nalist for Outstanding Landlord of the Year, an Outstanding Approach to Tenant Engagement and an Outstanding Approach to Digital Inclusion.

The overall winners will be announced at a London event in April.

Soha Housing is a provider of over 6,600 homes, the majority of which are for social rent.

Nicola Blackwood MP chats with patients at the Oxford Cancer Centre at Churchill Hospital where she praised the facilities and treatments

hospital highlights cancer research the-art clinical trials, the National Institute for Health Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) and facilities for new cancer treatments and patients.

Ms Blackwood said that, with the UK being a world leader in medical research, there is nowhere else more important than in the fight against cancer.

She said: “The UK is among the

very best in the world for medical and health research, and Oxford will be at the forefront of Britain’s post-Brexit scientific success.

“Oxford has a proud tradition of being at the heart of our endeavour to push the boundaries of modern medicine.”

Funding for BRC’s and dedicated Clinical Research Facilities (CRF) is at an all time high in the

UK. This amounted to over £920m last year.

Prof Keith Channon, Oxford BRC director, said: “We were pleased to host the minister’s visit and delighted that she could see examples of the wide range of cutting edge research in cancer, from new discoveries in genetics through to patients receiving world-first drugs in clinical trials.”

stabbed a 35-year-old man in the legs in Walton Crescent, on July 14, 2016, before stabbing a 22-yearold man in Jeune Street four days later in an attempted robbery.

Police officers also found Meragan in possession of a sheath knife in Granville Street, Swindon, on September 16 last year.

He was arrested that day and charged with the fi rst stabbing offence the following day. Following these charges he was remanded into custody.

Whilst in custody he was charged with the further offences.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable George Atkinson of Force CID in Oxford, said: “These

POLICE served a European registered lorry with a £100 fine after getting stuck trying to turn in the village of Duns Tew on Monday causing disruption to residents shortly before 9.30am.

Picture: @tvprp

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Life sentence for attacker A LONDONER who stabbed two men in Oxford has been sentenced to life.

Morgan Meragan, 23 of Camden, stabbed one man in the legs and the other man in the back and twice in his shoulder.

He was sentenced to life imprisonment and will serve a minimum of nine years.

Meragan was sentenced at Oxford Crown Court on Thursday last week having pleaded guilty to one count of grievous bodily harm with intent, one count of attempted robbery and one count of possession of an offensive weapon at the same court on December 20, 2016.

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Allwe weask ask is is that that you allow Morgan Meragan has been sentenced to life in prison are extremely serious offences, and the imprisonment of Meragan will go some way to make the streets a safer place to be.”

Bank robbers jailed for ‘terrifying incident’ A GANG has been sentenced to a total of more than 17 years’ imprisonment for a robbery at a bank in Oxford.

Tyron Smith, 27, of London Road, Oxford, Ben Matthews, 30, of Valentia Road, Oxford, and a 17-year-old boy from Oxford, who cannot be named for legal reasons, were sentenced at Oxford Crown Court on Tuesday.

The gang raided Lloyds Bank in London Road, at around 10.30am on January 23 last year.

Dressed in boiler suits and balaclavas, Matthews and the 17-yearold entered the bank.

Matthews was carrying a handgun, which was later discovered to be an imitation firearm.

The pair threatened staff and made off with cash before fleeing the scene in a white vehicle parked in Osler Road.

The vehicle was then driven away by Smith.

On his arrest on February 11 last year, Smith was found in possession of a substantial amount of class A drugs with an estimated street value of around £10,000. He was charged the following day.

The 17-year-old was arrested the same day and charged the following day.

Matthews was arrested on April 4 and charged the following day.

Smith pleaded guilty to one count of robbery and two counts of possession with intent to deal

class A drugs. He was sentenced to a total of seven years and six months’ imprisonment.

The 17-year-old pleaded guilty to one count of robbery and was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment in a youth detention centre.

Matthews also pleaded guilty to one count of robbery and was handed a six years and nine months’ sentence.

Investigating officer Det Con George Atkinson of Force CID based in Oxford, said: “This was a terrifying incident for the staff at Lloyds Bank who were going about their normal tasks on the morning of Saturday 23 January 2016 when the defendants carried out the robbery.”

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Opera & Ballet International presents three Ellen Kent productions with international soloists, a highly-praised chorus and full orchestra

‘The best La Bohème I have ever seen’ JEREMY BRIEN, THE STAGE

Introducing Alyona Kistenyova† as Mimi and starring Olga Perrier† as Musetta.

Featuring Musetta’s dog, a brass band and snow effects.

All three operas sung in Italian with English surtitles.

‘Worth going a long way to hear’ Starring Olga Perrier as Abigail and Liza Kadelnik as Fenena. †

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Power station demolition company sees profits fall Eva Astreinidou: Reporter THE company responsible for the demolition of Didcot Power Station A before its collapse, has announced a 22 per cent dip in profits.

Coleman & Company said profits had fallen to £1million between 2015 and 2016 after the company lost the contract to demolish the building following the death of four people following the partial collapse almost a year ago, on February 23.

Ken Cresswell, 57, John Shaw, 61, Michael Collings, 53, and Christopher Huxtable, 34, died in the collapse.

One man, Mr Collings, was found in the immediate aftermath of the collapse and a mission to search the debris for the missing three men was started 22 days after the collapse due to fears the rest of the building could fall.

The fi rst body to be recovered after six months of searching was that of Mr Huxtable, who was recovered on August 31.

Mr Cresswell was found on September 7 and Mr Shaw was the last to be recovered, on September 11.

An investigation into the cause of

the collapse is ongoing and Coleman is waiting to fi nd out if it is considered to have any responsibility.

Following the collapse, RWE Npower, who own the site, said: “We can confi rm that part of the boiler house collapsed while an external demolition contractor was working on it. Our thoughts are with the families of those involved in this tragedy.”

In May 2016, Coleman & Company was removed from the recovery operation to find the missing workers but was due to resume work to clear the site.

Demolition fi rm Brown and Mason were hired to manage recovery work instead.

A statement from Coleman & Company said: “[We] can announce that we will not be continuing with the remaining demolition and site clearance work at Didcot A Power Station.

We agreed with site owners RWE that this is in the best interests of all parties.

“We would like to thank RWE for their support over the last two years.”

After the fatal incident, managing director Mark Coleman said: “For the families, the loss of their husbands, partners, fathers, brothers and sons

Lucky escape from house fire BANBURY: There was a lucky escape for occupants of a Banbury home after a fi re in Gillett Road.

Three fi re engines from Banbury, Deddington and Hook Norton Fire Stations attended the scene shortly after midday on Saturday.

Firefighters were faced with smoke bellowing from the home from the open front door and the smoke alarm sounding.

Crews quickly entered the building and assisted the two occupants from the house and treated them for smoke inhalation before South Central Ambulance Service arrived.

There were no serious injuries.

The cause of the fi re is unknown at this stage and a fi re investigator is working with Thames Valley Police to determine the cause.

A40 misery for motorists The collapsed boiler house at Didcot Power Station is an absolute tragedy and everyone at Coleman & Company is deeply sorry for their loss.

“The families of Chris Huxtable, Kenny Cresswell and John Shaw, have had to endure an agonising wait for their loved ones to be recovered and during this time we have witnessed a spirit of togetherness and

Pictures: Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service

support for each other.”

Military personnel and equipment were called in to help recover the three men missing in the wreckage.

The military aid was used with other agencies including the police and demolition experts to bring down the remaining half of the 10-storey, 300m long building.

The recovery operation under way Picture: @tvprp OXON: Drivers heading to work on Monday morning were left frustrated after a crash on the A40 at Barnard Gate shortly after 7am.

The vehicle was recovered and all lanes were reopened shortly after 7.30am.

Got a story for news or sport? Tell us at news@theoxford paper.co.uk

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Pub receives an unexpected delivery THERE was a lucky escape for pub-goers and a driver after a van crashed into a wall and nearly ended up in a river.

The van crashed into the wall of a bridge going over the river Glyne in Woodstock, next to The Black Prince Pub, shortly after 4pm on Thursday last week.

The driver had lost control of the vehicle and careered into the wall.

Nobody was seriously injured but Paul Malloy, from Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, said the driver and the pub’s patrons had “a very lucky escape”.

South Central Ambulance

Service treated the driver at the scene and checked over the people in the pub for shock.

Fire Engines from Kidlington and Slade Park, Oxford attended.

Mr Malloy added that, if the crash was a few inches either way, “the van could have crashed into the pub, or ended up in the river”.

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Sex assault: CCTV released WITNEY: Police have released CCTV images after a dog walker was sexually assaulted in Witney just before Christmas.

On December 13 between 6pm and 6.30pm, a woman walking her dog in Market Square was approached by a man. He stroked her dog before touching her inappropriately.

Investigating officer PC Lisa Chapman of Witney CID said: “This was obviously very upsetting for the victim and so anyone with any information about this incident is asked to get in touch.”

Thames Valley Police has now released these images of a man they would like to speak to as part of their investigation.

Anyone who recognises the man is asked to contact officers on 101.

Mayor’s charity race night ABINGDON: A charity race night at Edward Brooks Barracks will help raise funds for Little Troopers and Oxfordshire MIND. The Mayor of Abingdon-onThames, Councillor Alice Badcock, is organising the night.

Tickets are £2.50 per person and booking is advisable.

To book, e-mail enquiries@abingdon.gov.uk or telephone 01235 522 642.

You can also book via the Information Office at Roysse Court.

New life for family centre THAME: Family support organisation, the Red Kite Centre, has been given a new lease of life.

Funding has been secured for the next year to maintain the service, with negotiations continuing to get enough funding for the next three years providing support for preschool children and their families.

Local charity Sharing Life Trust will take over the running from April this year. It has been renamed the Red Kite Family Centre, RKFC, and registered as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation.

From February this year RKFC is the Co-op’s charity of the year.

Flood project OXFORD: As part of the Northway and Marston Flood Alleviation Scheme, Oxford City Council broke ground at Northway Community Field and Court Place Farm Recreation Ground on Wednesday last week to create three flood storage areas.

The £2.2million scheme will protect 110 homes.

Residents can get updates at oxford.gov.uk/nandmfloodproject

‘Village’s character and history would be changed by homes’ Eva Astreinidou: Reporter A PROPOSAL for 44 houses on the edge of Uffi ngton has caused tension in the area due to ‘stretched’ infrastructure and the potential of ‘diminishing the character of the village’.

The proposal for the homes at Fawler Road was put forward by landowner Matthews and developers Redcliffe Homes in December.

Redcliffe Homes has already built Jack’s Lea in the opposite field to the proposal.

Residents have expressed their concerns with the development plans.

Uffi ngton Parish Council is working on a neighbourhood plan to give residents a say in how their community grows and develops.

Residents feel that the soon-to-bereleased neighbourhood plan should be adhered to before such developments are approved.

Simon and Catherine Aldridge said: “There is currently a housing needs analysis being conducted on behalf of the Uffi ngton and Baulking Neigh-

bourhood Plan Steering Group and any further development of this size should take the results of this study into account.

“Developers should wait for the village’s plan before submitting new planning applications.”

Tracey Rosum, an Uffi ngton resident who opposes the development, objected because of the ‘irreparable’ changes to the setting, and the ‘huge strain’ it would put on the ‘already stretched’ infrastructure.

She added: “I do not object to building new houses in Uffi ngton. I do however, strongly object to the location, number and density contained in the planning application.”

Another resident said: “The current infrastructure in the village (roads, sewers) would be inadequate to deal with the addition of 44 houses. For example, no infrastructure improvements were made when Jack’s Lea was developed and this is already having an impact.

“The proposed development would significantly increase the amount of run off and potential flooding.

“Access into and out of the proposed site has not been clearly thought out.

The village no longer has a local bus service.”

They added: “Is there a real need for this housing bearing in mind many of the houses in Jack’s Lea remain unsold? If the proposed development were to go ahead many of the new builds could remain empty and unsold for some time.”

Rupert Lycett Green, a long-term resident of Uffi ngton, said: “For some time people accepted the line from the Conservatives and the developers that ‘we need houses everywhere’, but Jack’s Lea proved them wrong.

“People here feel increasingly like local housing policy is living in another world.”

Uffi ngton residents Nigel Leahy and Angela Massey said the development would potentially diminish the fundamental character of the village. They said: “The historic and internationally-recognised view from the White Horse Hill will be permanently diminished.

“This is a village and cannot be

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Nordic Walking originated in the 1930s in Finland OXFORD residents are being urged to take part in walking exercises – but with a twist.

Nordic Walking is a full-body exercise that sees people walk with sticks similar to ski poles and is a great way to get in shape and burn calories.

A new four-week Learn to Nordic Walk Course, organised by Oxford City Council, will be held at Cutteslowe Park on Sunday, February 19 at 10.30am.

A six-week session, at Bury Knowle Park next to Heading-

ton Library, started on Thursday last week. Booking is essential though, as the council warned that demand for both events is high.

Completing the Learn to Nordic Walk Course will allow those walking-enthusiasts to attend any Nordic Walking group across the country, and join Nordic Walking UK. Nordic Walking originated in the 1930s when cross country skiers in Finland started to use poles in their off season training when

there was no snow.

It uses 90 per cent of the major muscles, people burn 20 to 30 per cent more calories by using poles while walking, and it takes the physical strain off knees and joints.

The city council has already hosted refresher courses for those who have previously completed a Learn to Nordic Walk Course and wanted to brush up on their technique.

To book your place on the course, visit nordicwalking.co.uk.

Thursday, February 9, 2017 15

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NEWS

Preparing for a rise in council tax bills Samantha McGregor: Reporter

“This is a village and cannot be turned into a small town” Uffington residents

turned into a small town. We cannot just add more houses to open spaces because they are there.”

Zoe Patrick, county councillor for Grove and Wantage, said: “Forty-four houses is nowhere near the thousands planned for this area.

“Some people feel that a few houses

in a village setting actually helps their schools and shops keep the village viable and enabling young people to stay near their families rather than having to move away.”

Vale of White Horse District Council is due to make a decision on the application next month.

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“Many councils across the country are increasing their bills, but we are not burdening taxpayers with extra costs.

“All services will be maintained to a high standard and some services will be improved.

“This is a result of good housekeeping and careful planning in previous years. The policy decisions we have taken in the past are now paying off.”

Mr Mallon said among the projects planned for this fi nancial year is buying land for a new cemetery, and refurbishing changing rooms and playing areas at Easington Recreation Ground.

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Richard Mould, Conservative leader at Bicester Town Council, said in the past 15 months the council had spent £430,000 refurbishing four play areas including Garth Park and building a café.

He said: “The next significant expenditure will be the provision of a new cemetery which we hope to see commence towards the end of 2017.

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RESIDENTS are preparing to brace themselves as councils gear up to set the 2017/18 council tax.

Banbury Town Council has so far bucked the trend after it announced it would not be raising its precept this year.

Bicester Town Council said its bills were set to rise by two per cent.

Oxfordshire County and Cherwell District councils will set their precept later this month, on February 14 and February 20 respectively.

The county council is proposing to increase its share of the council tax by 4.99 per cent.

For Banbury Town Council, this year marks the seventh year running the council has kept its total tax bill to £122.12 for D band properties – a figure fi rst set in 2010.

The town council has also pledged that there will be no cuts to services.

It said its fi nances were helped by the number of new houses in the town which contributed to the tax bill.

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Support The Oxford Paper’s charity of the year – Play2Give

Saving little people with big needs PLAY2GIVE is kickstarting a fundraising target of £10,000 having already raised more than £40,000 for the Oxford Children’s Hospital and helped transform around 60,000 young lives each year for the last 10 years.

The funds raised were achieved thanks to the support of the local community that is ‘committed to transforming’ and helping ‘save little people with big needs’.

Now, the charity is committed to contributing £10,000 to the hospital charity’s £2million target in celebration of it’s 10th anniversary.

The charity’s goal is to help towards the creation of the building of a new four-storey 62-bedroomed Ronald McDonald House parent accommodation wing allowing more parents and families to stay closer to their sick child. As well as this, they hope to help fund a new play area and improve the environment for areas of the hospital.

In appreciation of the charity’s fundraising efforts to date, a room on the Melanie’s teenage ward will be named after Play2Give.

Made up of all volunteers including P2G founder Andrew Baker and Dale Harris among others, the group has contributed the funds to help provide medical equipment, toys and entertainment items to the hospital.

Over the years a whole array of fun and innovative events have been organised by the group. From its football tournaments to fundraising parties, merchandise, a head shave afternoon, one employee’s ‘Movember’,

100km walk over 10 weeks, and book sales, the team have been keeping busy.

Andrew said: “It is only thanks to the funds raised by the likes of organisations such as P2G that the Children’s THE OXFORD PAPER Hospital at the John and Radcliffe exists today.”

P2G’s Andrew GROUP Charity of the year 2017 and Dale both have personal and close reasons for supporting the Children’s Hospital.

For Andrew, he was born at the JR Play2Give presented a cheque for with a brain injury 28 years ago, and more than £9,000 to the children’s spent his fi rst few days fighting for life hospital in 2015 and right, Mya, 14, in the special care baby unit, where who has been treated for spina he was confi ned to an incubator. bifida at the hospital for many years Andrew was not able to talk until he underwent speech therapy at the tinues to look to inspire others and to age of five, and then suffered a further ‘give back’ wherever they can. head injury aged eight when he was “To keep fundraising over 10 years knocked over at school. shows huge commitment and energy When he was 12, Andrew underand we are incredibly grateful for all went brain surgery at the former their efforts.”

Radcliffe Infi rmary (RI) and started The Oxford Children’s Hospital’s fundraising two years later, begin10th Anniversary Appeal to raise ning with a campaign to raise £15m £2million was launched last month to build the children’s hospital. and it’s main focus will be to raise The Oxford University Hospitals funds for the new parental accommoNHS Trust recognised the group in dation, as well as the creation of extra last year’s Staff Recognition Awards play areas, new bedside monitors where P2G made the top three for the and the very latest biomedical test‘Supporter of the Year’ gong. ing equipment to quickly diagnose The tribute read: “Despite their bacterial meningitis and respiratory own healthcare challenges, P2G coninfections.

Play2Give

Blue Skye still aiming high BLUE Skye Thinking, our charity for last year, is urging people to help them raise £50,000 as their Aim Skye High Appeal heads into its final six months.

Blue Skye Thinking, which was last year’s charity of the year for our sister paper the Oxfordshire Guardian, was set up in 2014 as a legacy for five-year-old Abingdon boy Skye Hall, who died later that year from the side effects of his aggressive cancer treatment.

The charity’s Aim Skye High Appeal is a fundraising campaign that aims to raise £50,000 towards a three-year Post Doctoral research position at the renowned Northern Institute for Cancer Research.

The charity has already funded researcher Gemma Llargues last

year, who has completed her first year of PhD studies.

She has investigated the effect of cancer therapies on cells with the most aggressive genetic changes and has presented her promising initial results at a national collaborative meeting.

Skye’s mum Sally Hall founded Blue Skye Thinking with her husband Andrew, and said: “Advances have been made to identify pathways at a molecular level in the hope that new treatments will eventually ‘do away’ with outdated chemo- and radiotherapies.

“The money raised by the charity is having a very significant impact on this area of research which is driving us on to complete our Aim Skye High Appeal to raise the remaining £30,000

Blue Skye Thinking was set up in memory of Skye Hall and right, researcher Gemma Llargues who has benefitted from funds raised of our £200k target to employ a post doctoral researcher looking specifically into relapsed tumours.”

Of the appeal, Sally added: “We launched the appeal back in 2016 through the Oxfordshire Guardian and have a great response from

its readers so far but are still a way off our target so really need all the support as we can get from the people of Oxford to raise as much sponsorship as possible by taking part in fundraising challenges.”

The campaign will continue to run throughout 2017 so to plan

your own ‘Skye High’ fundraising event, just email: contact@ blueskyethinking.org and the charity will send a fundraising pack.

If you can’t commit to fundraising, you can donate to tinyurl. com/hgpvzyr, or text UPUP52 £3 to 70070.

Thursday, February 9, 2017 17

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Factor star Sports complex will Xjoins Oxford youngsters be a ‘hub of activity’ for a busk at George Welch: Reporter PLANS for a major new sports park the size of 26 football pitches in Oxford have been approved.

The new sports park at Horspath Road, which will be funded by Oxford City Council, will boast new football and cricket pitches, practice areas, a pavilion, changing rooms and a softball facility.

Planning permission to transform the site near the MINI plant was granted by city council chiefs at a planning meeting on Wednesday last week.

The council submitted plans for the 39-acre plot of land in December and now includes four softball diamonds and is currently looking at a closedcircuit 1km cycle track alongside local cycling clubs.

BMW has agreed to provide £4.9m to fund the new project to replace the sports ground that was previously run by the Rover Sports and Social Club.

The developer contribution from BMW was to be decided at a separate planning meeting yesterday.

Work will start on the new facility, which will be designed and operated

by Fusion Lifestyle, next month.

Artificial pitches and the pavilion are due to be completed in January next

year, while the grass pitches, which will need more time to bed down, will be open in summer 2018.

Councillor Bob Price, leader of the city council, said: “It is great to get the green light from the planners so that work can start immediately on developing the new sports park.

“For our local football, cricket and softball teams it will become a real hub of activity and we hope that the cycling circuit can also be included as there is crying need for off road cycling provision in the area.”

The lease the city council took out from BMW to extend the time Oxford United were able to use the current facility expires in December.

Although it remains unclear whether Oxford United will move into the new site at this stage, land has been set

FULL LIST OF FACILITIES The facility, across 39 acres of land, will include: • Three full-size grass football pitches • Three 9v9 grass football pitches • Three mini football pitches • Six small-sided and flood-lit 3G football pitches • Two 7v7 flood-lit 3G football pitches

aside for United’s buildings as per original plans.

The club provisionally agreed to use Oxford City FC’s grounds at Court Place Farm for first team training last month.

Fusion Lifestyle, a registered charity that runs other city council sports facilities including the Leys Pools and Leisure Centre, Oxford Ice Rink and Hinksey Heated Outdoor Pool, will have a 25-year lease on the site.

Tim Mills, Fusion’s director of business development, said: “We are delighted that planning permission has been granted for this fantastic new sports park and we look forward to working with the clubs and with the local community to create the new facilities and then ensure that as many people as possible are given the opportunity to enjoy using them.”

• Two grass cricket pitches • Four softball diamonds (summer only) • Modern fit-for-purpose pavilion facility that includes six changing rooms, officials changing rooms, kitchen, social space and storage • Space for Oxford United’s modular buildings • A 150-space car park • A habitat area with pond

train station Alex Iszatt: Reporter

X FACTOR winner Matt Terry gave a young Oxford cancer survivor the surprise of his life when he joined him to busk at a busy train station ahead of World Cancer Day. Singer Matt joined aspiring musician Ace Manthey and his older sister Sky as they performed before passengers passing through.

Ace, 12, and Sky, 14, are regular buskers in Oxford city centre and were excited about performing in London’s Kings Cross station for what they thought was a promotional video for Cancer Research UK. But they were delighted when Matt sneaked up beside them and joined in their rendition of Avicii’s number one single, Wake Me Up. When Ace was three, he had been play fighting with Sky when a huge bruise appeared on his chest. His GP sent him for a blood test where he was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL).

Ace spent years going through chemotherapy and steroid treatment

and it was during this time he learned to play the guitar.

Now he has set his sights on becoming the next big rock star.

Speaking about Matt’s surprise appearance, Ace said: “It was awesome! Sky and I got to sing some of our favourite songs to hundreds of people and the station was packed.

Thursday, February 9, 2017 19

theoxfordpaper.co.uk

NEWS Sky and Ace were busking at Kings Cross Station on World Cancer Day when they were joined

by X Factor winner Matt Terry

LGBTQ+ community to unearth ‘queer’ histories Eva Astreinidou: Reporter

“I couldn’t believe my eyes when Matt Terry joined us, his vocals were amazing. I watched him on the X Factor and thought he was great. Being poorly has only made me stronger and even more determined to follow my dreams.”

Matt said: “I’m truly honoured to be supporting World Cancer Day on

SCIENTIFIC images are being used as part of a new exhibition at Banbury Museum.

People can view The Royal Photographic Society’s International Images for Science until February 25.

The collection is made up of 100 images and include subjects from the scale of atoms to the scale of the Universe.

Dale Johnston, exhibitions manage, said: “This is one of those exhibitions that really gives you an insight on other worlds that you don’t normally see, from intriguing images that last a just a tiny fraction of a second, to the worlds of extreme miniature.”

Richard Beech’s image of paint dancing to music

February 4.

“Everyone is touched by cancer in some way and even the smallest act of unity can make a big difference.

Singing with Ace and Sky put the biggest smile on their faces, especially after they’ve been through so much.

“They are very talented too – definitely ones to watch!”

A SERIES of events will run this February as part of LGBT History Month, starting off with a trail that exposes LGBTQ+ histories within Oxford’s museum collections.

Launching on February 11, Out in Oxford will be the University of Oxford’s fi rst cross-collections trail, as a result of ‘Celebrating Diversity,’ a project funded by Arts Council England and created with the LGBTQ+ community.

The trail will highlight LGBTQ+ experiences, and unearth ‘queer’ histories.

Professor Richard Parkinson, author of A Little Gay History, said: “Out in Oxford reassuringly reminds us that LGBTQ+ people have always been an integral part of human life and that our varied identities are not limited to the usual set of media stereotypes.

“Visibility is important and it is especially welcome in a university city where many young people come out.

“The time of full equality is not quite with us yet, but a trail like this brings it closer, by showing to everyone that we are utterly normal parts of the world: it provides a vision of what Oxford can and should be as a diverse, inclusive home for all its inhabitants.”

Community groups, curators, performers and artists will come together to mark the launch.

Live performances, pop-up exhibitions from Oxford Pride and Tales of Our City, and a Drag King workshop are among the line-up of activities.

A few of the events will be held at Pitt Rivers Museum from February 11 till February 28.

On February 16, Philosophy in Pubs will explore the difference and relationship between gender and sex, discussing questions like ‘are the concepts of male and female well defi ned and do their meanings differ in different circumstances? How do we know whether we are male or female?’

On February 25, an event specially curated by ‘My Normal’, an arts based project aiming to give LGBTQ+ youth ‘safe spaces and a bigger voice’, will host interactive art and workshops at Pitt Rivers Museum.

Singer-songwriter and LGBTI and transgender rights activist CN Lester will be guiding a lecture at the Blavatnik School of Government today (Thursday) at 6pm.

The lecture will be based on the need for queer/trans history ‘in a world that too often forgets that variations in gender and desire have always been with us’.

The year 2017 marks the 50th anniversary of the partial decriminalisation of homosexuality in England and Wales.

OXFORD: Little Milton Parish Council has been awarded the nationally recognised Local Council Award.

The award acknowledges good practice and community engagement in town and parish councils.

Little Milton Parish Council, South Oxfordshire is the fi rst council in Oxfordshire to gain this award.

Barry Coward, Chairman, Little Milton Parish Council said: “It is through sharing best practice and striving for high standards that we can provide the best services for our communities. The disciplines that this scheme brings to the way we conduct our affairs is of benefit to all.”

What matters to you with Brexit?

THAME: John Howell MP will be running an open forum meeting to hear the views of Thame residents on what’s important in the Brexit negotiations.

The public meeting will be held at the Town Hall Upper Chamber from 7pm to 8.30pm on February 13.

On Wednesday last week, MPs voted by a majority of 384 to allow prime Minister Theresa May to get Brexit negotiations under way by triggering Article 50.

Join the discussion if you’ve got a view to share.

Golden tickets OXON: A coach company has run a Willy Wonka style ‘golden ticket’ competition to celebrate its new contactless payment system.

Oxford Tube, whose coaches travel between Oxford and London 24-hours-a-day, handed out five Willy Wonka style golden tickets to passengers travelling on its service ahead of Valentine’s Day. One ticket was handed out at random each day to a passenger boarding the coach between Wednesday last week and Sunday.

The five lucky winners collected a £100 cheque, a Tube 12 ticket, plus a refund for the journey the passenger made that day.

Spectacular show in store

Health meeting

Growing parish set for split to reflect the different needs RESIDENTS are being asked their view on proposals to split a village in half creating a new parish.

About 1,000 householders in the Upper Heyford parish have received letters detailing the plan.

If approved, Upper Heyford would be split into two parishes, Upper Heyford and Heyford Park.

It comes as Heyford Park, the former US Air Force Base, undergoes a major development. The site has been ear-marked for 1,600 new homes by 2031 in Cherwell’s adopted local plan.

Upper Heyford Parish Council has asked Cherwell District Council to consider the split.

Sue Smith, Cherwell’s chief executive, said: “The proposed development of RAF Upper Heyford will dra-

Council’s best practice award

matically increase the population of the existing village.

“The proposals put forward by the parish council are to separate the current parish into two parishes that can better reflect and address the needs of the different communities.

“At the moment we are seeking views on the options that should be consulted on in the forthcoming consultation.

“As parish councils have responsibility for local decisions, including their council tax precept, we want to ensure villagers are involved every step of the way.

“We would encourage all residents to read the letter and submit their feedback by the March deadline to ensure their views are heard and are

reflected in the options we will then consult on.”

In a statement, Upper Heyford Parish Council said the needs of the two communities were different.

It said: “Heyford Park is a rapidly expanding development and Upper Heyford Village remains a small rural village. The needs and aspirations for each community will be different.

“It is important therefore that both communities are fully represented by their own Parish Council.”

Among the benefits include councillors able to respond to the differing needs of residents of each parish and more control over respective fi nances.

Upper Heyford Parish Council has suggested the new boundary could be

Sue Smith is seeking views on the plans

WANTAGE: Wantage residents are being urged to give their feedback on health services.

A representative from health watchdog Healthwatch Oxfordshire will visit Wantage Library tomorrow from 9.30am to 2pm to hear comments to help improve health services across the county.

Voting reminder

along the length of the Kirtlington Road/ Portway bridleway.

District councillors are due to discuss recommendations in May before a second consultation takes place.

BICESTER: Residents who have not responded to fi nal reminders to update their electoral registration details will be removed from the electoral register.

People must ensure they are registered to vote, however, those who fail to confi rm or update their details face removal from the register and won’t be able to vote in elections and may face a £1,000 fi ne. Warning letters are due to be sent out.

20 Thursday, February 9, 2017

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Out of this world again!

Bella, Ruby and Jessica raised £60 through their fundraising

Girls bracelets for Blue Cross A group of schoolchildren raised £60 for Blue Cross pet charity in Burford by making and selling hundreds of friendship bracelets at school.

Year 3 pupils Bella Turnock and her two friends Ruby Sollis and Jessica Banks came up with the idea to make and sell the bracelets at North Kidlington School.

The girls, all aged seven, made and sold an impressive 300 bracelets during break times at school after being given permission by their head teacher.

The children visited Blue Cross Burford to deliver the money they had raised and were given a tour of the centre as a thank you.

Lucy Grimshaw, Bella’s mother said: “We were so proud as

Major Tim set to return for second mission

parents as they not only made the bracelets but also decorated T-shirts and posters and set up the sale in the school hall all by themselves and managed the float and takings.

“Such an encouraging thing to see at this age and it’s for such a great cause I’m so happy that they feel passionate about raising money to help animals.”

Blue Cross receives no government funding so relies on the generosity of supporters like Bella, Ruby and Jessica.

Jenna Martyn, Blue Cross Burford centre manager, said: “It was an absolute pleasure to meet these girls after all the hard work they put into making and selling the bracelets to help Blue Cross.”

George Welch: Reporter BRITAIN’S most famous astronaut has announced he will be returning to the International Space Station (ISS) for a second mission with the Harwell-based European Space Agency (ESA).

Tim Peake, who spent seven months at the ISS last year, revealed he would be returning to the station at an event at London’s Science Museum, where he was reunited

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Major Tim Peake, pictured far left, with the Soyuz capsule that brought him back to earth and shots taken during his travels in space of Italy, Scotland and the British Isles Pictures: @astro_timpeake with the charred Soyuz capsule that brought him back to Earth last June.

But plans about his next adventure with the ESA, based on Fermi Avenue, remain secret as the mission is yet to be named or scheduled and is unlikely to take place before 2019, according to reports.

Of his future mission, Major Peake told Sky News: “It’s what every astronaut wants to do.

“Myself and my classmates from 2009, we are all going to get the second mission to the space station, which is wonderful.

“The work that is being done on board the space station is incredibly important and also tremendously exciting as well.”

He added: “It is only natural to want to return. The one thing you miss is the view of planet Earth, of course. It is the most spectacular

thing you can possibly see.”

The event in London on January 26 marked a display for the Soyuz capsule going public for the fi rst time.

Major Peake tweeted the same day: “Special moment [at the Science museum] this morning – reunited with Soyuz TMA-19M now on display, showing a few scars from re-entry.”

The 44-year-old became the

fi rst British astronaut to join a ESA mission in December 2015 when he blasted into orbit aboard the Soyuz rocket from Kazakhstan. He spent six months on the space station.

He visited Harwell September last year to speak to school children and made a speech at a conference on the Campus’s collaborative research and its role in healthcare innovation.

Overwhelming support for plans for new look Templars Square MORE than 80 per cent of Oxford people support an ambitious £60m regeneration of a Cowley shopping centre, a survey has revealed.

Residents have been out in force at two public sessions to feedback on plans to transform the Templars Square shopping centre.

NewRiver, the owner of Templars Square, submitted a planning application to Oxford City Council in November, which would see 225 new homes, a new 71-bed hotel and the demolition of Castle car park.

More than 1,000 residents and businesses attended two public meetings last month, events that offered people a chance to quiz members of the development team over the proposals.

Of those who expressed an opinion on the regeneration plans for the shopping centre, 80.1 per cent were in favour.

Of the 227 responders who were asked whether they supported the proposals, a total of 144 people said yes, 36 were unsure, 34

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Artist’s impression of the revitalisation of Templars Square said no, and 13 did not express an opinion.

Jamie Whitfield, development manager at NewRiver, said: “We are thrilled with the level of support for these exciting plans, which will be the fi rst significant and long overdue investment in Templars Square in over 30 years.

“Our investment proposals present a real opportunity to revitalise Templars Square and Between Towns Road, as well as the entrances and car parks serv-

ing the shopping centre.

“We have worked closely with the community and the local authority over the past two years to shape these proposals, and the support we saw at our drop-in sessions is a testament to this.”

The proposals will preserve the existing shops within Templars Square and will create almost 60 new jobs, alongside 300 construction jobs.

The application is due to be determined in the coming months.

Mark Borrett Eden Vauxhall Kidlington 01865 856500

Mark.borrett@edenvauxhall.com

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22 Thursday, February 9, 2017

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NEWS

Burglary charge DIDCOT: A man from Buckinghamshire has been charged following a robbery in Didcot.

Robert Zielinski, aged 41, of Pavilion Manor Field, Bletchley was arrested on Monday last week and charged the same day with one count of burglary dwelling.

The charge relates to an incident that occurred at a property in Hopkins Way, Didcot between December 6 and 7 last year.

Zielinski has been released on bail to appear at Oxford Magistrates’ Court on February 13.

Bogus tax calls The train tickets Jonny Heywood used to travel from Newcastle to Oxford. Picture: Jonny Heywood/@ jonnyyy ___

Fan’s ticket to chaotic journey A NEWCASTLE United fan blasted his friend’s advice on how to save money on his rail fair from Newcastle to Oxford after being sent 56 tickets for his side’s FA Cup match against Oxford United last month.

Jonny Heywood took to Twitter to post a picture of the mountain of tickets after he decided to split his journey up into legs to save money.

Jonny said he saved £56 by not buying one ticket for the whole trip - but was left juggling a stack of seat reservations and returns.

He tweeted on January 25: “Thanks to @LeeTurnbull91 for the worst advice AV [sic] ever received. Get a split ticket to Oxford he said. FIFTY SIX TICKETS ARE YOU HAVING ME ON.” Split tickets can save passengers a substantial amount of money as separate fares for each leg of a journey - all on the same train – are sometimes cheaper than one ticket covering the entire trip.

To make things worse for Jonny, Newcastle were hammered 3-0 by the League One side and Jonny didn’t even get to see the defeat as his girlfriend fell over at the Kassam Stadium and the pair spent four hours at the John Radcliffe Hospital in A&E.

W OXON: West Oxfordshire residents are being warned to guard against bogus callers telling them their council tax bands may be too high.

Several residents have contacted West Oxfordshire District Council saying callers from the ‘Claims Review Bureau’ have contacted them offering to work on their behalf to obtain a tax reduction in exchange for a fee of about £80.

Cllr Toby Morris, WODC cabinet member for resources, said the call is part of a ‘scam’ and warned residents not to pass on any financial or personal details and added that council staff would never ask for a customer’s bank details via email.

Residents wishing to appeal against their council tax banding can do so by contacting the District Valu ation Office on 03000 501 501.

To report a suspected scam, contact Oxfordshire County Council Trading Standards on 0845 051 0845.

Football dinner THAME: Football fans have the chance to join a Sporting Legend’s Dinner with West Ham, Everton & Leicester City’s Tony Cottee, plus MC & comedian Adger Brown.

Thame Football Partnership productions have organised the event at Meadow View Park, on Thursday, February 16, from 7.30pm.

Tickets are £50 and can be booked now by calling 01844 214401 or email admin@thamefootball.co.uk

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A whole feast of career ideas at fest Eva Astreinidou: Reporter THE Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (OxLEP) held its eighth annual careers fest last week, opening its doors to 1,800 students from 20 Oxfordshire schools and colleges.

The Careers Fest took place at MINI Plant Oxford and brought together more than 50 employers and training organisations that presented a range of career options in a variety of industries.

Students had the opportunity to talk with local employers and apprentices to hear about career paths and job roles.

Each exhibitor had a practical activity on offer, giving the students a feel for what a job entails.

Students had the chance to experience virtual reality with Oxford’s Army Cadet College (ACC), learn to bend a pipe with Oxford Energy Academy, and even have a chat with humanoid robot ‘Artie’ from Oxford Brookes University.

OxLEP kicked off the day with the launch of their Oxfordshire Skills Strategy, which sets out plans to inform and help develop the skills of local young people to meet the needs of local employers.

Nigel Tipple, CEO of OxLEP said: “We’re pleased to welcome businesses and students from across the county to the largest-ever Careers Fest.

“The event provides a great opportunity for young people to consider the array of opportunities that exist here in Oxfordshire.

Developing the skills of our young people is critical to the future prosperity of the Oxfordshire economy and indeed their ability to take advantage of employment opportunities.

“We have a dynamic business base, strong growth potential and a refreshed Skills Strategy which rec-

ognises the need for a flexible and well trained workforce, enabling us to maximise our economic potential in a local, national and international context.”

Jason Gaskell, manager of Apprentice Training Programmes at BMW, said: “This is an event that really helps to get young people thinking about the range of careers that are on offer and about what inspires them. For us it’s an invaluable opportunity to showcase our Apprenticeship training programme and to encourage young people to consider a rewarding career working in the automotive sector.”

OxLep CEO Nigel Tipple and deputy chair of OxLep Adrian Lockwood and below, trying out some virtual reality Pictures: @OxfordshireLEP

Above, youngsters explore the fest and get some advice Pictures: @OxonApprentice

Ex-scout leader jailed for child sex offences A FORMER scout leader convicted for a number of child sex offences in Kidlington is “where he belongs”, a police officer has said.

Gary Lane, 52 of Fairfax Road, Kidlington, was convicted at Oxford Crown Court on January 27 of four counts of child sexual abuse offences, which all took place in the Kidlington area.

At the hearing, Lane pleaded guilty to two counts of rape of a child under 13, one count of sexual assault on a child under 13 and one count of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

Lane, who failed to turn up for

court twice last year, committed the offences against two boys between January 1, 2015 and November 30, 2015 and was charged at Banbury Police Station on July 27 last year.

He has been remanded in custody and will be sentenced at Oxford Crown Court tomorrow.

Following the conviction, Specialist Investigator Rhys Bevan from the Child Abuse Investigation Unit said: “What Lane has put the victims and their families and loved-ones through is horrendous.

“I am very pleased with the outcome; finally Lane is where he belongs. Hopefully the victims can

now try to move forward with their lives.

“Lane failed to turn up for court twice in 2016, fleeing once to Scotland which caused unnecessary stress for all involved. Police Scotland was incredibly helpful and with their assistance.

“On behalf of Thames Valley Police and the Child Abuse Investigation Unit, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the victims for being so courageous in coming forward.

“The courage the victims have shown means no one else has to suffer at the hands of Lane.”

Thursday, February 9, 2017 23

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Earth Trust improvement plans given the green light Eva Astreinidou: Reporter THE Earth Trust’s planning application to make improvements to its facilities has been approved after ‘overwhelming and humbling’ support.

The South Oxfordshire District Council (SODC) Planning Committee approved the application for the centre in Little Wittenham on Wednesday last week.

The plans include a new skills and learning building, improvements to the farmyard, a ‘much demanded’ café and farm shop specialising in local produce from the farm, and new car parking areas.

Jayne Manley, chief executive of the Earth Trust said: “This is fantastic news for everyone who enjoys this special place.

“Every visitor: be they a walker or a family sharing a picnic; a child on a school trip; or a volunteer helping us look after this special place, they will all benefit from the planned improvements once they are in place.

“The support shown for the Earth Trust last night was overwhelming and humbling – a reminder that treasured childhood memories of explor-

ing, playing and being outdoors can lead to a long term love of the environment and the countryside to the extent that people do want to do something to look after it.”

The group added: “We are delighted it was recognised that the plans will ensure the continued protection of this ancient and iconic landscape, whilst also improving and enhancing the experience for visitors.”

Councillor Lynda Atkins, county councillor for Wallingford and the Wittenhams, said: “The Earth Trust plans are the result of probably the most comprehensive and genuinely engaging consultation process I have come across.

“They listened to what was said before incorporating the results into their plans, making some fairly significant changes along the way.”

With more homes and businesses planned within South Oxfordshire, the centre predicts that visitor numbers will continue to increase in the future.

The community was divided over the development plans.

The Brightwell-Cum-Sotwell Parish Council objected to the application on the grounds of the ‘effect on historic landscape’.

Little Wittenham Parish Council

approved of the application with ‘no strong views’.

The application has received both positive and negative feedback from nearby residents.

The Earth Trust is a local, environmental-focussed, learning organisation. The site serves to promote health and wellbeing opportunities within the local rural economy.

Councillor Lynda Atkins

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What Active workplace award, sponsored by Legacy Leisure: Oxford Brookes University

Sporting Secondary School of the year, sponsored by Oxfordshire County Council Public Health Team: Blessed George Napier School

Sports development project of the year, sponsored by Oxfordshire Sport & Physical Activity Board: Access Sport High Sheriff Challenge

Sporting Primary School of the year, sponsored

by Ignite Sport: Whitchurch Primary School

Young volunteer, National Citizen Service: Robbie Scragg for hockey

Junior Team of the year, sponsored by Oxford City Council: Oxfordshire Cricket Under 17s

George Welch: Reporter

Disability Sports Award, sponsored by GLL: Witney Wolves Rugby SEN

Junior Sports Person of the year, sponsored by GLL: David Murphy for swimming

Special Recognition Award: Nick Harris

Club of the year, sponsored by Fusion Lifestyle: Oxford City Athletics Club

Coach of the year, sponsored by Noorani Events: Marcia Marriott for athletics

Sports team of the year, sponsored by Grosvenor: Oxford United Football Club

The winners and runners up of each category were:

Commissioning Group Runner up: Health Education England – Thames Valley

Sportsman of the year Sponsored by BBC Oxford Winner: Andrew Triggs Hodge, Rowing Runner up: Tim Stephens, Athletics Runner up: Kyron Anthony, Dance

Club of the year – Sponsored by Fusion Lifestyle Winner: Oxford City Athletics Club Runner up: Gosford All Blacks RFC Runner up: Abingdon Gymnastics Club

Sportswoman of the year Sponsored by Oxford Mail Winner: Frances Houghton, Rowing Runner up: Linsey Smith, Cricket Runner up: Kate Williamson, Running

Coach of the year – Sponsored by Noorani Events Winner: Marcia Marriott, Athletics Runner up: Kelly Collins, Dance Runner up: Tamsin Sear-Watkins, Ice skating

Active Workplace Award – Sponsored by Legacy Leisure Winner: Oxford Brookes University Runner up: Oxfordshire Clinical

Disability Sports Award – Sponsored by GLL Winner: Witney Wolves Rugby SEN Runner up: Oxfordshire Bears

Adaptive Cricket Club Runner up: Big, Bold and Balance Junior Sports Person of the year – Sponsored by GLL Winner: David Murphy, Swimming Runner up: Miriam Pritchard, Hockey Runner up: Benjamin Goodall, Gymnastics tumbling

Runner up: Larkrise Primary School Runner up: Wantage CofE Primary School Sporting Secondary School of the year - Sponsored by Oxfordshire County Council Public Health Team Winner: Blessed George Napier Catholic School Runner up: The Cherwell School Runner up: King Alfred’s Academy

Junior Team of the year – Sponsored by Oxford City Council Winner: Oxfordshire Cricket Under 17s Runner up: Henley Rowing Club Junior Women’s Under 16 Runner up: Gosford Hill School Under 15s football

Sports Development Project of the year - Sponsored by Oxfordshire Sport & Physical Activity Board Winner: Access Sport High Sheriff Challenge Runner up: Parkrun Runner up: Sportivate Street Hockey

Sporting Primary School of the year – Sponsored by Ignite Sport Winner: Whitchurch Primary School

Sports Team of the year – Sponsored by Grosvenor Winner: Oxford United Football Club

OXFORDSHIRE’S fi nest sportsmen, women and sports clubs enjoyed a night of celebration at the 11th annual Oxfordshire Sports Awards.

A total of 15 accolades were awarded as the county’s best athletes and clubs were honoured following a memorable year of sporting achievement.

In an Olympic year, it was no surprise to see rowing – Oxfordshire’s speciality event – claim the top awards at the ceremony, which took place at the Kassam Stadium in Oxford on January 27.

Andrew Triggs-Hodge won Sportsman of the Year after storming to gold in the men’s eight, alongside fellow Oxfordshire athletes Scott Durant and Will Satch, in August last year.

The former Oxford University Boat Club Member also claimed gold medals in the coxless fours at the Beijing (2008) and London (2012) Games.

Fellow rower and Oxford-based Frances Houghton was awarded the Sportswoman of the Year prize.

The 36-year-old was part of a his-

Runner up: Oxford Saints American Football Runner up: Harlequin Bowmen Compound Clout Team Young Volunteer - National Citizen Service Winner: Robbie Scragg, Hockey Runner up: Rosalind Tsang, Netball Runner up: Lois MacDonald, Netball Unsung Hero - The Ashmolean Museum Winner: Robin Aston, Table tennis Runner up: Deborah Evelyn, Hockey Runner up: Peter Travis, Rowing and kayaking Special Recognition Award Winner: Nick Harris

Thursday, February 9, 2017 25

theoxfordpaper.co.uk

NEWS

great sports!

Sportsman of the year, sponsored by BBC Oxford: Andrew Triggs Hodge for rowing

Sportswoman of the year, sponsored by Oxford Mail: Frances Houghton for rowing

County’s best honoured at awards tory-making women’s eight team that won an historic silver – Britain’s fi rst in the event – alongside four Leander rowers, and Oxford’s Olivia CarnegieBrown.

Oxford United pipped American football side Oxford Saints and Harlequin Bowmen Compound Clout Team to the Sports Team of the Year award after a year that boasted promotion

from League Two and memorable cup adventures.

Elsewhere, Robin Aston, a committee member at Banbury & District Table Tennis for more than 37 years received the Unsung Hero award.

This year’s awards saw a record number of nominations across all the categories who were honoured at a glitzy night.

Unsung Hero, The Ashmolean Museum: Robin Aston for table tennis All pictures: Ric Mellis

Good Dog

Guests at the sports awards, including Oxfordshire County Council leader Ian Hudspeth, at the front, joined in the fun

Saturday 25 February 2017 7.30pm

£10

TICKET OFFER This offer reduces all tickets to £10, a fantastic saving of £5 on the full priced ticket.

Type in the promotional code online when booking or quote the code when booking through the box office.

Tickets can be purchased online at: www.cornerstone-arts.org/whats/ good-dog or via the box office in person or on the phone (opening hours for box office 10-6 Tues to sat or 11-4 Sundays).

Facebook: /CornerstoneDidcot Twitter: @CORNERSTONEfun Instagram: cornerstoneartscentre

#CornerstoneTheatre Because in the end, everyone who’s good gets what they deserve.

Mum’s promised him that bike so even when life bites, he knows to keep his chin up, his head down and his shirt clean. Because in the end, everyone who’s good gets what they deserve. Don’t they?

Set during the early noughties, good dog chronicles growing up in a multi-cultural community and the everyday injustices that drive people to take back control. Because even the most patient among us can’t wait forever.

Delicately observed and fearlessly told by Arinzé Kene, the star of Crazyhead, Eastenders and Youngers.

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Out & About

Don’t let half-term be a washout...

Plenty of ideas to keep your little ones entertained Pages 28&29

5

of the best...

Bouque ts your lov for ed one

page 37

Your guide for your leisure time in & around Oxfordshire

Latest film review > p28

Comedy hits the Mark > p30

Jacobs Inn review > p35

28 Thursday, February 9, 2017

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ENTERTAINMENT

At the cinema with Laurie Bailey 20th Century Women (15)

Worried about not having anything to do during half term? Here are a few ideas for you The Adventures of Book Worm Saturday, February 11, 10.30am The Story Museum, Oxford

A fantastic Early Years activity with puppeteer and author Emma Boor!

Come along and meet book worm and join in his amazing adventures through the world of story books. An interactive puppets and play session with music, gentle clowning and lots of joining in. Suitable for children aged 0-5 years.

Tickets £4

Creepy Crawley Comics Monday, February 13, 10am Earth Trust Centre, Abingdon

Halfterm fun is child’s play!

You’ll be the bees’ knees at creepy crawly comic drawing after this. You’ll explore the nature reserve and then create a comic inspired by what you saw.

Tickets £30

Mud Pie Monday Monday, February 13, 10am Earth Trust Centre, Abingdon

Meandering, self-satisfied 1970s family drama Annette Bening and Lucas Jade Zumann in 20th Century Women Picture: Merrick Morton, courtesy of A24 Mike Mills takes the Director’s chair and Screenwriter’s desk to present a vague coming-of-age story about a single working mother and her adolescent son in 1979. The screenplay has been nominated for an Oscar - which makes little sense to me.

At 55, Dorothea (Annette Bening) has begun to worry that she is communicating poorly with her teenage son Jamie (Lucas Jade Zumann). She is also concerned at the lack of suitable male role models for him during this crucial phase, his father having left the family many years previously. So naturally, she enlists the help of Julie (Elle Fanning), two years Jamie’s senior and one of his best friends, and Abbie (Greta Gerwig), a mid-20s photographer lodging at their house.

A series of awkward tableaux follow, with all involved learning various disconnected lessons about life and love, and for some reason, female sexuality. Everything is presented with an unsub-

Laurie’s rating

Drop in for Mud Pie Monday - buckets of mud and buckets of fun! Join us either in the Earth Trust Centre garden or the woods where youngsters will have the opportunity to get creative (and messy) in our mud kitchen.

Wellies and waterproofs advisable.

Tickets £4

Raft Building: Messing About in Boats Monday, February 13, 11am The Story Museum, Oxford

Inspired by Kenneth Grahame’s The Wind in the Willows, join Science Oxford for some scientific storytelling as we mess about with boats.

Tickets £5 to £7

Ultimately, the strong cast is let down by a pretentious script and self-indulgent (if pretty) direction

Canal Art Family Workshop Monday, February 13, 1pm Oxford Town Hall, Oxford

will investigate sustainable energy by designing and building their own water wheels, using our custom 3D printed pieces.

Tickets £5 to £7

Spring Chickens Monday, February 13 – Wednesday, February 15 Oxford University Museum of Natural History, Oxford

An active, hands-on exploration telling the tales of animals in the Museum.

This is a free event

Children’s Jewellery Making Workshops Monday, February 13 – Friday, February 17 Millets Farm Shop, Abingdon

Run by Ruth Ravie, these interactive workshops will teach children how to create their very own keepsake.

Each child can design and make their own personalised jewellery from either a necklace, bracelet, phone charms to name just a few

Tickets £9.99 per child tle air of import and mystique, as if watching young people discuss how authentic 70s punk is while thrashing their arms around is so replete with meaning that no further thought is required.

Minimalist films exploring teen angst and the value of time in relationships are not rare, and 20th Century Women offers nothing new to the discussion, apart from a remarkable sense of self-satisfaction (it is apparently semi-autobiographical for Mills).

The score by Roger Neill is especially mind-numbing. Infuriatingly omni-present in the film, it evokes the clinical atmosphere of public

health information videos.

Mercifully, Annette Bening provides some real class, managing to turn Mills’ limp script into convincing middle-aged self-reflection and doubt, while Billy Crudup works well as almost-hippie William.

The bright cinematography is also a feast for the eyes, making wonderful use of balmy natural sunshine to show off the 70s setting - but it’s not enough to save the film.

Ultimately, a very strong cast is let down by pretentious writing and self-indulgent (if pretty) direction - don’t believe the hype.

Find out more about the history of Oxford’s canals and the beautiful, ‘Castles and Roses’ art of the people who lived on the water. Have a go at painting and drawing in the traditional canal art style! Free, drop-in craft activity.

This is a free event

Moon Mischief Tuesday, February 14, 10.30am River & Rowing Museum, Henley

Join the Clanger Choir and make Clangers using model magic!

Tickets £8.50

Fabulous Fossils Tuesday, February 14, 11am and 1pm Banbury Museum, Banbury

Nick Cope’s Family Music Monday, February 13, 1.30pm Millets Farm Shop

Millets welcomes back Nick Cope with his unique family fun entertainment music show.

Tickets £4

Laurie Bailey graduated with a degree in English but a love for film. He is an Oxfordbased film critic, BBC Radio Oxford film contributor and host of the Super Bailey Bros in Movie Land podcast, for more go to lauriebailey.co.uk He lives locally with his wife and daughter.

Water Wheels Monday, February 13, 11am The Story Museum, Oxford

In this engaging, hands-on workshop from Science Oxford, young engineers

A rare chance to see fascinating fossils and beautiful crystals close up

Thursday, February 9, 2017 29

theoxfordpaper.co.uk

ENTERTAINMENT Build a Bird Box Thursday, February 16, 10.30am and 1pm Earth Trust Centre, Abingdon

Take home a handmade bird box and help encourage more wildlife to your garden where all tools will be provided.

Tickets £15 per box

Shaun The Sheep Model Making Workshop Thursday, February 16, 11am, 1pm and 3pm The Story Museum, Oxford

Oxford

entertainment Oxford’s entertainment highlights To promote your event please email events@taylornewspapers.co.uk

The Bob Dylan Story

William Shakespeare’s Long Lost First Play

THE THEATRE, CHIPPING NORTON

Ewe-nique workshops give you the opportunity to learn from an Aardman expert model maker how to make your own Shaun the Sheep clay model to take home!

Tickets £6 to £8

The Bob Dylan Story is the new stunning and definitive tribute to a songwriting genius who spoke for a whole generation.

Fri, Feb 10

600 People

Frogs Galore Thursday, February 16, 11am Banbury Museum, Banbury under the microscope.

You can even explore what is under your own fi ngernails!

Also dinosaur and ice age mask making, a fossil dig where you can fi nd and keep a fossil, and lots of Oxfordshire fossils to see and handle.

You are welcome to bring along your fossil or mineral fi nds for an expert opinion.

get messy! Paint, sparkles and junk modelling action! A day of creative fun making secret garden flowers and your own shoe box secret garden.

With coloured chalk in hand, transform our grey outside into rainbow colours. Become art detectives to complete the awesome art trail and then snuggle down to a very special storytime.

Stone Age Rocks Tuesday, February 14, 10am Vale & Downland Museum, Wantage

Wildlife Wednesday Wednesday, February 15, 2pm Mowbray Fields, Didcot

Tickets £2.50

Prepare to be amazed as to turn a boring cardbox box into a huge ‹hungry frog› game Brilliant fun!

Inflatable Play Centre Thursday, February 16 – Friday, February 17 Didcot Leisure Centre, Didcot

OXFORD PLAYHOUSE, OXFORD

Fun family activities all about the stone age where the children must bring a grown up with them.

Free, but a donation is required

Whatever or whoever you love, make then something special today.

This is a free event

Pop-up Planetarium Tuesday, February 14, 3pm Earth Trust Centre, Abingdon

Science Oxford is bringing their popup Planetarium to the Earth Trust Centre! There’ll be 30 minute slots in the Planetarium followed by astronomical activities.

This half term, come and join us in Didcot to explore the reserve, learn about local wildlife and have lots of outdoor fun!

Suggested donation £2 per child Goodnight Spaceman Wednesday, February 15, 11am The Story Museum, Oxford

Tickets £4.50 to £9

Let your children discover a whole wonderland of inflatables during February Half Term at Rivermead Leisure Complex including, Disco Domes, Obstacle Courses, Giant Slides, Multiplay Castles, Disco Castles, Soft Play and much more!

Tickets £4

Songwriting Workshop: Climb That Tree Saturday, February 18 Earth Trust Centre, Abingdon

Awesome Art Wednesday, February 15, 11am Banbury Museum, Banbury

Get your aprons on - it is going to

Tickets £6.99

Tickets £7

Ralph McTell and Wizz Jones

Have a go at making some music and having a sing-along with singer-songwriter David Gibb. This is suitable for children aged between six to 11.

Tickets £6 per child

NEW THEATRE, OXFORD

Roy had been writing songs, and at seventeen he became founder of The Move, who went on to enjoy multiple chart successes with songs all written by Roy himself, including Flowers In The Rain, which reached No. 2 in the chart, and was the first record to be played on BBC Radio One. Also Night Of Fear, Fire Brigade and I Can Hear The Grass Grow were all top five hit singles, and also a number one record in the British singles chart Blackberry Way. Sat, Feb 11

Oxford Revue Valentine’s Special

The Adventures of Sinbad the Sailor Friday, February 17, 10.30am and 1.30pm Millets Farm Shop, Abingdon

Wild at Heart: Love is in the air Tuesday, February 14 – Thursday, February 16 Sutton Courtenay Environmental Education Centre

Two space-mad little boys get ready for bed and say goodnight to their toy rockets, launch pads and planet mobiles, before being whisked away into space on an adventure beyond their wildest dreams.

Somewhere between stand-up comedy and an astrophysics lecture, Third Angel brings you a simple show about huge ideas. Performed by Alexander Kelly, 600 People explores the stories we tell in order to understand our place in the cosmos, asking if there are extra-terrestrials in our galaxy and what it means to be human.

Friday, February 10

Tickets £5.50 per child and £4.50 for siblings

The Magic Liberian is just about to shut up the Magical Library at the end of a long day, when he discovers an ancient book that contains amazing adventures! As he reads the stories them they come to life in the library!

Visit Sutton Courtenay to fi nd out what our amazing wildlife is up to this February. Wrap up warm to explore the reserve then join us inside by the fi re to enjoy some crafts.

Acclaimed stars of the West End stage, the Reduced Shakespeare Company, are back with another barnstormingly irreverent and breathtakingly hilarious celebration of our cultural heritage – as seen through the eyes of three Americans wearing trainers.

Sat, Feb 11

Roy Wood

Tickets £3

Tickets £4

Who do you Love?

Tuesday, February 14, 2pm Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock

THE THEATRE, CHIPPING NORTON

THE KENTON THEATRE, HENLEY

Best known for his international hit, Streets of London, Ralph McTell has been a stalwart of the British acoustic music scene for over 50 years. A career that has spanned street busking across Europe, to solo shows at the Royal Albert Hall, Carnegie Hall and The Sydney Opera House, McTell has a fifty year, 350 song career.

Sat, Feb 11

OLD FIRE STATION

The Oxford Revue return two sizes larger from the festive season to bring you an evening of romance and laughter in their Valentine’s Day comedy special, packed with sketch, musical and stand-up comedy.

Tue, Feb 14

30 Thursday, February 9, 2017

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ENTERTAINMENT

Open Mic Night

CORNERSTONE ARTS CENTRE, DIDCOT

What’s on in Oxford

The Vanishing Man

Union J

Join us for your monthly fix of musical talent at Cornerstone’s fabulous open mic night.

Tue, Feb 14

Ladyhawke

OLD FIRE STATION, OXFORD

O2 ACADEMY, OXFORD O2 ACADEMY, OXFORD

After the release of her acclaimed third album Wild Things featuring singles ‘Let it Roll’, ‘A Love Song’ and ‘Wild Things’, and her sold out 2016 worldwide tour, synth-pop artist Pip Brown (aka Ladyhawke) from New Zealand is back on UK turf for a run of shows.

Tue, Feb 14

Andy Parsons

This show was rescheduled from Sunday 9 October. Don’t worry though, all tickets are valid for the new date. If you can’t make it, you can get a refund from wherever you bought your tickets.

Thu, Feb 16

Science Oxford: London’s Burning

Directors and performers Simon Evans (magical consultant to the NT, Old Vic and Donmar Warehouse, and two-time recipient of the Close Up Magician of the Year award) and David Aula (‘The Cement Garden’, ‘Personal Enemy’, and ‘MEAT’), team up to create a time-hopping, misdirectionabusing, mind-bending examination of what really happens when a man, in full sight of his audience, simply ceases to be.

Friday, February 17

The MGM Story

THE THEATRE, CHIPPING NORTON THE THEATRE, CHIPPING NORTON

THE THEATRE, CHIPPING NORTON

Put on your lucky pants and your party shoes – and get yourself on a night out. Or maybe come out dressed in a binbag, top hat and clogs. We could all use a laugh.

Wed, Feb 15

Budapest Cafe Orchestra

In this new show, Science Oxford presents a storytelling experience of the Great Fire of London where the narrative is accompanied by live fire demonstrations which explore the science of heat, flame and combustion.

Fri, Feb 17

Nearly Noel Gallagher’s High Flyin’ Birdz

The MGM Story traces the history of the Golden Age of Song and Dance and tells the tale of how the studio fostered the talents of stars, including Judy Garland and Gene Kelly and composers, such as Cole Porter, Irving Berlin and many more.

Sat, Feb 18

Workshy

Comedy hits the Mark in socialist Red Shed

By James Richings Mark Thomas is no stranger to performing in Oxfordshire.

In recent years the 53-year-old has performed at Banbury’s Mill Arts Centre, Chipping Norton’s Theatre, the Pegasus Theatre in Oxford and Didcot’s Cornerstone Arts Centre on numerous occasions.

But on Thursday, February 16, Mark will arrive at a different Oxfordshire venue as he makes his way to Oxford’s North Wall Arts Centre as part of his Red Shed tour.

And Mark insists the show will be nothing like his previous sell-out tours, as he hopes to educate the Oxford faithful about socialism as well as entertaining them.

The show won two awards at last year’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

“Anyone who has seen my previous shows ‘Bravo Figaro’ or ‘Cuckooed’ will know that they are a mix of theatre and stand up,” he said.

“This show is set in the Red Shed – a Socialist shed in Wakefield – and it is about how my mates try and help me find a memory.

“It is a play or a monologue depending on your point of view,

but it is funny and original as it has won awards and all that.”

A self-confessed ‘accidental journalist’, Mark’s main breakthrough came in the late 1980s on Channel 4 comedy show, ‘Friday Night Live’.

The appearance paved the way for more TV work and his own show ‘The Mark Thomas Comedy Product’, with Mark using eccentric guest interview techniques whilst discussing politics within his standup act.

The program was on air for six series between 1996 and 2002, but Mark has since moved from screen to stage.

“There are a few differences to this show and my previous one as this one won loads of prizes,” he told the Paper.

“And when you perform to an audience, you have to do the gags you want to do.

“Don’t do the ones that you think the audience want.”

The show is suitable for anyone over the age of 16 and tickets cost £12.

Two performances will take place at the South Parade venue, starting at 7pm and 9.15pm.

Both shows will last for approximately 75 minutes.

OLD FIRE STATION, OXFORD

Join Katy for a very personal story of the ups and downs of what it means to serve you – the great British Public.

Saturday, February 18

THE THEATRE, CHIPPING NORTON

Led by jazz violin superstar Christian Garrick, The Budapest Café Orchestra return for another visit to Chippy, playing traditional folk and gypsy flavoured music.

Thu, Feb 16

Ellen Kent’s La Boheme

NEW THEATRE, OXFORD

Introducing the international soprano Alyona Kistenyova* as Mimi and starring Olga Perrier*, the international French Soprano as Musetta. Directed by Ellen Kent, this brand new production is traditionally staged and features beautiful sets and costumes.

Thu, Feb 16

O2 ACADEMY, OXFORD

Nearly Noel Gallagher’s High Flyin’ Birdz are the UK’s leading tribute to Noel Gallagher, passionately celebrating both his solo work and the best of Oasis.

Experienced musicians in their own right, the band have played to audiences up and down the country, headlining festivals and shows nationwide.

Friday, February 17

The Princess and the Frog

No kids at this half-term event CORNERSTONE ARTS CENTRE, DIDCOT

If you have a forthcoming event and wish to advertise it in one or more of Taylor Newspapers titles including this one please call 01235 511700 where we will be pleased to help.

For press releases about forthcoming events please email events@taylornewspapers.co.uk - (images welcome) - specifying the area that the event is taking place in and we will do our best to promote it for you, space permitting, in one or more of our newspapers.

The princess loves playing with her golden ball but one day she drops it in the pond. When a very friendly and very bouncy frog offers to retrieve it in exchange for her friendship, she is far from keen.

But in the end the princess must agree to be his friend just to get her ball back.

Sun, Feb 19

Half term isn’t just about the kids being off school, it’s also a week for the parents to have some chill out time.

So if you want to get away from the kids for just one night, Oxford Castle may have the perfect getaway for you.

Valentine’s Day occurs during the week long break, and the historical building are offering the chance for you and your significant other to have a three course meal in one the castle’s

prison cells.

Dinner is served at either 6.30pm or 9pm with diners needing to book in advance.

A night out in the prison cell will cost £90 per couple which will include a bottle of wine.

However, if you feel like having an upgrade, one lucky couple can have their romantic dinner in the castle’s crypt for £115, which includes a bottle of champagne.

For more information, visit www.oxfordcastleunlocked.co.uk

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ENTERTAINMENT

Adriana Lecouvreur

What’s on in London

Flew the Coop

All the Angels ROYAL OPERA HOUSE, LONDON

Angela Gheorghiu and Hrachuhi Bassenz star in the first revival of David McVicar’s sumptuous production of Cilea’s tragic opera.

Fri, Feb 10 – Thu, Mar 2

Gutterdammerung

NEW DIORAMA, LONDON

Flew The Coop takes a darkly funny and highly imaginative look at two of the Second World War’s most singular characters: Rosa Rauchbach – a young Silesian woman who disguised her Jewish roots and took a job as a translator at a Prisoner of War camp, where she embarked on an affair with Horace Greasley, a debonair British Prisoner of War. Tue, Feb 14 - Sat, Mar 4

Flamenco Festival - Israel Galván SADLER’S WELL, LONDON

Israel Galván likes nothing more than pushing boundaries and surprising with a know-how fed by the best Flamenco tradition. In FLA. CO.MEN, he deconstructs syntax again, cleaving the memory of his earlier pieces and captures on-the-fly figures that he charges with a new electricity.

Wed, Feb 15 – Sun, Feb 19

SAM WANAMAKER PLAYHOUSE, LONDON

Traces the story of the world’s most popular choral work, Handel’s Messiah, from its first rehearsal in a Chester pub to the world stage.

Run to: Sun, Feb 12

O2 BRIXTON, LONDON

Gutterdämmerung is a live rock ’n’ roll movie experience from the mind of Belgian-Swedish visual artist Bjorn Tagemose.

Sat, Feb 11

Beau Brummell An Elegant Madness

La Ronde JERMYN STREET, LONDON

THE BUNKER, LONDON

Collaborative Artists return for 2017 with a bold reimagining of Arthur Schnitzler’s infamous classic La Ronde in a new adaption by Max Gill.

La Ronde embraces life’s game of chance and the blindness of desire and fortune as fate decides the cast’s roles every night and throughout the play.

Four actors play the cast of ten - no night or scene will be the same. With over three thousand different versions of the show, what will your story be?

Sat, Feb 11 – Sat, Mar 11

This black comedy by Emmy award-winning Ron Hutchinson casts light on the patron saint of dandies – Beau Brummell (1778 – 1840). Not seen in London for 15 years, the script has been updated

by Hutchinson to refresh and reinvigorate the text which seems even more resonant in today’s celebrity obsessed world.

Mon, Feb 13 – Sat, Mar 11

A Clockwork Orange

Creating Who Do You Think You Are?

OXFORD’S POPULAR

PARK THEATRE, LONDON HAMPSTEAD THEATRE, LONDON

The hugely successful TV programme, Who Do You Think You Are? traces celebrities’ ancestry, discovering surprises from their families’ past along the way. First aired in 2004, the show regularly attracts over 6 million viewers and has investigated the family histories of over 100 celebrities including Stephen Fry, Jeremy Irons, Boris Johnson and Zoe Wanamaker. In this panel, the producer and the director of the show plus a mystery celebrity (to be announced) will discuss the series and what it’s like to uncover your family history.

Sun, Feb 12

An electrifying and testosterone filled physical theatre horror show that exquisitely captures and transcends the spirit of Anthony Burgess’ original literary masterpiece, A Clockwork Orange lures its audience into the glorious glass-edged nastiness of Manchester’s underworld. A playtime of orgiastic ultraviolence and sexuality, it’s the story of little Alex and the Droogs in their battle against the tedium of adolescence.

An unapologetic celebration of the human condition, it remains as terrifyingly relevant today as when the book was published in 1962 and when Stanley Kubrick’s film caused a stir in 1971.

Tue, Feb 14 - Sat, Mar 18

TOY AND TRAIN FAIR SATURDAY 11TH FEBRUARY 10.30AM – 3PM EXETER HALL, OXFORD ROAD, KIDLINGTON HORNBY, BASSETT-LOWKE, ‘00’ TRAINS, DINKY TOYS, CORGI, TINPLATE, SOLDIERS and MECCANO

Tel: 01869 347489

ADULTS £2.00 SENIORS/CHILD £1.50

32 Thursday, February 9, 2017

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FEATURE

Many people over 40 believe it can be good to break away from unhappiness

A mid-life crisis will cost you over £7,000 A mid-life crisis will cost people living in the south east of England an average of £7,532.28, and is likely to start at the age of 40, according to new research commissioned by AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians).

The cost of £7,532.28 in the south east is lower than the UK average of £7,712.39, and the start of 40 years old is younger than the UK average of 43.

The average mid-life crisis begins at the age of 40 years, and most respondents in the south east identified the years between 31 and 40 as having been the best of their lives.

Despite the costs, almost two thirds (63 per cent) of people in the south east aged over 40 believe that a crisis can be a good thing, providing an opportunity to break away from scenarios that cause unhappiness, and a chance to set new goals.

The impact of mid-life crises on the workplace is significant too – 28 per cent of respondents from the south east said that they think mid-life crises happen most to people who have been in the same career for too long, indicating that a change of career may be worth considering, regardless of age.

A third of people, 34 per cent of people in the south east admitted to

feeling “Sunday night dread”, where they fear what the week ahead at work may hold. Worryingly for managers who want to retain staff, 24 per cent said they defi nitely wouldn’t be working for the same company in 10 years’ time.

The most common way to tackle a mid-life crisis was a change of career, with 28 per cent switching employers after the age of 40.

Olivia Hill, Chief HR Officer at AAT, the organisation that commissioned the survey, said: “This study found that a huge proportion of people have

felt anxiety about the direction their life has taken and that one of the most common causes for a mid-life crisis is dissatisfaction in the workplace.”

“At AAT we often see that people who are studying with us have moved from a career they are not happy with, to make a positive change in their lives.”

“Perhaps more people should consider a change of career not just to enhance their earning potential or improve their work/life balance but to avoid the stresses and strains of a mid-life crisis.”

Top 10 signs of a mid-life crisis in South East England 1) Changed jobs 2) Noticed when politicians/ police officers were younger than me 3) Revisited holiday destinations from when I was younger 4) Broke up with partner 5) Stopped celebrating my birthday 6) Started taking vitamins 7) Joined Facebook 8) Looked up ex-partner on Facebook 9) Started flirting with people 20 years younger 10) Went travelling

Buying flashy cars is often seen as a sign of a mid-life crisis

Top tips to help you stay on track with marathon training – If you’re training for the marathon you will no doubt be well into your training regime by now. Tyrone Kon, a leading physiotherapist at Boost Physio has put together some tips for successful training, what to do, and more important what not to do when you’re training for the Marathon.

“Our tips will help you stay on track, keep you confident and give you the guidelines you need to run a successful marathon. If you have any doubts about your fitness or need some help planning your training regime talk to a specialist physiotherapist who will devise a training routine”, says Tyrone.

Your shoes - before you do anything else make sure you have a good pair of light weight trainers that are well fitted and provide any stability that may be required. A bad pair of trainers can lead to blisters, knee pain and conditions like plantar fasciitis. You should have run at least 10K in a pair of trainers before the big event. Under no circumstances should you ever wear new trainers for the actual marathon.

Get a check-up and a tune up - if you were taking your car on a long cross country journey you’d get it checked out before you left. The same for your body. Even though you are probably pretty fit it is worth taking some professional advice. Ask a specialist physiotherapist to carry out a biomechanical assessment to pinpoint any issues that need tweaking.

The assessment and their advice can prevent injuries during your

training period. Common issues that physiotherapist’s treat are calf strains, achilles tendonitis and cartilage irritation of the knee.

“A biomechanical assessment by a physio in a gym environment can isolate and strength test each muscle group appropriate for marathon running by doing this and recognising weaknesses this will reduce the risk injury”, says Tyrone.

Stretch and stretch again - Stretching is an important part to your training schedule for injury prevention.

Dynamic stretching is advised prerun and a mixture of dynamic and static stretching is advised post run.

The use of a foam roller can be a

great tool and a regular sports massage will provide benefit and reduce the risk of injury. “Don’t stint on the stretching, not only is it essential but it sometimes helps to identify any niggles and potential problems”.

Don’t ramp up your training too soon - Remember to progress your mileage sensibly, especially on your longer runs. A quick and high jump in mileage can lead to calf strains and cartilage issues in the knee. “Stick to the plan and don’t push onto the next goal before you need to. If you feel like you can do more that’s a good sign, it means your training regime is working and you’re reaching your goals and maintaining your fitness.

Push yourself too soon and you could hurt yourself”, says Tyrone.

Sleep - make sure you get enough sleep, your body needs to repair and those early morning pre-work runs can take their toll if you are not sleeping enough.

Hydrate and stay hydrated Remember to stay hydrated throughout each run. Dehydration can lead to muscle injury, because muscles use fluids and electrolytes to function properly during exercise.

Training injuries - Seek advice a specialist physiotherapist who will be able to get accurate diagnosis or a precise diagnosis who will treat and basically how quickly you can

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FEATURE

3) Broke up with partner 4) Had a one-night stand 5) Started taking vitamins 6) Went travelling 7) Moved house 8) Started flirting with people 20 years younger 9) Divorced spouse 10) Stopped celebrating birthday

Changing jobs and travelling are ways many people deal with mid-life crises

and if you’re not up for 26 miles... get back to training.

Sports massage - make sure you have regular massages and book one for after the event, you’ll be very glad you did.

Now we’ve told you what to do here is some advice on what not to do.

You fall off the wagon - If for any reason, you fall off the training wagon, or you get injured the fastest way to get on track is to see a physiotherapist. They will be able to provide you with treatment if you need it and advice on how to get you back on schedule and help you reach your goals.

Running on an empty stomach - It is never a good idea to run without fuel. If you are not fuelled up you will

get tired a lot quicker and possibly cause damage to muscle because you are burning muscle. A sensible marathon diet can and will make all the difference to your training.

A word about socks - just like trainers, you should never wear new socks for the actual event as this can lead to blisters. Like your running shoes, make sure you’ve done at least one or two long runs in the socks and trainers you intend to wear for the marathon.

“If you can make at least one premarathon appointment with a specialist physiotherapist, even better if they have access to a gym” says Tyrone “and best of luck for the big event”.

Of course, not everyone is training for the marathon – here are a few local runs White Horse Half-Marathon April 09, 2017 (Sunday) The race starts at 10:00 AM 250-499 runners usually take part in the race Dixons Carphone Race to the Stones July 15, 2017 (Saturday) The Race to the Stones is a fully supported 100km route following in the footsteps of Romans, Vikings, farmers and traders along the iconic Ridgeway. You will pass Iron Age forts, ancient

burial chambers, cross the mighty Thames and the mystical down-lands of Salisbury plain on your way to the finish line at the 3,000-year-old stone circle at Avebury.

The route is generally well drained chalk with a mix of single track and wider paths.

The race can be run non-stop or broken into 2 50km days.

Chiltern Wonderland 50 September 16, 2017 (Saturday) Ultramarathon - 50 miles 300 runners take part

High Key

Aesthetic

FR (for real) Calm Woke

2) Noticed when politicians/ police officers were younger than me

Savage

1) Changed jobs

Live

Extra

Top 10 signs of a mid-life crisis across the UK

For real! Your guide to 2017 buzzwords Ship

and a chance to set new goals for the future

Low Key

Yo, fam, how’s it hanging? If you have no idea what that sentence actually means (‘hi mate, how are you?’), then brace yourself for the newest influx of words that all the cool kids will be using on their Instagram comments in 2017.

Slang has always been around and the past few decades have produced words we’re all now comfortingly familiar with (remember terms like ‘rad’, ‘411’, or ‘righteous’, from the 80s, for example?) But language evolves as time goes on, and every year a new batch of words and phrases appear which have sprung from a mix of origins, such as youth culture, and in particular, social media.

2017 is no different, and leading translation service LanguageLine has carried out research to fi nd out what the words on the street are going to be this year.

Ship: An abbreviation of the word “relationship.” The word describes fans’, or stans’ (a hybrid of ‘stalker’ and ‘fan’), approval of fictional or desired romances.

How to use it: “They’re so cute together, I totally ship them.”

FR (for real): This one is nice and simple! Basically it’s a way to agree with what someone has just said.

How to use it: “I am loving all the new box sets on Netfl ix right now.”

‘FR”.

Low Key: Low key can be used in place of the formerly popular phrase “down low,” meaning something you don’t want everyone to know about.

How to use it: “I low key tripped walking into Waitrose today.”

Or “I am low key addicted to Honey G.” High Key: This is the opposite of low key. When something is high key, it is the straight-up truth and there is no denying it. Basically, you love it!

How to use it: “High key love Ed

Balls on SCD.” Aesthetic: The new “vibe.” Vibe has a lovely, groovy 70s feel, but it’s been sharply updated for today’s visual world, where everything is about appearance.

How to use it: “I’m obsessed with Kim K’s new Insta aesthetic!”

Savage: It means vicious, or wounding, in an exaggerated way.

How to use it: “The babysitter cancelled on us at last minute, savage.”

“The shots we did last night were savage!”

Woke: This is one of the biggest buzzwords going round, and was even chosen by Oxford Dictionaries as one of the words of 2016. Essentially, the more ‘woke’ someone is, the more they understand about a topic or a person. It is most often used to describe a man who is also a feminist (as most men should be).

How to use it: “Love hearing Daniel Radcliffe praise the HeForShe campaign, he is so woke!”

Live: When something is so good, you can’t wait for it. Living for something, but in a cooler way!

How to use it: “I live for those memes”, or “I’m living for that gig on Saturday.”

Calm: The new “sweet”. It means it’s fi ne or cool, don’t worry about it.

How to use it: “Shall we split the bill?”

“No, it’s calm.”

Extra: When someone or something isn’t necessary. A bit like ‘random’.

How to use it: “I left the club early last night, it was full of extras!”

Vanessa Lofts, Translation Sales Manager at LanguageLine said: “It’s always exciting to see how language changes and develops, and it usually starts with young people. Now you’ve got no excuse not to understand them – and even join in! For real.’

34 Thursday, February 9, 2017

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FEATURE

Sweet-toothed Valentine’s

Guylian Sea Shells £7 for 33 pieces

Guylian Sea Shells £5 for 22 pieces

Give your partner a night to remember at Malmaison Treat them to the red carpet experience with celebrity service and a delicious cocktail on arrival, whether you’re staying the night or simply wanting to dine in style.

Couples will settle down in the candle-lit brasseries to enjoy the Malentine’s Sharing Menu, specially designed for those couples that just can’t keep their hands off each other’s food.

Start the meal with a sumptuous starter, such as the chicken liver parfait and ibérico charcuterie slate and plenty of bubbles.

Before, falling in love with flavour thanks to Malmaison’s eight-bone rack of West Country lamb, served with creamy potato gratin and mint Béarnaise sauce, almost too good to share.

The night doesn’t have to end at dessert. Slope off to a delightful guest rooms, or upgrade to one of the superbly decadent suites, and let the romance continue before waking up to a beautiful full-breakfast - making this a Valentine’s you will never forget.

The full Malentine’s dinner, champagne, bed and breakfast package starts from £213.

If you’ve already got plans on the night, you can still make the most of a Malentine’s break thanks to Mal-

maison’s Stopover offer.

Dine on the romantic Valentine’s sharing menu, or a la carte, on Sunday February 12, and stay in one of Mal’s superb rooms from only £25.

Dine and stay in style at the former prison that is now one of Oxford’s finest hotels - Malmaison is offering a great Valentine’s break for guests

Guylian Sea Shells £1 for 4 pieces

Guylian Sea Shells in heart, £3.99

Say it with flowers this Valentine’s Day La Trufflina gift wrap ballotin £7 for 16 pieces

Guylian Sea Horses £5

Waitrose Jar of Flowers, available in branch, £15

100 Waitrose Red Sweetheart Roses, available in branch, £50

Waitrose Red Tulip Bulbs in Heart, available from WaitroseFlorist.com, £32

Thursday, February 9, 2017 35

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FEATURE

A wonderful winter warmer A cosy pub that is fi t for a winter warmer and ready for the summer – complete with decking outside.

Jacobs Inn sits in the middle between a village hostelry and a gastro-pub. It gives that allrounder feeling and a comfortable, settled one at that.

Monday night wasn’t busy, which was a benefi t for us as the waitress Anita was more than welcoming, and extremely helpful in her recommendations.

I have been to the other Jacobs restaurants around town and each is unique – whether it is décor or the specials they offer, don’t think that if you have been to one you have tried them all.

For starters we had Cotswold white chicken and ham hock terrine with red cabbage chutney and pickled heritage beetroots and Buffalo Mozzarella Bloody Mary salsa, guacamole, black olive tuile and melba toast – both £7.

The terrine tasted fresh and the chutney was a nice added extra – always one for some carbs, it would have been an added bonus if there was a little bread on the side to merge the flavours together.

The salad was divine, although it is technically still winter, and the rain is pouring down outside, this dish gave me a feeling of what summer will be like – with sunshine and drinks on the terrace... sigh.

The guacamole was definitely home-made and I could have had a jar full.

But, there were mains to come so it was best to put down the fork and await our Bavette steak (comes with a choice of sides), £14 and the Lamb special (changes daily).

We decided on chips and peppercorn sauce (£1.50 extra) for the steak, but it really didn’t need the sauce in the end.

Anita recommended we have it medium rare – and although a little on the rarer side, it was suc-

Jacobs Inn 130 Godstow Road, Oxford OX2 8PG

Rating: 8/10

Alex Iszatt finds a pub she’ll definitely be returning to

culent and so tasty.

The lamb special was lamb breast with mash and mint gravy.

A really unique take on what is a sunday dinner. The mint wasn’t too overpowering but added an extra element to the plate, the lamb was flaky and came away on my fork. There was literally nothing left afterwards. So sat-

isfying that it would have been easy to walk away then. But of course there was dessert.

Sticky toffee pudding was a must and we also had the chocolate pot (both £6.50). The STP was huge, too big for one! It tasted home-made and was perfectly moist with a dab of vanilla ice cream that made it moreish

– although my tummy could not finish it and I was left defeated.

The chocolate pot had a piece of shortbread on the side, but the mousse-like top was a bit too hard for dipping.

One valuable piece of advice for this one – push your spoon all the way to the bottom – there is a hidden layer of caramel. Or,

you will end up enjoying the mousse top and be left with a sickly-sweet caramel goo. It didn’t stop the enjoyment of the pud, I would just have liked full glops of both in my mouth.

A really enjoyable meal, lovely atmosphere and welcoming staff.

I will definitely return.

A trifling rhubarb fumble and custard – a little taste of summer Late winter is not the time to be trying to make a seasonal fruity pudding. There’s not much by way of fruit to be had from UK growers in February.

Fortunately, forced rhubarb saves the day. It’s grown in the Yorkshire Rhubarb Triangle in dark sheds which makes the stems grow long, pink and sweet. It’s a totally different beast to summer rhubarb and perfect for pretty puddings.

This little sweetheart is part trifle, part crumble, part fool. It is basically rhubarb and custard, which can never be wrong can it?

Makes 2 1 stick rhubarb 1 tbsp brown sugar

1 egg yolk 10g caster sugar 200ml cream handful granola 1 tsp fi nely chopped stem ginger First cook the rhubarb. Chop it up and heat it in a pan with the brown sugar. On a high heat it will soften slightly in 2-3 minutes at the edges.

As soon as it does, move it from the heat – we don’t want any stewed school rhubarb thank you.

Next make the custard. Whisk the egg yolk and the sugar together then add 100ml of the cream. Pop it in a pan over a medium heat and cook gently, stirring all the time, until it coats the back of a spoon.

Don’t let it boil! Cool in a chilled bowl.

Whip the remaining cream to

soft peaks.

To assemble, place the rhubarb in the bottom of a glass, add a layer of granola followed by a layer of custard and a sprinkle of stem ginger. Repeat and fi nish with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of stem ginger then tuck in and thank heaven for rhubarb.

Kathy Slack is a private chef and cookery teacher based in West Oxfordshire. She writes the food blog, Gluts & Gluttony about the gluts she gets from her veg patch and the ensuing gluttony in the kitchen. To receive regular seasonal recipes and growing advice, sign up to the blog for free at glutsandgluttony.com or follow on Twitter and Instagram: @ gluts_gluttony

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FEATURE

Around Oxford You have been sending us your pics of Oxford. Send your comments, pictures and opinions to alex@theoxfordpaper.co.uk

@DEMIJOHNOXFORD

@OXHRF

@EMGIBBON

@CHUXI93

@GREENARTTWEETS

@OXFORD_THINKING

@ENTERPRISINGOX

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FEATURE

Not long until the most romantic day of the year – so they say – so why not get prepared and choose some flowers for your loved ones – or just brighten your house with some beautiful blooms

5

of the best...

Fabulous florists for Valentine’s Daisies Flower Shop They have a large selection of hand-tied bouquets, basket & pot arrangements, indoor and outdoor plants and gifts for the home. @EVERYMANLEGALLT

106 Walton Street, Jericho, Oxford, OX2 6AJ

1 Jemini Flowers Valentine’s Day flower delivery in and around Oxford on February 14th. You can also choose from roses, bouquets and chocolates.

1-2 The Covered Market, Oxford, OX1 3DU

2 Fabulous Flowers Oxford They also have a branch in Abingdon – so no excuse to pop over. Matthew and Gary have designed a range of fabulous bouquets and arrangements using flowers handpicked from the London flower markets.

63 Banbury Road Oxford OX2 6PE

3

The Garden

With florist shops in Oxford’s famous Covered Market, and in Headington, The Garden of Oxford is well placed to deliver beautiful flowers in Oxford and throughout the surrounding area.

@OXFORDCITY

99/100 The Covered Market, Oxford

Bloomin Chic Bloomin’ Chic is an independent bespoke florist located in vibrant East Oxford. They design and create beautiful floral arrangements and bouquets for all occasions and events and can accommodate every taste, style and budget to create meaningful floral arrangements.

245 Iffley Road, Oxford, Oxfordshire OX4 1SJ @JANEROBINSON00

4

5

38 Thursday, February 9, 2017

News/Advertising Call 01235 511700

NO – Permanent sales NO – Unrealistic discounts NO – “Numbers” just bespoke, individual advice AND ...

Year round good value with a personal service Georgia

Eleanor

Evelyn

Dura

Open Every Weekend Why not pop in & see us?

We are Silentnight and Rest Assured stockists We look forward to seeing you.

Elaine, Tim, Roy and Stuart. Qualified Sleep Council Academy Consultants Directions to our Didcot Store Sat Nav - OX11 8RN

Directions to our Carterton Store Sat Nav – OX18 3FP

Sleep Solutionzzz, 182 The Broadway, Didcot, Oxon, OX11 8RN Tel: 01235 514246 E-Mail: sales@sleepsolutionzzz.co.uk

Sleep Solutionzzz, Unit 7, West Oxfordshire Retail and Business Park, Carterton, Oxon, OX18 3FP. Tel: 01993 840441 E-mail: sales@sleepsolutionzzz.co.uk

Thursday, February 9, 2017 39

theoxfordpaper.co.uk

PUZZLES

SUDOKU

DOUBLE CROSSWORD

CODEWORD Codeword is the crossword puzzle with no clues. The number in each square corresponds to a letter. Work out the words in the grid using the letters provided. Fill in these known letters first, then use skill and judgement to work out the others.

Cryptic Clues: Across

Down

WORDWHEEL

Quick Clues: Across

You have 10 mins to find as many words as possible using the letters in the wheel. Each must use the hub letter and at least 3 others. Letters may be used only once. You cannot use plurals, foreign words or proper nouns. There is at least one 9-letter word to be found.

T E

N I

Down

and find the

How you rate: 15 words, average; 20 words, good; 25 words, very good; 30 or more, excellent.

CLOCKWORD

KAKURO

The solutions from 1 to 12 are all six-letter words ending with the letter E in the centre. Moving clockwise from 1, the letters in the outer circle will spell out the name of a TV actor/presenter.

12

11

1 2

10

E

3

7 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Ripe Amusement centre Hypnosis Place of worship Obstacle Dominion

3

4

23

8 11

14

24

15

THE CLUES: 6272343 gives a warship; 159989 gives a weapon; 4513 gives a weapon.

6

7

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

L

I

8

13 12

CODEWORD: 1=D, 2=V, 3=B, 4=I, 5=K, 6=O, 7=S, 8=T, 9=X, 10=A, 11=H, 12=F, 13=N, 14=L, 15=Y, 16=E, 17=C, 18=P, 19=R, 20=G, 21=U, 22=Z, 23=J, 24=W, 25=M, 26=Q. WORD WHEEL: UNINVITED.

21

7

23

11

17

10

21

18

12 20

4

11

12

9

12

12

29 19 11

12

8

11

9 23

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

4 17

10

8

17

14 21

10

Cross out one of the two letters in each divided square to reveal a completed crossword grid.

SUDOKU: CLOCKWORD: 1 Jovial, 2 Anneal, 3 Manual, 4 Enamel, 5 School, 6 Casual, 7 Abseil, 8 Marvel, 9 Eiffel, 10 Recoil, 11 Ordeal, 12 Neural.

DIRECTOR: James Cameron.

SPLIT DECISION

9

SUDOKU:

8

5

7. Nun’s veil 8. Japanese unarmed combat 9. Die 10. TV dog 11. Hate 12. --- Doodle Dandy

5

4

11

10

Each number from 1 to 9 represents a different letter.

Solve the clues and insert the letters in the appropriate squares to discover a word which uses all nine letters.

2

Each horizontal block of squares must add up to the number in the shaded square to its left, and each vertical block must add up to the number in the shaded square above it.

11 13

17

NINER 1

Fill in the white squares with the numbers 1 to 9.

14

5

6

3

SUDOKU

No number may be used more than once in any one block.

4

8

2

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

G

M A

1

DOUBLE CROSSWORD: Cryptic: Across: 6 Hailing; 7 Juror; 9 Bed; 10 Love knots; 12 Performance; 15 Suit himself; 17 Architect; 19 Baa; 21 Relay; 22 Spartan.

Down: 1 Babel; 2 Ale; 3 Unto; 4 Turntable; 5 Contact; 8 Hearts; 11 Went ahead; 13 Feints; 14 Quarter; 16 Satan; 18 Copy; 20 Ore. Quick: Across: 6 Devotee; 7 Vocal; 9 Say; 10 Prominent; 12 Discourtesy; 15 Proposition; 17 Rearrange; 19 Cry; 21 Slate; 22 Flaccid.

Down: 1 Delay; 2 Low; 3 Bear; 4 Cognition; 5 Earnest; 8 Amount; 11 Disparity; 13 Casual; 14 Orderly; 16 Grain; 18 Gulf; 20 Icy.

D

U

9

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

NINER: LIGATURES

I Z A S S

M

N

A

R

T E

X

M

A M

M C

N

H

T

E

D

I

G

C

A I

Z

C

T O

V A

E

I

F

S

A P E L R

SPLIT DECISION:

KAKURO: 5 7 9 7 2 8 1 5 5 3 7 6 3 8 5 3 4 8 4 7 3 1 5 9 1

B 6 4 9 5 8 3 2 1 7

3 4 1 2 7 5 1 7 1 8 6 7 9 6 7 5 5 8 3 2 9 8 5 2 7

E

A C

H

O N

E

G

A

N

E

A

A

R M

R

E

S

T

S

40 Thursday, February 9, 2017

91 High Street, Marlow, SL7 1AB 01628 290505 The Perch is a new independent family-friendly coffee shop nestled in Marlow High Street. Offering freshly prepared food, home-made cakes and, of course, excellent coffee it is a great place to visit for brunch, lunch‌ anytime.

And to entertain we also offer pottery painting and private hire parties for adults and children.

Why let the kids have all the fun? Our next pottery painting evening will be on the 16th February.

Follow us on and for our daily specials and to see what activities we have planned for half term. www.visittheperch.co.uk

News/Advertising Call 01235 511700

Thursday, February 9, 2017 41

theoxfordpaper.co.uk

Wedding Fair

Sunday 19th February 2017, 11.00am – 3.

In our newly refurbished Cathedral Suite Free entry. For further details call 01865 3 www.oxfordspireshotel.co.uk

W

OXFORD SPIRE

Wedding Wedding Fair

Sund In ou Free

F

www.o

Sunday 19th February 2017, 11.00am –Fair 3.00pm Sunday 19th February 2017 Wedding 19th February 2017, 11.00am – 3.00pm In our newly refurbishedSunday Cathedral Suite In our newly refurbished Ca In our newly refurbished Cathedral Suite Free entry. For further details 01865 Free entry. call For further details324324. call 01865 324324.

Free entry. For further detail

www.oxfordspireshotel.co.uk

www.oxfordspireshotel.co.uk

OXFORD SPIRES HOTEL

OXFORD SPIRES HOTEL www.oxfordspireshotel.co.uk

OX

42 Thursday, February 9, 2017

News/Advertising Call 01235 511700

?

Can you

Really

have more fun than...

6 & 9...

69...

BINGO ?

!!

Full Logo

PLEASE PLAY RESPONSIBLY AT YOUR LOCAL CLUB ;)

www.coronetbingo.com - Broadway, Didcot

THEOXFORDPAPER.CO.UK

Thursday, February 9, 2017 43

:Ë 2. ! ..ËVË2! 0 Ë. -7

Sofas, Chairs, Recliners, Electric Lift and Rise Recliners, Sofa Beds,Leather Collection, Bespoke Service, Custom Made Curtains and Blinds, Mirrors, Lamps, Gifts for the home, Occasional Furniture and Full Reupholstery Service 22 High Street, Drayton Village, Nr Abingdon, Oxon, OX14 4JL. Tel: 01235 531738 www.thesittingroom.co.uk OPENING HOURS: Monday – Saturday 10am – 5pm

Quality British Made Sofas

44 Thursday, February 9, 2017

News/Advertising Call 01235 511700

NOW ON!

BIG

SA SA ALLLE E BIG SAVINGS ON USED CARS

DON’T MISS OUT - LIMITED PERIOD ONLY

HARTWELL ABINGDON 01235 522 822 DRAYTON ROAD, ABINGDON OX14 5JU

THEOXFORDPAPER.CO.UK

Thursday, February 9, 2017 45

The local taxi company that’s been at your service for over 50 years

Don’t drink & drive Local or Far, don’t use your car Call us on (Didcot) 01235 812345

46 Thursday, February 9, 2017

Airport & Sea Port Transfers Corporate Transfers & Events | Sports Trips Race Days | Theatre Trips | Special Events

Looking for a personal chauffeur with high quality vehicles?

A driver who goes that extra mile for their clients?

Someone who can provide impeccable service, time and time again, at only the most competitive prices!

Then look no further!

We promise you won’t be disappointed!

Call: 07770 993577 Email: mike@mbexecutivetravel.com

www.mbexecutivetravel.com

News/Advertising Call 01235 511700

Thursday, February 9, 2017 47

THEOXFORDPAPER.CO.UK

You & Your Wedding

We

. . . s l a i t n e s s e g d d in

A SUMMER wedding offers some gorgeous wedding theme possibilities from elegant to feminine wedding day styles.

Before considering flowers, dresses, decoration, invitations, outfit, it is first of all vital to consider what you want your day to be: super stylish, cool and relaxed, rustic, urban, retro, vintage or romantic.

Celtic With St Patrick’s day in March, there are lots of ways to include an Irish theme.

Make a harvest knot to wear on your wedding day, or place one in your bouquet to symbolize your Irish heritage. Have a Ceilidh with traditional Irish dances.

Wear Irish Lace,and serve a traditional Irish Wedding Feast. Give Celtic-inspired gifts marked with the claddagh (two hands and a heart),Give love Tokens of Hair - they’re symbolic of acceptance.

Cherry Blossoms Cherry blossoms stand for virtue and new beginnings .Have a thick layer of flower petals carpeting the aisle For centrepieces, use compact flowers like hydrangeas or peonies with crystal-beaded willow for dramatic height, and scatter petals generously.

Hand your bridesmaids parasols, or fans.

Coordinate all your gowns with beautiful, rich brocade sashes. To add a bit of glow, hang round paper lanterns from the ceiling.

Butterfly A springtime bride might pair butteries with blossoming branches and pastel petit fours, wear pretty silver and rhinestone jewellery sets. Have the groom wear a single fabric buttery in his buttonhole.

Dress ower girls in wings and carry a white satin petal basket that’s ďŹ lled with buttery petals instead of the usual rose petals.

The Cotswold Tailor

The Cotswold Tailor offers both bespoke wedding tailoring and luxury hirewear.With shops in both Woodstock and Shipston On Stour, don’t leave looking good on your big day to chance. We can cater for all sorts of weddings from traditional to country. This luxury informative service doesn’t cost the earth either. We offer a clear price structure on our website, which we feel offers greater value for money, when compared with high street alternatives. ć FTF DIBOHFT BSF BMTP SFĘ FDUFE JO XIBU UIF HSPPN JT PQUJOH UP XFBS PO IJT CJH EBZ "U ć F $PUTXPME 5BJMPS XF IBWF OPUJDFE CJH TIJę T JO EFNBOE JO CPUI PVS IJSF EFQBSUNFOU BOE PVS CFTQPLF UBJMPSJOH TFSWJDF when it comes to wedding suits. *O XF SFOUFE PVU OPU B TJOHMF GSPDL DPBU BOE EFNBOE GPS NPSOJOH DPBUT GFMM TJHOJĕ DBOUMZ 8IFO XF EJE SFOU PVU B NPSOJOH DPBU NPSF Pę FO than not the groom has opted to move away from traditional wedding waistcoats, and instead replaced these with tweed (see picture right). /PUJDFBCMZ XJUI CPUI NZ CFTQPLF BOE IJSF XFBS DMJFOUT UIFSF IBT CFFO B TIJę UPXBSET NPSF UBJMPSFE UISFF QJFDF TMJN ĕ U MPVOHF TVJUT QBSUJDVMBSMZ CSJHIUFS CMVF TIBEFT 8JUI NBOZ PG NZ CFTQPLF DMJFOUT The Changing Face Of Men’s Wedding Attire pointing out the benefits of getting frequent use out of the lounge suit post the wedding.

British wedding habits have changed rapidly during the last few years, 1PTTJCMZ UIF CJHHFTU USFOE IPXFWFS IBT CFFO JO UIF SJTJOH QPQVMBSJUZ PG and this evolvement continues into 2016. tweed. As country/natural themed weddings have grown in popularity t ć F BWFSBHF XFEEJOH OPX DPTUT PWFS b so too has the demand for both three piece tweed suits, but also the t ć F USFOE GPS DVQDBLFT JT GBMMJOH PVU PG GBWPVS CFJOH SFQMBDFE XJUI NPSF SFMBYFE MPPL PG B QBJS PG DIJOPT QBJSFE XJUI UXFFE XBJTUDPBUT BOE USFOET MJLF DIFFTF UPXFST UXFFE KBDLFU see picture right) t 1VSQMF JT UIF NPTU QPQVMBS CSJEFTNBJET ESFTT DPMPVS ć JT MPPL IBT CFDPNF TP QPQVMBS UIBU IBT TFFO VT MBVODI BO FOUJSF new hire wear range dedicated to tweed. t PG OFXMZXFET OPX IPOFZNPPO JO UIF 6, BOE JO &VSPQF

Hire 5 suits and get 1 FREE when mentioning Oxfordshire Guardian

21B Oxford Street, Woodstock OX20 1TH email: info@thecotswoldtailor.com • www.suitstailored.com • Tel. 01993 358284

48 Thursday, February 9, 2017

News/Advertising Call 01235 511700

You & Your Wedding ADVERTORIAL

Many good wedding plans start with a venue. The place where longlasting memories are created, where loved ones’ closest family and friends join in celebrating the marriage of two people and the backdrop to the stunning photography which will last a lifetime. With its idyllic surroundings, distinguished Georgian history and truly unique dining experience, Sudbury House Hotel in Oxfordshire offers elegance and romance in equal measure.

To place a feature advert contact the Sales Team on 01235 511700 or enquiries@taylornewspapers.co.uk

Sudbury House Hotel wedding venue

This former 16th century Coaching Inn situated only 12 miles from Oxford is a superb one-stop wedding location. Sympathetically updated, the George retains it’s character and charm, giving it an unrivalled atmosphere for every occasion. The castle gardens, behind the hotel, make a great backdrop for your photographs.

Plus our experienced wedding organisers will work with you to ensure everything goes to plan. You can rely on the George to make your wedding dream come true.

Sudbury House

Once a distinguished Georgian home , the Grade ll listed building has been lovingly restored to its former glory, with its traditional entrance, HOTEL & RESTAURA oak panelled civil room and feature fireplaces offering the most perfect of surroundings for that special day.

NT

Sudbury House

The facilities are suitable for an intimate wedding of just 10 or a grand affair for up to 160 guests and with an extensive wedding licence that covers the garden, the ‘old house’ and the main hotel, Sudbury House offers a bespoke solution to suit every need including 50 bedrooms for you and your guests to stay in.

OUR FACILITIES INCLUDE: Events for up to 150 guests t Licensed for Civil Ceremonies Choice of Wedding Packages t Extensive Menu Selection 39 exquisite bedrooms t Ample Free car parking

WEDDINGS @HSUDBURY O T E L & R EHOUSE STAURANT You can be sure of a fantastic dining experience for your special day with award winning Chef’s boasting 2 rosettes in the Magnolia Brasserie and 3 rosettes in Restaurant 56 offering a selection of seasonal menus to choose from for both the wedding breakfast and your evening reception.

Our team of experienced wedding planners are on hand to guide you through your plans from the start until the actual day, offering ideas and supplier contacts details to ensure that your day is exactly as you want it to be. We pride ourselves on offering bespoke packages, so if there is something specific that you have in mind, do not be afraid to ask – we will do our very best to help you.

Inclusive Packages from £3500 HOTEL

Sudbury H WEDDINGS @ SUDBURY HOUSE Sudbury House Sudbury Sudbury Sudbury House House House Sudbu Su

HOTEL & RESTAU

& RESTAURANT

H O T E L &H R OE TS E TL A&UHRROAETN SETLA & U RRAENS TT A U R A N T

HOTEL &

WEDDINGS @ SUDBU 11 miles from Swindon Inclusive WEDDINGS @ SUDBURY HOUSE WEDDINGS WEDDINGS WEDDINGS @ SUDBURY @ SUDBURY @HOUSE SUDBURY HOUSE HOUSE WEDDINGS WEDDIN @ Stunning countryside location for weddings up to 160

Inclusive Packages from Packages £3500 Sudbury Sudbury Sudbu Hou Su Inclusive Inclusive Inclusive Inclusive from Packages Packages Packages Packages from from from £3500from

Beautiful landscaped gardens

Licensed for indoor and outdoor ceremonies

Seasonal menus from award winning team of Chefs 50 En-suite rooms available

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H O T E L &H R OE TS E TL HAO&UT RE RA L EN S&TH

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Inclusive packages to suit all budgets

Completely refurbished in 2015 £3500

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11 miles from Sw 01367 241272 VËyåË ÄÖ ÍjËÁ ÄË?Ü? ?M j www.sudburyhouse.co.uk VË W ÖÄ Üjˬ?W ?~jÄËÍ ËÄÖ ÍË? ËMÖa~jÍÄ 11 miles from 11 miles Swindon from 11 miles Swindon from Swindon 11 mi for 11 miles fromStunning Swindon countryside location events@sudburyhouse.co.uk VË ¬ jÍj ßËÁjwÖÁM Ä jaË ËÔå¤y 56 Londoncountryside Street, Faringdon, Oxfordshire, SN7 7AA Stunning countryside Stunning Stunning location countryside for location weddings for location weddings up to 160 for up weddings to 160 up tofor 160 Stunning countryside Stunning co Beautiful Stunning countryside location weddings up to landscaped 160

11 miles from Swindon

Beautiful landscaped Beautiful landscaped Beautiful gardenslandscaped gardens gardens

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and outdl Beautiful landscaped Licensed gardens for indoor Beautiful

Thursday, February 9, 2017 49

theoxfordpaper.co.uk

You & Your Wedding

T: 01865 282599 E: events@rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk W: rhodeshouseoxford.com

CELEBRATE IN TRUE OXFORD STYLE Experienced and dedicated event managers will help ensure your celebration is every bit as special, individual and memorable as you want it to be.

T: 01865 610406 E: events@ashmolean.org W: ashmolean.org/weddings

Bookings taken throughout the year for both ceremonies and receptions.

Please quote: OPJA2017

T: 01865 241 353 E: events@oxford-union.org W: oxford-union.org

T: 01865 277224 E:events@bodleian.ox.ac.uk W: bodleian.ox.ac.uk/whatson/venue-hire

50 Thursday, February 9, 2017

News/Advertising Call 01235 511700

You & Your Wedding

with

Slimming World Monday Witney High Street, Methodist Church, 9.45am & 11.45am Aileen 07775 861175 www.slimmingworld.co.uk/ slimwithaileen Witney High Street, Methodist Church, 5.15pm & 7pm Aileen 07775 861175 www.slimmingworld.co.uk/ slimwithaileen Tuesday Witney Madley Brook & Springfield School, Cedar Drive 5.30pm & 7.30pm Jodie 07795 165050.

Carterton Methodist Church Burford Road OX18 3AA 5pm & 7pm Corrina 07900 883401 Chipping Norton Town Hall 9.30am 11.30am Mandy 01608 641923

slimmingworld.co.uk

0344 897 8000

Chipping Norton Town Hall 5pm & 7pm Mandy 01608 641923

Thursday Witney Witney Town Bowls Club The Leys, Station Lane OX28 4AR 9.30am Corrina 07900 883401

*

Witney Witney Town Bowls Club The Leys, Station Lane OX28 4AR 5.30pm & 7.30pm Corrina 07900 883401 Carterton Methodist Church, Burford Road, OX18 3AA 5.30 & 7.30pm Claire 07824 567649 Friday Carterton WI Hall Brize Norton Road 9.15am & 11.15am Brenda 07508 466657 01993 867762 Saturday Carterton WI Hall Brize Norton Road 8.30am & 10.30am Brenda 07508 466657 01993 867762

touching hearts, changing lives

This is your invitation to come and meet with us.

Distinctly Different Weddings

Sunday 19th February 2017 Eynsham Hall Wedding Open Day From 12 until 4.30pm

Eynsham Hall is a magnificent Grade II listed mansion nestled in the heart of a 3000 acre estate.

Located just 12 miles from Oxford, this stunning Jacobean-style house set within beautiful landscaped gardens with fountains and terraces will present an idyllic backdrop for your big day.

To book an appointment please call Hannah on 01993 885201.

Whether you are arranging a wedding in the spring, summer, autumn or winter for a large, small, formal or more intimate event, our dedicated Wedding Specialist can tailor a package to suit you and your guests.

If you are unable to make an appointment, please feel free to come along and view the rooms set for a wedding or civil partnership.

01993 885200 I weddings@eynshamhall.com I www.eynshamhall.com I North Leigh, Witney, Oxfordshire OX29 6PN

Thursday, February 9, 2017 51

theoxfordpaper.co.uk

You & Your Wedding PETER YORK Founder President of Executive Guild of Toastmasters and Town Criers Hair & Beauty Hair

Beauty

Nails

Professional Toastmaster

Barbers

Make a grand entrance on your big day with Reflections Hair & Beauty.

Call us now to arrange your consultation and let us help to turn your wedding hair dreams into reality.

Call for a price list or visit our website www.reflections-hairandbeauty.com

01235 818724 122–124 Abbott Road, Didcot OX11 8HZ

Flowers with the personal touch Enchanted Floristry 67 Brize Norton Road, Minster Lovell, OX29 0SG Tel. 01993 775236 Mob. 07767 016141 enquiries@enchantedfloristry.co.uk www.enchantedfloristry.co.uk

Tel: 01264 335405 Mobile: 07831 773575 peter.yorktoastmaster@gmail.com

To place a feature advert contact the Sales Team on 01235 511700 or enquiries@taylornewspapers.co.uk

A delightful blend of medieval character and modern charm create a unique setting for weddings, just a stone’s throw from the heart of Oxford

Wedding Open Day – Sunday 5th March 2017, 11am – 3pm DE VERE OXFORD THAMES, HENLEY ROAD, SANDFORD-ON-THAMES, OXFORD OX4 4GX T. 01865 334444 E. thames.weddings@devere.com www.phcompany.com/de-vere/oxford-thames

52 Thursday, February 9, 2017

News/Advertising Call 01235 511700

You & Your Wedding

For Your Wedding Day

ADVERTORIAL

The Lover’s Rock Difference

OXFORD SPIRES HOTEL

Nestling in acres of beautiful riverside parkland, next to a horse sanctuary, Oxford Spires Hotel is an idyllic location within easy reach of Oxford city centre.

VË j?ÖÍ wÖ Ë~?Áaj ÄËÝ W ËW? ËMjËÖÄjaË for drinks, receptions and those very important pictures.

VË Wj ÄjaËw ÁË Ü Ë jÁj jÄËÝ Í ËÄjÜjÁ? Ë rooms which are perfect for eeremonies and receptions for 20–180 guests.

VË jÞ M jËMjĬ jËÝjaa ~ˬ?W ?~jÄË r available VË8jaa ~Ë Ë?Ë ÞËwÁ ËÌ|^ ^Ë a fantastic offer VË!jÝËÁjwÖÁM Ä jaË ?Í jaÁ? Ë.Ö Íj VË.Ö¬jÁMËÄjÁÜ WjËj ÄÖÁ ~ËÍ ?ÍËß ÖÁËĬjW ? Ë day is memorable VË WW a?Í Ë?Ü? ?M jËw ÁËß ÖÁË~ÖjÄÍ VË ja W?ÍjaËÝjaa ~ËW Áa ?Í Á VË ?Áˬ?Á ~Ë ËÄ Íj

, .

Founder of Lover’s Rock Diamonds, Tom Reid created his business philosophy on his own personal experience of purchasing Diamond jewellery. The high price tags for uncertified, low quality, mass produced designs led him to create a simple yet effective business model, creating unique and bespoke handmade rings of the finest quality whilst offering up to 75% savings versus the high street.

Tom designs engagement, wedding and eternity rings that truly suit the individual at a fraction of the cost by being an on-line business with direct access to the world’s finest diamonds and jewellery. Nationwide home appointments and meetings at the Watlington, Oxfordshire office ensures the personal touch and allows customers to view before purchasing.

With every diamond fully certified and ethically sourced along with a 30 day money back guarantee and lifetime warranty, it’s no wonder the business is thriving. With its 5/5 star reviews, customers are delighted with their diamond jewellery, not to mention their bank balance!

Please contact us to book an appointment at our Watlington Showroom.

Tel. 01865 324324

www.loversrockdiamonds.co.uk Tel. 03330 064 411

www.oxfordspireshotel.co.uk

30-Day Returns

Lifetime Warranty

Price Match Guarantee

Discover unique and bespoke hand-crafted rings, of the

ENGAGEMENT

high street prices.

Specialising in custom made,

WEDDING

SHAPED-TO-FIT

Tel: 03330 064 411 www.loversrockdiamonds.co.uk

Thursday, February 9, 2017 53

THEOXFORDPAPER.CO.UK

You & Your Wedding

WHERE YOUR FOREVER BEGINS MICHAELJONESJEWELLER.CO.UK

54 Thursday, February 9, 2017

News/Advertising Call 01235 511700

Business

Contact Alex Iszatt with your business news and stories at alex@theoxfordpaper.co.uk

Fitness education company aims to help those wanting to become gym instructors

Could being a personal trainer fit in with your career plan?

January is done and dusted – but that doesn’t mean the fitness drive has to be over as well. If you have a passion for training, then maybe it is time to consider doing it as a career – full or part time.

And one company that has just launched in Oxford is here to help.

Luke Hughes opened Origym just three months ago.

The fitness education company helps those planning to embark on a new and exciting career in fitness to become a gym instructor or a personal trainer.

As a personal trainer Luke has a passion for health and fitness, he was working with a rival training provider when he saw its flaws: “I felt there was an avenue to make an impact as a good quality fitness education company that did not charge the world for

“Gyms approach us as a training provider to fill vacancies due to the volume of fitness facilities in the UK” Personal trainer Luke Hughes

allowing people to become a personal trainer or gym instructor, something I felt the market had not captured.”

So, he went for it – selling his house and his car all his savings went into getting his business up and running.

“I handed in my notice and moved cities the next day to be closer to my business partner to get this project off the ground.”

Recruitment is a fickle world and fitness is no different, since Luke started the landscape has changed.

Gyms are no longer a luxury – 24 hour gyms offer accessibility – it opens the doors for more trainers.

“Five to 10 years ago I remember over 40 applicants just for one parttime fitness-instructing role. Now there are gyms that approach us as a training provider trying to fi ll vacancies due to the sheer volume of fitness facilities in the UK.” The increased exposure of health and fitness via social media and increased government backing means there are more people exercising and having active gym memberships than ever before.

Now that the company is up and running in other counties across the UK, Luke is looking even further afield. “The greatest achievement for me would be working with the likes

Luke Hughes and Steph Rogers of Origym are helping to train other instructors of Colorado University in the US and Queen Margret University in Edinburgh and to actually be approached by them to orchestrate their fitness course delivery.”

In the short-term the company is about to launch its brand new e-learning platform ready for its online personal training course students to improve the quality of delivery and resource that it can provide.

“In addition we are planning to launch a new online personal training service for those looking to get

Register for business breakfast Businesses are invited to join the annual South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils’ annual Business Breakfast on February 21.

The free event, this year hosted by South Oxfordshire District Council, includes a light breakfast followed by a series of presentations about issues affecting businesses locally and a question and answer session.

Key note speaker will be Mathew Hornsby, sales director and cofounder of yacht and powerboat specialists Williams Jet Tenders, based in Berinsfield.

Mathew will be sharing the story of how Williams Jet Tenders went from a local start-up business to the world’s largest jet tender manufac-

turer building over 700 boats a year.

Following the Brexit vote of 2016, Garry Young, senior advisor at the Bank of England will be sharing his thoughts on business uncertainty and economic prospects and what it means for local businesses.

The Business Breakfast takes place from 7.30am at De Vere Oxford Thames Hotel, Henley Road, Sandford on Thames, OX4 4GX. To book a place at the breakfast please register at http://bit. ly/2iQ64wG or visit either www.sobusiness.co.uk or www.vale4business.com.

Cllr Robert Simister, Cabinet Member for Economic Development at South Oxfordshire District Council, said: “It would be great to

see as many businesses as possible join us for the Business Breakfast.

This will be a fantastic opportunity to hear about and discuss what’s happening in the local area and hear directly from the Bank of England about what Brexit could mean for local businesses.”

Cllr Mike Murray, Cabinet Member for Economic Development at Vale of White Horse District Council, said: “This will be a great chance to get a better understanding of how southern Oxfordshire’s economy could change over the coming months and years. It will also be a great opportunity to network with business leaders from across southern Oxfordshire to share ideas and develop new contacts.”

expert help and advice and then utilise within their own gyms. The great aspect about this is that it will enable us to reach all corners of the globe and make access to fitness programmes written by real industry experts for the fraction of the price of paying for a face-to-face personal trainer.”

Luke is optimistic and determined about supplying the industry with better quality personal training candidates.

He said: “Through producing bet-

ter quality personal trainers, results in better advice and quality of training that your everyday citizen can access to improve their health and physical capabilities.

“This is an integral role that all training providers should take responsibility for the calibre of fitness professionals operating within the sector as it has a knock-on effect to the health and wellbeing of the population and society as a whole.”

Go to www.origympersonaltrainercourses.co.uk for more information.

More start-up businesses start at Oxford University A new study has revealed that Oxford University has produced more founders of $1bn business start-ups over the last decade than any other university in Europe The research, which was compiled by the software provider Sage UK, also found that Oxford was ranked seventh worldwide, with US universities Stanford and Harvard topping the league table, producing 51 and 37 Unicorn businesses respectively.

The term Unicorn denotes successful business ventures thought to be a rarity within their sector, but now more commonly refers to start-up companies with a valuation of more

than $1 billion.

Oxford’s most notable alumni include Reid Hoffman, the founder of LinkedIn, who studied Philosophy at Wolfson College, and Keven Hartz of Eventbrite, who completed an MA in History at University College.

The majority of Unicorn businesses featuring in the league table herald from the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) industries.

Overall, the US topped the list with 144 Unicorn businesses, followed

by China with 47 and India with 10, reflecting their heavy investment in STEM research over the last decade.

Thursday, February 9, 2017 55

theoxfordpaper.co.uk

BUSINESS

Property group ventures south to add Jersey Arms to portfolio Shepherd Cox, the property group, has snapped up its 16th hotel, adding the Jersey Arms near Bicester to its portfolio following a deal brokered by Colliers International.

Peter Brunt, Hotels Director at Colliers International, said the Jersey Arms had been on the market for the fi rst time in 30 years with offers of around £1 million invited for the freehold.

“The Jersey Arms is perfectly placed for visitors heading for the Cotswolds or shoppers ready for a rest after a day at the nearby shopping outlet.

“Built as a coaching inn on a busy crossroads, the Jersey Arms offers the new owners an opportunity to drive much more food and beverage trade through the delightful public rooms.”

Shepherd Cox has developed a diversified group of assets worth £40m in sectors including healthcare, hotels, leisure, and residential - and mainly operates in the north of England, but ventures south whenever the deal allows.

The Jersey Arms’ outstanding location west of Bicester just off the M40 convinced the fast expanding

property group to venture south and add the inn - just five minutes from Bicester Village shopping outlet.

Company director Nick Carlile said: “We have properties all over the north of England but the Jersey Arms offers plenty of potential to build on a sound business.

“We plan to increase the number of rooms from 20 to around 25 by converting some of the meeting rooms and will look at adding another storey to the existing extension.”

In the past 36 months, Shepherd Cox has, alongside its investment partners, expanded its hotel portfolio - and currently offers upwards of 600 rooms across the country.

Peter said: “Our client owned the business for more than 30 years, and for many years focused upon bedroom trade as the main stay of the business. After such a good stint at the helm, retirement beckons, giving energetic new owners the opportunity to take the business forward.”

The Jersey Arms includes a bar with eye-catching fi replace, a restaurant seating up to 40 as well as 20 letting bedrooms including six king, three suites, six standard doubles, two twin and three single rooms.

The Jersey Arms in Bicester is the latest addition to the Shepherd Cox portfolio

Technology partners with health trust to improve results for patients and cut cost The collaboration will see Drayson Technologies bring to the market Oxford technologies that can positively impact on patient health outcomes, admissions, and costs within the NHS Three new digital health products developed by Oxford University in collaboration with OUH NHS Foundation Trust over the past seven years promise significant improvements in patient health outcomes and reduced costs for the NHS following multiple clinical trials.

VË . ! ]Ë ?Ë ÄßÄÍj Ë w ÁË Ü Í? Ä ~ Ë observations in hospital patients, which has enhanced the clinical care of over 80,000 patients over the past two years.

VË j? Í ]Ë ?Ë ÄßÄÍj Ë w ÁË Í jË management of diabetes in pregnant women, tested in over 1,000 patients, showed a 25% reduction in clinic visits, when evaluated at the Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust.

VË

#+ ]ËÄßÄÍj Ëw ÁËÍ jË ? agement of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, developed with support from the Department of Health and Wellcome Trust through the Health Innovation Challenge Fund, showed a 17% reduction in hospital admissions during a 12-month clinical trial.

The products are designed to provide significant improvements in health outcomes for patients and reduce healthcare costs in the NHS. They have undergone significant clinical testing and validation involving over 80,000 patients and generated over 16 million data records

to date. Results suggest that these technologies could deliver significant improvements in patient health outcomes and reduction in costs for the NHS. Drayson Technologies’ role will be to support the wider testing of these products in up to four additional NHS Trusts across the UK over the next 12 months prior to taking over responsibility under an exclusive licence agreement for managing the wider deployment and commercialisation of these pioneering products across the NHS. By investing to provide a commercial and operational infrastructure in Oxford, Drayson Technologies will enable these products to be adopted by other NHS Trusts across the UK. . ! ^Ë j? Í Ë? aË

COPD are all digital health products that use machine learning artificial intelligence software, developed at Oxford University’s Institute of Biomedical Engineering, to analyse data and provide decision support and patient safety information to both patients and healthcare professionals.

Drayson Technologies intends to develop SEND into a central platform with which other digital health appliW?Í Ä^ËÄÍ?ÁÍ ~ËÝ Í Ë j? Í Ë ? aË

#+ ^ËW? Ë ÍjÁ ¬jÁ?Íj^Ë allowing for the potential for further

The GDm-health system has helped reduce clinical visits for pregnant women with diabetes improvement outcomes for patients and efficiencies for the NHS. Lord Paul Drayson, Chairman and CEO of Drayson Technologies, said: “These products have shown in clinical trials that they improve patient health outcomes and reduce costs for the NHS. We are delighted to be working with Oxford University and the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to complete clinical evaluation and deploy these products more broadly across the NHS.” Professor Lionel Tarassenko, Head of Engineering Science, Oxford University, added: “SEND,

j? Í Ë? aË

#+ ^Ëaj onstrate the benefits of the multidisciplinary collaboration we have developed over the past decade in Oxford.

“We have combined world-class engineering and clinical research with feedback from frontline NHS staff to create products that deliver real benefits to patients. In Oxford,

we can go all the way from laboratory prototypes to clinically-validated products.”

Dr Adam Stoten, Head of Life Sciences, Oxford University Innovation, added: “Digital health has enormous potential to generate patient benefit and economic savings throughout the NHS. In Drayson Technologies we have found a partner committed to providing the resources and expertise needed to support the use of these ground-breaking technologies across multiple NHS Trusts and beyond.”

The NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre (BRC), a partnership between Oxford University and OUH, has funded the digital health research programmes that have ÄÖWWjÄÄwÖ ßËMÁ Ö~ ÍË. ! ^Ë

j? Í Ë? aË ËÍ ËÍ j ÁËWÖÁÁj ÍË stages of development. Oxford University Innovation, the research commercialisation company of Oxford University, licensed the technologies to Drayson Technologies.

Chamber to back local business growth thanks to new partnership Thames Valley Chamber of Com jÁWjË Á Ö¬Ë ÄË ?Ö W ~Ë? ËjÞW Í ~Ë range of professional and accredited online courses, thanks to a new partnership with one of the UK’s leading edtech fi rms, e-Careers Limited.

With over 1,000 courses available, e-Careers has successfully educated in excess of 400,000 individuals over the past five years alone, with its most popular courses being in Project and Quality Management, Accountancy and Bookkeeping, and IT and Networking.

In partnering with the e-learning provider, Thames Valley Chamber wË jÁWjË Á Ö¬Ë ¬jÄËÍ Ë?ÍÍÁ?WÍË and engage with an increased number of individuals from across the business community – whether individuals looking to further their career opportunities or employers supporting staff members with professional development.

Paul Britton, Chief Executive of the Thames Valley Chamber of Com jÁWjË Á Ö¬ËÄ? a]Ë»8jË?ÁjËaj ~ ÍjaË to announce our new partnership with e-Careers and feel that our newly launched e-learning offering will play a crucial role in supporting the growth and success of our members moving forward.

“With thousands of courses to choose from, coupled with unique features including online tutoring and mentoring support, employers will fi nd this new platform a cost-effective and flexible way of supporting the training and development of their workforce. What’s particularly useful is that courses can be completed online via a mobile device.” ?ÁßË Ä Á^Ëa ÁjWÍ ÁË wËj ?ÁjjÁÄ^Ë said: “e-Careers is extremely excited about our new partnership with Thames Valley Chamber of Com jÁWjË Á Ö¬^Ë? aËÍ jË jÝËj j?Á ~Ë opportunities that are now available to local businesses and the wider community as a result.”

“Although many individuals understand the importance of Continued Professional Development, many are unable to engage in ongoing training opportunities due to workplace commitments. However, by enrolling in online courses, professionals are able to enhance both knowledge and qualifications from the comfort of their own desk!”

The Thames Valley Chamber of

jÁWjË Á Ö¬ËÝ Á ÄËÝ Í ËMÖÄ nesses across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Swindon and represents one of the largest Chambers accredited by the British Chamber of Commerce.

For more information about e-Careers, visit: www.thamesvalleychamber.co.uk

Paul Britton, Chief Executive, Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce Group

56 Thursday, February 9, 2017

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BUSINESS

Is your business an award winner?

The Cherwell Business Awards is again searching for the best businesses across the district.

If you think you could be a winner, make sure your entry is in before 14th February 2017.

The Awards, now in its 6th year, serves to showcase and celebrate the excellent business people and organisations we have here in Cherwell District. It is open to large or small and new or long-established organisations, and with 10 award categories to choose from, there is something for everyone!

This year, the awards have not only attracted new sponsors, but Cherwell District Council has pledged its support by being the headline sponsor.

The Cherwell Business Awards 2017 Award Categories – Deadline 14th February 2017: VË0 jË Ô Ë Á Ö¬Ë Ë!jÝË Business Award VË0 jË#Þw ÁaÄ ÁjË W? Ë ÍjÁ prise Partnership - Small Business Award VË0 jË WjÄÍjÁË7 Ä ^Ë WjÄÍjÁË Chamber and Wednesday Breakfast Club - Micro Business Award VË0 jË!?Í8jÄÍË Ë ¬ ßjÁË wËÍ jË Year Award VË0 jË.¬Á?ÍÍË a W ÍÍË. W Í ÁÄË Ë Established Business Award VË0 jË ?W ÍÍÄË +Ë Ë ÖÄ jÄÄË Person of the Year Award VË 0 jË WjÄÍjÁË 7 ?~jË Ë -jÍ? Ë Award VË0 jË#Þw ÁaÄ ÁjË ¬¬Áj Í Wj ships - Apprenticeship of the Year Award VË0 jË j~MÁ jË.W j WjË+?Á Ë Ë Innovation & Creativity Award VË0 jË W ?j Ë+?~jË Ë ?Á ÍßË? aË Community Award In addition, Norbar Torque Tools ÍaËĬ Ä ÁÄËÍ jË#ÜjÁ? Ë8 jÁË Award. There is no separate entry for this most prestigious award, as the winner will be chosen from the fi nalists of any of the other 10 categories. All fi nalists will also be automatically entered into the jÄÍjj jaË#Þw ÁaÄ ÁjË ÖÄ jÄÄË Awards 2017.

Entries will be narrowed to three short-listed fi nalists in each category, and winners will be announced at the Awards Dinner on Friday 5th May 2017, which will be held at the stunning Heythrop Park.

Cherwell Business Awards 2016 Winners: VË Á Í Ä Ë ? j ÄË Ía VË! W Ä ÄË!ÖÁÄjÁ jÄË Ía VË Ë ¾ ÁÖãË Ía VË8? Á?Üj Ë2 Ë Ía VË aß¾ÄË ?ÁMjÁË. VË ? MÖÁßËFË ÄÍÁ WÍË ÖÄË+Á jWÍ VË ÖÁ~jÄÄË-jW ? ?Í VË ~ Ë.¬jWË ¬ Ä ÍjÄ VË ÖÍÍjÁzË jÄË j? Í W?Áj VË. Ë ÍW wwjËrË8jM ?ÁÍË Ía If you are a business based in Cherwell district, then you could be one of the winners of this year’s Cherwell Business Awards. To enter a business or a business person, simply complete and submit an application form at cherwellbusinessawards.co.uk. The deadline for applications is February 14.

For more details, contact admin@ cherwellbusinessawards.co.uk

Magnox aims to build sustainable areas around former power station

Community benefits from ‘good neighbour’ funding Communities and good causes around Magnox sites benefitted from over £600,000 in funding last year from the company’s socio-economic scheme.

The scheme aims to help build sustainable communities around former nuclear power stations, and mitigate the impact decommissioning those sites has on the surrounding communities.

During 2016, Magnox supported eight projects around Harwell Site, including a contribution of £500 towards the Harwell family fun day, resources to assist with reading at Caldecott Primary School in Abingdon, £150 towards implementing a swimming gala at All Saint’s Primary School in Didcot and £1,000 to soundproof the village hall at Chilton.

“We are very pleased to be able to support the communities in which we work by funding projects and schemes that help encourage and develop education and skills, social infrastructure and sustainable employment,” said Harwell Site Closure Director Michael Dunnett.

“We have helped a number of organisations and charities to achieve their goals by providing fi nances and support, and it is our joint intention to make sure that our socio-economic support continues to achieve the greatest possible impact.

“We also recognise the importance of being a good neighbour in the communities we operate in, and

Magnox has helped a variety of community projects through its funding scheme would encourage smaller organisations to apply to us for support for things like sports shirts and nursery equipment.”

Magnox, the Cavendish Fluor Partnership and the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority work together to support a wide range of projects, from

large transformational schemes that receive multi-year funding to equipment that supports education and skills development.

Oxford alumni feature in top 30 under 30 for industries’ brightest Two Saïd Business School alumni, Dan Drummer and Matt Watters, have been listed in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 2017.

The annual compilation identifies 300 of the brightest young entrepreneurs, innovators and game changers from ten different sectors, and judges include industry leaders as well as fellow alumni.

Drummer (MBA 14) is listed within the Finance category. He is a Fintech expert and was a co-founder of TonalityTech, a company that provides big data and sentiment analysis solutions to the investment industry. Since fi nishing his MBA in 2015, Drummer has completed the Future of Fintech project for the World Economic Forum and worked as a management consultant for McKinsey & Company.

“To be listed in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 was a genuine surprise for me,” he said.

“I am humbled to be included in such a prestigious list. The MBA at Saïd Business School served as a valuable time to reflect and discover what I enjoy doing most, and it played

a critical role in bringing me to where I am today. Most of all, I am thankful for the many good friends, mentors and role models who have helped me along the way.”

Drummer now works for J.P. Morgan as Vice President for Fintech Strategy & Partnerships, where he is helping to build the Corporate & Investment Bank’s London-based Fintech team.

“Working at the intersection of emerging technologies, investment banking and the fast-pace entrepreneurial ecosystem is as exciting as it is demanding, and I feel blessed to be able to do what I love,” he said.

Matt Watters (MBA 12) is included within the Law & Policy section.

Since completing his MBA he has risen through the ranks of management consulting fi rm McKinsey & Company, where he now holds the position of Engagement Manager.

Watters’ current projects include a service to the Government of Sierra Leone that has enabled $800 million of investments into the country since the Ebola crisis.

Daniel Drummer is listed within the finance category

Thursday, February 9, 2017 57

THEOXFORDPAPER.CO.UK

BUSINESS

Helping hand with learning School can be a challenge, there may be a subject that is a little out of your or your child’s depth and they may need a little extra help.

Teacher Scott Woodley was working as a primary school teacher and saw how difficult it was for parents to find a tutor. Many were relying purely on word-of-mouth or old listings.

He said: “I wanted to bring more trust and transparency to this process so parents didn’t just have to go for the local tutor - they could choose the best tutor for their child.”

So, he had a plan; to set up a website to offer local tutors. “Tutora cover’s every subject and every age, with lots

of tutors ready to help.”

But, it would take technology analyst Mark Hughes to help make that dream a reality.

“Fortunately, I knew Mark - he knew how we could use technology to solve the problem in a really clever way that’s when we set up Tutora.”

Once the site was up and running it was just a matter of making sure they got the best tutors.

“We vet all of the tutors before they join us, and, because every lesson is booked on our site, we can see who the best tutors are and pull them to the top of the search results, whilst removing those who don’t offer a great service.”

Uncertainty in the market impacts on confidence in the Thames Valley

Parents and students are encouraged to leave reviews on the site to help others choose the right tutor for them.

Ultimately Scott and Mark want

to give access to anybody and everybody; “Hopefully we can help as many students as possible - that’s the aim anyway!”

Thanks a million! Drainage teams reach major milestone Wastewater engineers from Lanes Group have completed their 1,000,000th drainage maintenance job for Thames Water.

The company has totted up the total in little over four and a half years, as it has worked with Thames Water to keep its 68,000-mile network of drains and sewers across London and the Thames Valley flowing freely.

The 1,000,000 jobs total means that, over the last four years, Lanes has completed a job for Thames Water every two minutes and 20 seconds, and unblocked a drain every four minutes and 30 seconds.

The millionth job was to carry out a camera drainage survey in Wallington, South London. Lanes operates five regional maintenance hubs in London, Hertfordshire, Oxfordshire, Surrey, and Buckinghamshire.

Just over 500,000 of the jobs Lanes engineers have carried out since summer 2012 have been unblocking sewers and drains.

The rest have been a mix of vital wastewater maintenance tasks, including camera drainage surveys (7%), drain excavations (6%), and wastewater clean-ups (3%).

Andy Brierley, director of Lanes’ Thames Water wastewater maintenance contract, said: “We support 100% Thames Water’s ‘Bin it – don’t block it’ campaign against putting fats, oils, wipes and sanitary products down drains, as a frightening number of blockages we deal with daily are the result of this behaviour.

“Reaching this total is a testament to the dedication of our teams and the strength of our partnership with Thames Water.

“By completing one million jobs, we will have helped many millions more customers, as each incident we’re called to often impacts on multiple homes and businesses.

“Our ethos has been to constantly push back the boundaries of what’s possible in wastewater

From left, Lanes Group Technical Director Andy Brierley presents CCTV engineers Luigi Coulter and Aaron Clark with tablets for carrying out the millionth job with right, Lanes Utilities Head of Operations Michael Hall. maintenance productivity, while delivering the highest standards of safety and customer service.”

Steve Spencer, head of Thames Water’s customer field services, added: “This is a great milestone for Thames Water and for Lanes, and demonstrates the great relationship the two companies have developed.

“We send our congratulations to the team that’s had the honour of tackling the millionth job today, and know they will have delivered the same great service to our customers that Lanes and Thames Water strive for every day.”

Thames Water awarded Lanes Group one of two wastewater network maintenance contracts in 2012, and made the company its sole wastewater maintenance partner in 2014.

Its 250 specialist drainage vehicles, with their eye-catching pink and blue livery, are regularly seen criss-crossing the Thames Water region supporting the utility provider’s 15 million wastewater customers.

Lanes Group’s wastewater teams, made up of 880 field engineers and 220 support staff, are pioneering the use of Cloud and digital app technology to make drain and sewer maintenance much more efficient and safer.

Mr Brierley said: “From day one we have worked with Thames Water to introduce advances in sewer condition diagnostics, GPS drainage mapping and remote access cleaning and sewer rehabilitation not just maintain the system, but to significantly improve it, and that work continues apace.”

This innovative approach now allows Lanes teams to carry out an average of nearly 1,000 sewer and drain maintenance jobs every day.

During periods of peak pressure, they complete 135 such tasks every hour.

All maintenance work is planned, scheduled and tracked at a new Customer Solutions Centre, in Slough, Berkshire. There, Lanes teams now work alongside Thames Water colleagues to optimise the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the operation.

All maintenance jobs are recorded and tracked using a Cloud-based digital platform called FieldViewer. It has been developed by Techfinity, which donated tablets given to team members to celebrate the milestone.

Profitability and turnover growth in the Thames Valley slowed in the second half of 2016, according to the latest Thames Valley Business Barometer published today by accountancy and business advisory firm BDO and PR and marketing agency C8 Consulting.

Almost two thirds of companies surveyed stated profitability had either improved or stayed the same compared to 82% in the spring. A similar pattern was also observed in regard to turnover, with 71% reporting that it had either increased or remained the same compared to 85% earlier in the year.

The survey, which was conducted during a six week period from September to October 2016, revealed that just 48% of business leaders felt that general levels of economic confidence had either improved or remained the same in the last six months versus 70% earlier in the year (and 92% in autumn 2015), suggesting a drastic reduction in confidence which is now impacting on business performance with a drop in turnover, profit and pipeline.

In this latest survey, headcount remained relatively stable although increases in headcount had slowed.

83% percent of respondents reported numbers either having increased or remained the same compared with 85% in June. Looking ahead to the next six months, the region’s business leaders expect this stability to continue.

Simon Brooker, Partner and Head of BDO LLP in the Thames Valley, said: “Despite the apparent drop in profitability, confidence and turnover, other barometer indicators such as headcount and staff attrition still remain healthy. When looking forward, predictions around turnover and profitability are slightly more optimistic although neither are expected to return to the levels we saw 12 months earlier.

“Eight months ago businesses appeared to be erring on the side of caution. In this survey however confidence showed a marked decline and is at its lowest level since the Barometer began. It will be interesting to see how this plays out over the coming months as EU negotiations take centre stage.

Future Barometer surveys should give a clearer picture of how current events have affected businesses “ The latest Business Barometer also looked at the impact of the EU referendum results. Of more than 150 businesses surveyed, only 2% said that nothing concerned them as a result of Brexit. The need for clarity about the rules of trading with EU countries (58%) and the investment by government in local infrastructure (52%) came out as the two top concerns. Other matters of concern included: the impact of protracted uncertainty caused by the delay in leaving, the impact of clients cancelling or delaying their projects, the impact of changes to the exchange rate, and the impact on the ability to recruit and retain the best talent.

Despite the concerns, however, three key opportunities were identified as having arisen as a result of Brexit: the fall in the value of the pound leading to a boost for exporters, tourism and for inward investment, especially from non EU countries; the ability for the UK to agree its own trade deals with countries outside the EU and, the ability to set our own rules and make the UK more attractive for business.

58 Thursday, February 9, 2017

News/Advertising Call 01235 511700

Property How are Oxford house prices performing?

Bill Cooper, co-author of The Oxford Property Blog and managing director of Martin and Co, Oxford

In recent weeks many people have asked how Oxford house prices have performed over 2016, and how different parts of Oxford are performing relative to others.

Over the last 12 months there were 3,202 property transactions across Oxford which was 12 per cent down on the previous 12-month period.

Despite a fall in volumes, Rightmove advises Oxford prices are six per cent up on the previous year, so reduced volumes have not been mirrored by reduced demand, which remains buoyant.

By property type, apartments have performed the best, increasing 14.5 per cent over the last 12 months, followed by detached houses at 7.1 per cent, terraced at 6.4 per cent and semi-detached at just 2.5 per cent.

According to Rightmove, the average value of property sold last year in Oxford is £492,531, six per cent up on the previous year and 16 per cent up since 2014.

However the spread in performance across Oxford’s main sub-markets is from -9 per cent (Wolvercote) to +14 per cent (Greater Leys).

The top five performing areas of Oxford since 2014 are Greater Leys, Kennington, Kidlington, Cumnor Hill, and Boars Hill. Over the last 12 months however the picture looks quite different, the top five being Greater Leys, Cumnor Hill, Kennington, Cowley, and Marston.

This suggests that after a very strong showing in 2015, Kidlington has paused a little, consolidating the gains rising at a steadier five per cent over the last 12 months. However, it is interesting to note the strength of the market in Greater Leys as people search for better affordability and for landlords stronger rental yields.

New developments in Cumnor Hill are lifting prices and transaction volume with prices up 13 per cent, again offering good value and better rental yields for investors.

So how has Oxford performed relative to other UK cities? The average house price in Cambridge is £472,590, and has increased in value by 16 per cent since 2014 – closely matching Oxford which remains a little more expensive.

Bath has an average price of £442,250 but a stronger growth profile since 2014 of 22 per cent which is comparable growth to neighbouring Bristol, where an average property is considerably lower at £284,100. It is also interesting to look at Oxford’s neighbour, Bicester, where the average property is worth £312,539 - some £180,000 below Oxford, showing comparable two-year growth of 17 per cent.

There remains an air of uncertainty despite positive economic data, but most commentators agree that Oxford should comfortably match the average UK market forecast of six per cent to 6.5 per cent increase in average prices during 2017.

Over the last five years Oxford property values have increased by 37 per cent, 2017 looks set to add to that growth positively.

The pursuit of forever family homes With its outstanding schools and world class university, Oxford is perennially popular amongst families, keen to give their children the best start in life.

Inevitably, demand for family homes outweighs supply and, with Stamp Duty levies penalising homes priced over £1million, competition for large detached properties priced under this threshold is more acute than ever.

Mark Charter, Partner, Carter Jonas Oxford, comments: “Oxford has always been a hotspot for families, not least because of the high calibre of schools - both state and independent - that draw in pupils from far and wide.

“Irrespective of broader market conditions, there is consistent demand for three to five-bedroom homes and these often achieve prices in excess of £1million.

“We often advise applicants to act quickly when family homes come onto the market. A property might need some work and indeed might have extension potential, but it’s important to approach each viewing with vision and an understanding of what the house could become. Needless to say that family homes don’t languish in the Oxford market for long.”

One example of a newly launched family house is 70 Blenheim Drive - a three-bedroom house located about a mile and a half north of the city centre, close to the popular Summertown area. The home sits in a generous plot which offers scope for further development.

70 Blenheim Drive is priced at £975,000.

For those in search of period charm, Fant Cottage is a five-bedroom cottage located in the peaceful hamlet of Garford, approximately 20 minutes’ drive from the centre of Oxford.

Dating back to the 17th Century, the cottage has been extended over time and now offers flexible living accommodation – ideal for families.

Fant Cottage is priced at £965,000.

For more information on these properties and others in the area contact Carter Jonas Oxford on 0186 556 6547 or visitwww.carterjonas.co.uk.

A light and spacious newly built house finished to a particularly high standard and set in a quiet side road in the heart of Summertown is available to rent now through Carter Jonas for £2,950 a month.

The property benefits from hard flooring throughout the ground floor, a good size enclosed rear garden and driveway parking for two cars. Accommodation comprises: entrance hall, sitting room, family room/ dining room, good size open plan kitchen/ breakfast room with bi fold doors leading to garden. Utility room and cloakroom wc. 1st Floor: Master bedroom with en suite, family bathroom, two further bedrooms. 2nd Floor: two bedrooms and bathroom.

Lonsdale Road Oxford, OX2

Newlyweds find dream home that ticks all the boxes thanks to help to buy A PAIR of newlyweds have found their dream David Wilson Home at Great Western Park in Didcot thanks to the government-backed Help to Buy scheme.

Eloise and Roger Wilson, who married recently, were attracted to the Blackthorn Road development because of its convenient location and attractive homes.

After viewing a three bedroom, semi-detached home, the couple found that Great Western Park suited their lifestyle and offered an array of local amenities they could benefit from.

They are now both able to take advantage of the fantastic commuter

links to Oxford and London, whilst enjoying their peaceful, semi-rural location.

Their black pug called Harry is also enjoying the new home as it’s close to a number of country parks meaning he can enjoy long walks, and it has a generously sized garden for him to play in.

Eloise, 33, said: “We had already lived in Didcot and liked the area so we wanted to remain local and when we saw the Great Western Park development we fell in love with the houses.

“We knew that David Wilson Homes had a five star rating as a housebuilder and were very impressed by the sense of space that is given in the homes.

“The transport links to Oxford and London were very important to myself and Roger when looking for our new home so that we could both get to work easily.

“We wanted to have a home that we could personalise to our own tastes and it was made so much easier with

the use of the government-backed Help to Buy scheme where we reserved our home with just a 5% deposit.”

Eloise and Roger took advantage of the Government Help to Buy scheme, which enabled them to buy a better house than they imagined possible with the help of a 20% equity loan. They also benefited from the support of the team at David Wilson Homes, making the move smooth and stress-free.

Eloise works as a Client Services Executive with a coaching consultancy and benefits from the easy access to the M4.

Roger, who works as a butler, cycles to the nearby Didcot Parkway train station where it takes him just 15 minutes to get into his job in Oxford.

Roger, 27, said: “This house suits our lifestyle perfectly, especially as newlyweds looking to settle down, because now we have all the space we need and the garden is a really generous size perfect for Harry to have a run around in.

“The sales team in the marketing suite were also really very helpful and friendly with good knowledge of the house types and development.”

Sharon Smith, Sales Manager at David Wilson Homes Southern, said: “We are delighted to hear that Eloise and Roger have settled into their new home at Great Western Park.

“This development offers beautifully crafted homes that are tailored to suit a range of different homebuyers and has interiors that can easily be changed to reflect your tastes, so it’s great to hear they can make it their own.”

Thursday, February 9, 2017 59

theoxfordpaper.co.uk

www.OxfordPropertyBlog.co.uk is hosting a Landlord Seminar

LANDLORDS – How confident are you that you understand the changes to mortgage interest rate relief and WHAT IT WILL MEAN FOR YOU? I f you have any doubts, don’t worry!

www.OxfordPropertyBlog.co.uk

is hosting a seminar a Landlord Seminar on 2 March 2017.

Featuring expert speakers from Martin & Co, Hedges Law, Critchleys Chartered Accountants and London & Country Mortgages.

The seminar will ensure you understand the changes to mortgage interest rate relief that is to be phased-in from April 2017. And, you will learn from experts about how to put in place sensible plans to minimise the financial impact on your income.

The Seminar will commence at 6pm and finish at 7.30pm at The Oxford Spires Hotel, Abingdon Road, Oxford, OX1 4PS. The event is limited to just 150 places.

This is the first in a series of planned seminars through 2017, and will provide you with easily understood information and the practical steps you can take now, to minimise the financial impact to you.

Commencing at 6pm you will still be home by 8pm, having heard from local experts over 90 minutes.

At the event you will hear from:

Gerry Jackson a Chartered Tax Advisor and Director at Critchleys Carl Selby a Solicitor and Head of Business Services at Hedges Law Ollie Sills a Manager at London & Country Mortgages Bill Cooper Managing Director of Martin & Co Oxford And, there will be time to pick their brains before, during or after the seminar.

You will be run through the changes to mortgage interest rate relief planned from 5 April 2017 and how they will phase-in progressively over the coming years.

Through worked examples, you will know how to assess the impact on you. You will learn about the factors that need to be considered when planning how to off-set the financial impacts of the changes, and we will explore in some detail the pros and cons of setting up a company structure, and the opportunity to re-mortgage given the changes many lenders have implemented since the start of 2017.

Please reserve your place by emailing info@OxfordPropertyBlog.co.uk

Letting • Sales • Investment

01 8 6 5 8 1 2 1 1 0

News/Advertising Call 01235 511700

Whitecross

£375,000

North Abingdon

£450,000

Three bedroomed detached house with planning consent to erect a three bedroomed attached property, with garden and parking. EPC - D

Abingdon on Thames

£400,000

Located within the Old Gaol development in the centre of Abingdon on Thames, a beautifully presented two bedroom, two bathroom apartment with stunning views. EPC - C

LE

A superbly presented semi-detached bungalow sold with no onward chain. Three bedrooms, a generous open plan kitchen/dining/family room and a family bathroom. EPC - C

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Abingdon on Thames 01235 550550 breckon.co.uk

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Southmoor

O PRNE HO PE N WA W IC U N EW NT SE ED E

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TC

£865,000 Guide Price

H OP O EN U SE

PRNE IC W E

A breath taking family home of an exceptional standard. The spacious entrance hall leads through to the triple aspect sitting room, with wood stove and French doors to the rear garden. An open plan contemporary kitchen with granite worktops and ample space for both dining and family areas. An oak staircase rises to the first floor to five double bedrooms, the master and guest room with en suites and the family bathroom. Double garage and off road parking to the front and a private rear garden. EPC - B

Abingdon on Thames A beautifully spacious first floor apartment in the superb conversion of the former Morland brewery. Tastefully decorated throughout and a refitted 'boutique hotel' style bathroom, give the apartment a wonderfully modern feel. The open plan living space has a generous kitchen area and light and airy dining and sitting areas with lofty ceilings and dual aspect views.

Allocated parking space and communal gardens. A perfect investment or a first purchase.

EPC - C

H OP O EN U SE

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Guide Price £250,000

Radley

£750,000

A well presented four bedroomed family home, overlooking open fields. Three reception rooms and a fabulous loft conversion. A mature rear garden, ample parking and a garage. EPC - C

Abingdon Marina

£610,000

A fantastic opportunity to purchase a three bedroom home with direct river frontage views, up stream towards the town. Two receptions, fitted kitchen, bathroom and integral garage. EPC - C

Chilton

£525,000

A lovely double fronted, four bedroom detached house, comprising: entrance hall, cloaks, dual aspect sitting room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, two bathrooms. Private rear garden. EPC - B

North Abingdon

£375,000

A superbly presented home, with three bedrooms, bathroom, two receptions and a conservatory.

Attractive east facing garden, garage and block paved drive. EPC - C

Contact our Abingdon on Thames office

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Abingdon on Thames £1,500 pcm

Lower Radley

£2,500 pcm

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A stunning five bedroom family home in this popular village location. This property is newly built and highly energy efficient. Large rear garden with patio area and off street parking.

Available Immediately

PRNE IC W E

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Abingdon Lettings 01235 554040 breckon.co.uk

A stunning ground floor two bed apartment with private balcony.

Available immediately.

Dorchester On Thames H OP O EN U SE

A stunning grade II listed property in this popular village location, tucked down a quiet lane.

Three bedrooms, bathroom with bath and separate shower cubicle, spacious reception room and fully fitted kitchen. Open fire, beautiful mature garden and parking.

Available Immediately

£1,395 pcm

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Abingdon

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Newly refurbished Grade II listed three bedroom house packed with period features and charm.

Available immediately

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£900 pcm

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A duplex two bed apartment with original features in a fantastic location in the heart of Abingdon.

Available Immediately

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£1,100 pcm

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A modern end-terrace house in this popular residential cul-de-sac. Two bedrooms, access in to enclosed rear garden. Available immediately

PRNE IC W E

Kennington

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Abingdon

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£1,050 pcm

Newly converted first & second floor duplex apartment in a fantastic location. Furnished.

Available 3rd February

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£995 pcm

Contact our Abingdon Lettings office

Abingdon

£685 pcm

A stunning en-suite bedroom with a private shower room. Utilities included. Furnished. No parking.

Available 21st February

62 Thursday, February 9, 2017

News/Advertising Call 01235 511700

Andrews Abingdon

Abingdon

01235 888393

NEW PROPERTY

NEW PROPERTY

Abingdon

£410,000

Situated on the Harwell development in North Abingdon, within the catchment of Rush Common Primary school is this family home. EPC Rating D.

NEW PROPERTY

Abingdon £465,000

A super four bedroom detached home. This property has been extended by the current owners to create a versatile, generous layout. EPC Rating D.

NEW PROPERTY

Abingdon

Abingdon

£305,000

North Abingdon three bedroom home perfect for families, situated 2 miles from Thomas Reade and Rush Common Primary Schools. EPC Rating C.

NEW PROPERTY

£210,000

A well presented two bedroom first floor flat with the added benefit of off street parking. EPC rating E

NEW PROPERTY

Abingdon

£345,000

Superb three bedroom semi-detached house within 1.4 miles of Abingdon town centre. EPC Rating C.

Abingdon £340,000

Open everyday 12 hours in-branch, 24 hours online at andrewsonline.co.uk

Families will love the outlook overlooking a playground, this three bed home is located within Rush Common catchment. EPC Rating D.

To view 6,500 more properties available through our 80 offices, andrewsonline.co.uk

Thursday, February 9, 2017 63

theoxfordpaper.co.uk

Andrewsonline.co.uk

Trying to plan your next property move?

Let’s talk.

Our Property Consultations are a great way to get expert property advice. With no obligation whatsoever.

Book your free Property Consultation today.

Abingdon

Sales 01235 888 393

Lettings 01235 535 660

Twitter: @Andrewsonline Facebook: /Andrewsonline #nextmove

Andrews Q1 Property Weekly 340x270.indd 1

06/01/2017 2:48 pm

64 Thursday, February 9, 2017

News/Advertising Call 01235 511700

More than just lettings...

ABINGDON

1 BED

ABINGDON

0.9%

Lets Talk

Sales!

R AP ETIR AR EM TM E EN NT T

3 BED

commission* INC VAT

A much larger than average, three bedroomed SEMI DETACHED property, offering good size living accommodation, with 3 double bedrooms.

£350,000

2 BED

DIDCOT

A two bedroom MID-TERRACE HOUSE in a quiet Cul-de-Sac location on the desirable Ladygrove development. The property is positioned in a very convenient location close to Didcot Parkway Station. £255,000

One bedroom APARTMENT in this popular RETIREMENT development, with views over the immaculate well maintained communal gardens.

£150,000

3 BED

ABINGDON

A 3 Bedroom semi-detached HOUSE situated close to ABINGDON town centre. The property is offered in an immaculate condition. Outside is a sunny rear garden and the property offers off street parking. £290,000

THINKING?

What’s your

of moving

property worth?

Martin & Co now sell property.

*Terms and Conditions apply.

Martin & Co Abingdon 8-10 West St. Helen Street • Abingdon • Oxfordshire • OX14 5BL

01235 524300 www.martinco.com • abingdon@martinco.com

More than just lettings...

2 BED

DORCHESTER ON THAMES

4 BED

YARNTON

Martin & Co

let a property every...

Finished to a VERY HIGH STANDARD with STYLISH PERIOD FEATURES a converted MEWS HOUSE offered unfurnished and arranged over 3 floors. Viewings highly recommended.

PETS CONSIDERED. £1,325 PCM

2 BED

DIDCOT

A MODERN and SPACIOUS 2 bedroom APARTMENT located in the great western development in DIDCOT. The property offers open plan living and ALLOCATED PARKING. Close to Milton park and Didcot parkway train station. £925 PCM

A fabulous DETACHED house located in the rural VILLAGE of YARNTON with good access to OXFORD and WOODSTOCK. The property has easy access to A34 and is a short drive from Oxford and Water Eaton Station. £1,695 PCM

3 BED

BESSELSLEIGH

A semi DETACHED period COTTAGE, set in an attractive RURAL area within the private estate and a working farm close to ABINGDON. The property is ideally located for good access to OXFORD and ABINGDON. £1,200 PCM

Martin & Co Abingdon 8-10 West St. Helen Street • Abingdon • Oxfordshire • OX14 5BL

01235 524300 www.martinco.com • abingdon@martinco.com

Isn’t it time you switched agents?

minutes. *

*7 minutes has been calculated using the total number of lets Martin & Co completed in 2012 divided by a 312 day year (52 weeks x 6 working days per week) and a 9 hour trading day (our office opening hours).

Thursday, February 9, 2017 65

theoxfordpaper.co.uk

GOLD GOLD

south east estate south east agency estate agency

2016 2016

me dium agenc y me dium agenc y

CHILDREY A beautifully restored detached 500 yr old Grade II Listed cottage, formerly the village Smithy, full of character and period details. Attached unconverted barn, No EPC required. £895,000 Wantage office 01235 772670

DIDCOT A well presented detached house situated on popular Ladygrove development.

Within walking distance from local amenities including shops, the All Saints Primary School and Didcot Parkway station. Awaiting EPC Rating £375,000 Didcot office 01235 818371

WANTAGE A beautiful period home situated in a premium location within walking distance to the market place. With well presented and flexible accommodation arranged over three floors and a sizeable rear garden. EPC Rating D. £365,000 Wantage office 01235 772670

ABINGDON-ON-THAMES An immaculately presented 3/4 bedroom extended family home with a South facing garden. Awaiting EPC

SO ST LD C

£339,950 Abingdon office 01235 526907

CHILTON SOLD SUBJECT TO CONTRACT IN 24 HOURS - SIMILAR PROPERTIES URGENTLY REQUIRED £329,950 Didcot office 01235 818371

DIDCOT Immaculately presented 2 bedroom end terrace house. The property is conveniently located for nearby science and business parks as well as the A34 and Didcot Parkway. EPC Rating C £269,950 Didcot office 01235 818371

Abingdon 01235 526907 Burghfield Common 0118 983 1201 Didcot 01235 818 371 Goring on Thames 01491 873456 Henley on Thames 01491 412345 Maidenhead 01628 566188 Pangbourne 0118 984 5333 Reading 0118 958 7979 Shinfield 0118 988 5000 Sonning Common 0118 972 4242 Twyford 0118 934 4433 Wallingford 01491 833323 Wantage 01235 772670 Woodley 0118 969 3969

66 Thursday, February 9, 2017

News/Advertising Call 01235 511700

Recruitment

To place a recruitment advert contact Tara on 01235 516917 or tara@taylornewspapers.co.uk

Five tips for hiring an employee? list of qualifications, skills, experience, and characteristics. You’ll be spending your time with your most qualified candidates when hiring an employee. And, that is a good use of your time.

Hiring the right employee is a challenging process.

Hiring the wrong employee is expensive, costly to your work environment, and time consuming

Hiring the right employee starts with a job analysis. The job analysis enables you to collect information about the duties, responsibilities, necessary skills, outcomes, and work environment of a particular job.

The information from the job analysis is fundamental to developing the job description for the new employee. The job description assists you to plan your recruiting strategy for hiring the right employee.

Plan your employee recruiting strategy With the job description in hand, set up a recruiting planning meet-

ing that involves the key employees who are hiring the new employee.

The hiring manager is crucial to the planning. At this meeting, your recruiting strategy is planned and the execution begins. Teams that have worked together frequently in hiring an employee can often complete this step via email.

Effective background checks are one of the most important steps when hiring an employee. You need to verify that all the presented, sterling credentials, skills, and experience are actually possessed by your candidate.

The background checks must include work references, especially former supervisors, educational credentials, employment references and actual jobs held, and criminal history. Other background checks when hiring an employee, such as credit history, must be specifically related to the job for which you are hiring an employee.

Review credentials & applications carefully The work of reviewing resumes, cover letters, job applications, and job application letters starts with a well-written job description. Your bulletted list of the most desired characteristics of the most qualified candidate was developed as part of the recruiting planning process.

Screen all applicants against this

SITUATIONS WANTED

REQUIRE A

Hydraulic Repair Specalists

Check backgrounds and references when hiring an employee

FULL-TIME CENTRE LATHE TURNER

Must have manual centre lathe and milling experience.

Please email CV to Steve@gilsoneng.co.uk or tel: 01635 41924

A qualified and experienced lady, educated to degree standard, looking for work with children or the elderly.

Residential considered.

Please call Ann 07479 643 155

HOME CARERS WANTED in Oxford City.

Own Car essential. www.acquirecare.co.uk

01865 338050 Part of the Johnston Quarry Group in North Oxford

TWO BANKER MASONS required for immediate start

The Grange Care Centre RATED OUTSTANDING BY CQC

Part time multi-drop driver

One day a week - every Thursday and with own van.

Please call 01235 516901

Stanford in the Vale, Faringdon, Oxfordshire, SN7 8HU requires

CARE ASSISTANTS Full Time & Part Time

Training will be available. Starting rate is £7.85

SELF EMPLOYED OR EMPLOYED

REGISTERED NURSES

Call Maurice on

Day and Night duty. Rate of pay is £14.50

or maurice@buildingstone.co.uk

To discuss this further please ring Wendy Mead on 01367 718836 or email thegrange@foresthc.com

07786 171 513

WANTED

Full Time & Part Time

The positions are subject to Enhanced Disclosure and a POVA check being carried out

To place a recruitment advert contact Tara on 01235 516917 or tara@taylornewspapers.co.uk

Define the job before hiring an employee

Wanted

Home Carers in Oxford Support Workers in Witney & Oxford Hourly rate from £7.84 to £10.15 (extra at weekends) Call 01865 744174 or email info.ox@1st-homecare.com www.1st-homecare.com

Wanted

Artworkers

We are looking to expand our team of artworkers in our friendly but busy newspaper production department.

Essential Skills: The ability to create technically correct press-ready files using InDesign.

Be able to work in an organised and structured manner, and be calm and logical under pressure due to the strict deadlines.

Enjoy working as part of a team.

Desirable Skills: Illustrator, Photoshop and Wordpress would be good The Role Includes: Laying out editorial pages with some image correction. Creating/amending adverts from advertisers brief (usually quite straightforward, but some creative ads required).

To apply: Email your CV and some examples of your work to peter@taylornewspapers.co.uk or call 01235 516934.

Thursday, February 9, 2017 67

THEOXFORDPAPER.CO.UK

THE

OXFORD PAPER

Classified Pages Soft Furnishings

Garden & Furniture

PORTABLE massage cushion for home or car,as new, cost £200, sell for £50. Tel. 01865 763851

TWO small easy chairs, newly upholstered, £45. Six dining chairs, extending table, vgc, £85. Tel. 01295 730410

MOTHERCARE moses basket, C/W stand, used once, like new, £55 ono. Tel. 01235 534246

Trades Services

PHILLIP BALL

Decorating (Quality Service) since 1978

• Interior Exterior • Domestic, Commercial • General maintenance For Free Estimate Call:

(01235) 529 256 Mobile:

07860 864459 phillipball@phillipball.co.uk or visit www.phillipball.co.uk

RUBBER wood dining table, 106cm round, four brand new leather chairs, £85 ono. Tel. 01235 531883 GARAGE bench, carpenter made, solid wood, L6ft H3ft D2ft, underneath shelf, very heavy, £50. buyer collects. Tel. 01235 201655

INDOOR “hostess” trolly with adjustable height and two trays. As new £15. Tel. 07950 719003

SOFA bed, immaculate condition, as new, light brown pastel peach/ pink flowers, non smoking/pet, buyer collects, £135. Tel. 01235 559250

FOLDING wheelchair, excellent condition, No offers. £65. Tel. 01993 881038 DIMPLEX electric inset coal effect Valve master B-D, £175. Tel. 01235 847488 FIRE flickering flame. Brass fret under hood controls, black brass surround unmarked, £50. Tel. 01865 361393 FOR sale. Swan fridge freezer.

Cost £259, asking £110 11 months old. Tel: 077669 32373 HIGH End Panasonic radio cd tape as new, boxed, costs £200 new, sell for £65. Tel. 01235 537953

21 years service to the motorist

WWII German officers motorcycle long leather coat, dark green, large, £175 ono. Tel. 07876 196 850 1950S/60S Police heavy woolen long coat, cape, and cap, with badges, £175 ono. Tel. 07876 196 850

VOLVO specialists in Witney

D&A AUTOS

Newland, Witney

GERMANY WWII Luftwaffa pilots leather jacket, brown, £175ono. Tel. 07876 196 850

Sales Service Repair MoT

LARGE well made dining table, 95x160 extends to210, dark wood, comes apart to transport. Seats 8-10. £50. Tel. 01235 799345 SET of dining chairs x 4. Late Victorian in good solid condition.

Leather seats. (can email photos). £60 set. Tel. 01865 762859 SIX dining chairs and table, vgc £85. Two cream small newly upholstered chairs. £45. Tel. 01295 730410 TV Unit, light oak, H 53cm, W 130cm, D 41cm Heart of House, Elford, Argos catalogue - page 1006 £75. Tel. 01235 770660 OAK TV unit as seen on page 1006 Argos Catalogue, Heart of House Elford, £90 ono. Tel. 01235 770660

DEADLINE: Tuesday 12 noon including Bank Holidays Need more than 35 words? Then call us for a GREAT DEAL on Classified Display Advertising PLEASE CALL 01235 511700

GABERDINE trousers W36, brand new bargain £5. Tel. 01608 644877

WHEELCHAIR, small wheels, good condition, folds for transport. £60. Car scissor jack, brand new £5. Tel. 07950 719003

RING portable power pack/charger, used twice. Cost over £100. Accept £50. Oxford. Tel. 07759 469 219

TOYOTA cup 1999 in Tokyo. Man United v Palmeira. Football programme, mint condition, £125. Tel. 01993 772910

MOBILITY scooter, shop rider, battery charger, good condition, £385 ono. Tel. 01295 268401

TRANSIT van rear seat for extra passenger, hardly used, £50 ono.

Tel. 07876 196 850

JOHN Lennon, Life with the Lions, USA Apple LP £30. Tel. 01189 667942

LIGHT wheelchair 46cm seat width plus cushion plus shopping bag, used once, bargain £85. Tel. 01865 371968

Wanted

OVER 20 Ben10 magazines in A4 ringbinder folder with adventures, puzzles, missions, comics, how to draw and more £5ono 07952909075

WHEELCHAIR, attendant propelled, small wheels, folds for transport, cost £130, sell £50. Tel. Ox 361363

COLLECTIONS of Old Postcards from before 1930. WANTED. Old coins, all pre-decimal, including foreign. CASH PAID. Call PETER on 01280 813598 (27/1)

MAGIC set £2 07952909075 STAR Wars jigsaw puzzle £2 07952909075

FOUR wheeled mobility walker with seat, bag, brakes, excellent condition, used twice, cost £109, sell £60. Text after 2pm. Tel. 07714 927 809

STONE coloured shirt XL, still in packet, never worn £5. Tel. 01608 644877 WOOL sweater, bottle green, sleeveless, brand new £5. Tel., 01608 644877 BLACK chinos, double pleat W36, never worn, still has label on, bargain £5. Tel. 01608 644877 ECCO 3 strap velcro shoes, dark blue, unworn, was £60, sell £30, size 42 (8). Tel. 01865 454713 DARK blue suede slippers, moccasin style, new, £6, size 8. Tel. 01865 454713 30 Ty Beany toys, £1 each, will sell, seperate furry ones. Tel. 01993 705932 MURPHY Upright 1950s Radio £8, needs TLC. Tel. 01189 667940 SHAKESPEARE Fishing Box/ seat with keep net and landing net. Would suit beginner. £20. Tel. 01844 278913

THE OXFORD PAPER

Classified Advertising Coupon

How to place an advert

CHARGES: Private & Trade Accommodation, Antiques & Collectables, Business Services, Computers, Garden Furniture, Household Items, Mobility, Soft Furnishings, Trades Services, Vehicles for Sale 5p per letter (inc VAT) (minimum 12 words) Family Announcements, Personal, Public Notices, Recruitment 10p per letter (inc VAT) (minimum 12 words) for all categories except Under £50 Free Ads

GREEN trousers with belt and turn ups 34” waist, never worn. bargain £5. Tel. 01608 644877

COLLECTION of Piggin figures by David Conbridge, excellent condition, to view figures contact 01993 772910. Open to offers.

Classified Advertising Fill in the coupon and post it to us with your cheque or go online www.theoxfordpaper.co.uk where you can book and pay for your advert

LADIES classic mid grey striped trouser suit, worn once, again £45.

Size 14. Tel. 01865 454713

Antiques & Collectables

CAR tyre. Goodyear 195/50/R15, new spare £15. Also Golf GTI wheel and tyre 205/55/R16 £15, plus scissor jack £5. Tel. 07950 719003

SET off stainless steel cutlery, 12 of each knives, forks, spoons, tea spoons, cake forks, £8. Tel. 01865 454713

OLD wireless circa 40’s, offers. Tel. 01865 454713

STANNAH Active 4-wheel walking aid, walking stick holder, seat, room for bag. £65. Cost more than double. Hardly used. Tel. 01865 770878

WANTED: Morris Marina, parts wanted, F&R mudflats, halogen H4 headlights, velour headrests, chrome wheel trim rings, alloy wheels, radio. Tel. 07598 938918

DARK Wood Hall Stand, 1930’s 6ft 4ins tall x 2ft 2ins wide with centre round mirror, 6 double coat hooks, in reasonable condition. £40. Tel. 01869 252987

ECCO shoes, ladies, light brown lace up, unworn, was £75, sell £45, size 42 (8). Tel. 01865 454713

Ability Matters Oxford Approved Motability Dealer Great Finance Deals Available Wheelchair Hire from just £20 per week!

332 Abingdon Road, Oxford, OX1 4TQ Tel: 01865 242 500

01993 700545 www.da-autos.co.uk

Under £50 Free Ads

LADIES classic rain coat. colour beige and brown trim, size 10/12, length - full, accept £45. Tel. 01865 454713

Mobility

EDEN Greenhouse 8x6, some glass missing, two tubular heaters included £80. Ready dismantled.

Tel. 07985 492 960

BUREAU, solid rose wood, three draws, excellent condition, £90.

Tel. 01865 763851

Please call 01235 511700

For Sale & Wanted

TV unit, light oak, H53cm x W130cm x D41. £50. Tel. 01235 770660

SCHREIBER wardrobe with shelves, good condition, £50. Tel. 01865 749098

To Book a Classified Display Advert

WWII German Motorcycle short leather coat, dark green, medium, £150 ono. Tel. 07876 196 850

VERB folding power chair, excellent condition, maximum user weight 115kg (253lb), £100. Tel. 01280 704259

Household Items

ACOUSTIC Solutions – SP101 Amp, 40W, per channel and matching SP111 DAB/FM tuner, CW ins + remotes, £75 ono. Tel. 01295 254979 after 6pm

Vehicles

For Classified Lineage Advertising either fill in the coupon or go online www.theoxfordpaper.co.uk

Please use one box for each word - Use this coupon for Paid-for or Under £50 Free Adverts

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68 Thursday, February 9, 2017

News/Advertising Call 01235 511700

Motors

More for less from Volkswagen The updated Volkswagen Golf opened for orders last week with the option of all-new engines, more technology, improved connectivity and revised styling for an average of £650 less (RRP OTR) than the outgoing car.

Retaining the former starting price of just £17,625 (RRP OTR) for the entry-level updated Golf S 1.0 TSI 85 PS three-door1 the new Golf is driving even more value, style and desirability into what is aptly named by many the ‘Golf class’.

Emerging from Volkswagen factories around the globe at an average pace of one every 40 seconds for the last 43 years, the brand’s family favourite arrives in U K

showrooms towards the end of March but order books are already opening for the eagerly awaited updated version of the most popular European car to date.

With global sales now well in excess of 33 million since its launch more than four decades ago (1974), more than two million of which are to UK buyers, the updated version of the seventh generation Golf is once again redefi ning its mark e t

segment by bringing ‘big car’ technology to the compact family car class.

Democratising quality and value is a longstanding Volkswagen tenet and it is enthusiastically employed in the updated Golf. Now standard across the range are LED rear lights, for instance, while the majority of models across the Golf hatchback and Estate line-up are also now offered with a new generation of larger and more sophisticated touchscreen infotainment s y s tems.

Indeed, the new Golf sparkles with technical innovations. So, for the fi rst time in the compact class and depending on model, the new Discover Navigation Pro radio-navigation and online system can be operated via gesture control. Sporting a 9.2-inch screen, the system complements the Active Info Display that is also new in the Golf and appears as standard on all Performance Golfs. Meanwhile, the range of online services and apps has also been enlarged.

The UK line-up retains a familiar feel, beginning in the hatchback range with S and rising through SE, SE Nav, GT, R-Line, GTE, GTE Advance, e-Golf, GTD and GTD BlueLine to GTI, GTI Performance and, ultimately, R. The estate family offers generous choice, too, with S, SE, SE Nav, GT and GTD and GTD BlueLine models being joined by Alltrack and R. The forthcoming car also creates a new benchmark for assistance systems in the compact class, employing technologies that will significantly improve safety. Depending on model, these include: City Emergency Braking with new pedestrian monitoring (Front Assist); a new Traffic Jam Assist that offers semi-automated driving at speeds of up to 37 mph (60 km/h); and Emergency Assist which is also new to this segment. Emergency Assist notices if the driver is incapacitated and initiates various measures to rouse them in escalating stages culminating, if the driver remains inactive, in carrying out an emergency stop.

The progressive digitisation of Golf is supported by the debut of highly efficient engines. Even the new base petrol engine – the turbocharged direct-injection 1.0 TSI with 85 PS –

impresses with fuel consumption of 58.9 mpg* (combined).

A new 7-speed DSG (dual-clutch gearbox) also helps to deliver CO2 figures that have in some cases been improved by up to 10 g/km. All Golfs also feature BlueMotion Technologies such as a stop-start system and a mode for storing braking energy (regenerative braking).

Design modifications include new bumpers front and rear, new halogen headlights with LED daytime running lights or full LED headlights – standard in higher specification cars and optional in other models – instead of xenon headlights; new front wings; and, as mentioned, new full LED rear lights as standard for all Golf versions.

New wheel designs and body colours round out the exterior update, while new trim panels and materials also upgrade the interior of the Golf.

Welcoming the imminent showroom arrival of the brand’s bestseller in the UK – last year the Golf accounted for one in three new Volkswagens sold here with almost 73,000 registered – the Director of Volkswagen in the UK, Alison Jones, said: “The arrival of a new or updated Golf is always a special occasion but, in 2017, the debut of this car with its semi-autonomous operation; revised styling; new engines; and exceptional new infotainment systems really does feel extra-special.

“The updated Golf will, I’m sure, retain its place at the head of the compact car class but, just as importantly, will strengthen its place in the hearts of countless UK owners thanks to its exceptional quality, classless appeal and, now more than ever, its hugely competitive pricing and whole-life value.”

Acclaimed Ford Fiesta ST crowned the UK’s best hot hatch for the fourth consecutive year at 2017 What Car? awards Enjoyed by more than 25,000 owners, Ford Fiesta ST remains a UK favourite since its launch in 2013.

To mark the 40th anniversary last year of the Ford Fiesta – Britain’s best-selling car every year since 2008 – the ST200 was added to the range, adding a further 18PS to the 182PS available from the existing 1.6-litre Fiesta ST. Also new last year was a five-door Fiesta ST to complement the original three-door bodystyle.

Steve Huntingford, What Car? editor, said: “The Ford Fiesta ST is impossible to dislike. It leaves rivals trailing on a challenging road because it dives into corners like a terrier chasing a bouncing ball and the steering is full of feel. In normal use, it doesn’t disappoint. Like all Fiestas, the ST has a decent boot and plenty of cub-

byholes and is small enough to feel wieldy around town.

“Fiesta ST is the best all-round hot hatch. It strikes the perfect balance between performance and affordability. It lets you attack B-roads without worrying about the width of the car or how powerful it is. In fact, it’s sharper than the BMW M140i, which costs almost £15,000 more. To add to its appeal, the ST combines all of this with the reliability, practicality and dealer coverage that has made the Fiesta top seller.”

The consumer magazine and website, attracting over 1.95 million monthly users, chose the well-equipped Fiesta ST-2, priced at £18,895, as their recommended model complete with heated Recaro front sports seats and Ford Power push button start.

On receiving the award, Lisa

Brankin, Ford of Britain marketing director, said: “Performance vehicles, and the thrill they bring to driving, are renowned Ford strengths. Our new ST-Line range, sitting under ST, to RS and Mustang above it, offer a performance car for everyone. Thank you What Car? for recognising Fiesta ST - the biggest seller in this exciting 2017 line-up.”

It is also the fi fth successive year that Ford has triumphed in the hot hatch category – prior to Fiesta ST’s four-year run of success, the 250PS Focus ST took the title in 2013.

Ford Galaxy – best MPV (£26,000+) The new Ford Galaxy is also best

Multi-Purpose Vehicle for its price, according to What Car? What Car? named the Ford Galaxy Zetec with 2.0-litre TDCi 150PS diesel engine as its pick of the range.

Thursday, February 9, 2017 69

THEOXFORDPAPER.CO.UK

THE HEART BEATS FASTER WITH FINANCE THAT’S HARD TO BEAT

0% APR REPRESENTATIVE*

2017 M{ZD{ 3

M{ZD{ 2 £750 Mazda Deposit Contribution

£1,500 Mazda Deposit Contribution

Book a test driveº today, call us on 01865 566 241.

JOHNSONS MAZDA OXFORD 234 Botley Road, Oxford OX2 0HP Tel: 01865 566 241 www.johnsons-mazda.co.uk

The official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the Mazda range: Urban 28.0 (10.1) - 74.3 (3.8). Extra Urban 51.4 (5.5) - 88.3 (3.2). Combined 39.2 (7.2) - 83.1 (3.4). CO2 emissions (g/km) 167 - 89.

The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results obtained through laboratory testing. These are provided for comparability purposes only and may not reflect your actual driving results. Retail sales only, subject to availability for vehicles registered between 01.01.17 and 31.03.17 at participating dealers. T&C apply. *0% APR Representative Mazda Personal Contract Purchase available on all Mazda2 and 2017 Mazda3 models. Finance subject to status, 18s or over. Guarantee may be required. Mazda Financial Services RH1 1SR. Model shown: Mazda2 75ps SE, OTR from £12,595. Model shown features optional Soul Red Metallic paint (£660). 2017 Mazda3 120ps SE, OTR from £17,795. Model shown features optional Soul Red Metallic paint (£670). OTR price includes VAT, number plates, delivery, 12 months’ road fund licence, first registration fee, 3 year or 60,000 mile warranty and 3 years’ European Roadside Assistance. ºTest drives subject to applicant status and availability. Details correct at time of going to print. Not available in conjunction with any other offer unless specified. Calls to 0844/0845 numbers will be charged at 7 pence per minute plus your standard network charge. Johnsons Cars Ltd (Firm Reference Number: 512460) are an Appointed Representative of ITC Compliance Ltd, and are authorised & regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (their registration number is 313486) and are permitted to advise on and arrange General Insurance contracts. Registered Name: Johnsons Cars Ltd, Registered Office: Johnsons Cars Ltd, Empire Court, Albert Street, Redditch, Worcestershire B97 4DA. Registration No. 3716766 VAT Registration No. GB927551606.

70 Thursday, February 9, 2017

News/Advertising Call 01235 511700

Banbury Road, Tackley

Tel. 01869 331441

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THE LAW HAS CHANGED ...

DO YOU HAVE THE CORRECT GAS?

We can now offer R1234YF car air-con recharge and service Is your car 2013 or newer? If so, you will need the correct gas.

As of the 7th September 2016 we are able to offer R1234yf refrigerant re-gassing, or a car air-con recharge as sometimes known at our Wheatley Car Centre Branch.

This gas is compulsory for new cars from 2013 all be it has been around since 2010, although some manufacturers are still refusing to use this, notably Mercedes who are not happy with the flammable nature of the gas, which in turn means not many companies offer the re-gassing service for cars using r1234yf. But due to the amount of cars we sell we have needed to be able have this service onsite so we can now offer this service to our customers.

A common question is why the old, r134a gas found in most cars today, is being replaced?

It’s driven by environmental concerns as the new gas is more environmentally friendly.

So, for ALL your re-gas and service needs please contact our Wheatley Car Centre Service Department, tel. 01865 874046 opt 2 V www.wheatleycarcentre.co.uk

Thursday, February 9, 2017 71

theoxfordpaper.co.uk

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72 Thursday, February 9, 2017

News/Advertising Call 01235 511700

SAVE

UP TO

25%

ON ALL NEW CARS

0% APR AVAILABLE

CORSA ENERGY

MOKKA X ACTIVE

ASTRA SRi

£139 + £99

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VIVA SE PER MONTH

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OPEN UNTIL 9PM TUESDAY AND THURSDAY Eden Vauxhall Oxford Oxford Motor Park, Langford Lane, Kidlington, OX5 1RY Tel: 01865 856500

Eden Vauxhall Banbury Beaumont Road, Banbury, OX16 1RH Tel: 01295 755400

www.edenvauxhall.com

SALES OPENING HOURS 08:30-19:00 Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday | 08:30-21:00 Tuesday and Thursday

Thursday, February 9, 2017 73

THEOXFORDPAPER.CO.UK

5 YEARS 0% APR NOW UP TO

ON ALL PRE-OWNED CARS

ZAFIRA TOURER EXCLUSIV 2013

CORSA SXi 2014

PER MONTH

PER MONTH

£169 +£169 DEPOSIT

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ASTRA SRi 2016

INSIGNIA SRi 2015

PER MONTH

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PRE-REGISTERED CARS LIMITED AVAILABILITY PRE-REGISTERED MOKKA 1.6 EXCLUSIV 2016

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Viva 1.0 SE on the road price £8,965 – Eden Offer Price £8,035 - Customer Deposit £99 - Total amount of credit £7,936 – 48 monthly payments of £99 – Optional final payment £3,184 - Representative APR 0% - total amount payable £8,035 - based on 6,000 miles per year. Corsa Energy on the road price £12,945 – Eden Offer Price £10,236 - Customer Deposit £99 - Total amount of credit £10,137 – 48 monthly payments of £139 – Optional final payment £3,465 - Representative APR 0% - total amount payable £10,236 - based on 6,000 miles per year. Astra Hatchback 1.4i 16V SRi on the road price £18,515 – Eden Offer Price £15,614 - Customer Deposit £99 - Total amount of credit £15,515 – 48 monthly payments of £199 – Optional final payment £5,963 - Representative APR 0% - total amount payable £15,614 - based on 6,000 miles per year. Pre-registered 2016 Corsa Sting - Eden Offer Price £6,999 with a minimum part exchange of £1,000 - Customer Deposit £0 - Total amount of credit £6,999 - 48 monthly payments of £117.16 - Optional final payment £3,415 - Representative APR 9.9% - total amount payable £10,440 based on 6,000 miles per year. 2014 Corsa SXi – Eden Offer Price £7,259 - Customer Deposit £119 - Total amount of credit £7,140 – 60 monthly payments of £119 - Representative APR 0% - total amount payable £7,395 on a hire purchase agreement. 2014 Astra SRi 1.4 – Eden Offer Price £13,398 - Customer Deposit £99 - Total amount of credit £13,299 – 48 monthly payments of £169 - Representative APR 0% - total amount payable £13,398 on a personal contract purchase agreement based on 6,000 miles per year. 2015 Insignia SRi – Eden Offer Price £10,919 - Customer Deposit £179 - Total amount of credit £10,740 – 60 monthly payments of £179 - Representative APR 0% - total amount payable £10,919 on a hire purchase agreement. 2013 Zafira Tourer (Diesel Exclusiv) – Eden Offer Price £10,309 - Customer Deposit £169 - Total amount of credit £10,140 – 60 monthly payments of £169 - Representative APR 0% - total amount payable £10,309 on a hire purchase agreement. Finance for the above listed vehicles by Black Horse Finance St William House Tresillian Terrace Cardiff CF10 5BH. Adam 1.2 Jam and Mokka X 1.6i Active offered on a 3.7% APR representative Personal Contract Plan. Finance provided by GMAC UK plc, P.O. Box 6666, Cardiff, CF15 7YT. Adam 1.2 Jam on the road price £12,420 – Eden Offer Price £10,080 - Customer Deposit £99 - Total amount of credit £9,981 – 47 monthly payments of £159 – Optional final payment £3,436 - total amount payable £12,668.42 based on 5,000 miles per year (this finance example includes the Final Deposit Allowance of £1,600 in addition to the Eden Offer Price). Mokka X 1.6i Active on the road price £19,705 – Eden Offer Price £14,700 - Customer Deposit £99 - Total amount of credit £14,601 – 47 monthly payments of £219 – Optional final payment £5,760 - Representative APR 3.7% - total amount payable £18,596.18 based on 5,000 miles per year (this example includes the Final Deposit Allowance of £2,400 in addition to the Eden Offer Price). These promotions are available on the above models and is available on Eden Vauxhall stock only. Images displayed intended for demonstration purposes only. Finance is subject to status, terms and conditions apply. Applicant must be 18 years or over. These offers supersedes any other offer and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. For further details, please contact your local Eden branch.

£6,995

74 Thursday, February 9, 2017

News/Advertising Call 01235 511700

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% 0 5 YEARS

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UNBEATABLE OFFERS, AMAZING VALUE, GREAT CHOICE...WHY GO ANYWHERE ELSE YES! Our offers are simply the best! We make buying your next used car easy, therefore the enjoyable experience which you so richly deserve. Come and get yourself a great car at a great price, only ar Hartwell. DON’T MISS IT!

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theoxfordpaper.co.uk

Thursday, February 9, 2017 75

LOOK F O R WA R D TO 0% FINANCE. SEE 100% BEHIND YO U .

The Civic is full of smart ideas like a rear camera for easier parking. Paying for a petrol Civic is now easier too – 0% APR Representative* with £1,000 Customer Saving and 5 Years’ Servicing for £555.** Worth looking into.

JOHNSONS HONDA JOHNSONS HONDA OXFORD OXFORD

Oxford MotorMotor Park,Park, Langford Lane,Lane, Oxford, Oxfordshire OX5OX5 1RY1RY | Call 566 566 209 209 or visit www.johnsons.kidlington-honda.co.uk Oxford Langford Oxford, Oxfordshire | 01865 Call 01865 or visit www.johnsons.kidlington-honda.co.uk

Fuel consumption figures CivicSRSR i-VTEC mpg (l/100km): Urban 37.2mpg (7.6L/100km), Extra(5.2L/100km), Urban 54.3mpg (5.2L/100km), Combined Fuel consumption figuresfor for the the Civic 1.8 1.8 i-VTEC ManualManual mpg (l/100km): Urban 37.2mpg (7.6L/100km), Extra Urban 54.3mpg Combined 46.3mpg (6.1L/100km).

CO246.3mpg emissions: (6.1L/100km).

145g/km. Fuel CO2 consumption figures sourced from officialfigures EU-regulated laboratory test results, are provided for comparison purposes and may not reflectfor real-life driving experience. emissions: 145g/km.

Fuel consumption sourced from official EU-regulated laboratory test results, are provided comparison purposes and may not reflect real-life driving experience.

Model Shown: Civic SR 1.8 i-VTEC Manual in Passion Red Pearl at £22,290 On The Road (OTR) including £1,000 customer saving applied to the original OTR price of £23,290. Terms and Conditions: New retail Civic SR 1.8 i-VTEC petrol ordered from 01 February 2017 to

Model 31 Shown: Civic SR 1.8 i-VTEC in Passion Pearl at £22,290 On Offers The Road (OTR) £1,000 applied to the discretion. original OTR price of £23,290. and Conditions: New retail Civic SRcontribution: 1.8 i-VTEC petrol March 2017 and registered by 31 Manual March 2017.

Subject toRed model and colour availability. applicable at including participating dealerscustomer and are at saving the promoter’s absolute Not to be used along withTerms any other offers currently available.

Honda deposit deposit contribution new Civic petrol purchased through APR representative Honda Aspirations Minimum customer deposit 20%, maximum customer deposit 30%.

You do discretion. not have to pay Payment ordered£500 fromHonda 01 February 2017 to 31onMarch 2017 andmodels registered by 31 MarchHonda 2017.Aspirations.

Subject to*0% model and colour availability.

Offers(PCP): applicable at participating dealers and are at the promoter’s absolute Notthe to Final be used along with if you return the car atavailable. the end ofHonda the agreement andcontribution: you have paid all otherHonda amounts due, thecontribution vehicle is in good condition has been serviced in accordance withHonda the Honda service book andAPR the maximum annual mileage has not been exceeded. mileage any other offers currently deposit £500 deposit on new Civicand petrol models purchased through Aspirations. *0% representative Honda Aspirations (PCP):Excess Minimum customer charge includes VAT at current rate. Indemnities may be required in certain circumstances. Finance is only available to persons aged 18 or over, subject to status. All fi gures are correct at time of publication but may be subject to change. Johnsons Cars Limited are credit depositbrokers, 20%, maximum deposit 30%.Finance You do not have to Road, pay the Final Payment if you return the car at the end the agreement and you have paid Conduct all otherAuthority, amounts due, the vehicle is in number good condition serviced in not lenders. customer Credit provided

by Honda Europe Plc. Cain Bracknell, Berkshire RG12 1HL. Honda Finance Europe plc isofauthorised and regulated by the Financial Financial Services Register 312541. **5 and Yearshas £555been Servicing: Pleasewith visit www.honda.co.uk/cars/offers.

Johnsons Cars Ltd (Firm Reference Number: are exceeded. an Appointed Representative of ITC Compliance Ltd, and areat authorised regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (their circumstances. registration number is 313486) accordance the Honda service book and the maximum annual mileage has 512460) not been Excess mileage charge includes VAT current &rate.

Indemnities may be required in certain Finance is and onlyare available permitted advise on and arrangeto General Insurance contracts.

Registered Johnsons Cars Ltd, Johnsons Cars Ltd, Empire Court, Street, Redditch, 4DA Registration No. 3716766 VAT Registration GB927551606. to persons agedto18 or over, subject status.

All figures are correct at Name: time of publication butRegistered may be Office: subject to change.

Johnsons CarsAlbert Limited are credit Worcestershire brokers, not B97 lenders.

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Scholarships for Oxford trio of players Rugby League THREE Oxford-based rugby league players have been offered scholarships at professional side London Broncos.

Cameron Scott (stand off), Euan Stamp (centre) and Alfie Beckett (prop) all got the selectors approval for the Scholarship programme, which will involve 10 games against Super League opposition between February and August this year.

Oxford RL said the success of the Oxford Cavaliers youth section trio is a “truly excellent achievement”.

Coach John Connaughton said “The work the boys have done over the last 12 months has been impressive and their success is very much deserved. It is also exciting to see another student from Henry Box achieving in the sport with Cameron Scott following in the footsteps of the Griffin brothers who play in Super League.”

Oxford RL added: “It’s worth stating that 30 years of activity along with fi nancial millions have been invested in London with numerous strategies over the decades. Oxford send three players, with three years coaching in a non-Rugby League playing area and all of them get offers. It brings warmth to the heart of Oxford RL.”

From top, Alfie Beckett, Cameron Scott, Euan Stamp

Young skiers hope to be in championship pole position Alpine Skiing George Welch: Reporter HE may only be 12 years old, but Oxford’s Adrian Yung will be taking on boys two years his senior when he races the English Alpine Championships in Italy.

For one so young, the Magdalen College School pupil is well-versed in national competition, participating in what will be at his fourth English championships.

The English Alpine Championships are a week of national-level racing and skiing camaraderie, featuring the best English skiers in the country, ranging from under-10s up to senior athletes.

Yung made his debut in Bormio, Italy, as a ‘mini’, and fi nished fourth in the giant slalom three years ago.

The CDC Performance skier, who has aspirations to compete at the Youth Olympics, said: “When I’m skiing, when you do the perfect turn and your skis work to set you up for the next turn, that’s what’s really golden for me.

“I’ve raced the England Champs since I was nine years old and I’ve had success in the past – I fi nished fourth there in 2014 in the Giant Slalom.

“This year I’ll be racing the slalom,

Above, Jack Cunningham. Picture: Matt Birch Pictures Left, Adrian Yung at the Anglo Scottish Pila 4th GS last month Super G and Giant Slalom in Bormio, and then the same in Tignes, for the British Champs, too.

“I’d say I’m best at GS, and having been fourth before then I’d love to get on the podium this time – it would feel great, I would’ve achieved my goal for the season.”

From Saturday to next Friday, 350 of the best English alpine skiers will descend on Bormio for the 21st English Alpine Championships, organised by national governing body Snowsport England.

Despite being last year’s winner, Brize Norton’s Jack Cunningham insists he is not feeling the pressure of being defending champion ahead of this year’s English Alpine Champion-

ships. The 14-year-old won the overall crown in Bormio, last year, but has made the step up to under-16 level this year and said everyone starts with a clean slate.

And Cunningham, who lives on the RAF base, wants to get as much experience under his belt as he can.

“I will be doing all the races possible,” said the Cheltenham College pupil.

“I’ll be targeting the Super G and Giant Slalom, and the slalom may be good as well, but primarily the Super G and GS. “Last year I was the overall winner. Maybe people will be aiming at me a little bit, but it’s a fresh start so I don’t really feel like there’s much pressure.”

And while Cunningham admits he was an unknown quantity heading into last year’s race, his form so far this season gives him confidence ahead of the trip to Italy.

“Last year was only my second year in the English, so I wasn’t really anybody, I was just there to race, and it happened to go extremely well,” he said.

Cunningham started skiing when he was three because his grandparents live in Austria.

VË ÝËÍ jË ~ Ä Ë ¬ jË ? pionships on the Snowsport England Facebook page and get live updates on Twitter @SnowsportEng. Full results will be available at www. snowsportengland.org.uk

New general manager for Frilford Heath Golf FRILFORD Heath Golf Club has announced the appointment of a new general manager at its three championship golf course.

Russell Stebbings, who started his new position at the end of January, joins Frilford Health Golf Club from Farleigh Golf Club and Restaurant in Surrey.

In his four years at Farleigh he

turned the loss making club that Foxhills Group acquired in 2012 into a profitable club by 2016.

In that time they have received the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence in 2014, 2015 and 2016 for their restaurant.

In the move from the Home Counties to Oxfordshire, Stebbings, who was voted as general manager of the year in 2011, brings with him over 16 years’ experience in the golf industry.

Alistair Booth, chairman at Fril-

ford Heath Golf Club, said: “We are delighted to extend a warm welcome to Russell.

“His excellent customer service achievements and record speak for themselves and the board is confident that he will make a great contribution to the life of the club.”

The club, which boasts European Tour professional Eddie Pepperell a member, added that they have appointed a new golf manager to start in March.

Russell Stebbings

Hat-trick hero stings Hornets Ice Hockey ALAN Green was the hat-trick hero for Oxford City Stars as they beat Bracknell Hornets 5-2 on Sunday to win back-to-back games for the fi rst time since November.

The Stars, buoyed by the previous week’s win over second placed Invicta Dynamos, were in ruthless mood at the Oxford Ice Rink as they raced to a 3-0 lead within 10 minutes.

Green scored his fi rst of the night

on five minutes and, less than a minute later, Joe Edwards doubled the lead to put the hosts in control.

Just four minutes later and Green netted his second and his side’s third in front of a jubilant home crowd.

The puck went backwards and forwards between the teams until the Hornets, who are rooted to the bottom of the table, scored their fi rst goal of the night on 16 minutes through Josh Martin from close range.

Simon Anderson’s men secured the win when they stormed to a 5-1 lead

in the second period.

Green rounded off his hat-trick on 26 minutes before Jesse Lye got in on the action five minutes later with just his second goal for the club.

The Hornets did pull one back shortly before the end of the second period, but there was to be no third period fight back from the Bracknell side and Oxford ran out 5-2 winners.

The Stars, who are up a place to fourth in the NIHL South 1, host Milton Keynes Thunder on Saturday and travel to Solent Devils on Sunday.

Alan Green celebrates one of his goals. Picture: @oxfordcitystars

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Oxford United Women looking to league after third round cup defeat OUFCW George Welch: Reporter OXFORD United Women were the victim of a cup upset when they lost 2-0 at Coventry United in the 3rd round of the SSE Women’s FA Cup on Sunday.

An Alison Hall header and a Jade Formaston piledriver made it the worst possible start to Oxford’s new campaign.

Coventry’s win capped a seventh consecutive victory and their 84th goal across all competitions.

But following the new season’s curtain raiser the Yellows are now focused on the new Spring Series which kicks off on Sunday with a home game against Everton Ladies at Northcourt Road The Spring Series is a new league where the WSL2 teams play each other once, either home or away, with the new WSL2 season then kicking off as a winter league next August.

New boss Karl Milgate said: “It is exciting to be playing again. The girls have been back in for a good pre-season where they have worked extremely hard.

“We have kept the majority of the squad; it is still a very young group but they have been together for a while and there is a terrific team

Star striker Umotong in action against Birmingham last summer spirit and enthusiasm which we hope will enable us to do really well.

“We have made massive progress over the last few years. Demi Lambourne and Riva Casley are involved in the England under 20s and under 18s and last season saw crowds rise by 85 per cent: the biggest in the league.”

United have bolstered their squad ahead of Sunday’s league opener with the signing of Yeovil midfielder Emily Donovan.

The 19-year-old signed a contract last week to join the U’s from Yeovil Town Ladies, where she was part of the squad that won WSL2 last season.

She said: “I’m really excited to have signed for Oxford.

“I know it will take time for me to settle in and get used to a new set up, but everyone has made me feel welcome and I’m really optimistic that Oxford are putting everything in place for a successful season and I want to be an integral part of that.”

Meanwhile, last year’s WSL2 player of the year Ini Umotong has committed to a new deal.

Oxford’s top goalscorer scored 13 times in 19 games last season, making her the top scorer in the league and player of the year.

Defender Riva Casley has also signed a new contract.

Banbury too clever for Cambridge with win

Diddy still searching for first win of 2017 Didcot Town DIDCOT Town’s winless 2017 continued with their fi rst defeat of the year at home to Salisbury as they slipped into the bottom half of the table.

Having drawn all four of their games so far this calendar year, Diddy suffered their fi rst defeat on Saturday after they were undone by a fi rst half strike by the Whites’ top league scorer Justin Bennett.

In what was a fairly even Division 1 South & West contest short of any real quality, the match at the Loop Meadow was marred for the hosts with two dismissals.

The one moment of real quality in the game proved the winner for play off hopefuls Salisbury, who have won their last four games in all competitions.

Salisbury left winger Brandon Munday collected the ball just inside the Didcot half, evaded three defenders with ease and crossed for Bennett to divert the ball beyond Leigh Bedwell for his 23rd league goal of the season.

Former Oxford United youngster George Jeacock, who joined Town last week, had a debut to forget after being brought on with 20 minutes to go.

Leigh Bedwell makes a save against Evesham United Picture: Roger Neal In just 10 minutes, he nearly scored and picked up two yellow cards to leave his new side a man light for the closing stages.

And things got even worse for Andy Ballard’s side as they chased the game deep into stoppage time.

In a last desperate attempt to equalise, Diddy stopper Bedwell, who was trying to connect with a Didcot corner, fouled a Salisbury player and picked up a yellow card.

The frustrated keeper then presumably expressed his disgust to the referee who promptly awarded a second card to reduce Diddy to nine men.

The Railwaymen, who last enjoyed a win on Boxing Day, face another play-off hunting side when they travel to Taunton Town on Saturday.

More postponements for Millers North Leigh NORTH Leigh have only played three of their last eight matches after Saturday’s and Tuesday’s were both postponed.

The Millers’ trip to Shortwood United at the weekend and their home game against Barnstaple Town on Tuesday were both called off due to waterlogged pitches.

Having already faced a fi xture

pile-up due to memorable runs in the Emirates FA Cup and the Buildbase FA Trophy earlier in the season, the west Oxfordshire side also had three matches postponed last month.

John Brough’s side are seven points and four places off the Division 1 South & West play offs but have up to five games in hand on teams above them.

With a bit of luck, the Millers will host Winchester City, who are just a point and position above them, on Saturday.

Ardley do double over rivals Ardley United

Luke Carnell doubles Banbury’s lead. Picture: E.A. Barson Photography

Banbury United BANBURY United reignited their play-off hopes as they got back to winning ways with a 2-0 win over Cambridge City on Saturday.

Goals from Jack Self and Luke Carnell brought back the winning feeling for the Puritans after suffering back-to-back defeats against Merthyr Town and Basingstoke Town.

United took the lead just before the half hour when Ricky Johnson

nodded a Marvin Martin cross to Self who, from 15 yards out, chested the ball down and hit a superb left footed volley into the top corner of the net.

Banbury always looked in control and grabbed the all-important second goal in the 73rd minute when a corner from the right saw Carnell head the ball home from the edge of the six yard box at the far post.

City tried to rally and had their best spell of the game in the fi nal 10 minutes, but they were unable to force their way back into the match.

Banbury remain in sixth place in the Southern Premier Division as they search for back-to-back promotions, four points and one place off the play-offs.

Mike Ford’s side travel to mid-table Biggleswade Town on Saturday.

United are also through to the Oxfordshire Senior Cup semi-fi nal with 3-0 win over Hook Norton on Tuesday.

Goals from James Smith, Darius Browne and Johnson (p) fi red the Puritans into the last four.

ARDLEY United manager Paul Davis couldn’t contain his delight after his side scored an injury time winner to complete the double over promotion hopefuls Thatcham Town.

Both sides had a number of opportunities to score that went begging, before Ardley’s Matt Cruse slotted home right at the death to pinch a 1-0 victory.

It was Thatcham’s first Hellenic Premier League match without scoring a goal since, funnily enough, losing 1-0 to Ardley at home on the opening day of the season in August.

The winner came in added time when Carl Tappin found Cruse, who calmly tucked the ball beyond Chris Rackley to win the game.

A jubilant Davis said afterwards: “What a way to win a game of football!

“They are always the best ones, when you score late to win, and the worst ones to lose if you concede late.

“We’ve done both this season, but

Matt Cruse celebrates his last minute goal have won more through late goals at home which tend to stick in the memory when you reflect on games gone by.

“It speaks volumes about our character, the way we keep going, keep working, and it’s paid off for us today on a heavy pitch that both sides had to contend with.”

The result sees United remain in sixth spot as Thatcham dropped to fifth in the table.

Ardley’s Tuesday night clash with league leaders Bracknell Town was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

They travel to mid-table Royal Wootton Bassett on Saturday.

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Get behind the U’s this weekend for Fan Day

Fankaty Dabo fires the Robins into an early lead

All pictures: Steve Daniels

John Lundstram beats Ben Gladwin to head the ball on

Fans celebrate the equaliser against Swindon on Sunday Picture: Steve Daniels THE Kassam Stadium will be a sea of yellow and blue on Saturday as Oxford United’s League One match against MK Dons has been allocated as Fan Day by the club.

Almost 4,000 Oxford fans made the trip to Milton Keynes earlier in the season and after a full house against Newcastle last weekend, and with another sold-out away end at Swindon on Sunday, the club said it wants the stadium to be buzzing once again.

There will be fun activities around the ground before kick-off, including coaching from Oxford United Women’s side and special player visits in

the club’s new family room.

There’s also a chance for fans to head to the Oxford City Stars for an MK double-header as they take on Milton Keynes at the Oxford Ice Rink.

This is part of the club’s ‘Oxfordshire United’ movement, which builds relationships between sports clubs across the whole of the county.

The hardiest of fans can make it a triple header of Oxfordshire sport by going to watch Oxford United Women kick off their new Spring Series at home to Everton at Abingdon United FC’s Northcourt Road ground the following day at 2pm.

SkyBet League 1

GP

GD

PTS

1

30

23

60

Sheff Utd

2

Scunthorpe

29

26

58

3

Bolton

28

15

51

4

Fleetwood

30

13

51

5

Bradford

30

12

50

6

Southend

29

7

46

Liam Sercombe gets ahead of Fankaty Dabo to shoot at goal

Lawrence Vigouroux sees red for the second time this season against the U’s

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------7

Rochdale

28

5

46

8

Peterborough

29

6

44

9

Millwall

29

4

44

10

Bristol Rovers

30

-2

43

11

Walsall

30

-1

42

12

Charlton

28

8

40

13

Oxford United

28

5

40

14

MK Dons

29

2

38

15

AFC Wimbledon

28

1

37

16

Northampton

30

-7

33

17

Gillingham

29

-9

33

18

Shrewsbury

30

-12

32

19

Port Vale

28

-14

32

20

Swindon

30

-16

29

Michael Appleton looks tense during the game...

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------21

Oldham

30

-14

28

22

Bury

30

-13

27

23

Chesterfield

29

-18

26

24

Coventry

29

-21

21

Fans can’t hide their excitement after the second goal goes in

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Swindon Town 1

Fankaty Dabo 19 Lawrence Vigouroux 93

Oxford United 2

New date set for Charlton game

OXFORD United’s League One game away at Charlton Athletic has been rearranged for Tuesday, February 21.

Liam Sercombe 70, Rob Hall 73

Chris Maguire in action in a 1-1 draw against Charlton Athletic at the Kassam Stadium in September

The players enjoy their victory walking off after beating Swindon 2-1

A pre-match huddle

Curtis Nelson goes on a run

The original game was due to be played on Saturday, February 18 but was changed due to United’s Emirates FA Cup 5th round game at Middlesbrough that day.

The new kick off time at The Valley is now 7.45pm.

Meanwhile, tickets are selling quickly for the FA Cup 5th round tie at Middlesbrough.

The U’s have received an allocation of 3,000 tickets for the match, with the possibility for more should demand require it.

Tickets are on general sale online at www.oufctickets.co.uk and to personal and telephone callers (01865 337533) until 3pm on February 17.

Fans are strongly advised to purchase tickets in advance.

United v Luton in Checkatrade Marvin Johnson and Raphael Rossi-Branco challenge for the ball

...but chairman Darryl Eales is relaxed at the end

Liam Sercombe celebrates with Joe Rothwell after tapping in United’s equalising goal

Toni Martinez drives a shot at goal

OXFORD United discovered who they will face in the Checkatrade Trophy semi final as well as their potential finalists at Wembley.

The U’s will travel to Luton for the match currently due to be played on March 1 after the Hatters beat Yeovil 5-2 on Tuesday night.

The other semi final, which also took place on Tuesday, saw League One Coventry City beat League Two Wycombe Wanderers 2-1 to secure their place in the Wembley final on April 2.

Hone your skills with half-term fun

FOOTBALL-MAD children can book for Oxford United’s February Half Term Soccer Courses.

The club’s FA qualified coaches help young footballers aged 4-13 to have fun and improve their skills and have the chance to chat to first team players.

Two courses for boys and girls of all abilities will run from Crowmarsh Recreation Ground and The Oxford Academy while a girls only group will be held at Abingdon United FC, Northcourt Road. All the courses run from 9am to 3pm Monday to Friday next week and cost £65 per week / £20 per day.

Go to http://tinyurl.com/hnfg9kj for an application form.

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MORE SPORT INSIDE:

■ Football ■ Rugby League ■ Alpine Skiing ■ Ice Hockey ■ Golf ■ Local football

Pictures and more from the big game inside - pages 78-79

The fans can’t hide their delight as the final whistle approaches Picture: Steve Daniels

Derby day delight as Oxford do double over neighbours George Welch: Reporter OXFORD United scored two goals in three second half minutes to come from behind and beat arch rivals Swindon Town 2-1 on Sunday.

Goals from Liam Sercombe and Rob Hall cancelled out a first half Swindon strike from Fankaty Dabo at the County Ground to extend their unbeaten run against the Robins to seven matches.

The win means that Oxford – who have now won seven of their previous eight matches against Swindon – have

completed the league double against their rivals, just as they did in League Two in the 2011/12 season.

And Swindon goalkeeper Lawrence Vigouroux had a personal double of his own after being sent off against the U’s – again.

After being sent off for lashing out at Alex MacDonald in September’s league clash at the Kassam, the erratic stopper received his marching orders on Saturday when he rushed too far from goal and brought down Kane Hemmings in injury time.

There have been five dismissals in the last four battles between the sides.

Published by Taylor Newspapers Ltd, Newspaper House, 4A Hawksworth, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 7HR. Telephone 01235 511700 (Head Office). Printed

by Iliffe Print Cambridge, Milton, Cambridge CB24 6PP

It was full blooded but the first goal of the afternoon came the way of the Robins on 19 minutes.

After failing to clear their lines, United were forced to pay when the ball fell to Chelsea loanee Dabo, who took a touch and fired low into Simon Eastwood’s right hand corner.

It was the wing back’s first senior goal and the first goal Swindon have scored against Oxford in six matches.

United, who last lost to Town in March 2001, were indebted to keeper Eastwood who had to be on form to deny Charlie Colkett – another Chelsea loanee – from doubling the host’s lead

on the stroke of half time.

The U’s grew into the second half as Luke Williams’s side sat deeper to protect their lead. It was a risky approach and on 70 minutes United scored the goal they had been threatening.

A flying Marvin Johnson charged down the left after being played in by Chris Maguire, and the winger-turnedleft back eluded a defender before finding the onrushing Sercombe to bundle home the equaliser.

And the visiting fans were still celebrating when Hall danced past two defenders, worked the ball to his left and unleashed a drive that was past

Vigouroux in a flash to give United a 2-1 lead.

Swindon’s miserable afternoon was complete and United’s joy unbound when Vigouroux was sent off in injury time.

It has been a week to remember for the U’s, who have beaten their nearest rivals, humiliated Newcastle United in the FA Cup and moved a step closer to Wembley in the Checkatrade Trophy.

United remain mid table in League One, six points off the play offs with a game in hand, while Swindon are one place and one point above the relegation zone. U’s are at home to MK Dons on Saturday.

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