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Oxford News By Hana Edition 5
Oxford Outlook: a regal river that requires respect
Mark Skipworth
May 08, 2025
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 5
Oxford Outlook: a regal river that requires respect
WHAT on earth is happening to England’s longest - and finest - river? I mean, of course, the Thames. From its source in the Cotswolds, the “Old Father” flows eastward through Oxford and London before emptying 215 glorious miles further downstream into the North Sea. As you move along it, you see the history of our nation and its markers – from Windsor Castle and Runnymede to the Houses of Parliament and Greenwich. It is a national treasure to be nurtured and cherished.
Yet in this week’s Oxford newsletter, we read that weir and lock keepers along the non-tidal Thames have begun voting on strike action over safety concerns. According to the BBC, the GMB trade union says workers are deciding whether to take industrial action over what the union calls “budget-driven decisions” that are “putting people and property at risk”.
There are 45 non-tidal locks on the Thames, including Osney and Iffley locks around Oxford. The union says weir and lock keepers are expected to keep people safe with about half the numbers needed. There are currently 52 staff doing the work of more than 90, it says.
Meanwhile, the BBC reports, an open water swimming event firm has been forced to close after “relentless publicity” surrounding the water quality in the Thames, which led to a huge drop in numbers entering its swims. Henley Swim has been running events on the river for more than 20 years, including the Henley Swim Festival and the Thames Marathon from Henley to Marlow.
Have we lost all sense of priorities? The weir and lock keepers are important custodians of this great river and surely should be respected, while the river’s water quality should be something of which to be proud. Sadly, it seems, neither is the case.
It was exactly 80 years ago today that Victory in Europe Day marked the end of the Second World War in Europe. It was – quite rightly – a day of uninhibited celebration for the millions of Allied men, women and children who had survived the Nazi terror, as well as a unique moment to remember those who would not return. Above all, it was a celebration of peace. Beyond the street parties, torch processions and other special events being held to commemorate VE Day, let us hope Russia’s Victory Day on 9 May will act as a greatly-needed incentive for a modern-day peace in Europe and bring to an end its brutal invasion of Ukraine.
Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor
Springtime Oxford. Gorgeous and glorious – but with some gut-wrenching exam nerves?
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Databox
Oxford's student population has a significant and multi-faceted impact on the local economy:
Direct Spending: Students at the University of Oxford spend substantial amounts on accommodation, food, entertainment, and other goods and services. In 2014/15, this spending contributed £52.7 million in Gross Value Added (GVA) and supported 1,351 jobs in Oxford City alone
Part-Time Work and Volunteering: Many students work part-time or volunteer while studying. Their employment in local businesses, especially in retail and tourism, generated an additional £5.2 million GVA and supported nearly 200 jobs in Oxford City. Volunteering, while not profit-driven, also enables local charities and organisations to operate at a larger scale
Overall Economic Contribution: When combining student spending, part-time work, and volunteering, the total estimated impact in 2014/15 was £58.2 million GVA and 1,551 jobs supported in Oxford City
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in Oxford this weekend…
Canal but no canard. Locked out? Or perhaps that’s just a rumour
Hyper-local news articles
River Thames weir and lock keepers vote on potential strike
BBC News · May 7, 2025
Weir and lock keepers along the River Thames are considering strike action due to safety concerns stemming from insufficient staffing, as highlighted by the GMB union. With only 52 permanent staff against a recommended 100, workers are alarmed by budget cuts they claim jeopardise safety for people and property.
Swimming along. But water safety is a major issue for aquatic Oxford folk
Henley Swim folds blaming water quality in River Thames
BBC News · May 6, 2025
Henley Swim, an established open water swimming event firm, has announced its closure due to a sharp decline in participant registrations linked to ongoing concerns about water quality in the River Thames. Despite efforts to collaborate with other organisers and Thames Water's commitment to improving river health, the company could not find a viable solution and expressed gratitude to its loyal supporters in its farewell statement.
Oxfordshire street parties and torch processions to mark VE Day
BBC News · May 2025
Oxfordshire is set to celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day with a variety of community events today, including street parties, live 1940s music, and beacon lighting along the River Thames. Highlights include proclamations from town criers in Abingdon, traditional festivities in Banbury, and bell-ringing across local churches.
BMW Mini cuts 180 temporary jobs at Oxford plant
BBC News · May 7, 2025
Mini is set to lay off 180 temporary workers at its Oxford plant, a move the BMW Group describes as a strategic adjustment to better align with current business needs amid ongoing uncertainties in the automotive industry. This reduction comes after a previous pause on a major upgrade intended for electric vehicle production, highlighting the company's reliance on flexible workforce strategies in a volatile market.
Oxford West & Abingdon MP Layla Moran announces birth of first child
BBC News · May 7, 2025
Layla Moran, the Liberal Democrat MP for Oxford West and Abingdon, has welcomed her first child with partner Rosy Cobb and will take five months parental leave. She expressed gratitude to NHS staff and colleagues for their support. Her office remains open for casework and a proxy vote will be arranged for her constituents in Parliament.
Books returned to Oxford University library 20 years late
BBC News · May 5, 2025
A former student returned three overdue library books to Lady Margaret Hall, University of Oxford, after keeping them for 20 years, expressing remorse in a handwritten note. The library graciously acknowledged the return on Facebook, celebrating it as a positive outcome despite the lengthy delay.
Oxford University experts warn of AI's impact on human creativity
Yahoo News - April 4, 2025
Experts from the University of Oxford, Dr. Caroline Emmer De Albuquerque Green and Chris Morrison, warn that inadequate regulation of AI could threaten creators' livelihoods and urge for a collaborative legal framework to protect human creativity while fostering innovation. Their critique of the UK's proposed copyright changes highlights the need for balanced governance as AI reshapes various sectors.
Love him, loathe him. The irrepressibly irreverent Mr Jeremy Clarkson
Jeremy Clarkson's Diddly Squat Farm Shop among most popular
Oxford Mail · May 7, 2025
Diddly Squat Farm Shop in Chadlington, made famous by Jeremy Clarkson's "Clarkson’s Farm," has become a major attraction, drawing visitors from as far as India and ranking as the UK's second most popular farm shop. With a recent surge in interest – searches for "farm shop near us" skyrocketing by 175% over the past year – it's clear that farm shops are capturing hearts across the nation.
Two arrested after 17-year-old stabbed at Oxford park event
BBC News - April 8, 2025
Two men, aged 18 and 21, have been arrested following the stabbing of a 17-year-old boy at a community event in Blackbird Leys Park, raising concerns over rising violence in the area. The 18-year-old is also linked to a previous attempted murder case involving a 15-year-old boy, prompting police to enhance stop-and-search measures amid ongoing investigations.
Savile supporter second in Banbury Hardwick local election vote
BBC News · May 6, 2025
Reform UK candidate Stephen Hartley was suspended less than a day after his candidacy for the Banbury Hardwick division due to controversial tweets defending Jimmy Savile, yet he still secured 512 votes in the election. Labour's Andrew Crichton won the seat with 567 votes, much to the satisfaction of local MP Sean Woodcock.
South of England recycling rates reveal big variations
BBC News · May 7, 2025
Recycling rates in southern England reveal stark contrasts, with South Oxfordshire leading at 62.9%, while councils like Portsmouth and Slough lag behind the national average of 44%.
Roger Bannister 'would have loved' community mile
BBC News · May 5, 2025
Thurstan Bannister celebrated his late father, Sir Roger Bannister, at the second Bannister Mile event, where participants aged five to 95 embraced the "electric" atmosphere. Among them was 92-year-old David Picksley, who witnessed Sir Roger's historic four-minute mile in 1954, and encouraged everyone to stay active.
Costa crash: an accident rather than an attack
Three injured after vehicle drives into Carterton Costa Coffee
BBC News · May 7, 2025
A vehicle crashed into a Costa Coffee shop on Burford Road in Carterton, injuring three people, prompting Thames Valley Police to close the road and urge witnesses to come forward. Authorities believe the incident was unintentional and are asking the public to avoid the area as emergency services respond.
Banbury couple recognised for providing 27 years of care
BBC News · May 5, 2025
Roger and Kym Garnett have been celebrated for 27 years of dedicated service in their Banbury home, providing care for adults with additional needs through the Oxfordshire County Council's Shared Lives programme. Their commitment was recognised at a recent ceremony, where Mr. Garnett highlighted the mutual benefits they gain from their meaningful work in the community.
Study In UK: Oxford Researchers Elected To US National Academy Of Sciences
Shiksha ·
Four researchers from the University of Oxford have been elected as international members of the US National Academy of Sciences, recognising their significant contributions in various fields and highlighting the importance of global collaboration in scientific advancement. This prestigious honour enhances Oxford's reputation and underscores the Academy's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive scientific community.
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Sport
Oxford United
The Yellows won a creditable point in the last game of their Championship season away to Swansea City. Things looked bleak when The Swans took a 3-2 lead in the 82nd minute, but United’s Placheta grabbed a 93rd minute equaliser to snatch a share of the spoils.
Oxford finished 17th in the table – comfortably clear of the drop zone in terms of position but only five pips off relegation in terms of points. As this column has noted previously, the English Championship is probably the most brutal league in Europe. And next season won’t be any easier.
The Yellows will be joined by barnstorming Birmingham City and Wrexham – sprinkled with stardust thanks to Hollywood co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney –after their promotion from League One. Both these teams will strengthen their squads. Life in the Championship just got lively. But, for an unfortunate few, it may prove to be the Deadpool.
Property
The Bridge of Sighs arching in the sunlight
Major upgrade approved for listed buildings in central Oxford UK Property Forums - May 6, 2025 All Souls College is set to redevelop 10-15 High Street in Oxford, transforming it into a hub for teaching and research while enhancing retail space and access to the Covered Market. Designed by Wright & Wright, the project aims to blend tradition with innovation, focusing on sustainability and efficiency through modern architectural practices. |
£600m theme park to host hotelier event before key moves made Yahoo News - May 7, 2025 Puy du Fou, the £600 million theme park renowned for its historical attractions, is set to build a site in north Oxfordshire, with plans for a public consultation and a Q&A event for local hoteliers on May 15 at the Randolph Hotel. Attendees will hear insights from David Nouaille, the chief international development officer, as the park gears up for a planning application submission to Cherwell District Council. |
'Unique' Cotswolds home near Soho Farmhouse goes up for sale Oxford Mail - May 4, 2025 Discover the Pyramid House, a stunning 1930s architectural treasure in Spelsbury, offering three bedrooms and breathtaking countryside views just six miles from Soho Farmhouse. This unique home features an inviting open-plan living space with vaulted ceilings, a charming kitchen with an Aga, and a luxurious upper-level bedroom with a balcony for enjoying picturesque scenery. |
Rural hideout celebrities are flocking to Realestate - May 1, 2025 Celebrities like Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi are flocking to the Cotswolds, a luxurious English countryside region, with reports of their recent $18 million farmhouse purchase following Donald Trump's presidential win. The area, also home to stars like David Beckham and Kate Moss, boasts exquisite accommodations such as an historic estate near Bath and the iconic Lygon Arms hotel, attracting high-profile residents seeking privacy and charm. |
The three red flags to look out for when viewing a flat This is Oxfordshire - May 6, 2025 When searching for a rental property, it's crucial to thoroughly evaluate flats during viewings to avoid hidden issues. Property expert Elliot Rainbow highlights key red flags, such as window design, practicality of layouts, and the importance of testing essential features like water pressure and mobile reception to ensure your future home meets your needs. |
How ignoring property cracks could lead to £30k fine Oxford Mail - May 3, 2025 Homeowners may face fines ranging from £50 to £30,000 for property law violations, such as dangerous cracks and untidy gardens. Property expert Joshua Houston emphasises the importance of maintaining safety standards and clear house numbers to avoid hefty penalties. |
Oxfordshire gardeners warned about invasive species Yahoo News - May 7, 2025 Oxfordshire gardeners are urged to identify and address the invasive species Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan Balsam as their active season begins, with experts highlighting the risks these plants pose to structures and ecosystems. The Property Care Association recommends collaborating with specialists to create effective eradication plans for these aggressive invaders. |
What’s on in Oxford this weekend
All photos are credited to Mark Skipworth unless otherwise specified.
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