Support Thames Valley Air Ambulance

Round & About

Oxfordshire

Thames Valley Air Ambulance celebrates 25 years and you’re invited to join the party and help their life saving work

In 1999, Thames Valley Air Ambulance first took to the skies to treat patients in critical need. Now, a quarter of a century and nearly 35,000 call outs later they are celebrating this milestone with a fun-filled family day for the whole community on June 22nd at Penn Estate.

Amanda McLean, Chief Executive Officer at Thames Valley Air Ambulance said: “Both the care we deliver at the scene and the support we offer long afterwards are funded solely by our community. It’s your generous donations that have allowed us to be there for these 35,000 people in their time of need.”

Their ‘Big Birthday Bash’ will include a variety of fun activities for both kids and adults to enjoy, from circus shows and workshops to special demonstrations from their crew plus plenty of delicious food and drinks from local vendors.

Tickets start from £4 and all proceeds go to help Thames Valley Air Ambulance continue to be there for those in most need across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. More at Big Birthday Bash – Thames Valley Air Ambulance

Did you know:
• Last year, we were called out 3,293 times to help people in need of urgent critical care.
• We are called out on average 9 times a day.
• The flight time between our base at RAF Benson and anywhere in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, or Oxfordshire is just 15 minutes.
• To find out more about the work of Thames Valley Air Ambulance and donate visit Thames Valley Air Ambulance

Kiri Pritchard-McLean: Peacock

Round & About

Oxfordshire

Kiri Pritchard-McLean is delighted to announce the UK Tour of her brand new show, Peacock.

Kiri has had a busy few years. As well as hosting Live at the Apollo, fronting the Radio 4 panel show Best Medicine and starting a comedy school, she’s become a foster parent. Didn’t know that about her? Well, until now she hasn’t been able to talk about it on stage, she hasn’t even told the kids in her care that she’s a comedian oh and she uses a different name – she’s the Bruce Wayne of comedy but without the mansions.

However, this year something changed and after a couple of the eggiest gigs of her career in boardrooms to social workers a show about becoming a foster carer has been signed off! So, come and join “Louise” as she lifts the lid on social workers, first aid training and what not to do when a vicar searches for you on YouTube.

“It’s fantastic to see our foster carer, Kiri, positively promoting fostering during her UK tour. It will really help increase awareness of foster care, and challenge false perceptions around what it takes to be a foster carer.

We hope that through Kiri candidly sharing her fostering journey, people will recognise skills and qualities in themselves and consider putting in an enquiry to foster.”

Alastair Cope, Head of Foster Wales.

Welsh comedian Kiri Pritchard-McLean is a multi-award winning comedian, satirist and writer. Her recent credits include hosting Live at the Apollo and appearances on Have I Got News For You, 8 out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, QI and Frankie Boyle’s New World Order. She has a weekly show on BBC Radio Wales, and has hosted Newsjack, Loose Ends and The News Quiz and her Radio 4 panel show, Best Medicine, has recently been commissioned for a second series.

Find out more and purchase tickets: https://www.kiripritchardmclean.co.uk/

Make a date for Twelfth Night

Round & About

Oxfordshire

Thames Players’ fast-paced Shakespearean romp is a joy from the first chord to the last kiss!

Thame Players’ next production, opening on Tuesday 7th May, is an exciting new interpretation of the Shakespearean classic, Twelfth Night.

The plot hinges on the twins, Viola and Sebastian, fleeing their homeland, getting shipwrecked, and each believing the other has drowned. From this tragic scenario Shakespeare weaves a magical farce of mistaken identity and love at first sight.

Viola disguises herself as a man named Cesario, serving Duke Orsino. Orsino sends Cesario to woo Olivia on his behalf, but Olivia falls in love with Cesario (Viola) instead. Meanwhile, Viola falls in love with Orsino, leading to a tangled web of mistaken identities, love triangles, and comedic misunderstandings, eventually resolved in an exuberant reunion.

The cross-dressing androgyny of Boy George and Adam Ant make the perfect disguise for Viola, and the music of the 1980s fills the emotional backdrop. Amongst other characters, Saatobia, a hard-living ‘it’ girl of the 1960s, twenty years past her prime, is the perfect ring leader of ‘creatures of the night’ that haunt this Blitz world of excess, madness and laughter. Amongst these dangerous and damaged people, we find love, fun and joyous redemption.

Director Alan Paterson has set this production in New Romantic Soho. He has cast several of the youngest members of Thame Players to reflect the impetuosity and bravery of the youthful lovers. Alan uses modern costumes and settings to illuminate the wonders of this brilliant Shakespeare comedy about despair, hope and love at first sight. The text shines through this fast-paced romp, giving us some of the greatest poetry and most hilarious comic moments ever seen on the English stage. It is a joy from the first chord to the last kiss.

Twelfth Night will be performed at the Players Theatre, Nelson Street, Thame, Oxfordshire, from Tuesday 7th-Saturday 11th May inclusive at 7.45pm. Tickets are £10-£12. Book online at https://www.thameplayers.co.uk/ or the Information Centre at Thame Town Hall or phone 01844 212833.

Griff Rhys Jones National Tour

Round & About

Oxfordshire

Multi-award winning comedian, writer, actor and television presenter Griff Rhys Jones is set to embark national stand-up tour this spring – summer with his new show ‘The Cat’s Pyjamas’.

Griff Rhys Jones is truly a force to be reckoned with in the world of comedy and entertainment. His upcoming tour, ‘The Cat’s Pyjamas’, promises to be a rollicking ride through a wide spectrum of comedic subjects, from personal anecdotes to cultural commentary. It’s impressive how he seamlessly weaves together diverse topics, keeping his audience engaged and entertained throughout.

His track record of successful tours, including ‘Jones and Smith’ and ‘Where Was I?’, speaks to his ability to connect with audiences across different countries and cultures. And ‘All Over The Place’ sounds like it was an epic journey before the pandemic hit.

Griff’s extensive career spans television, theatre, and film, with notable roles in iconic shows like ‘Not the Nine O’Clock News’ and ‘Smith and Jones’. His work in theatre, including lead roles for esteemed directors like Alan Ackbourn and Sam Mendes, demonstrates his versatility and skill as an actor.

It’s clear that Griff Rhys Jones has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, earning him numerous awards and accolades along the way. From Oliviers to Baftas to an Emmy, his talent and dedication have been recognized time and time again.

‘The Cat’s Pyjamas’ tour is sure to be another feather in Griff’s cap, showcasing his comedic brilliance and leaving audiences laughing in the aisles.

To purchase tickets visit: Griff Rhys Jones – So Comedy

CHAOS – Evita in Chipping Norton

Round & About

Oxfordshire

When CHAOS (Chipping Norton Amateur Operatic Society) reached their amazing 50 years of performing they decided to go for the iconic musical EVITA by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice to show off their long-established talents.

With director Mandyrae Jessey and musical director Catrin Russ at the helm, they auditioned over four night for the principle roles and were delighted to offer tow Evitas and two mistresses the chance to perform. Che, Peron and Magaldi followed and then chorus, creating Evita’s family, staff, Army and some children, all came together brilliantly.

Taking such an iconic and large cast show to the stage has been exciting and CHAOS is proud to team up again this year with the beautiful CHIPPING NORTON THEATRE who are also celebrating their 50th year.

The director has created a set and props that work for a smaller stage and has added some special moments, including giving out real gifts from Evita for the audiences each night while the songs are sung about giving gifts to the Argentinian people during her marriage to Peron. As far as we know this has never been done before.

The special performances are totally unique to CHAOS, offering an immersive experience for the audience.

The cast, crew and orchestra are all extremely proud of the work everyone has put in.

If you would like to know more about the production and behind the scenes, please contact either:
CHOAS Chairman Elizabeth-Rae-Large – [email protected] – +447309 060826 or Director Mandyrae Jessey – [email protected] – +447970925685.

Mandyrae Jessey is also celebrating 50 years of directing this year.

Show dates: 16-17-18th May, with a matinee on 18th May.
Box Office: The Theatre Chipping Norton

Space Invaders

Round & About

Oxfordshire

A small space needn’t be a bar to big ideas you have for your home, there are many ways to make the most of what you’ve got

Got big dreams for your home but limited space to work with? Small is beautiful right? So start thinking about the possibilities…

A loft conversion, slim side extension or adding room at the rear, glass doors to welcome in more light, retracting doors and bi-folds, garage conversion or a kitchen redesign can all help you go from cramped to comfortable.

Loft conversions are one of the most common and cost effective ways to add space and are an ideal way to create that extra bedroom, office space or even a den. Well designed and executed it can add value to your property too. Not all lofts are suitable for conversion so make sure you do your homework first – height and roof pitch are major considerations and you’ll also need to check whether planning permission is required, often not but better safe than sorry.

Pyne Planning Limited is an Oxfordshire based independent planning consultancy that understands the acute challenges and complexities faced when trying to achieve planning permission. From providing initial advice, through to managing and overseeing your planning application, we are here to help navigate and smooth this process. Contact [email protected] for information.

Making every inch of space count is key when you don’t have an excessive amount to work with and in some cases, ie the kitchen, you may need to be clever with storage and light to create the impression of less being more. Adding skylights will let more natural light in and increase the impression of height.
No room for a freestanding table and chairs, try creating a built-in storage area with padded seating and storage space beneath. Roller blinds will also add to the sense of size giving a cleaner look. Can you knock through into your dining area to craft a larger space, creating an open plan room?

Adding an extension needn’t mean giving up some of your precious green space, a slim side extension could be the answer, you’ll be surprised how much difference a few extra feet can make. Perhaps knock down an internal wall to add onto existing kitchen space.
A pitched roof will add height, thus enhancing the space you have. Again natural light can be a real boost, how about a conservatory-style glass panel roof or the addition of bi-folds opening onto a patio to give the illusion of the outside being part of your inside, creating the feel of more space.

At Legacy Double Glazing and Bifolds, we take pride in our craftsmanship and attention to detail. Our team, based in Wantage, provides great service and exceptional products to enhance your home. Specializing in the installation of Upvc/aluminum windows, doors, and bifold doors. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your home’s aesthetic appeal or improve its energy efficiency, our range of products has you covered. More at legacydoubleglazing.co.uk

Having successfully installed many thousands of products into local homes over the last 36 years, Didcot Windows have a wide range of products available, including PVC-u and aluminium windows, doors, composite doors, bi-fold doors, patio and French doors, conservatories, roofline and accessories. Call into their showroom to see a selection of products or visit didcotwindows.co.uk

Let’s talk about your garage. Be honest, how often does your car get to use what was intended to be its home? I suspect like most of us, it’s become an overflow area for garden tools, bikes, luggage and all those things you just don’t know what to do with but can’t bear to throw away. How about making the most of that precious space, it could be the answer to that much-need extra bedroom, utility room or home office. You may even be able to go upwards and add a bedroom above your garage.

Olive Green Interiors, led by interior designer Jude, specializes in transforming small spaces into functional and beautiful sanctuaries. Jude’s approach combines creativity, practicality, and attention to detail. Her top three tips for maximizing small spaces: 1. Hidden Storage. 2. Clever Lighting. 3. Multi-Functional Furniture. By seamlessly integrating these elements, Jude ensures that small spaces not only look stylish but also function efficiently. Your home can truly become a cozy retreat! Find out how they can help make the most of your space at olivegrreninteriors.co.uk

Of course one simple way to create space that doesn’t cost a penny and may even make you some, is decluttering. “Decluttering and organising your home is more than just tidying up; it’s a transformative process that enhances your space, time and mental clarity”, says Rachel Yates from A Tidy Mind South. “A clutter-free environment not only accentuates the feeling of calm and space but also significantly improves wellbeing by reducing overwhelm. Simplifying your surroundings means less to maintain, making everyday living easier and more enjoyable. “Clever storage solutions ingeniously expand even the tightest areas, creating an illusion of spaciousness.” Visit atidymind.co.uk to find out more.

Minster Mill

Round & About

Oxfordshire

Indulge in unforgettable moments at Minster Mill

Minster Mill is just located 15 miles from the dreaming spires of Oxford & 11 miles from Blenheim palace. The charming Cotswold stone building and barns are flanked by 65 acres of idyllic grounds, set in the picture-perfect Oxfordshire village of minster lovell.

Beautiful gardens, you can find wildflower meadows, woodland and in the summer months enjoy fishing, walking croquet and tennis. As the winter comes you can enjoy the hearty food and cosy interiors enjoyed by the roasting fire.

You have so many locations near-by:
• Witney Lakes Golf Course – 6 min drive
• Crocodiles of the World – 8 min drive
• Cogges Manor Farm – 9 min drive
• Cotswold Wildlife Park – 10 min drive
• Blenheim Palace – 22 min drive

Drinking and Dining with impressive, vaulted ceilings and original oak beams, the three AA rosette Mill Restaurant & Bar provides a wonderfully atmospheric backdrop for exceptional seasonal food and drink.

The garden spa – wash away your worries in this tranquil heaven, set in the heart of our landscape’s grounds. Including a plunge pool, Rock sauna, Aroma steam room, ice fountain and tropical rain forest showers. Highly recommend the Unique RASUL mud therapy. A traditional, ancient, Middle Eastern ritual where mineral-rich mud, heat and steam will leave your skin beautifully soft. This indulgent treatment will awaken your senses. Mineral muds are presented to smooth onto the body and face, steam infused with relaxing aromas is then gently introduced to the room to help soothe tense muscles and open the pores, allowing the enriched muds to condition your entire body. After approximately 20 minutes enjoy the induction of a warm mist as it descends within your rasul to gently soften and help wash away the remaining mud, leaving your skin feeling conditioned and your mind clear.

Overnight stays at Minster Mill start from £170 per room, two sharing including breakfast. There are also packages regularly offered, including delicious meals, spa experiences or treats, so do keep an eye on the website for the latest offers. Minster Mill / 01993 774 441

Many exciting events coming up: Latest Events Diary – Minster Mill

Abingdon Air & Country Show returns

Round & About

Oxfordshire

Look to the skies on Saturday May 18th for thrilling day of aviation and much more.

The annual Air and Country Show is set to return to the former RAF Abingdon on Saturday, May 18th. The event, which has grown beyond all recognition over the years is organized by a dedicated team of volunteers led by a small committee.

The event promises a thrilling day for aviation enthusiasts and families.

The highlight of the show will be an impressive afternoon Air Display featuring a lineup of spectacular aircraft, including:

Supermarine Spitfire Mk19

The Titans Display Team

Muscle Pitts aerobatics accompanied by an exhilarating car race

Hawker Hurricane Mk1

The Gazelle Display Team (consisting of four helicopters)

RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team

RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Spitfire & Hurricane for flypasts

These display aircraft will also be available for static viewing, alongside specially invited statics such as the Historic Army Aircraft Flight Beaver & Auster, Chipmunk, Sioux, Skeeter & Scout, and Navy Wings’ Harvard.

One of the main highlights of the show is the large aircraft Fly In, with over 50 modern and historic aircraft flying in for display on the ground, ranging from Tiger Moths to the impressive RAF C17 Globemaster transport (to be confirmed).

For those seeking a unique perspective, Northumbrian Helicopters will offer Pleasure Flights from the showground, providing bird’s eye views of the airfield and Oxford City outskirts. There’s plenty of ground-based fun too with plenty of entertainment for all the family. This year there’s a real mix of fun, including The Radio Days Big Band, Rescue Husky dogs, Radio Controlled Model Jets, farm animals, vintage fire engines, and…ferret racing.

There’s much more besides, and it should be a day filled with excitement and entertainment for all ages.

For more information and tickets visit the show’s site.


Chipping Norton Rugby Club Junior festival

Round & About

Oxfordshire

More than 60 teams from seven counties set to compete on Sunday 28th April 2024 in Chipping Norton Rugby Club’s biggest Festival to date

The Chipping Norton Rugby Club is getting ready to welcome more than 700 players to the third year of its annual tournament for under 10 and under 11 boys and girls on Sunday 28th April 2024, following the success of its first two events in 2022 and 2023.

More than 60, eight and nine-a-side teams are set to compete at the club’s Greystones base, Burford Road, from seven counties, including from as far afield as Berkshire.

Companies supporting this year’s event include Festival headline sponsor Diddly Squat Farm Shop, which is just a stone’s throw away from the clubhouse; Brethertons Solicitors; Powys-based soft drinks maker Radnor Hills; Bloxham School; Cokethorpe School; and QCR Recycling Equipment.

The first under 10 matches are set to kick-off at around 9.30am ahead of a lunchtime prize giving, before the under 11 players battle it out in the afternoon.

“Our annual Festival is an opportunity for us to celebrate the end of the season in style, and to showcase this wonderful game to the next generation of young players,” explains Chipping Norton Minis Chair Duncan Midwood, “so we would be delighted to welcome any families who want to find out more. Just come to the Festival reception desk when you arrive and we’ll make sure you have a great day.

“As always, we are indebted to our amazing sponsors and we have a small number of sponsorship packages still available, so we would be delighted to hear from anyone who would like more information. Funds raised from this year’s Festival will be used to develop the club’s infrastructure and facilities, as well as funding equipment and development courses to continue improving coaching for all age groups at the club.”

A whole array of catering options available, including clubhouse and pitch-side bars, ice creams, hot drinks, braai & burgers, pizzas, paella and crepes, whilst WRFM – formerly Witney Radio – will be broadcasting live from this year’s Festival, with music and pitch-side interviews throughout the day. To find out more email [email protected], or message through the club’s social media channels.

Chipping Norton Rugby Club



Zone out!

Karen Neville

Oxfordshire

You’ve done all the preparation and your garden is good to be ‘glammed up’ all ready for you to sit back and relax and enjoy the summer

Courtyard, green oasis, large and luscious, small and secluded – whatever type of garden you have you’ll want to make it work for you and its place in your life.

A popular option is to create zones or spaces designed to suit a particular purpose and this can be achieved with thought out planning even in smaller gardens where two or three areas works well, perhaps create a larger focal zone with one or two smaller ones, it will largely depend on how you use your garden space.

Most of us want a relaxation area, somewhere to lie back perhaps on a lounger or even in a swing seat or hammock if there’s room and you’re likely to want an entertaining / dining area too. Perhaps you work from home and a garden room offers you somewhere to escape to or is it an ideal place for the kids to chill out?

Let’s sit back and relax and consider the choices – patio and / or decking are a good place to start, make space for both if you can and you’re creating zones without realising it. Seating is  a must, chairs and a table, anything from a cute stylish bistro set for a smaller space to a full on comfy garden sofa taking the indoors out and wooden table and chairs fit for a banquet. How about an egg chair or a padded bench if you need extra or occasional seating, you may find that once you’ve created your zones, the seating falls into place naturally. Need more relaxation and the ultimate chill zone? Soothe away the day in a hot tub.

Summer is the time to entertain al fresco and enjoy the fruits of your hard work with friends and family. Once you’ve decided on your seating go a step further and explore your dining options, do you like nothing better than the sizzle of a burger on the BBQ, like to mix up your toppings on a pizza oven or will only a full-on outdoor kitchen feed your need?

Garden rooms have increasingly become an extension of your home and not just for those who work from home. Always wanted to run your own business but not sure where you’d do it, they make the ideal space for a beauty salon or dog grooming parlour. They’re a great way to gain an extra room without the cost of moving or an extension. Channel your inner peace and indulge in some me time with a yoga studio, pop the kids in for a playroom or creative types will enjoy setting up their easel or instruments there.

The experienced team at Verdec will help you create a fantastic outdoor area with bespoke timber garden structures and buildings, such as summerhouses, offices, adventure playgrounds, decking, hard landscaping and patios. Find out more at verdecfencing.co.uk

Metal Gates Ltd are manufacturers, fabricators and installers of quality metal gates, railings, garage doors, balustrades and staircases. The family business has over 30 years’ experience in the metalwork industry, they can guarantee quality craftsmanship and a professional service from planning to installation. Contact them on 01628 621974 for a free no obligation quote. More at metalgatesltd.com

One thing that’s pretty much a necessity in this country is some sort of shade or cover. Awnings and sails add a decorative touch and are available in a variety of styles and colours. If you’re after a more permanent fixture then pergolas and gazebos will add a stylish touch either to house your furniture or just as a shelter.

If you’ve been coveting a beautiful hand-crafted bespoke oak building in your garden or adjoining your home, you’re not the only one! The Artisan Oak team work with clients to help you design your dream bespoke space. The company believe oak to be one of the most beautiful materials to use, with raw textures and uncompromisable strength. They also offer a landscaping service and incorporate materials such as glass, stone, brick and other wood, working along side sub-contractors for a hassle-free project. Visit artisan-oak.com

Looking for finishing touches to complete your masterpiece? A fire pit will help ward off any chills while lighting will allow you to enjoy your haven late into the night.

Want to live more sustainably? The Festival of Sustainable Homes, May 17th and 18th at the National Self Build & Renovation Centre, Swindon SN5 8UB, offers advice on improving the energy efficiency of new build and existing homes. Exhibits, seminars, live demos and expert advice will all be on offer at the Good Energy sponsored event. Find out more at nsbrc.co.uk/whats-on/our-events/the-festival-of-sustainable-homes