Olivia Churchill
Latest news and stories
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Oxford Half outpaces competition as 2026 race sells out in weeks
The Oxford Half has sold out in under three weeks for 2026, with 15,000 runners set to take part. Rising demand and a fast city-centre course continue to make the race one of the UK’s most popular half marathons.
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Head of Cokethorpe School highlights importance of leadership this International Women’s Day
Dr Sarah Squire, Head of Cokethorpe School, is championing female leadership this International Women’s Day, encouraging young women to pursue leadership roles and highlighting the importance of visible role models in education.
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Graven Hill residents launch first spring planting in new community garden
Graven Hill residents have begun planting in a new community garden at Graven Hill Primary School, bringing volunteers and children together to grow crops while promoting sustainability, learning and community collaboration across the rapidly growing Bicester development.
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Oxfordshire Lane Rental Scheme to tackle roadwork disruption from May
A new Lane Rental Scheme launching in May will allow Oxfordshire County Council to charge up to £2,500 per day for peak-time roadworks, aiming to reduce congestion and encourage faster completion on the county’s busiest routes.
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Oxford City FC and Response encourage fans to talk about mental health
Oxford City FC joined forces with Response to encourage fans to talk about mental health, raising awareness and funds during a special Game For Good matchday initiative at Marsh Lane.
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First all female fire crew in Oxfordshire in 20 years responds to emergencies
For the first time in two decades, Abingdon Fire Station has deployed an all-female on-call fire crew. The team of five firefighters balances other careers while responding to emergencies, highlighting inclusivity, teamwork, and inspiring more women to join Oxfordshire’s fire and rescue service.
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Free Go Electric events let Oxfordshire residents experience electric vehicles
Residents across Oxfordshire can attend free Go Electric events to explore electric vehicles, test drive a range of models, and learn about EV charging options. The events aim to boost confidence in EV adoption and promote sustainable transport throughout the county.
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Book donation campaign by Fortitude Communications inspires Oxfordshire children
Fortitude Communications has delivered more than 1,000 donated books to ARCh, supporting primary school pupils across Oxfordshire and helping inspire a renewed love of reading among children.
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Magic Queen set for live show at The Mill Arts Centre Banbury in June 2026
Magic Queen will take to the stage at The Mill Arts Centre, Banbury, on 06 June 2026, delivering a high-energy tribute show celebrating the greatest hits of Queen and the legendary Freddie Mercury.
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Persimmon Charitable Foundation opens applications for £50k grants supporting young people
Charities supporting young people into education, training and work can apply for one of three £50,000 grants from the Persimmon Charitable Foundation, part of a £300,000 funding programme focused on improving employability outcomes.
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Brand the Bus returns with £100k prize for Oxfordshire charities
Brand the Bus is back, giving Oxfordshire charities the chance to win a £100k advertising package, including a full-wrap electric bus campaign, radio promotion and football club partnership for the 2026/27 season.
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85 per cent of Oxfordshire pupils secure first choice secondary school places
Nearly 90 per cent of Oxfordshire pupils have secured first-choice secondary school places for September 2026, with more than 96 per cent offered a preferred school. The council has opened appeals and waiting lists for families seeking alternative placements.
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Jeremy Clarkson hosts public meeting on Cereals 2026 traffic plans
Jeremy Clarkson reassured residents about traffic controls for Cereals 2026 at Diddly Squat Farm. Organisers outlined strict routing plans, free parking and bus services ahead of the June 10 to 11 agricultural trade event expected to attract 24,000 visitors.
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Aureus alumni take on 57 mile walk to support former teacher with rare condition
Three Aureus alumni will walk 57 miles over three days to raise funds for the MSA Trust in honour of former teacher Carolyn Saul.
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Oxfordshire County Council seeks new flood wardens to support communities at risk
Oxfordshire County Council is seeking volunteer flood wardens to help monitor risks, report issues and strengthen community resilience as the scheme expands countywide following successful pilot projects.
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Vistry supports young carers and SEND pupils in Oxfordshire with donations
Vistry has donated £1,000 to two Oxfordshire organisations supporting young carers and SEND pupils near its Barton Park development. The funding will support respite activities and contribute towards specialist outdoor equipment for children with mobility needs.