South Oxfordshire Issue Sixteen March – April 2015

south oxfordshire issue sixteen March – April 2015

in this issue:

Earth Trust

Café Scientifique

Mother’s Day free to up Come in and say hi today, we can’t wait to see you! Costa Drive Thru, 2 Milton Gate, Milton, Abingdon OX14 4FP

Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 22:00 (00:00 Drive Thru) Sun: 07:00 - 21:00 (23:00 Drive Thru)

Source: In independent surveys of the British coffee shop market published in December 2010, December 2011, December 2012, December 2013 and December 2014 by Allegra Strategies, Costa was voted Britain’s favourite coffee shop brand for the 5th year running. For more information please visit www.costa.co.uk/terms South oxfordshire

Pick South Oxfordshire is Welcome produced by Fyne Associates Ltd Unit 4, Ram Court, Wicklesham In my diary, the 20th March has one entry, scribbled large in block Lodge, Faringdon, Oxfordshire capitals – FIRST DAY OF SPRING! As a fitness freak who trains SN7 7PN exclusively outside, this is an important day. It marks a gradual end Pick South Oxfordshire is to slippery roads, frozen fingers and charging up bike lights and the available for pick up from start of warm sunshine and the sweet smell of pollen. Summer outlets in and around Abingdon, Wantage, Wallingford, Didcot, might bring its own small miseries, but nothing of the scale that Faringdon and Standford in winter does! By 20th March, most of us should start noticing a little the Vale.. spring in our steps.

Advertising enquiries. To mark the start of the astronomical season, we have decided 01235 856300. to make this our happy issue. While we always try to look on the General enquiries. [email protected] bright side of life in South Oxfordshire, this time we also have a few articles that should help you find your own path to happiness this Designed by Windrush Group. spring. © Pick South Oxfordshire. www.picksouthoxfordshire.co.uk In the office, we were discussing the things that make us happy and there was quite a range. There were the obvious ones, such Pick South Oxfordshire is the sister magazine to Pick West as friends and family, good food etc… But then we got onto the Oxfordshire that is available for smaller things in life, such as the feeling of pulling on a freshly pick up in West Oxfordshire. washed hoodie or the way your dog greets you after a few hours apart, your first coffee in bed or dancing in the office to Pharrell Williams. The odd thing is, these little pleasures are there all the time, but sometimes, they are just really hard to appreciate. It’s only when you step back and examine the things that really make you happy that you realise how many enjoyable things happen to you in a single day that you take for granted. All that said, a bit of good weather is sometimes all we need to put a smile on our face. Let’s hope we get plenty this spring!

3 BRAND NEW GYM A BETTER WAY EQUIPMENT TO GET ACTIVE

FARINGDON LEISURE CENTRE Everyone can benefit from exercise, whatever your age, whatever your ability.

For more information and to claim your guest pass, visit www.better.org.uk/faringdon

In partnership with

District Council

Better is a registered trademark and trading name of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise and registered society under the Co-operative & Community Benefit & Societies Act 2014 registration no. 27793R. Registered office: Middlegate House, The Royal Arsenal, London, SE18 6SX. Inland Revenue Charity no: XR43398

GLL_PCR_Faringdon_Advert_BetterWayToGetActive_FEB2015_148x210_fv.indd 1 19/02/2015 15:24 Contents

What’s On Page 7 KICKNSPLASH SWIM SCHOOL AT ABINGDON SCHOOL POOL & BLOXHAM Blue Plaque – Kenneth Graham Page 30 SCHOOL POOL NeW TerM DATeS: 18TH APrIL -18TH JuLy Mother’s Day Page 32 LIMITeD SPACeS AvAILABLe Swimming is a great way for your child to be active, have fun, keep 5 Aspects Of Happiness Page 38 fit and stay safe. At KicknSplash we have fully qualified ASA teachers with many The Freer Guide to Food Page 56 years’ experience and will place your child in a class alongside other children of the same ability. Food, Foodies And Eating Out Page 58 Our teachers ensure each lesson is fun while helping your child improve their confidence and Interview With Jason Flemyng Page 62 water skills while progressing through the ASA National Teaching Plan. Pick: Home & Gardens Page 69 We offer Children’s swimming lessons & Parent and Child swimming lessons. Pick: Motors Page 71

To book on a course with KicknSplash contact Jane Perrin KicknSplash, 57 Manor Road, Witney, Oxon, OX28 3UE E: [email protected] | www.kicknsplash.co.uk T: 01993 200849 | M: 07827 916233

Walk in Baths

2 and Bath Lifts

0 1

3 9 1 • Ease of access • Modern designs with Stairlifts safety in mind • Straight or curved stairlifts • Bathroom specialists • Removal and refits for aged and less able • Repairs and servicing • Visit our showroom! • All our own engineers DCS JONCARE • 7-8 Radley Place Radley Road Ind. Est • Abingdon Oxfordshire • OX14 3RY www.joncaremobility.co.uk • [email protected] Tel: 01235 523353

5 brothers thame advert page_Layout 1 13/01/2014 10:15 Page 1

INNOVATIVE CUTTING & INCREATIVENOVATIV COLOURINGE CUTTING

Brothers – Thame • 16 Buttermarket, Thame OX9 3EP Tel: 01844 217365 Brothers - Oxford • 57 The High Street, Oxford OX1 4AS Tel: 01865 250 696 Brothers - Marlow • 68 West Street, Marlow SL7 2BP Tel: 01628 484 717

book onlineBook@www.ﬁ nOnlinedmylocalsalon.co.uk www.brotherssalons.co.ukwww.brothers-uk.com Recruiting now at all 3 salons Stylists, Technicians, Apprentices. What’s on

Rolling with the Earth Trust Easter…a beautiful time of year. We’re excited for upcoming blue skies and nice smelling grass and we get all the fun Easter events that keep us out of the house – although we don’t mind being staying in for Roast Lamb and whatever film they shove on TV. One of these events in 2015 is courtesy of Earth Trust. 5 April, from 10am, will be a most Easterful day. Not only will there be the essential Easter Bunny Hunt but a chance to boil eggs on the fire, paint them and roll them down Wittenham Clumps! It’s only £4 per child (accompanying adults go free) and you can just turn up. Takes place at the Earth Trust Centre, OX14 4QZ. Email [email protected] or call 01865 407792 for more details. Or visit earthtrust.org.uk Also don’t forget about the Earth Trust’s lambing weekends taking place Saturday 21-Sunday 22 March and Saturday 28-Sunday 29 March. Plenty of activities as well as refreshments from the Poem Tree Café will be on offer. Visit the website for more information.

7 FI

O= ;

D F

( F '

E ) C C @> C ? F K JKI OXFORD MOONLIGHT STROLL A night-time, nine-mile sponsored walk in aid of Sobell House Hospice Charity

11 JULY 2015 For more information or to sign up, call 01865 857 007 or visit www.oxfordmoonlightstroll.org.uk Charity No. 1118646 Three Pigeons, Free Festival Store & Tours No entry charge. Free parking. A great collection of real ales…this is the first ever Three Pigeons beer festival. Taking place at the Three Pigeons, Milton Common, the festival lasts three days (Friday 6-Sunday 8 March) with live music on the Saturday night. Malt, Leighton Buzzard, North Cotswold, Battledown, Andwell’s, Ramsbury and Our Brewery Store is open Loddon ales and Orchard Cottage and Gwynt-Y-Ddraig 10am - 5pm ciders – the choice of beverages will not disappoint! Monday to Saturday

The Hobgoblin orders you to come and browse his selection of gifts and London Road, Milton Common, Oxfordshire, OX9 2JN merchandise with exclusive in-store offers and promotions on bottled 01844 277183 and cask beers. Brewery tours operate every Friday, Saturday and Sunday offering a two thethreepigeons.co.uk hour experience for those interested in seeing mischief in the making. [email protected] Come and see us if you dare but be warned…most things bite!

Book online at www.wychwood.co.uk or call: 01993 890 800* (*pre booking essential)

Wychwood Brewery, Eagle Maltings, The Crofts, Witney, Oxon OX28 4DP.

9 Sobell House Hospice …your local Hospice Can you give the gift of time?

We know time is precious and life is busy and you probably have a hundred things to do but if you can spare just a little time each week to volunteer in our shops you could make a huge difference to your local hospice and community.

There are so many ways you can help out in one of our shops, from sorting donations, till work, making tea and coffee, helping customers, steaming and hanging clothes and even window displays so whatever your skills– we have something for you!

Whether you have an hour, a morning, an afternoon or a day to give to us we would love to hear from you. You will meet new friends, learn new skills, have fun and be part of a highly valued and enthusiastic team!

We have shops in Bicester, Botley, Carterton, Headington Kidlington, Little Clarendon Street (Oxford), Thame and Witney and warehouses in Bicester and Witney. Pop in to your local shop and pick up an application form or email [email protected]

All proﬁ ts from the sale of items in our warehouses & shops will go towards supporting Hospice patients and their families. The services provided by Sobell House Hospice are completely free, but the annual running cost is over £4m. Since the Hospice ﬁ rst opened, the Charity has raised in excess of £25 million to support the Hospice through fundraising and sales in our shops.

Sobell House Hospice Charity www.sobellhospicecharity.org Churchill Hospital, OXFORD OX3 7LJ Charity No 1118646 Take on the Bunny Run…or the 10K While donning a pair of bunny ears and a bobtail and running around a field in Oxfordshire may sound like playing with fire, it is actually a very safe aspect of a marvellous day in Cholsey on 26 April. Cholsey’s recreation ground will be the venue for The Family Bunny Run, lasting 1K (although feel free to do it time and time again), families and children under 16 can take part…participants are encouraged to dress up in bunny attire! Appropriately, on a day with a bunny theme, a bouncy castle will also feature. For those wanting to run a bit further, maybe a bit more seriously, there is the Treehouse 10K Run. The run starts at Cholsey Pavilion and will take you via quiets roads, farm tracks and footpaths, towards the Berkshire Downs. There’s chip-timing and you’ll get an event shirt and medal when you finish. Some don’t like doing stuff like this on their own; not an issue: new this year is the team race so you can huff and puff in the company of friends or family! To register visit treehouse10k.org.uk Register before 24 April to take advantage of discounts.

11 Rob Darch

    Day Out With thOmas saturDay/sunDay 7/8 march Enjoy a ride behind the famous blue engine in the metal! Book online at www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk/didcot EastEr Family FunDays FriDay/saturDay/sunDay/mOnDay Open all weekends and most school holidays. Phone or refer to our website 3/4/5/6 april for details of Steamdays and other events. All day steam train rides, Easter Treasure Hunt, ballon modelling & Entrance at Didcot Parkway rail station. Signed from M4 (junction 13) & A34. magic show, street organ, children’s activities, Chipper the Squirrel (Friday & Monday) stEam Gala; With GuEst lOcOmOtivE tBa

saturDay 2 may - mOnDay 4 may Registered Charity No 272616 12

Registered Charity No 272616 A Strange Wild Song In Northern France during the Second World War, three children encounter a lost American soldier in the ruins of their village. Decades later, the soldier’s camera is unearthed and his grandson tries to solve the mystery of the photographs inside. He discovers a world of childhood, imagination and hidden courage, as fragments of war explode into the present day. Accompanied by an original, award-winning musical score, Rhum and Clay (rhumandclay.com) present a new version of their critically-acclaimed hit show. Fusing cinematic imagery, absurdist humour and a mischievous sense of joy, this is an unforgettably touching story about finding light in the darkest of places. ‘Irresistibly daft … oddball comedy and genuine pathos’ The Herald A Strange Wild Song comes to the Cornerstone, Didcot on 18 April (7:30pm). Book tickets at cornerstone-arts.org. You can also call the box office on 01235 515144 Tickets are £15, £13.50 (concs) and £10 (under 16s) The show is suitable for ages 8+

Rob Darch

13 Sinodun Players Present Life of Riley

Few plays can garner laughs at the expense of terminal illness, but Alan Ayckbourn’s dark comedy does just that in Sinodun Players’ spring production Life of Riley. When hedonistic and utterly feckless school teacher George Riley learns he has only a few months to live, six of his friends get together and plan how to make his last days as happy as possible. But their efforts result in all kinds of complications as their own personal and marital relationships are called into question in unforeseen ways. Despite being the chief character, Riley is never actually seen, but is very much in evidence, his ‘hippie Peter Pan’ persona causing chaos and far reaching consequences throughout. In describing the play, his 74th, Ayckbourn said: “Riley never appears: he’s a dying man, and it’s about the people left behind. I’ve always wanted to write a comedy that finishes with a funeral, and gets laughs.”

14 Life of Riley

Director Graham Fyffe said: “On the face of it, this seems to be deadly serious play but being Ayckbourn, laughter is always present as he yet again dissects the complacency, worries and angst of middle class, middle aged people. The play also contains a final surprise!” Performances take place at Corn Exchange, Wallingford on 15-18 April at 7:45pm. Tickets are £10 from box office (01491 825000) or cornexchange.org.uk

15 Fun in the Park 2015 This is going to be a fantastic family fun day with climbing wall, soft play area for little ones, rodeo rides, gladiator joust area and inflatable play for kids of all ages!

The afternoon event with all this going on and more is completely free.

In the evening Music in the Park showcases a variety of bands with a “Proms” finale and firework display.

Wristbands for this event will be available from March 16th.

Details on the town website:

www.abingdon.gov.uk or from [email protected]

Pool gets a revamp Swimmers at Abbey Sports Centre in Berinsfield are enjoying the results of a £50,000 facelift. The centre was closed for six weeks during which the pool was repaired and new mosaic tiling was completed. The pool is used by over 20 schools in the area and hasn’t been refurbished for over two decades. There are also new signs, fixtures and fittings for swimmers to enjoy as well.

Abbey Sports Centre sits in the heart of Berinsfield and is very much a part of the community. The facilities the centre has to offer include a 35 station gym, wide range of classes, 4 court badminton hall, children’s swimming lessons, archery and 5 aside football as well, of course, the newly refurbished pool. Abbey Sports Centre is perfectly located close to Wallingford, Abingdon, Oxford, Dorchester, Benson and Didcot and attracts swimmers from all around the area.

16 There is a belief that at times building societies are considered dull, boring places and appeal only to an older customer base. This is one of the reasons why Newbury Building Society decided to develop a range of initiatives to engage with young families. The rationale behind our approach was simple – we wanted to make saving interesting. Our Junior Newbury Building Society (JNBS) scheme had already shown that parents believe it is important for children to be taught responsibilities that come with money at an early age. Our aim was to help them understand money in a simple, family-orientated way. To add further support we launched an exciting new account for children. The Barry Bear account is for children who are aged 7 or under at the time of opening. For more information about the Barry Bear account, Messy Money, and the Society’s family-friendly initiative, or to keep up to date with Barry’s travels, visit www.newbury.co.uk

NEW children’s account for Barry Bear account under 7’s

Terms and conditions Must be opened in person at one of our branches. We accept savings applications from the following areas: AL, BA, BH, BN, BS, DT, GL, GU, HA, HP, KT, MK, OX, PO, RG, RH, SL, SN, SP, SO, TW, UB, WD. The account must be opened and operated by an adult as nominee for the child. Only one Barry Bear account per child. Eligible existing members can transfer funds from a Newbury Building Society account subject to the terms and conditions of their existing accounts. Minimum opening balance £1. Maximum balance £3,000. Interest calculated daily and added to the account on 31 October. Maximum age limit to open account is 7 years. AER stands for Annual Equivalent Rate and illustrates what the interest rate would be if interest was paid and compounded once each year. Gross rate is the contractual rate of interest payable before the deduction of income tax at the rate specified by law, currently 20%. Tax treatment depends % on individual circumstances and may be subject to change in the gross future. See product leaflet for full details. 3.00 /AER Easy access WE HAVE NO PLANS TO WITHDRAW THIS PRODUCT BUT IT withdrawals MAY BE WITHDRAWN WITHOUT NOTICE.

Call 01635 55577 Visit newbury.co.uk NEWBURY Newbury Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential building society Regulation Authority (Financial Services Register number 206077). 4867/JUN14

17 A Day Out With Thomas

Forget about how angry you were when they changed the Thomas the Tank Engine theme tune, the letters you wrote, your eventual boycotting of the programme (all totally normal behaviour, don’t worry). Because Thomas can still make you smile. On Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 March you can take the family to Didcot Railway Centre for serious tank engine fun. Meet Thomas, Duck, Diesel and, of course, Sir Topham Hat (someone has to keep things organised). Spend the weekend riding trains, looking around the Engine Shed and watching the entertainment (clowning, ballooning and Thomas story reading). Visit didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk for more information, including booking details. A Fun Day out on the Farm Tel: 01635 269678

Prices Adult: £8.95 Child: £7.95 Under 2’s: Free Concessions:£6.95 Family of 4 only £29.95

Open 10am - 6.30pm Everyday Summer Season 22nd Mar - 2nd November 2014

18 REFURBISHED GYM NEWLY A BETTER WAY TO GET ACTIVE HENLEY LEISURE CENTRE Everyone can benefit from exercise, whatever your age, whatever your ability.

For more information and to claim your guest pass, visit www.better.org.uk/henley

In partnership with

District Council

GLL_PCR_Henley_Advert_FEB2015_BetterWayToGetActive_148x210_fv.indd 1 19/02/2015 15:27

Wristbands available from 16th March Music in the Park

One perfect day; two great events Saturday 6th June Abbey Gardens

11am-3pm Free Event —no

Fun in Proud Sponsors

the Park Organised by Abingdon-on-Thames Town Council

Wristbands available from 16th March Music in the Park

One perfect day; two great events Saturday 6th June Abbey Gardens

11am-3pm Free Event —no

Fun in Proud Sponsors

the Park Organised by Abingdon-on-Thames Town Council Bellowhead 2015 First Artists Announced for Towersey Festival

Bellowhead and Show Of Hands are the first headliners announced for 2015’s Towersey Festival. The British traditional and contemporary folk music festival with be held Friday, August 28 through Monday, August 31, 2015. Other acts include singer-songwriter Sally Barker, Scottish supergroup The Treacherous Orchestra, and Martin Simpson, whose new project sees him team with Nancy Kerr and melodeon player Andy Cutting. Other artists announced for the famed independent Oxfordshire festival include songwriter and guitarist John Smith (fresh from supporting David Gray), Mancunian alternative folk combo The Travelling Band, and Towersey favorites The Spooky Men’s Chorale (Blue Mountains Australia). Additional headline acts will be revealed in the New Year. “We’re very pleased to be welcoming back Bellowhead, who have become one of the UK’s biggest live bands since they first played Towersey in 2006,” says Festival Director Joe Heap. “If our Golden Jubilee in 2014 was our best festival yet, we want to make 2015 even better! We have some real surprises in store for festival-goers this year, as well as retaining everything our regular visitors have told us they love so much about Towersey.” Bellowhead is an 11-piece English contemporary folk act. Bellowhead have won the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards’ Best Live Act title five times. Their discography includes, Burlesque (2006), Matachin (2008), Hedonism (2010), Broadside (2012), and Revival (2014). Show Of Hands is an equally well regarded act in the British acoustic roots field. Even though she is probably best known for her tear jerking performances on The Voice UK, Sally Barker has a long and respected career as both a solo artist and member of the recently reformed Poozies. Towersey Festival debuted in 1964. It features multiple performance spaces, top musical talent, spoken word, dance, workshops, family-friendly activities, food and drink.

Tier One tickets for the full festival are available now. Prices start from just £90 (Adult), £63 (Youth 12-17yrs), £45 (Child 5-11yrs), with under 5s free. Camping £25 (per adult/ youth). Split payment option available. For further information and to purchase tickets, call 01629 827016 or 22 see: www.towerseyfestival.com GYM REFURBISHMENT COMING SOON A BETTER WAY TO GET ACTIVE

WANTAGE LEISURE CENTRE Everyone can benefit from exercise, whatever your age, whatever your ability.

For more information and to claim your guest pass, visit www.better.org.uk/wantage

In partnership with

District Council

GLL_PCR_Wantage_Advert_FEB2015_BetterWayToGetActive_148x210_fv.indd 1 19/02/2015 15:26 Café Scientifique comes to Wantage café Wantage sits in the midst of one of the most scientific areas in the country. With Harwell Oxford to the east and Oxford University to the north, the town has naturally got quite a few science enthusiasts living in it. With that in mind, the international Café Scientifique concept is now coming to a local café. Café Scientifique is a national initiative which has had local events in idcotD and Wallingford for a number of years. It generally involves a speaker delivering a science, engineering or technology-based talk followed by a discussion with the audience in a café or similar venue. In Wantage, a monthly series of free Café Scientifique talks will launch on Tuesday February 10th at The Bay Tree Café on Newbury Street. The first speaker will be Dr Josie Goodall from the UK Catalysis Hub at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell Oxford. Her talk will be about using synchrotron radiation and laser facilities to develop new fuels, batteries, materials and a cleaner environment. Dates already planned are: March 10th, April 14th and May 12th with speakers from Rutherford Appleton Laboratory and Diamond Light Source among those involved. Tea, coffee and cake will be available to buy on the night. Event attendee numbers are limited to the café capacity on a first-come-first-admitted basis. See www.cafescientifique.org for more information. 24 ATOM returns this March The official closing event of the Oxfordshire Science festival this year will be ATOM, a celebration of all things science in Abingdon-on-Thames, bringing together many of the cutting-edge science and technology organisations in the region, with some of the sharpest minds in the country for an extravaganza of science entertainment and intrigue. ATOM was launched last year and 4500 people attended a whole host of science events and activities that took place in the town. ATOM will offer you the chance to see inside your head, to explore the science of art and also answer the question ‘is there a right diet for you’? Taking place between 4th and 22nd March, there are a whole series of events, talks and activities to show why Abingdon and the surrounding areas are at the very centre of cutting-edge science and research. There is the chance to hear how heart surgeons are using technology to save lives, a chance to meet heavy metal marine biologist and TV presenter ‘The Blowfish’, and even the chance to try out some experiments yourself. The event also coincides with a solar eclipse and members of the Abingdon Astronomical Society will be at Abbey Meadows to help you observe everything effectively and safely. To find out more, visit www.oxscifest.org/atom

25 Faringdon Folly Tower opens for another year

You can hire the Tower for your own event. There have been children’s parties, dinner parties, drinks, music. A unique location

Email: [email protected]

26 To find out how to get there, visit www.faringdonfolly.org.uk

It was an antagonistic gesture, a structure with no use whatsoever, which has now turned into the much loved landmark. The notoriously eccentric 14th Baron Berners bought the hill on which the Folly Tower stands in 1919 when he ‘rescued’ it from a timber merchant who wanted to cut down the trees on top of it. A friend remarked that it would be a ‘nice idea’ to build a tower on the hill. The remark was overheard and the rumours of plans for a tower caused a few heckles around the town. Ever ready to provoke, Berners decided to submit planning permission to build a tower with no function – a folly. Plans took some time to pass as Berners had to overcome a multitude of objections. But eventually, the objectors ran out of arguments and planning permission was granted. Berners employed his friend Gerald Wellesley to design and build the tower. Berners was very keen on gothic style architecture and instructed Wellesley to build it in that style. However, Wellesley was more keen on the classical style and as Berners was away when building started, most of the tower was not gothic. As soon as Berners returned, he ordered Wellesley to finish the rest of it in a gothic style. This explains why the style of the Tower suddenly changes somewhere near the top! The Tower was handed over to the town in 1982. The building is now owned by Faringdon Folly Trust and is maintained by volunteers. An extensive refurbishment also took place in 2010. From April until October, the doors of the Folly Tower are opened to visitors on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month. Visiting times are between 11am and 5pm and costs £2 for adults, 50p for children between 11 and 16 and under 11s can enter for free. The woodland around the Folly Tower is free to visit at any time and contains all the hallmarks of Berners eccentric sense of humour with a sculpture trail that has everything from a Civil War cannon made out of wood to a flock of black birds in the trees, reminiscent of the nursery rhyme Sing a Song of Sixpence.

Welcome aboard with Pathfinder Tours

 EXPERIENCE TRAIN TRAVEL AS IT USED TO BE - RELAX ABOARD OUR HERITAGE CARRIAGES AND HAVE A GREAT DAY OUT!

           Pathfinder Tours, based near Stroud in Gloucestershire, was established in 1973 by the General Manager, Peter Watts. They organise around 40 rail excursions every  year along both famous and less well known routes to a wide variety of interesting    destinations. Pathfinder prides themselves on the level of customer service they provide and have many loyal customers who travel with them over and over again.    Some of their trains evoke bygone eras as they are made up of heritage carriages hauled by steam locomotives. Others are hauled by classic diesel engines arousing    the interests of train buffs.    On Bank Holiday Monday, 4 May, Pathfinder are organising a day out to the Peak District aboard The Buxton and Cheshire Explorer which will enable you relax and enjoy being looked after by the friendly and attentive staff and stewards. You can choose to explore the spa town of Buxton with its many fine buildings and Your Choice of Reserved Seating: gardens or you can take a road coach tour of the picturesque Peak District* or Standard Class - features comfortable seating at tables for four aligned with panoramic carriage windows; maybe even try a return trip on the Hindlow single track Branch Line* in the National Park. (*supplementary fares payable) First Class Plus - deep cushioned seating and light refreshments served through the day; or Premier Dining - deep cushioned seating, silver service Full English Breakfast, ‘Elevenses’ & 4 course Dinner Later in the year they have a fabulous four day Rail-cruise to Scotland from Friday Tables for two - with guaranteed window seats available at a supplement of £25 per person (not in Standard Class) 25 to Monday 28 September – The Autumn Chieftain. This is an all-inclusive long ♦All bookings subject to terms & conditions, available on-line or by request♦Βuffet available all day♦ weekend, when all you need to do is chill out and observe the scenery passing by ♦Prices from all stations♦Booking Office open Monday to Friday 09:15 - 16:45♦ whilst you enjoy the fantastic food that is served. The nights are spent in hotels near Inverness. Day 1 Depart for Inverness; Day 2 Take a scenic rail or coach tour to Kyle of Lochalsh; Day 3 Visit the Orkneys or the Northern Wilderness or Dunrobin Castle & Royal  Caithness or ride the Caithness Railway; Day 4 Return home.   Pathfinder Tours look forward to welcoming you aboard one of their many excursions in the near future. Stag House Giddynap Lane Inchbrook Stroud GL5 5EZ For more information visit www.pathfindertours.co.uk ♦Pathfinder Tours pride ourselves on the level of Customer Service we provide♦

Welcome aboard with Pathfinder Tours

The children started their new life in Cookham Dean, just a short distance from the River Thames. The few years that he spent there were among the happiest in his life and the Thames became his playground. It was a time that would later come to have a great influence on his career. However, his time spent near the river came to an end when the chimney at his grandma’s house collapsed. Instead they moved to the village of Cranbourne.

Kenneth and his siblings had a short and less than enjoyable time living with their father again. However, he suffered a relapse and sent the children back to Cranbourne. Kenneth had no further contact with his father, who moved to France and died of alcohol related causes some years later.

After returning from Argyll, Kenneth was sent to St Edwards School, where he excelled both academically and at Rugby. Although definitely having the potential to attend Oxford University, sadly there was not enough money in the family to support him. Instead, he started work at The Bank of England as a clerk. While working at the bank, he started to write a few essays for a magazine produced by former pupils of St Edwards. His writing style was well received, and so he started sending pieces to other well-known magazines of the time.

Having established himself as an essayist, he turned his hand to fiction writing and produced a series of short stories about a group of orphaned children, probably inspired by his own childhood. Eventually, 18 of the stories were published in 1893 in his first book, entitled Pagan Papers. The book was a big hit and received good reviews.

Not long after he met Elspeth Thompson, the daughter of Robert William Thomson, inventor of the pneumatic tyre. Together, they had a son, Alistair, who was blind in one eye from birth. Although he showed an average development, Kenneth and his wife lavished attention on him and lived in the joint fantasy that he was a ‘gifted’ child.

Meanwhile at the bank, Kenneth had risen to become the youngest ever Company Secretary of the Bank of England. In 1903, this almost cost him his life when a man entered and asked for the Governor. As he was not in, Kenneth was sent to meet the stranger, who proceeded to pull out a gun and shoot at him three times. Remarkably, he missed and Kenneth was unhurt.

Three years later, he decided to take early retirement and the family moved to Blewbury near Didcot. There, he started working on a project that had commenced when his son was only young. When before bed, Kenneth would tell Alistair stories of the animals that live beside the river Thames. When he was away working, Kenneth would write letters, continuing the story of Ratty, Toad and Badger. The letters formed the basis for a book, which he called The Wind in the Willows.

It took quite a while to find a publisher, but as soon as it was in print, the public fell in love with the typically English characters. President Roosevelt himself had a copy and loved the story. In fact, when he came to visit Oxford, Kenneth was one of only a few people he asked to meet in person.

But while things were going well in his career, all was not well at home. Alistair had trouble in his school years and was bullied out of both Rugby and Eton schools. When he went to Oxford University, he proved himself to be less than the academic genius his parents had convinced him he was. He failed most of his exams and one night shortly before his 20th birthday, he had dinner and headed for the railway track, where he laid face down in front of a train and was killed.

The death rocked Kenneth and the family moved back to Berkshire. He wrote little after Alistair’s death and in 1893, Kenneth suffered a cerebral haemorrhage at home and died. He was buried in the same grave as his son in Holywell Cemetery in Oxford. Mother’s Day Mothering Sunday: a day for a roast dinner, cards and gifts. It’s like Christmas except it feels more acceptable to go out for the roast and, unless you’re a mum, you don’t get a single present. We may know roughly what’s going on with us for Mothering Sunday this year, which restaurant we might be going to, florist we’re using, bath bomb we’re spending money on, but how often do we think about the history of it? England’s Mothering Sunday is not a version of America’s Mother’s Day. Hundreds of years ago in England, once a year, people used to go back to their ‘mother’ church halfway through Lent. At this time children who had moved away to work were able to visit their families. It is said that what followed this was children annually being granted a day away from work so as to visit their mums with flowers, and that this is where Mothering Sunday derives from. What about Mother’s Day in the USA though? It has said that it was the brainwave of Anna M. Jarvis who wanted America to have a day dedicated to mothers, being a lady who valued what mothers did for their children. She managed to make it so 1908 saw church services paying tribute to mothers. In 1915 Woodrow Wilson recognised Mother’s Day as a national holiday. In America, Mother’s Day takes place on the second Sunday in May; this is the Sunday closest to the date Anna M. Jarvis’ own mother (Anna Reeves Jarvis) passed away. And Mother’s Day in other countries?

32 In Germany, Mother’s Day (Muttertag), during the reign of Hitler, was used to award mothers for the amount of children they had. Bronze, silver and gold medals were issued in recognition of their child bearing efforts which were regarded as a service to Germany. Today it is celebrated the same way we celebrate on Mothering Sunday, with flowers, presents and maybe a family meal. Like in the US it is on the second Sunday in May. Some might think that on Mother’s Day Yugoslavian children have it better than English ones on Mothering Sunday. The former ambush their mothers and tie them up; the price of freedom is gifts from the mums to their kids! The Sunday before (Children’s Day) the mothers bind their offspring and do not let them go until they behave. The Sunday after Mother’s Day is Father’s Day. Guess what? Sons and daughters tie up their dads and untie them when they promise to provide more expensive gifts; Mother’s Day is two weeks before Christmas in Yugoslavia so it is at Christmas time that these promises might be kept! Here Mothering Sunday 2015 takes place on 15 March. Maybe you could adopt Yugoslavian tradition this year? Just for a change? Whatever you do, have a wonderful time and ensure your mum does too. Apparently the children going home in England used to pick wild flowers to give to their mothers so perhaps that’s an option if you want to save the pennies having spent a fortune over Christmas and Valentines Day!

33 Spoilt Silly

Quality Gifts & Interiors. A lovely little shop of all sorts...

• Costume Jewellery • Cherub Themed Gifts • Ladies Scarves • Clocks • Candles & Votive Pots • English Country Chic Women, Men & Children’s Clothing, • Picture Frames Re-vamped Furniture • Mirrors & Wall Signs • Annie Sloan Chalk Paint™ Accessories, Gifts, Footwear, Homewares • Unique Pewter Gift Items (perfect for re-vamping & Handmade Jewellery • Crystals & Fragrance Lamps tired furniture) • Garden Ornaments • and lots more...

01235 798187 www.spoiltsilly.com 22 Market Place, Wantage, Oxfordshire (Opposite the taxi bay)

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 10am till 4.30pm.

Tel: 01235 797496 “We look forward 10B Mill Street, Wantage, Oxon, OX12 9AQ to meeting you Also at Unit 2, Savile Way, Grove, Wantage, OX12 0PT soon” Web: www.Lil-Hellers.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/Lilhellers

77a High Street, Wallingford, OX10 0BX E. [email protected] T. 07714 628404 W. www.essensebeautysalon.com

We now offer FLABéLOS the ultimate whole body vibrant workout machine! It’s Simple, It’s Fast, It’s Quiet and It’s Fun!

This is a fantastic way to: At Essense we offer a wide range of treatments including; Botox & Filler with our • Burn Fat • Increase Flexibility visiting Doctor, Semi-Permanent Make-up, Acupuncture, Eyelash Extensions, Decleor • Anti-Aging • Promote Circulation Facials, Hot Stone Massage, FakeBake Spray • Lose Weight • Increase Bone Density Tanning, Orly Gel FX Manicures & Pedicures and lots more! • Reduce Cellulite • Improve Varicose Veins Don't forget to check out our website & • Build Muscle Tone • Minimise Lower Back Pain Facebook Page for our monthly Offers! We can offer One Months Exclusive Use For £20 Limited Number Of Spaces

& a Free 10 Min Trial Before You Sign Up! ? 10 Mins = 1 Hr Workout! Bring this voucher to your Atomic Hair next appointment for Curie Avenue · Harwell Science and Innovation Campus Essense Beauty LTD 15% OFF Essense Beauty LTD Didcot · Oxfordshire · OX11 0QQ E. [email protected] T. 07714 628404 W. www.essensebeautysalon.com 01235 834307 34 Mother’s Day Luncheon at Donnington Grove Sunday 15th March 2015

Treat your mother to a two or three course lunch and let us do the cooking. Includes a complimentary welcome drink on a rrival and an extra special gift for all of mothers dinin g.

2 Course Meal - £23 • 3 Course Meal - £27

Tel: 01635 581000 Grove Road, Newbury RG14 2LA www.donnington-grove.com

www.justrightmarquees.co.uk

JustRight Marquees Ltd 32 Tamar Way, Didcot Oxon OX11 7QH t: 01235 211596 m: 07946 645277 [email protected]

Marquees have evolved over recent years and by hiring our shaped Pagoda style marquees we can create something different for your event “ ” 35 Starlight Wish of a Lifetime

Didcot Railway Centre is proud to help Starlight Children’s Foundation grant Daniel Bainbridge’s wish of a lifetime. Starlight Children’s Foundation is the UK’s leading wish granting charity for children and young people with serious and terminal illness. Ten year old Daniel from Abingdon was diagnosed shortly after birth with Neurofibromatosis, a genetic disease that causes tumours to grow along the nerves. Late in 2012, Daniel was also sadly diagnosed with an Optic Pathway Glioma; a type of slow growing brain tumour. Since then, Daniel has undergone intense chemotherapy Despite all these challenges, Daniel has remained positive, often cheering up other children on his ward. Daniel’s mother, Julia, wrote to Starlight to ask them to help grant Daniel’s wish to be a train driver. The Foundation contacted Didcot Railway Centre, and plans were put in place for Daniel’s wish of a lifetime to come true last February. As part of the day, Daniel had a footplate ride on a steam engine, spoke to a train driver about what it’s like to drive a train and explored the engine shed. Daniel was be accompanied by his father, Robert. Also in attendance, was the Mayor of Didcot, Councillor Scott Wilgrove, and Neil Swan, CEO of Starlight Children’s Foundation. Ann Middleton, Commercial Manager for the Centre, said, “We were pleased to be able to help Daniel achieve his wish of becoming a train driver. I’m sure his day has provided wonderful memories for him.” Neil Swan, CEO of Starlight Children’s Foundation, said, “We are delighted to have granted Daniel’s wish-of- lifetime and to be creating precious memories for his family to cherish. The positive focus that a Starlight wish brings really does have a beneficial effect and helps to restore the fun and magic of childhood. We are extremely grateful to Didcot Railway Centre for their assistance in helping make Daniel’s wish come true.” Details of the Starlight Children’s Foundation can be found at www.starlight.org.uk For further details of Didcot Railway Centre, please call 01235 817200, or visit the website: www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk 36 Plans for the redevelopment of the area opposite Didcot Station have gone on show to the public. The £60m development has been named ‘Didcot Gateway’ and aims to better reflect the vibrant nature of the town. Planners hope the site will not only create homes, jobs and open spaces for the public, but also draw visitors into the town. The proposals showed that the development will include several blocks of flats, some shops, cafes and walkways. at Didcot Railway Centre

Memorial garden for Jayden complete A garden built in memory of Didcot Girl’s School pupil Jayden Parkinson has created by friends and family, not far from where her body was found. The garden in Foxhill Road was built by local charity Aspire Oxford and hopes to reflect the teenager’s vibrancy and energy. Jayden’s friends and family gathered on the 28th to plant trees and shrubs in her memory, which put the finishing touches to the garden, designed by Gez Porter. The land for the garden was allocated for the project by Soha Housing and materials were donated by various local companies including Burford Garden company, Chilton Skips, QLawns, Homebase and Bampton Garden Plants. The garden will provide a place for Jayden’s friends and family to gather to remember her. The design also includes a mesh board for people to place locks on to leave as a mark of respect.

37 The Happiness Issue From psychology to philosophy, economics to medicine, every subject seems to be able to tell you how to be happy. On the internet is a mass of information, quotes, proverbs and articles telling you exactly how to chase this elusive thing called happiness. But who do you believe? For our happiness issue, Pick has trawled through the internet and found the five aspects of happiness that are mentioned most.

1 Minimise Stress This one sounds impossible for most of us. With families, jobs, mortgages and all the trappings of modern life, it is hard to see how we can reduce stress without selling our house and living in a tent for the rest of our life. And that certainly won’t make us happy in the winter! But in fact, a lot of our stress is optional. If you write down the things that are stressing you, then you will be amazed how many can be done by somebody else or even done a different way. Through life, we accumulate routines and often we do them the same way, day in, day out, just because that is what we have always done. Just doing something differently can really help with your stress levels.

2 Have a laugh Although clowns have a reputation as being happy on the outside but depressed on the inside, the happiest people in life are those who use humour to help them get through tricky situations. There are, of course, times when dropping in a joke or two will have a room looking at you in horror! But most situations in life can be eased by finding a funny side. Thinking about how your situation would be viewed in a sitcom is a good way to see the funny side. It will also help if you spend a lot of time with funny people who make you laugh. These people are always ready to put a smile on your face.

3 Exercise and health It is true that nothing put a smile on your face better than a massive pizza and a night in front of the telly, but if this becomes routine, the enjoyment soon ebbs away. Eating junk food constantly not only diminishes its value as a ‘treat’, but it is also bad for your body. You might not get an immediate high from an apple or a salad, but in terms of happiness, it’s a much better investment to eat well. And don’t forget, exercise in itself is a big producer of serotonin and a bunch of other ‘happy hormones’

38 4 What you have got Achieving goals is one of the best ways to feel happy. However, most of us either set the wrong goals or set them too high. For example, earning more money could be a false chase as the extra stress means your net happiness gain is nothing. A lot of the things we aim for in life are for show, for other people to see. So rather than aiming to have the biggest house, why not instead spend time making your current house somewhere you want to come home to? Rather than being upset because your son isn’t going to make it onto a scholarship at Oxford, be happy because he has a passion for rugby.

5 Find freedom in everything Philosophers have long extoled the virtues of agency over our own worlds. However, there are a lot of situations we feel we have no control over whatsoever. However, psychological studies have shown that just by having the freedom to decide where you sit can make you feel more in control. The key finding here is that whatever situation you are in, find the thing you can change and focus on that. At work, try to concentrate on your ability to choose what order to do tasks in. In a job interview, move the chair slightly to one side before you sit down. Make sure that the most important decision maker in your life is you!

For more information on health, happiness and wellbeing, a good place to start is NHS Choices – www.nhs.uk

39 GYM REFURBISHMENT COMING SOON A BETTER WAY TO GET ACTIVE THE PARK SPORTS CENTRE Everyone can benefit from exercise, whatever your age, whatever your ability.

For more information and to claim your guest pass, visit www.better.org.uk/thepark

In partnership with

District Council

GLL_PCR_Wantage_Advert_FEB2015_BetterWayToGetActive_148x210_v1.indd 1 19/02/2015 15:28 Pooh Sticks World Championships leaves Long Wittenham One of the more quirky Oxfordshire sporting events, the annual Pooh Sticks World Championship, has found itself a new home. The competition has been held annually at Day’s Lock near Wittenham Clumps for over 30 years. However, a decision was made earlier this year that the event has grown too popular for the current location and organisers warned this March’s event will have to take place somewhere else. The Rotary Club of Oxford Spires, who have organised the competition in recent years, started looking for a new location right away. Langel Common, based between Witney town and Cogges estate, met all the criteria for the new site. It has ample car parking, a nice long bridge and most important of all, a gentle current to carry the sticks under the bridge. The location has been used for the filming of Downton Abbey and nearby Cogges Manor Farm are planning to organise events to accompany the day. But best of all, for the first time ever, the competition can take place in the summer! High boat traffic at Days Lock in the warmer months meant that the competition could only take place between October and March. However, there are no boats on the new stretch of river, which means it will hopefully be a warm, sunny day. Pooh Sticks is a game that originated in the work of A.A. Miline in one of his famous series of Winnie-the-Pooh books. Although the bridge in the book where Pooh Sticks originated is in Sussex, Long Wittenham has been the home of the official championships for 31 years. The championship was started by lockkeeper Lynn David, who noticed that a lot of visitors to Days Lock played the game over the bridge. Lynn was a strong supporter of The Royal National Lifeboat Institution, and so he set up the event to raise money for the charity. The Rotary Club of Sinodun took over the organisation after Lynn retired and in more recent times, the Rotary Club of Oxford Spires took over.

41 Visit our Health and Wellbeing Centre today Experience the friendly and supportive atmosphere of a Health and Wellbeing Centre. Qualified staff offer a wide range of services designed to help keep you healthy and independent. How about quizzes, yoga, crafts and seated exercise? If you’d prefer something more relaxing, try hairdressing services, manicures, podiatry, relaxation or hand massage. Or maybe you’d just like a cuppa and a chat?

There really is something for everyone at your local Health and Wellbeing Centre!

Wantage Health & Wellbeing Centre Manager: Jane Doyle - Tel: 01235 765934 Abingdon Health & Wellbeing Centre Manager: Pauline Krason - Tel: 01235 521094 Didcot Health & Wellbeing Centre Acting Manager: Gemma Booker - Tel: 01235 518444 Wallingford Health & Wellbeing Centre Manager: Kerry Coleman - Tel: 01491 836467

Call 0845 050 7666 or visit www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/healthandwellbeingcentres Visit our Health and Wellbeing Keeping the county happy Centre today Oxfordshire’s Health Experience the friendly and supportive atmosphere of a Health and Wellbeing Centre. Qualified staff offer a wide range of services designed to help keep you healthy and & Wellbeing Centres independent. How about quizzes, yoga, crafts and seated exercise? If you’d prefer Health and Wellbeing Centres managed and run by something more relaxing, try hairdressing services, manicures, podiatry, relaxation or Oxfordshire County Council are located in Abingdon, Didcot, Wallingford and Wantage and are open from Monday to Friday 9am- 4.30pm, What Our Happy hand massage. Or maybe you’d just like a cuppa and a chat? Wallingford is also open on Saturdays from 9.30-2.30pm The Centres offer a wide range of activities all aimed at supporting Customers say There really is something for everyone at your local Health and Wellbeing Centre! adults living in the community to remain independent and happy for as long as possible through improved health and wellbeing about us Why not experience a hand or foot massage, manicure and polish, ‘The atmosphere is so Wantage Health & Wellbeing Centre relaxation session or seated exercise all included in the cost of attending!!! friendly, the staff are super Manager: Jane Doyle - Tel: 01235 765934 and nothing is too much To arrange a FREE NO OBLIGATION trouble. It’s my lifeline’ Abingdon Health & Wellbeing Centre ‘Coming to the Centre TASTER DAY INCLUDING LUNCH is like coming to an Manager: Pauline Krason - Tel: 01235 521094 oasis in the desert’ contact your local Centre: It’s really enjoyable, Didcot Health & Wellbeing Centre it keeps my brain active and Abingdon – 01235 521094 Didcot – 01235 518444 I’ve made lots of new friends. I don’t feel lonely any more’ Acting Manager: Gemma Booker - Tel: 01235 518444 Wallingford – 01491 836467 Wantage – 01235 765934 ‘The seated yoga has improved Wallingford Health & Wellbeing Centre Where our qualified staff will be happy to discuss by mobility and I feel much your individual support needs more flexible now and Manager: Kerry Coleman - Tel: 01491 836467 I am finding getting around at home a lot easier’

Call 0845 050 7666 or visit For further information about monthly activities you can visit our website at: www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/healthandwellbeingcentres www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/healthandwellbeingcentres Basement Jaxx head for Hill Farm this summer

One of Oxfordshire’s best loved music festivals has announced its line-up. Truck, which takes place in Steventon, will be headlined by none other than Basement Jaxx this year. The electronic dance music duo will be heading down to Hill Farm this summer to join some other great national and local acts, including Saint Raymond, Peter Hook and the Light and Pulled Apart by Horses. Basement Jaxx rose to fame in the late 90s and will be heading to the farm directly from headlining at the O2 Arena. They will be showcasing the whole of their 20 year catalogue, which includes well known singles such as ‘Red Alert’ and ‘Where’s Your Head At’. Their biggest hit to date is their 1999 house track Rendez-Vu, which rose to number 4 in the charts and can still be heard on the dance floors of clubs up and down the country every weekend. Returning to the fields will also be in-demand indie pop band Saint Raymond. Co-Founder of Joy Division Peter Hook will also be at the festival with his band The Light. Together they will perform some of New Order and Joy Division’s greatest hits. Pulled Apart by Horses are also back to headline the Barn with their brand new album. Tickets are now on sale via the website - www.truckfestival.com

44 £15 OFF MEMBERSHIP FITNESS with the I N TIM E offer code FIT15OFF LADIES ONLY GYM & BEAUTY SALON All of our flexible low-cost gym memberships include:- • A dedicated fitness programme targeting your goals • Monthly reviews with our fantastic in-house personal trainers • A new fitness programme every 8 weeks • No Men & No Mirrors! • Discount on beauty treatments • Help & support from our friendly female staff And best of all OUR WORKOUTS ONLY TAKE 30 MINUTES!

FREE PARKING Tel: 01235 537002 Audlett Drive, Abingdon, OX14 3NJ email: [email protected] www.ﬁtnessintime.co.uk

Kickstart summer 2015

Free body discovery session and two weeks unlimited class pass • Exclusive offer for first 15 people to claim • Discover why weight loss hasn’t worked for you before • How to lose stubborn belly fat and keep it off • What you can do about it right now • Gain more confidence, lose weight and tone up ready for summer 2015 • Don’t leave it to the last minute, do it now! Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity for the best head start to the body you want this year, not next

“Yay it’s easier staying in track when out of town if you are well prepared. Thank you” – Jacquie “I didn’t realise I would feel so good from it so quickly, and I didn’t realise how much I’d enjoy it.” - Tracy

Call Jo on 07976 008622 or email [email protected] to book your space before they all go!

45 Five reasons to join the gym We all have the best intentions of putting on our running shoes every morning and hitting the tarmac, but does it ever happen? How many times have we made a resolution to get fit and healthy, only for those ambitions to fade after a couple of weeks, or even days? Joining a gym could be the answer to all of these problems. Gyms aren’t always full of lycra, sweaty men, loud music and huge mirrors. Fitness in Time is a ladies only gym in Abingdon, where you can find a pleasant atmosphere, friendly female personal trainers and best of all, the workouts only take 30-minutes.

If you need more reasons to give them a call and book a guest visit, here are our 5 Reasons why you should join a gym!

Motivation – Monthly reviews with a personal trainer can be just the motivation you need to keep going, whether it’s to see how well you’ve done as the inches come off, or even some gentle encouragement when you have missed a few sessions!

Expertise – You can ask health professionals the best ways to achieve your goals, no two-people are alike so you can get a programme written specifically to target your problem areas.

Specialist Equipment – Lots of people have an old exercise bike or treadmill as a forlorn clothes-horse, but by joining a gym you get to use good equipment which is made for the job - decent gym equipment costs thousands of pounds, and can’t really be replicated by a £100 second hand treadmill!

Time For Yourself – Get away from the kids, the housework and all the other distractions and take some time for yourself. A workout doesn’t have to take hours on end. 30-minutes is easy to fit in your day, but makes sure you are taking some time to concentrate on your body.

Value For Money – You don’t have to spend a fortune to join a gym, memberships at Fitness In Time start from just £26.99 per month – less than 90p per day. And all memberships come with monthly reviews, unlimited use of the gym and discount in their beauty studio for a nice pamper after a workout!

If you are interested in membership, why not give them a call on 01235 537002 and book yourself for a free tour, or take a look at their website www.fitnessintime.co.uk

As a special ‘Pick South Offer’, you can use the code FIT15OFF to get £15 off your first membership payment!

46 WHAT ARE YOU DOING THIS WEEK?

Oxfordshire (The Riﬂes) Battalion Army Cadet Force Male and Female Cadets 12 (Year 8) to 18 Male and Female Volunteers 18-55 (on entry)

Abingdon • Banbury • Bicester • Blackbird Leys • Burford • Carterton • Chipping Norton • Corunna Band & Bugles Didcot • Donnington Bridge • Elsfield Way • Eynsham • Headington • Henley • Kidlington • North Oxfordshire Academy Oxpens • Shrivenham • Thame • Wallingford • Wantage • Wheatley • Witney • Woodstock www.oxonacf.org.uk 01869 259681 [email protected] New eBook about life at the MG factory released A new pictorial study of life at the MG factory has been written by ex-employee – Brian Moylan. Having started work at the factory in 1950, Brian went on to have a successful career in the racing department and worked on several cars, including the 1967 Monte Carlo Rally winner. The book, Those Were The Days, contains 160 photos depicting factory life and the people who came from all walks of life to work there. Many of the pictures in the book have never been published before and show the factory from its opening in 1930 until its closure in 1980. The book was originally published in 2007 and has been an essential part of an MG fan’s bookcase ever since. Now, Veloce Digital has published Those Were the Days as an ebook so you can download it onto your digital device. The book is available on amazon, Google Plan and is also in the iBookstore.

1967 Monte Carlo Rally winner

48 Wallingford’s Royal Castle Revealed

Wallingford Museum enjoyed record numbers in 2014 but is now looking forward to its 2015 season, which will bring a wonderful new special exhibition - ‘Wallingford’s Royal Castle Revealed’. It will display for the first time the fantastic results of fresh historical and archaeological research into the life and importance of one of the greatest royal strongholds of Medieval England. This new research shows Wallingford Castle’s importance as the third great stronghold of the Thames Valley - Tower of London, Windsor and Wallingford - wonderful new details of the life of the castle, its buildings, people and activities. It will bring to life the amazing details discovered in these newly translated documents, revealing the daily life and the layout of the Castle. This exhibition will complement a weekend of ‘living history’ on 27-28 June, when the English Civil War Society and Town Council have organised a ‘Civil War re-enactment’ on the Castle. Alongside, to commemorate the 800th anniversary of the signing of Magna Carta there will be an additional display ‘Magna Carta and All That!’ highlighting Wallingford’s role in the events of 1215, and why it is only one of four towns mentioned in Magna Carta. King John was at Wallingford Castle on several occasions during his falling out with the barons which led to Magna Carta. There will be special events during this year including guided History Walks (11 April), a Night at the Museum (15 May), Family Archaeology Day (18 July), a Medieval Day (15 Aug) and an Agatha Christie weekend (18-20 Sept), culminating in a major history conference about Wallingford Castle in October. During the afternoon of Sunday 14 June, St Mary’s Church bells will ring a special peel as part of the national commemoration of Magna Carta.

The Museum is open for its 2015 season from Tuesday 3 March as follows: Tuesdays - Fridays 2.00pm - 5.00pm Saturdays 10.30am - 5.00pm Sundays (June - August only) & Bank Holidays 2.00pm - 5.00pm www.wallingfordmuseum.org.uk 49 Pettits to downsize One of Wallingford’s most iconic and best loved stores has announced it is to down-size. Pettits is one of the town’s longest running businesses and opened in 1856 by William Pettit. It remained a family store for five generations before being sold to the Rowse family, who are better known for making honey, in 1987. The store currently has 20 departments on three floors. However, the economic downturn and a change in the way people shop has meant Pettits has struggled to turn a profit in the last few years. But rather than close for business, management have decided to convert the upper floor of the shop into flats and keep a downsized version of the shop open on the ground floor. Houseware and toys, which are currently situated in the upper floor, will be transferred to Pettits’ sister shop Champions. Pettits will close at the end of March and remain shut while work takes place until December. Until then, it is hoped the Men’s and Ladies department will occupy empty shops in the town until the building is reopened.

50 Wantage athletics group call for a track

The chairman of Wantage’s biggest running club has called for a running track in the town. Simon Leech took over the post of chairman of White Horse Harriers in December and he has said that with running on the rise and the population of Wantage growing all the time due to new housing, it was about time there was a permanent track for local athletes to use. “We would like to work with the town and district councils to identify sites for a full size, permanent running track and a clubhouse or pavilion for training, meetings, changing and social events.” Simon told local media. “We recognise the challenge in identifying and funding appropriate sites and would be content to share with another complimentary club or organisation. The club is already an important part of the local community, and with the proper facilities it could take on an even stronger role.” He has put his wish list in the form of a request to Mayor Fiona Roper, who said she is now considering the ideas. A track could be included in the Wantage Neighbourhood Plan for development, currently being drawn up by a group of volunteers. White Horse Harriers Athletics Club have around 150 members of all ages and meet once a week to train as well as taking part in loads of track and field, road running and cross country events. New members are always welcome, regardless of ability or experience.

To find out more, visit www.whitehorseharriers.org 51 Cycle route between Thame and Haddenham proposed Sustrans have started to seriously investigate the idea of a long-awaited cycle route between Thame and Haddenham Railway Station. Being only three miles from Thame, many commuters travel from Thame to catch the train in Haddenham every day and currently, cyclists have to either cycle on the busy A418 and Thame Road or find alternative routes off-road. But at a recent Haddenham in Transition event, Sustrans Area manager Peter Challis said that there were two possible routes currently under discussion and that both Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Councils have agreed on which would be preferable. One route used existing rights of way. However, Oxfordshire County Council were unable to support this idea as it crossed possible flood areas and there were also some land issues. However, both councils have now agreed to investigate a suggested route that would run alongside the A418 and a report has been funded by Buckinghamshire County Council into the proposal. If the route is viable, then funding will be sought.

52 Supporting Ex-Forces Bicester, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom – 18 November 2015 – an ex-army corporal is giving back to his ex-colleagues. Nick Westhorpe, one of the casualties of MoD cut back, found himself dumped into civilian life following redundancy. Having launched Purely Platinum Lifestyle, a successful chauffeur company, Nick wanted to help his ex-colleagues get back into civilian life. Nick, a former corporal of 14 years with the Royal Logistics Corps, is very aware that whilst army life teaches some very valuable skills, communicating how they are of value to business can be a huge challenge. Founder and Director of Purely Platinum Lifestyle, Mr Westhorpe remarks, “The armed forces instil some fantastic and valuable values into their personnel, but I am acutely aware that some of those skills and values appear irrelevant to today’s businesses. However, I am really keen to support ex-forces personnel and local businesses to understand how these skills are directly relevant and can be leveraged by both parties to really add value.” Mr Westhorpe’s experience in senior management positions for luxury boutique hotels in the Lake District, in association with his experience in his new venture has shown him how the skills and values from his armed forces days can be hugely useful to today’s business. As a consequence Nick has designed a presentation that he is delivering to local Dalton Barracks soon, that will be equally valuable to local businesses, on how to transfer all the knowledge and standards of today’s armed forces into the workplace. The presentation will show recruiters how to get the most value from interviewing ex-armed forces personnel. Nick commented “At Purely Platinum Cars we have a strong dedication to social responsibility and have dedicated time and resources to giving back to the community. This presentation is one unique way I can support ex-forces personnel, who have given to their country, in adapting back into civilian life. At the same time I can help local businesses improve their recruitment and access a wider pool of potential employees, a perfect win-win scenario.” Nick has decided to dedicate some of his time to delivering this presentation for free to local recruiters. He would be delighted to go to workplaces and deliver the presentation. If you would like Nick to come to your workplace call 01869 255789 or email Nick at [email protected]. 53 Modern British menu, authentic paellas and tapas, freshly prepared and locally sourced ingredients

Fresh fish Friday NEW!! Lunchtime specials menu £8.95 2 x fish main courses, 1 x bottle Tuesday & Wednesday evening Selection of dishes available of house wine red or white, Freshly prepared pizzas from Tuesday-Friday lunchtimes every Friday from 6.30pm £10 freshly made tomato changes every week choose from 3 dishes every sauce, homemade mozzarella, week, £27.00 for two people take away available

Traditional Sunday lunch, real log fire, Sunday 15th sofa style seating, real ales Mother’s day bookings march now being taken

www.theswanfoodhouse.co.uk

01993 708792 Steep Hill, Crawley, Witney, Oxfordshire, OX29 9TW www.lambcrawley.co.uk

Rachel & Matt welcome you to enjoy the atmosphere of a classic old English inn with beams and a real log fire crackling away. Settle down with a pint of Brakspears ale or your favourite tipple. Dogs are allowed in the bar area making us perfect for all those enjoying a good country walk or ramble with well-behaved four legged friends. Whether it’s a coffee, a quick pint, a light lunch or a candlelit dinner, The Lamb Inn has something for everyone. We look forward to welcoming you.

54 St James Hotels Welcomes you to The Shillingford Bridge Hotel

Steak Night Thursday’s Seated in our Picturesque, River View Restaurant or our Bar Area. Dine on a Succulent English Steak Selection Cooked to your preference. £30 for two Steaks and a Bottle of Wine. £45 for two Steaks and a Bottle of Prosecco. Fish and Chip Friday’s Perfect for family and friends to get together on a Friday. £8 per person or Two for £15. Eat in or take away.

Open 7 days a week from 12pm - 9pm Enjoy an Afternoon Tea for Two by the River for just £17

For something a little more substantial, why not book a table for dinner in our River Side Restaurant? With Panoramic views of the River Thames, the Shillingford Bridge Hotel is the perfect place to enjoy an evening away.

Also available for private parties and events, we can offer bespoke menus to match your requirements. Food Served 7 days a week from 12.00 till 21.00

01865 858567 • [email protected] Shillingford Bridge Hotel, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 8LZ

We are noW taking bookings for Mother’s Day – 15th March & easter sunDay – 5th april

• Independent 36 Seat Restaurant • Award Winning Chef & Restaurant • Food Served: Tuesday - Saturday Lunch 11.45am - 2.30pm, Dinner 6.00pm - 9.30pm • Sunday 12.00 Noon - 2.30pm • Locally Sourced Produce Cooked To Order • Superb Fresh Fish & Shellfish • Bespoke Parties, Birthdays, Anniversaries, Retirement Or Leaving Parties • 2/3 Course Lunches Only £9.95 / £13.95

Bistro14, 14 Wallingford Street, Wantage, OX12 8AX 01235 771200 | www.bistro-14.co.uk

55 THE FREER GUIDE TO FOOD

Eat. Nourish. Glow. by Amelia Freer (HarperThorsons) is out now, RRP £16.99.

56 Amelia Freer suffered from chronic acne, mind fog You say to make fat your friend and sugar your and lethargy before rejuvenating her diet. Today, enemy – why is fat getting such a good rep at the she works as a nutritional therapist and her ten step moment when before it’s been seen as the baddie? book Eat Nourish Glow gives insight into how to lose It’s just mixed messages and old science. When studies weight, look younger and above all, feel healthier. first came out stating that fat was contributing to We caught up with Amelia to discover how our diet cardiovascular disease and weight gain, the food industry could be affecting day to day life. adapted and created foods without fat. But again, we have to be more conscious – if something is made in What promoted you to rejuvenate your diet and a factory and it’s had the fats removed, then we must change the way you ate? look at what is being added to make it taste nice and to The inspiration for me to change my diet was purely secure it’s texture and shelf life. In most cases, fat-free my health and feeling so unwell. I’d grown up eating a products have added sugar or artificial sweeteners, relatively normal diet, my mother cooked evening meals which we now know are far more detrimental for weight from scratch but then when I moved to London and management and cardiovascular health. Thanks to started working I don’t think I came anywhere close to research over the last 20 years we now know that not a home cooked meal for quite some time. I was really all fat is contributing into making people fat, it’s actually quite dependant on what I now know was convenience elevated sugar and processed fats that are what we food but I was so unconscious then - as I think lots of need to avoid. people can become - you just get used to buying your food readymade. My health took a massive decline, I Eat Nourish Glow is big on coconut – why is coconut had chronic acne, I had really bad digestive issues, really so beneficial to our diet? bad energy and a foggy head. I kept going to the doctors It’s a natural fat that has been shown to speed up our but couldn’t really get any relief from anything that the metabolism and help us lose weight as well as decrease doctor suggested. It was only when a friend who knew appetite. This doesn’t mean to eat it in large qualities quite a bit about nutrition said, “You know, your diet is but it’s a brilliant replacement for butter if someone is not very good.” I remember getting a bit defensive and avoiding dairy produce and it has been shown to have saying, “Don’t be ridiculous, I eat well.” She said, “Maybe multiple health benefits when consumed in moderation. you want to have a look at it, maybe you could cut down I use it in place of olive oil when cooking and in place of on bread…” She gave me a bit of a hint and I started butter when baking and sometimes in place of cream in to become more aware of what I was eating each day my coffee. and realised it was terrible! And then I went to see a Is there a food source we typically think is good for nutritional therapist and it was a revelation. us but we should be avoiding? Going gluten-free is currently all the rage but A lot of people think yoghurt is a health product but it you’ve said that gluten free isn’t necessarily always isn’t always. As I said earlier, if it is flavoured and low the healthier option. What advice would you give fat, it will be high in sugar. And dairy produce is now not on opting gluten free in the most nourishing way such a natural product and often lots of hormones and possible? antibiotics are used so it’s not something I’d encourage Well, not everyone needs to be gluten free but if they clients to eat in large quantities. want to try it, the key is to ensure they are eating real When people talk about eating clean they often food. If it’s been made in a factory and it’s in a packet reduce carb intake – is that something you’d labelled ‘gluten free’ that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s recommend or be wary of? good for you. You can get organic sugar but that doesn’t mean it’s any better for you than ordinary sugar. I think I think we all need to be really clear on what carbs are. again it comes back to consciousness and awareness. I don’t advocate a high protein diet – I believe that we It’s perfectly easy to eat foods that don’t contain gluten need to be eating an abundance of plants mainly in the and accepting that we don’t need to have a substitute for form of vegetables with minimum amounts of fruits. I all of the gluten foods. When I first went gluten free the don’t think that we need to be eating an abundance of first thing I did was go to the gluten free aisle and try to grains; certainly not the amounts I see people eating buy all of the alternatives. Slowly I realised that wasn’t (all three meals). Research in this area is telling us that the solution and I don’t need life with a slice of bread in excessive carbohydrate consumption is contributing it anymore, because I’ve learnt other things to cook. It’s towards more than diabetes and weight gain but also awareness and not falling into that trap of just trying to suggesting that neurodegenerative diseases can be find an alternative. Look at what you’re eating day to exacerbated by high sugar, high carb and high grain diets. day instead. So I don’t advocate a carb free or a high protein diet, but I think that grains should be reduced and that we eat most of our carbs in the form of vegetables, a small amount of fruit each day and occasionally pulses.

57 Reassuringly tasty, nutritious and dependable. Now that’s a recipe for an easier life.

Chicken & Vegetable Casserole At Wiltshire Farm Foods, we’ve been taking care of mealtimes £2.95 for over 22 years, and our range of 260 frozen meals covers all mealtimes and appetites. You’ll enjoy FREE delivery from our carefully-selected drivers, who have all been individually vetted by the police for your peace of mind. Simply take a look at our free brochure and order over the phone, or online.

TASTY MEALS FROM ONLY £2.95 & FREE DELIVERY

For your FREE brochure call

of great service 0800 066 3366 wiltshirefarmfoods.com

Menu du Jour LUNCH Tuesday to Saturday & DINNER Tuesday to Thursday 2 Courses - £15.00, 3 Courses - £18.00

Now takiNg bookiNgs for check our website Mother’s day on Sunday 15th March, for Menus and Good Friday 3rd April , Easter Sunday 5th April, prices for Mother’s Easter Monday 6th April day and Easter

T: 01235848242 4 Appleford Road, Sutton Courtenay, OX14 4NQ www.thefishatsuttoncourtenay.co.uk Closed Sunday evenings and all day Monday

58 brakspear-beers.co.uk @Oxfordshirebeer

Brakspear-Beers 59

11808_BRAKSPEAR_AD_A5_V1.indd 1 07/01/2014 12:11 The Railway Inn

The Railway Inn, Station Road, Culham, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 3BT

Serving traditional home cooked food in a traditional country inn environment the Railway Inn offers something for everyone.

• Delicious £8.50 Roast Dinners • Live Music Events Most Fridays & Karaoke! • BT Sports & Large Flat Screen TV LIVE MUSIC! 28th March – Nameless • 9 Room Bed & Breakfast Accommodation 17th April - Series 2 2nd May – Shakedown Prophets 15th March - Mother’s Day 16th May – Joe Holic Free raffle for all mums dining 21st May – Cry Havoc Morris Dancers 01235 528046 30th May – Nameless [email protected] www.railwayinnculham.co.uk

Delicious Al Fresco Dining right in the heart of Wallingford

Come And Enjoy Local Ales, Local Produce And Local Hospitality! Exciting new menus for our restaurant and tavern bar for the summer with the arrival d of our new Head Chef, Al fresco dining in our enclosed courtyard, a little more refinement in our Wealh’s Restaurant and Bistro, the choice is yours! Be it afternoon tea with lots of treats or steak and chips in front of the game we have something for you!

High Street, Wallingford, Oxfordshire OX10 0BS Telephone: 01491 836665 Email: [email protected]

60 ACE DENTURE CENTRE Dedicated to the care of denture wearers – Est. 1984

THINKING OF NEW DENTURES? We make dentures look like natural teeth at private affordable prices on the premises Sunken features can be supported to return to your natural appearance DENTURES REPAIRED WHILE YOU WAIT Mr P Caira – Diploma CDT, RCS(Eng.) GDC Reg No. 118974

• Delicate chrome plates • Quality teeth available • Evening appointments available • Friendly patient service FREE CONSULTATION

PHONE FOR A FREE INFORMATION PACK Call 01494 520515 – 24hr Helpline 174 Desborough Road, High Wycombe HP11 2QA www.acedenture.com YOUR DENTURE PROBLEMS SOLVED

61 JASON FLEMYNG INTERVIEW THE GOOD HEARTED GANGSTER Actor Jason Flemyng is known for roles in British cult crime comedy Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, Hollywood’s The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and the BBC’s The Missing. Acting aside, there’s another role close to his heart, the longstanding children’s charity, Barnardo’s.

With 20 years in the business, you might expect Flemyng to be a little jaded. But the actor is determined to give back, and supporting Barnardo’s work with young people seems the perfect place to start. The LAMBA trained actor sees self-confidence as integral to personal development.

“Even though it was a struggle for my mum bringing two boys up on her own, I realise how important it was to have a loving parent and someone who supported you,” he reflects. “It had always been my dream to be a professional actor and my mum was like, ‘If that’s what you want to do, that’s what you want to do.’ I was a very lucky boy and I had the support to do what I needed in order to do what I wanted to do. I realise now it never really occurred to me that you couldn’t go for what you couldn’t go for because I was always given the opportunity to do that.”

It was only as an adult that Flemyng realised that lack of encouragement and opportunity could have a significant impact. “When I did my first job up in Scotland I was living on my own and would go to the local pub. A family I met there kind of befriended me. They were

62 a young mum, dad and three kids and they had nothing, they were second generation unemployed on a massive council estate in Glasgow. I went, ‘Mate, I can get you a job as an actor, get the whole family work and they can come work with you!’ The first thing you had to do was get a passport photo taken, fill in a form and turn up for casting. I organised everything then when time came the Jason Flemyng and his dad family didn’t turn up.

“I went back the next weekend and was like, ‘What you doing man?’ They said, ‘Oh, there was a problem, the alarm clock broke, blah blah…’ I got annoyed and was like, ‘Come on, this is easy, you can get 300 pounds for two days work.’ Eventually, I realised that actually, just going through that front door was almost an impossible mountain for them to climb. It’s to do with confidence; it’s the belief that you’re valid to do that. My frustration from that came from the fact I’d always been led to believe I was capable but if you’re not then it’s very hard.”

Flemyng saw Barnardo’s as going some way to solving this cyclical problem. “People are impatient with the long term unemployed for not achieving what they could achieve but they don’t understand that it has to start a lot younger, to get that step through the door.”

The right home environment can make a massive difference, as Flemyng notes. “I’ve just left my friend’s house who has fostered a four-year-old boy. They’ve been with the kid for two months tops. Before that, he has never slept a night, he’d wake 12, 15 times a night. Now, he’s sleeping through the night. And that’s a really good reflection - obviously it’s an amazing success and not standard - but it’s fantastic.”

Flemyng has two young children of his own, Cassius and Noah. While in his early acting days, he’d be driven by the lure of travel, now “the logistics of having a family” keeps him closer to home. “There was a time when I was young when I didn’t have kids where I’d prefer to do a bad film in India than a good film anywhere else because I loved India,” he admits. “They’d say have you read the script?” and I’d say, “No, but where’s it shooting?” They’d say, ‘Rajasthan,’ I’d say, “I’m in!”

But what about when Hollywood calls? “They’re like – will you relocate to America?” says the South Londoner. “And I’m like, no, as much as I love the mecca of film making - you’re an actor and at one point or another you’re gonna want to go to America – for me it’s not the right thing. I want to go and then come home, that’s the plan.”

There is an urgent recruitment target for 8,600 more foster carers in the UK. To find out more about fostering visit www.barnardos.org.uk/fostering or call 08000 277 280

63 OxfOrd Hearing Centre

Have you found people mumble a lot recently? Maybe your family keep turning the sound down on the television when you are watching it? Are you struggling to understand people at parties? do you suffer from tinnitus? All of these are a sign that your hearing may not be what it should be. But where do you go to get a test?

The Oxford Hearing Centre is a totally independent hearing aid dispensing practice that specialises in individually designed hearing health care rehabilitation, auditory training programme, and hearing instruments not available through the NHS. You are guaranteed completely impartial and professional advice for a complete and holistic solution to your hearing difficulty. Oxford Hearing Centre is able to select systems and instruments from a range of internationally recognised manufacturing companies worldwide to ensure that you can confidently receive the most up to date help available. All new technologically innovative hearing instruments are assessed and evaluated very carefully before they are included to ensure they are reliable and of good quality before they are offered at the Oxford Hearing Centre. There are many different reasons for acquiring hearing impairment, and the correct solution to an individual’s needs is equally varied. That is why it is of the utmost importance to have your hearing properly assessed and evaluated thoroughly before a decision is made about which hearing system and rehabilitation programme is the most appropriate for you. On many occasions, it is a build-up of wax preventing the sound from reaching your eardrum in the first place. It is also the main limiting factor to the continued satisfactory performance and operation of a hearing aid and up to 80% of all hearing aid repairs are as a result of wax ingression to the device. The Oxford Hearing Centre has a dedicated and fully equipped treatment room for the provision of ear-canal examination using a video-otoscopic camera, excessive earwax can be removed safely and effectively either by specialist water irrigation system, or by an instrument under the camera.

Your hearing is as important as your vision. To visit the website, go to Tel: 01865 861 861 www.oxfordhearingcentre.co.uk or for further information contact the centre on 01865 861861 or email: [email protected] OxfOrd Hearing Centre

Call or visit our website for opening hours 0300 777 1570 www.bluecross.org.uk

Registered Charity Number 1045203 Registered charity no: 224392 (England and Wales), SC040154 (Scotland) A6725/0412

The Hartland The Kathryn Podiatry Clinic Turner Trust New clinical treatment for Fungal infecNons ‘It’s the Aladdin’s Cave of Charity’ on Toe and Finger nails Selling everything from clothes to furniture In support of the Armed Forces Photodynamic An.microbial Ample Free Parking Therapy (PACT) Delivery and Pick-up Available Unit 3, Suffolk Way Abingdon, OX14 5JX Just off Drayton Road Tel: 01235 527310 Open Mon - Sat 10am - 3pm Volunteers urgently Ring now for details requireD to help in our 10 Barnards Way, Charlton, Wantage, Oxfordshire, OX12 7EA. shop anD Telephone: 01235 798313 www.thehartlandclinic.co.uk Warehouse ! We provide a full range of foot health care services for all the family 66 The Home Care Specialists

Do you need a Helping Hand? If you are looking for an alternative to residential ds 25th A an nn H iv g e n r i s p a l r e care, then we’re here to help. y

H Our local care team has been providing award winning homecare since 1989. A family run 25Years company we apply our local knowledge and 24 IN OXFORDSHIRE years of experience to offer you one to one care that enables you or your loved one to remain at home with compassion and dignity. Our Live-in Carers are able to balance independent living with bespoke care needs by assisting with: Personal care, Companionship and Housekeeping. Retired? Getting bored? Want to do something worthwhile and rewarding? Live-in Care can be used as a short term answer SSAFA the oldest Military charity is looking while recovering from illness, an operation or as a for Volunteers to help service and ex- long term care solution. service families in need. Now is the time to help those who have served our country. To find out how we can help you, Give as much time as you can afford and call: or make someone happy because of your help 01869 722 737

Registered Charity No. 210760 Est. 1885 Registered Charity (Scotland) No. SC038056 visit: www.helpinghands.co.uk

67 FOR ALL YOUR HOME & BUILDING NEEDS

80-82 Station Road, Brize Norton, Carterton, Oxfordshire, OX18 3QB Tel: 01993 842172 www.aktimms.co.uk

FOR ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS

80-82 Station Road, Brize Norton, Carterton, Oxfordshire, OX18 3QB Tel: 01993 842172 www.aktimms.co.uk

68 home & gardens

[email protected] . www.bamptongardenplants.co.uk

BAMPTON GARDEN PLANTS, BUCKLAND ROAD, BAMPTON, OXFORDSHIRE OX18 2AA

Tel: 01993 852233

OUR BRAND NEW CAFÉ IS OPEN EVERYDAY.

CATERING FOR ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS WITH COMPOST AND PLANT HEALTH PRODUCTS.

EXTENDED FURNITURE AND OUTDOOR LIVING COLLECTION.

BEDDING AND GROW YOUR OWN VEG

OUR WIDEST EVER CHOICE OF PERENNIALS, SHRUBS, HOME GROWN

THIS YEAR OUR RANGE WILL BE BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER.

S N W I O N R

L L

L C A

O C A L L L Y

S W

THIS YEAR OUR RANGE WILL BE BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER. OUR WIDEST EVER CHOICE OF PERENNIALS, SHRUBS, HOME GROWN BEDDING AND GROW YOUR OWN VEG EXTENDED FURNITURE AND OUTDOOR LIVING COLLECTION. CATERING FOR ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS WITH COMPOST AND PLANT HEALTH PRODUCTS. OUR BRAND NEW CAFÉ IS OPEN EVERYDAY. Tel: 01993 852233 BAMPTON GARDEN PLANTS, BUCKLA ND ROAD, BAMPTON, OXFORDSHIRE OX18 2AA

[email protected] . www.bamptongardenplants.co.uk

BAMPTON GARDEN PLANTS, BUCKLAND ROAD, BAMPTON, OXFORDSHIRE OX18 2AA

Tel: 01993 852233

OUR BRAND NEW CAFÉ IS OPEN EVERYDAY.

CATERING FOR ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS WITH COMPOST AND PLANT HEALTH PRODUCTS.

EXTENDED FURNITURE AND OUTDOOR LIVING COLLECTION.

BEDDING AND GROW YOUR OWN VEG

OUR WIDEST EVER CHOICE OF PERENNIALS, SHRUBS, HOME GROWN

THIS YEAR OUR RANGE WILL BE BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER.

S N W I O N R

L L

L C A

[email protected] . www.bamptongardenplants.co.uk

BAMPTON GARDEN PLANTS, BUCKLAND ROAD, BAMPTON, OXFORDSHIRE OX18 2AA

Tel: 01993 852233

OUR BRAND NEW CAFÉ IS OPEN EVERYDAY.

CATERING FOR ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS WITH COMPOST AND PLANT HEALTH PRODUCTS.

EXTENDED FURNITURE AND OUTDOOR LIVING COLLECTION.

BEDDING AND GROW YOUR OWN VEG

OUR WIDEST EVER CHOICE OF PERENNIALS, SHRUBS, HOME GROWN

THIS YEAR OUR RANGE WILL BE BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER.

S N W I O N R

L L

L C A

O C A L L L Bampton gardening Plants – Y

S W

N Tempting you into the gardening bug From the centre of Bampton, West Oxfordshire travel towards the A420 on the Buckland Road and you will find the charming little garden centre - Bampton Garden Plants. This lovely retail plant centre has been established next to its parent company; Rupert Gooddy Plants Ltd, (which in itself is Oxfordshire’s largest grower of hardy plants) for over twelve years. During 2014, Bampton Garden Plants underwent a great deal of changes which have helped to make the customer experience even better than it was before. You will find an extensive range of plants on sale all year round with everything from home grown bedding plants in spring, summer and early autumn to wide ranging specimen trees and shrubs as well as herbaceous perennials, roses, climbers and lots more. Plants are often displayed in interesting, inspirational and creative ways amongst garden furniture and ornaments to tempt you to get gardening the bug! For the serious gardener or those wishing to create their own little bit of paradise in the garden, a landscape and design service is offered which can include a site visit to your garden or simple gardening advice in store. Either way, you will be helped on your way to creating the dream. The garden shop offers an ever growing range of garden essentials from fertilizers to garden tools, lawn care products and wild bird care. The range of quirky gardener’s gifts is also getting bigger and better all the time and it is well worth a visit if you are looking for something a little different or unusual. The café opened in late 2014 and offers top quality coffee and tea, homemade soup, cakes and seasonal dishes throughout the year So why not pay Bampton Garden Plants a visit? You will be guaranteed a warm and cheery welcome by the friendly, knowledgeable staff.

[email protected] . www.bamptongardenplants.co.uk 71

[email protected] . www.bamptongardenplants.co.uk

BAMPTON GARDEN PLANTS, BUCKLAND ROAD, BAMPTON, OXFORDSHIRE OX18 2AA

Tel: 01993 852233

OUR BRAND NEW CAFÉ IS OPEN EVERYDAY.

CATERING FOR ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS WITH COMPOST AND PLANT HEALTH PRODUCTS.

EXTENDED FURNITURE AND OUTDOOR LIVING COLLECTION.

BEDDING AND GROW YOUR OWN VEG

OUR WIDEST EVER CHOICE OF PERENNIALS, SHRUBS, HOME GROWN

THIS YEAR OUR RANGE WILL BE BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER.

S N W I O N R

L L

L C A Account for Welcome to Newbury 18’s and over Terms and conditions See product leaflet for more details. Not available to existing members or those who have been members in the past six months. Must be opened in person at one of our branches and can only be held in sole name. Limited area account. We accept savings applications from new members in the following areas: AL, BA, BH, BN, BS, DT, GL, GU, HA, HP, KT, MK, OX, PO, RG, RH, SL, SN, SP, SO, TW, UB, WD. Minimum opening balance £50. Variable interest subject to change. Interest calculated daily and added to the account on 31 October. AER stands for Annual Equivalent Rate and illustrates what the interest rate would be if interest was % paid and compounded once each year. Gross rate is the gross/AER contractual rate of interest payable before the deduction of income tax at the rate specified by law, currently 20%. Tax variable treatment depends on individual circumstances. 1.65 WE HAVE NO PLANS TO WITHDRAW THIS PRODUCT Easy access BUT IT MAY BE WITHDRAWN WITHOUT NOTICE. RATE CORRECT AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT. withdrawals Maximum balance £3,000

Call: 01635 555777 | Visit: newbury.co.uk/savings

Newbury Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the NEWBURY Prudential Regulation Authority (Financial Services Register number 206077). 5274/FEB15 building society

www.justrightmarquees.co.uk

JustRight Marquees Ltd 32 Tamar Way, Didcot Oxon OX11 7QH t: 01235 211596 m: 07946 645277 [email protected]

Marquees have evolved over recent years and by hiring our shaped Pagoda style marquees we can “ create something different for your event ” 72 Swan Windows DMS Kitchen installations Kitchen & Bedrooms as individual as you are! & Conservatories Windows, doors and conservatories An extensive range of luxury kitchens and bedrooms Traditional and modern bespoke furniture to suit all tastes are made to measure and individually A one stop solution designed to suit all budgets Free design CAD to bring to life your brand new kitchen or bedroom We come to you ALL WORK GUARANTEED • FREE ESTIMATES • SUPPLY ONLY • FIT ONLY

tiling coving electrical plastering artexing decorating structural work

Tel 01869 327721 • Mobile 07836 377492 Visit our website and see for yourself: www.kitchen-install.co.uk Tel: 01295 272279 www.swanwindowsandconservatories.co.uk

MILL VIEW Find us on: PLANT CENTRE Tel: 01993 852233 BAMPTON GARDEN PLANTS

Spring Bedding SHARE IN OUR PASSION FOR PLANTS now available Don’t forget • Mother’s • day! • • clematis, jasmine and honeysuckle • • • • NEW CAFE NOW OPEN Ladder Hill, Wheatley, Oxford, OX33 1HY ‘Call into our garden store today for gardening advice, inspiration and a beautiful range of plants, gifts and garden products.’ Tel: 01865 873488 bamptongardenplants.co.uk www.millviewplantcentre.co.uk Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm and Sun 10am-4pm | Buckland Rd, Bampton, OX18 2AA 73 Elegance and first class elderly care

Our experienced team of staff happily provide first class permanent and respite care to elderly people. Our team is also trained to care for people with short term memory loss or nursing needs. A luxury respite suite can be booked in advance so you can plan yourself a break. For further information, pop in for a cup of tea and a chat.

• 24 hour trained nurse on duty • Full range of activities and outings • Beautiful purpose built home & pretty gardens • Permanent and bookable short stays • Elegant rooms with en-suite facilities • Convalescence suite for post hospital stay • Fresh home cooked food • CQC Fully Compliant

74 No more car park recycling in Oxfordshire

If you have an excess of bottles and cans to get rid of in-between road side collections, then unfortunately you will no longer be able to take it to recycling bins in local car parks. The council were careful to consult the general public on the issue and the majority of respondents said they would like the bins totally removed. Households now have road side recycling and there are also options to get rid of recyclable goods at the public waste and recycling sites across the county. In recent times, there has been a massive increase in the amount of non-recycling good left beside the bins. This not only causes an eyesore, but also costs the council to remove it. Facilities at Tesco, Abingdon were removed some months ago after repeated warnings. Even CCTV did not seem to stop people from leaving old furniture and mattresses beside the bins. The four-week consultation showed that the public would rather not see council money used to regularly clean up the sites and instead, the decision to remove recycling bins altogether has saved the council around £20,000 a year.

75 Rare lunar event over Oxfordshire Those who were awake or brave enough to face the cold weather in early February might well have seen something a bit unusual in the sky – a lunar halo. This rare event only happens when there are precise meteorological conditions. On 2nd February, the conditions all came together to produce a rather stunning halo around the moon. Photographers across the county caught the rare event on camera, providing some pretty stunning shots. The hazy ring is caused by light from the moon bouncing off ice crystals in the sky. The sun can also produce this effect and last summer, there was a very rare halo over Buckinghamshire when the sun produced an ‘empty halo’, a ring of light which is in the opposite side of the sky to the sun. There are other types of halo that can appear with the assistance of either the sun or the moon. These are charmingly called light pillars or sun dogs! Folklore has it that a halo is a warning of an approaching storm. However, modern science has debunked this myth and any storm following a halo just happens by chance.

76 South Oxfordshire and Vale of the White Horse District Councils declare it is ‘nearly business as usual’ The South Oxfordshire and Vale of the White Horse District councils are recovering from the effects of a massive fire which totally destroyed its offices near Crowmarsh. Workers based at the offices have been relocated to either temporary offices in Abingdon, Cornerstone in Didcot, The Beacon in Wantage or are working from home. Nobody was hurt during the fire, which was thought to be arson, and frontline services were not affected by the fire at all. Emergency council services like the homelessness prevention team were up and working the very next day from the temporary offices in Abingdon. In the weeks following the fire, the council did a great job of getting up and running again. However, there are inevitably going to be a few delays to some services. Enquiries and processing planning applications may take longer, although emergency matters can still be dealt with quickly. The planning office faced the full force of the fire and was completely gutted. This means that existing planning applications will be delayed by around two weeks and new applications could take up to three weeks longer. The future of the Crowmarsh site has not been decided yet and the council is seeking a temporary arrangement for a few years until a new permanent base is found. A mixture of good continuity planning and hard work by council staff has kept disruptions to a minimum.

77 D O Y OU H A VE A

IndustHryG leVad1 DRIVERSing salary WANTED Brayshaw Accountants DO YOU HAVE A Suite C15/C16 Didcot Enterprise Centre HGV1 DRIVERS WANTED Hawksworth, Didcot, Oxon, OX117PHGreat bene ts package

DO YOU HAVE A C+3 E LICENCE C+ E 01235 812115 • Industry leading salary

• Industry leading salary • Industry leading salary 3 easy way3s toea applsyy ways to apply Guaranteed• Great ho bene urs ts package e • GreGrate beneat bets panckeﬁagets package 1 1 • Guaranteed hours CALL today a on Witney • FGuararee• CPC TGuarantentraineinedg houedrs hours Free CPC T raining 0800 5003005 CALL today on sy

Storage Guaranteed 4 0 hour week08 0 s and 2 0800 5003005

• Free CPCCA L T raining Individual Self Storage plenty• Fr of overtieem eC availPCable. Training

01993 702194 RAPIER EMPLOYMENT o ers the security L [email protected] TEXT ‘DRIVERS ’ to 88802 2 oGf workinguara fnteedor a blue chip 40 co mhourpany wit hw eeks (aYonud can text ‘DRIVERS ’ followed by an Hwww.witneystorage.co.ukGV1 DRIVERS WANTGuaranteeEDd 4 0 hour weeks and

Guaranteed 4employee0 hour benets to match w. eeks and‘EMAIL ADDR ESS ’ for a responw se by email)

plenty of overtime available.* ICEN C plenty of0 5003 00 5 overtime available. T3EXT ‘DRIVERS

plenty of overtime availableL . (You can text ‘DRIVERS 3 eaRAsyP wIERays EM toP LaOppYMENly T SCA oN ers M‘EEMAI the L a ADDRESsecuritSy ’ for a response by email) today o n Hate Housework? We LOVE It! of workin1 g for a blue chip companyys to appl y with 3

RAPIER EMPLOYM2 ENT o ers the security At we specialise only in residential eCAmploLL todayyee benets on to match1 . residential cleaning 50 cleaning which means you have your home s cleaned by a highly trained, professional Driver0800d 5003005 SCAN ME team who will use our exclusive tri-color neede process to ensure excellent results with of working for a blue chip2 company with terriﬁc value! REGULAR CLEANING employee benetTEXT s ‘DRIVER to matchS’ to 8880.2 SPRING CLEANING (You can text ‘DRIVE0RS‘ followed by CARPET & FABRIC CARE an EMAIL ADDRES5S ’ for a response by email) NOW ALSO OFFERING: OUR QUALITY s E carpet & LAUNDRY SERVICES GUARANTEE Driver fabric care We guarantee that if you are 3 d FULLY TRAINED STAFF ede not completely satisﬁed, we’ll laundry service ne FULLY GUARANTEED rectify the job FREE of charge YOUR NUMBER ONE CHOICE FOR RESIDENTIAL CLEANING SCAN ME  FOR A FREE ESTIMATE - CALL TODAY ON * Terms and Conditions Apply 01235 227238 residential cleaning [email protected] • www.myhome.co.uk CALL US NOW FOR THIS MONTH’S SPECIAL OFFERS! 0 ? 78 5 Drivers D O Y OU H A VE A

IndustHryG leVDOad1 DRIVERSin YgO sUalar HyA WVEANT A ED Great beneHGV1 tsDRIV pEaRSckag WANTe ED

DO YOU HAVE A C+3 E LICENCE • Industry leading salary C+ E

• Industry leading salary • Industry leading salary 3 easy way3s toea applsyy ways to apply Guaranteed• Great ho bene urs ts package e • GreGrate beneat bets panckeﬁagets package 1 1 • Guaranteed hours CALL today a on • FGuararee• CPC TGuarantentraineinedg houedrs hours Free CPC T raining 0800 5003005 CALL today on sy

Guaranteed 4 0 hour week08 0 s and 2 0800 5003005 plenty• Fr of overtie• em eC FreeavailPCable. TCPraCCA L in Tingraining

RAPIER EMPLOYMENT o ers the security TEXT ‘DRIVERS ’ to 88802 2 L of working for a blue chip company with HGV1 DRIVERS GWuarANTGuanteedarantee 40E hourDd 4 w0eeks hour (aY onwud ceeksan text ‘ DRIVEandRS ’ followed by an

Guaranteed 4employee0 hour benets to match w. eeks and‘EMAIL ADDR ESS ’ for a responw se by email)

plenty of overtime available.* ICEN C plenty of0 5003 00 5 overtime available. T3EXT ‘DRIVERS plenty of overtime availableL . (You can text ‘DRIVERS 3 eaRAsyP wIERays EM toP LaOppYMENly T SCA oN ers M‘EEMAI the L a ADDRESsecuritSy ’ for a response by email) today o n of workin1 g for a blue chip companyys to appl y with 3

RAPIER EMPLOYM2 ENT o ers the security 5e0CAmploLL todayyee benets on to match1 . Driver0800s 5003005 SCAN ME needed of working for a blue chip2 company with employee benetTEXT s ‘DRIVER to matchS’ to 8880.2 (You can text ‘DRIVE0RS‘ followed by an EMAIL ADDRES5S ’ for a ressponse by email) Driver E ne3eded SCAN ME  * Terms and Conditions Apply

50 ? Drivers motors

VolVo Specialists in Witney D&A Autos Newland, Witney SalesVOLVO n Service n Repair n MOT SpecialistsO1993 in Witney 700545 www.da-autos.co.uk Newland, Witney Sales Service Repair Mot · · · Tel.Coming 01993 700545 Marchwww.da-autos.co.uk Classes – 1,2,4,5 & 7 DEACONZ AUTO SERVICES • All Makes Service Centre • Cambelts • Tyres Batteries & Exhausts • Full Workshop Services Inc • Local Collection Available • Service • Cut Vinyl Graphics • Mot’s 1, 2, 4, 5 & 7 Inc • Track Day Preparation & Light Commercial Support Tel: 01367 820285 Web: www.trackdaytoyz.co.uk Email: [email protected] Address: Unit 5a Ufﬁngton Trading Estate, Ufﬁngton, Faringdon, Oxfordshire, SN7 7QD

80 GREY GABLES GARAGE

Offering Quality cars service and MOT’s for over 30 years

LaRge StOCk Of • factory trained technicians USeD CaRS • Master tec Browse our large • VW /Skoda Specialist stock online • Diagnostic service • Services carried out 6 day a week

Bampton Road, Curbridge, Witney Oxon OX29 7PD 01993 702609 [email protected] www.greygablesgarage.com

MOT • Service • Repairs MGF/MGTF Specialist

CAR SALES LTD EST 2002 Service, repairs, and Now open at our MOT’s to all makes new site in FINMERE and models.

Bucks MK18 4AN MG mania approved 01280 847099 – contact Ray hood specialist.

Farmoor Free collection 01865 863777 contact Mark local area. Sandford on Thames 01865 778999 07970 384651 Unit 6 & 7, 154 Newland, Witney, OX28 3JH T: 01993 778060 M: 07825 836320 Check out our website [email protected] www.sdtimmocarsales.co.uk wwwjustrightautos.co.uk

81 Fullers Road, Aston Tirrold

customer care without compromise Oxfordshire OX11 9EN [email protected] www.chequers-garage.com

At Chequers Garage we look after our customers as well as their cars. That’s why we have courtesy cars, offer local collection and delivery, explain your invoice in plain English and every car is washed before it is returned - not only will your car run well, it will look great too! MOTS £45 WITH THIS AD MOT SERVICE TYRES AIR CON CALL 01235 850347

Rich’s Siding, Broadway Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 8AG Mobile Tyre and FiTTing Service Mobile Tyre Service, Tyre Replacement, Puncture repairs, Wheel alignment, Wheel balancing, Free tyre safety check, While-u-wait service, Tea and Coffee available. We Will noT be beaTen on Price or Service in The didcoT area Book online at www.didcottyreandexhaust.co.uk

Free wheel alignment check visit our website Too buSy To CoMe To uS? We will come to your home or workplace for tyre fitting within a 25 mile radius of Didcot [email protected] TelePhone 01235 816661 82 CONFERENCE CENTRE ENGINEERED TO INSPIRE

The award-winning Williams Conference Centre is a state of the art conferencing facility that never fails to impress. Located at the home of leading Formula One team Williams in Grove, Oxfordshire, the Williams Conference Centre offers a secure environment in which to meet, inform, discuss, educate and celebrate. Our 10 multi-purpose event rooms can accommodate up to 200 guests and afford excellent flexibility within modern and inspiring surroundings.

Our Ayrton Senna room is a fully The Williams Conference equipped presentation theatre Centre also offers on-site secure and the ideal venue for events car parking for 150 cars and that require maximum impact complimentary Wi-Fi for all guests. with professional production. The Williams Conference Centre Our in-house AV Technician works is also home to the Williams Grand with you to ensure a seamless Prix Collection, the largest private presentation saving you both time collection of Formula One cars and money. in the world charting Williams’ history in the sport over the The Ayrton Senna room forms past five decades. A tour of The part of our Drivers Suite Collection is included in all events. which, used in its entirety, can accommodate awards or celebrations for up to 200 guests with superb catering.

Be it formal Boardrooms, Cabaret, Classroom, Theatre or U-shape, our Centre offers total flexibility, with every event having its own private catering area.

T +44 (0) 1235 777900 E CONFERENCES�WILLIAMSF1.COM W WILLIAMSCONFERENCECENTRE.COM FACEBOOK.COM/WILLIAMSCONFERENCECENTRE �WILLIAMSCONFCTR

CC_info-sheet_(Corperate)print_300714.indd 1 30/07/2014 15:04:49 Ready-to-go VW CAMPERS FOR HIRE Based in Wantage, South Oxfordshire, OXCampers is a family run business born through wanting to share our love and passion for travelling the country, in one of our 3 VW Campers, with others.

With hire prices starting from a little as £60 per day (T&C’s apply)

We also offer Quality, Functional and Affordable camper conversions with a wide range of services from part to full conversions