Olivia Churchill
Latest news and stories
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BBOWT and RHS launch campaign to protect hoverflies across the UK
The Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust and the Royal Horticultural Society are urging gardeners to help save hoverflies as these vital, yet overlooked, pollinators face steep population declines.
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Oxfordshire primary admissions see high success rate in first-choice offers
More than 94% of children in Oxfordshire have been offered a place at their first-choice primary school for the upcoming reception year, with over 99% receiving a place at one of their listed preferences
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Vale Council brings solar power to refurbished site near Wantage
A sewage treatment works near Wantage has been refurbished and upgraded with solar power by the Vale of White Horse District Council. Serving 31 properties in Sparsholt, the site received new equipment, improved access, and 22 solar panels.
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New planters bring flowery facelift to Cornerstone Arts Centre in Didcot
Cornerstone in Didcot has received a vibrant makeover with the installation of colourful planters, thanks to South Oxfordshire District Council and funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Volunteers from Didcot Train helped set up the planters, which included seating to encourage social interaction.
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Oxfordshire internship program helps young people thrive in the workplace
Warwick Bourton, a 19-year-old intern with additional needs, is thriving at Bicester-based Oxford Office Furniture through Oxfordshire County Council’s supported internship scheme. During a meeting with his supervisors, he surprised them by selling office chairs, demonstrating his initiative and natural sales skills.
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Wildlife Trust urges public action against Planning and Infrastructure Bill
The Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) warns that the Government’s proposed Planning and Infrastructure Bill poses a major threat to UK nature. The bill allows developers to bypass essential environmental protections by paying into a centralized Nature Restoration Fund.
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Heyford Park invites community input on sustainable regeneration masterplan
Dorchester Living is inviting the Heyford Park community, including residents and local stakeholders, to an engaging Masterplan Consultation Day on Sunday, 13 April 2025, to help shape the next phase of its transformation and sustainability-focused initiatives.
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Concerns raised over water quality ahead of Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race
Ahead of this weekend’s Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race, campaigners warn that the Thames stretch hosting the event has unsafe E.coli levels, with nearly 30% of samples exceeding safe limits despite dry weather.
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West Oxfordshire resubmits Net Zero policy for Salt Cross development
West Oxfordshire District Council has resubmitted a revised Net Zero policy for the Salt Cross Area Action Plan (AAP) to the Planning Inspectorate. Initially rejected, the policy was allowed to be reconsidered following a successful High Court challenge by Rights Community Action.
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Brand the Bus 2025 sees unprecedented public support for local charities
A record number of people have voted in Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel’s 2025 Brand the Bus competition, supporting 64 Oxfordshire charities. The annual initiative offers the winning charity a fully branded electric double-decker bus, advertising opportunities, and a partnership with Oxford City FC.
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Oxfordshire firefighters recognised at prestigious Blenheim Palace ceremony
Thirteen Oxfordshire firefighters have been honoured with His Majesty The King’s long service and good conduct medals at a prestigious ceremony at Blenheim Palace, recognising a combined 260 years of service. Additional awards celebrated outstanding contributions, including Andy Ford receiving the Rose Award for his work in road safety education.
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Gigaclear supports Bicester and North Oxford Cricket Club with gear and broadband
Cricketers in Bicester and North Oxford have received a boost from the Gigaclear Rural Sports Club Fund, backed by England legend Darren Gough. The club secured funding for youth match balls and free full-fibre broadband for their clubhouse.
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Didcot Powerhouse Fund awards £100,000 in new grants to 14 local charities
The Didcot Powerhouse Fund has awarded £100,000 in 2025 grants to 14 local charities, bringing total funding over three years to £383,000. Four new charities join returning recipients tackling issues from male suicide to intercultural education.
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Oxfordshire bus companies launch group travel discounts throughout April
Families and friends can travel across Oxfordshire for just £15 this April, thanks to a special discount from Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel. The offer applies to CityZone and CountryZone Group Day tickets, allowing up to five people unlimited travel for a day—saving £6 off the usual price.
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Parents urged to take advantage of free Easter camps for school children
Parents are encouraged to sign up their children for free Easter holiday camps run by Ignite Sport in Oxfordshire. Available to children aged 4 to 16 who receive free school meals, the camps offer football, art, science, and more.
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Think Human Festival 2025: Exploring what it means to be human
Oxford Brookes University will host the Think Human Festival, featuring four days of free public events exploring social issues, creativity, and humanity. The festival includes panel discussions, workshops, exhibitions, and film screenings.