Olivia Churchill
Latest news and stories
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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.
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Leys Pools unveils exciting new Active Zone for families
Leys Pools and Leisure Centre is launching its new Active Zone on 05 April, offering an exciting space for children and families. The zone includes a Soft Play area for kids under 12, featuring slides, sensory elements, and an Oxford-themed design.
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Join BBOWT’s Hedgehog Walk with Timmy and Apricot from Timmy Time
BBOWT’s Hedgehog Walk, in partnership with Timmy Time, invites families, schools, and clubs to take on a 3km challenge to support wildlife. Running from 31 March to 13 April, the event mimics a hedgehog’s nightly wander. Participants receive fun resources and top fundraisers earn prizes.
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PayByPhone to revolutionise parking in South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse
Saba UK has partnered with PayByPhone to introduce a seamless cashless parking system across South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse. Replacing Connect, the PayByPhone app offers residents and visitors easy parking payments, session extensions, and additional features.
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Voting opens for Brand the Bus 2025 with over 60 charities in the running
More than 60 local charities are competing in Oxfordshire’s Brand the Bus 2025 competition to win a £100,000 advertising package. Hosted by Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel, the initiative will see the winning charity’s branding featured on a double-decker bus for a year.
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Botley’s new skatepark nears completion, a game-changer for local skaters
Botley’s new skatepark is nearing completion and is set to open by mid-March. Replacing the iconic Botley Bowl, it features the UK’s first blended bowl, a street section, and a mini ramp, designed for all skill levels.
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Oxford United’s charity launches fundraising campaign for fans and businesses
Oxford United’s official charity has launched Friends of Oxford United in the Community, a fundraising initiative to expand its impact through football. Fans can subscribe for £5 monthly, while businesses can partner for £100, unlocking exclusive benefits and prize draws.
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JR Hospital gets improved bus service as Pulhams takes charge
Pulhams has enhanced the H2 bus service to JR Hospital, increasing frequency and extending the timetable. Now operating every 30 minutes from Witney, Eynsham, and Summertown to the hospital, the service also includes early morning and late evening journeys to Carterton.
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Artificial intelligence boosts swimmer safety at Oxford’s leisure centre
Three Oxford leisure centres have introduced AI-driven Assisted Lifeguard Technology (ALT) to enhance swimmer safety and support lifeguards. Backed by the Royal Lifesaving Society, ALT uses overhead cameras and AI to monitor swimmer behaviour, providing real-time alerts via smartwatches worn by lifeguards.