Uncover the Oxford Indie Book Fair

Karen Neville

Oxfordshire

The fifth fair is all set to be the biggest & best yet

The fifth Oxford Indie Book Fair takes place at Oxford University Examination Schools in the High Street on December 1st, opened by the charismatic Chancellor of Oxford Brookes University, the actor and author Paterson Joseph.

Thanks to the sponsorship of the Lucy Group, the Fair is doubling up again this year and will fill both halls in the impressive venue – Oxford University Examination Halls. The declared aim of Oxib is to be free entry so no one in excluded. All the talks and activities are free too. Like many underprivileged young people, access to books, particularly through libraries, opened doors to opportunity for Paterson.

What’s On December 2024 – Oxford Indie Book Fair

Speakers include the historian Janina Ramirez, the naturalist Hugh Warwick – he of The Prickly Affair in discussion with Canon Rev. Dr. Charlotte Bannister Parker on the topic is there hope for creation? The discussion will be chaired by Ray Foulk who ran Planet Earth workshops in the nineties in most Oxfordshire state secondary schools.

There is lots to attract children and families, including activities provided by Korky Paul, and the Pegasus Youth Theatre. The organisers are delighted to announce that the international children’s author, Paul Gustafson, known for his series of Eggbert’s Adventures, will be exhibiting. His books are illustrated by Ray Mutimer (illustrator of Postman Pat, Paddington, Noddy, Rupert and Friends magazine, Charlie Chalk and Star Hill Pony’s magazine for the BBC). Paul’s giant Eggbert will also providing fun activities for the youngest readers.

Check out who’s going to be there in the exhibitor directory.

The fabulous assemblage of children and young adult writers include:

Angela Kecojevic: Being Brace, Frank’s Secret Yeti, Sleuth School: Jeremy Swift Investigates, and The Laughing Shepherd.

Vie Portland: inclusive children’s picture books.

Griselda Heppel: Ante’s Inferno, The Tragickall History of Henry Fowst, The Fall of a Sparrow.

Milo McGivern: Five books, detailling the adventures of Aubrey, Clifford and Walli on the mysterious Island of Animaux.

JM Carr: Wonder Girls

Veneficia Publications: With books for children of all ages.

Oxford Children’s Book Group: Featuring a variety of children’s books including the story of St Frideswide who founded Oxford told for young children in The Princess who Hid in a Tree.

There’s non-ficton too, Crosswords for Boffins and Rebecca Mileham, author of popular science books. Her most recent book is ‘Cracking the Elements’ (2018) which takes a comprehensive look at the development of the periodic table – and reveals untold stories, unsung pioneers and intriguing science along the way.

For budding authors there’ll be lots of publishers and publishing professionals and the future of English Poetry is in the safe hands of Ignition Press, a publishing arm of Oxford Brookes. Niall Munroe has organised the poetry slam. You can even learn How Tennis Invented Everything…

More info


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Indians in Didcot’s dazzling Diwali highlight

Liz Nicholls

Oxfordshire

The community group, Indians in Didcot (fondly known as IID), celebrated their 10th anniversary with a Diwali Dinner and Dance event

The event, which took place with great pomp and splendour at Didcot Civic Hall at the weekend, was also graced by the presence of the Deputy Lieutenant for Oxfordshire, Elizabeth Paris.

Mrs Paris who represented the Monarchy, His Majesty the King said: “I offer my sincere thanks to founders of the community – Dr Sneha Anand and Mr Nitish Anand – and to all of IID, for the warmth and kindness for their welcome at the Diwali Celebration. It was such a joyous occasion, so full of light and inspiration, and I was touched to see so many families, across three generations, coming together in celebration.

“Creating such a strong community and sustainability it for ten years, despite Covid, is a huge achievement and I could tell from the decorations, to the performance, to the superb logistics, just how much effort is given by volunteers. The highlight for me was the performances by the children – such energy and courage!”.

With about 180 attendees, the event was a testament to the strong bonds and vibrant spirit that define the IID community. As IID continues to flourish as not for profit, it remains dedicated to promoting cultural awareness, community engagement, and the celebration of Indian heritage in Didcot and Oxfordshire. The atmosphere was further elevated by the rendition of the national anthems of both the UK and India.

The event was masterfully hosted by Sneha and Nitish along with the organising committee – Amit Sultaniya, Bhavana Ananda, Cinil Mukundan, Elizabeth Abraham, Gayatri Panchbhai, Nipa Gandhi, Vaibhav Solanki, Venky Rao, Vikram Bhagwani, and Vinayak Upadhyay.


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Enjoy Victors at Oxford’s Westgate

Round & About

Oxfordshire

Enjoy everyday luxury and escape to Victors with the best view in Oxford. Experience our modern Asian inspired menu and show stopping cocktails served under our iconic wisteria trees.

Beautiful, vibrant, upscale yet informal, Victors Oxford is the perfect restaurant for everything from celebrations to intimate dining, corporate events and group bookings. Located on the rooftop of Oxford Westgate, with views of Christ Church Cathedral, join us for cocktails, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner seven days a week and breakfast from 10am Saturday and Sunday.

A la carte – Enjoy everyday luxury and escape to Victors with our modern American-Asian inspired menu featuring a selection of sushi, small plates, steaks and larger plates designed to be shared, or eaten all to yourself. Our menu is bursting with flavour, freshness and flowers from our Crispy Tuna to the Yuzu Lemon Chicken.

With plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans there’s something for everyone whether you want to enjoy some of our classics or you’re seeking something more adventurous.


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Enjoy art by Didcot’s Charlie Davies

Liz Nicholls

Oxfordshire

Charlie Davies’ paintings, inspired by following her husband’s epic UK bike ride, are on show at the Cornerstone until the end of October

Didcot locals might well be familiar with Charlie’s paintings of the iconic Didcot Power Station Towers, Nearly Home and You’ll Miss Us (below).

And now, in the Cornerstone Arts Centre foyer, you can admire more of Charlie’s work thanks to her latest exhibition, Artist in Transit – Land’s End to John O’Groats with Ride Across Britain,” Charlie explains. “I decided to join him on this epic adventure, challenging myself as an ‘artist in transit’ to paint across Britain. It took nine days and I produced nearly 30 paintings along the way. Since coming home I have produced a collection of etchings and some larger studio paintings as well as a book documenting our journey. All of these will be on show.”

Charlie is a plein air painter and printmaker who is inspired by nature and all its beauties and loves to capture light and moments in time in her paintings. She is a member of the Society of Botanical Artists, Oxford Printmakers and Oxford Art Society. Last year one of her etchings was exhibited and sold out the whole edition at the Royal Academy Summer Show.

“I paint using oils and adore the subtleties of colour and the effects of light, which can be achieved with this medium,” adds Charlie.

“I have won two People’s Choice awards for my artwork. In 2010 I won The People’s Choice Award for my painting of the Didcot Towers. Following that success I began to paint local landscapes, focusing on Wittenham Clumps. I have more time now, and I feel incredibly lucky to be able to indulge my passions and explore all these creative possibilities.”

Please visit Charlie Davies Designs


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Oxfordshire Uncorked book toasts local tipples

Liz Nicholls

Oxfordshire

Tour guide and expert in all things wine, Marcus Rees invites his fellow enthusiasts to embark on a delightful journey around the winemakers of Oxfordshire and the north Cotswolds

This unique guide reveals the beauty of English wine, and Marcus would argue there are none better than those from Oxfordshire and its surrounding counties! From one of England’s oldest wine producers at Stanlake Park to newcomers like JoJo’s Vineyard, Oxfordshire Uncorked shines a light on the often unsung past and bright future of great British wine.

Marcus fell in love with Oxfordshire after his studies at Oxford University and has travelled the length of the county and beyond to explore its many vineyards and wineries. Whether you are a travelling tourist, staycationer, or local Oxfordshire tippler, this guide is essential reading for anyone wanting a taste of luxurious wine right on their doorstep. Marcus explores each site, doing a deep dive into the wines they produce and how to best enjoy them. From the delectable notes of elderflower in Oaken Grove’s Bacchus Reserve, to the tantalising tingle of Wyfold Vineyard’s 2017 Sparkling Brut, this guide will help you discover your new favourite bottle. If a vineyard’s story is what sparks your curiosity, however, you may also find yourself tempted by the rich history of Kidmore Vineyard or the humble, intimate setting of Little Oak.

Oxfordshire Uncorked’s detailed profiles provide an in-depth look into each vineyard and winery’s processes and ethos, as well as tasting notes for the wines they produce. The book includes essentials like the vineyard’s first vintage, its acreage, and visitor and tour information, with each site description offering further insight into the story of the land, the wine, and the people behind its production.

Follow this guide to discover the amazing wines and events these vineyards have to offer. For anyone mad about wine, Oxfordshire Uncorked beckons you to travel the picturesque English countryside and explore the wonders of its bountiful vineyards.


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Barn storming fun!

Karen Neville

Oxfordshire

The Great Barn Festival offers a perfect combination of events to keep adults, families and children of all ages entertained.

The Great Barn Festival is a family friendly event celebrating the best of music, theatre, art, and nature in an ancient rural setting.

Set in the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside, the Great Barn in Coxwell was built over 700 years ago. It was a favourite of William Morris who would regularly bring his guests to wonder at its structure. Morris called it ‘unapproachable in its dignity’.

Music from the best home-grown talent and international musicians combines with some of the best local community groups and choirs. Take your seat for performances from Dan Sealey from Ocean Colour Scene and Merseyside hero Ian Prowse & Amsterdam.

Listen to storytellers and watch roaming performers throughout the day. Entertainment includes family performances of The Tempest and Robin Hood as well as the return of the Three Inch Fools with The Secret Diary of Henry VIII. Get involved in circus skills, a silent disco and craft in the Children’s Tent. There’s also pond dipping and barn tours to enjoy with The National Trust.

Tuck into some fabulous food with a cold drink and settle in to enjoy music or theatre set against one of the most impressive Festival backdrops around!

A Gate Pass which allows entry to the grounds for a whole day with non-stop action and if you want even more add separate ticketed performances to build your perfect event. A Friday Evening Gate Pass costs £6. Saturday Gate Pass costs £10 and a Sunday Evening Gate Pass costs £6 per person. Under 2s are free.

Full details can be found on Great Barn Festival


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Join Waterside Café for birthday event

Liz Nicholls

Oxfordshire

Waterside Cafe in Farmoor, will celebrate its first anniversary under new ownership with an exclusive evening supper club featuring Tikka and Tadka on Saturday, 31st August

The team at Waterside Cafe in Cumnor, OX2 9NS, are excited to announce their first evening supper club event, celebrating one year under new ownership!

This special occasion will be held in collaboration with loved local independent business, Tikka and Tadka, known for their authentic Indian cuisine.

Join them for an evening of delicious food and breath-taking views of the reservoir. Guests will enjoy a meticulously crafted three-course Indian meal prepared by Tikka and Tadka, with the picturesque backdrop of the reservoir and the potential for a stunning sunset to enhance the evening.

Waterside Cafe has enjoyed a fantastic first year, building strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and friends in the community. This supper club is a way to say thank you and celebrate the journey together. Only 40 tickets are available – book early to avoid dissapointment!

Owner Rachel says: “We are thrilled to celebrate our first anniversary with our incredible community. Partnering with Tikka and Tadka for our very first Evening Supper Club is the perfect way to mark this milestone. We look forward to sharing an unforgettable evening with everyone.

“Being slightly out of Oxford and new to the hospitality industry, the journey has sometimes been lonely and isolating. However, it has also been incredibly rewarding. Every day I’ve learned something new, and the support from other small businesses and our brilliant relationships with our suppliers has been a lifeline during our first year. Their encouragement and support have been invaluable, and I’m truly grateful to be part of such a supportive community.

“Making it through our first year feels like a significant achievement, and I’m excited about what’s next. We’re planning more collaborations like this supper club and have recently purchased a horsebox trailer to serve take-away coffee. We have lots of exciting ideas in the pipeline. We’ve also recently become a Chatty Cafe, supporting a charity that encourages conversations to reduce loneliness. The reservoir is a real community hub, and I’m eager to continue promoting this important initiative in the coming months.”

“Before I took over Waterside Cafe, I was baking celebration cakes, and I’m particularly proud that I still make all our cakes and traybakes for the cafe. My apple Dorset cake has become known as the ‘house special’, and on many weekends, we’ve completely sold out because people love it so much. It’s wonderful to continue doing what I love and to see the cafe now recognised for its great homemade produce.”

Tickets can be purchased via this link.


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Meet mural painter Lisa Made It!

Liz Nicholls

Oxfordshire

Legendary Oxford mural artist Lisa Made It has collaborated with patients at Sobell House Hospice to create a ‘personal and touching’ design for this summer’s OxTrail event.

Running until the end of August, the family art exhibition OxTrail sees a herd of more than 130 ox sculptures take over Oxfordshire. The incredible collection, now on display, showcases 31 large oxen sculptures, each uniquely decorated by artists and placed in key locations across the city.

As part of the art event there are more than 100 mini oxen set up in mini herds across the county. Among these calf-sized sculptures, illustrator Lisa Curtis has crafted a collaboratively designed ox which is now on display at the heart of the trail – Sobell House Hospice.

To create the Sobell House ox, Lisa spent a morning drinking tea and talking with patients and staff at the Living Well service facility, working together on collages to make the base of her oxen design.

Lisa says: “It was great to meet people and hear about the different activities they do. We worked together to make some lovely collages, letting the scissors do the work and not thinking too much about the outcome.

“It was really moving to hear what a difference the hospice’s Living Well service makes to patients, just enjoying the company of others, having a chat and taking part in creative activities like gardening or sewing together.”

The design is for the hospice ox is bright and colourful. It includes parts for the collage designs made by staff and patients, including a big green rabbit, geometric flowers and abstract shapes.

Lisa continues: “I also added two hands giving the Ox a hug, some long wiggly arms drinking cups of tea and a few plants growing up the side and over the head of the Ox, in my usual bold and colourful style. I was really inspired by the joy and creativity among the team, and I hope the ox brings even more colour and warmth to Sobell House.”

Lisa Made It is a mural painter and illustrator based in Oxford. Her unique and brightly coloured designs feature bold shapes and crisp lines often inspired by nature and community.

For the last 10 years, Lisa has worked with local schools, charities and independent businesses in Oxford, and she has painted mural walls in all corners of her home city.

Amelia Foster, CEO of Sobell House Hospice Charity says: “Lisa has truly captured the heart of the OxTrail campaign with her ox. Sobell House is funded by the community, and we are delighted that OxTrail allows us to give something back to the community we serve. The design of the hospice ox is hopeful and personal, and embodies the spirit of our Living Well service, which helps people to find new ways of living well with their life-limiting illnesses. We are very proud of her design and thankful for the input of our wonderful patients.”

The OxTrail art, including Lisa’s piece, will be on display until the end of August. On Friday, 13th September, many of the sculptures will be auctioned off to raise money for the hospice.

Amelia adds: “OxTrail is off to a brilliant start, and it is wonderful to see the public engaging with the oxen and using the app to find them in their iconic locations. If you haven’t yet joined the moo-vement and started ox-ploring… what is stopping you?”

Families can explore the city and spot the oxen in and around the county, following the trail by using the app or map. You can find the official OxTrail merchandise shop in the Westgate Shopping Centre, next to Blackwell’s.

For more information on OxTrail head to OxTrail 2024.


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10 Must Try Cafes in Oxford

Ellie Cox

Oxfordshire

These cafes and coffee shops offer a diverse range of experiences, from historical and opulent settings to cosy, intimate spots, making Oxford a great destination for coffee lovers.

Tired of drinking underwhelming coffee? This guide brings you the best coffee hot spots & cafes around Oxford. So, if you’re making plans to visit Oxford any time soon, make sure to add these to your to-do list.

1. The Missing Bean

A favourite for students, this café is renowned for its Antipodean-style coffee and lively ambiance. The Missing Bean is perfect for a quick takeaway or a cosy sit-in.

2. Society Café

Situated on St. Michael’s Street, this café features a wide selection of espresso and filter coffee options, sourced from premier coffee farms and roasters. It’s a favourite for its spacious interior and co-working-friendly atmosphere.

3. Jericho Coffee Traders

Known for it’s micro-roastery, Jericho Coffee Traders offers tailored coffee blends and pop-up locations around the city. It’s a must visit for coffee lovers.

4. GAIL’s Bakery

Besides great coffee, GAIL’s offers an array of freshly baked goods, making it a perfect spot for breakfast or a casual coffee break.

5. The Handle Bar Café and Kitchen

Situated above a bike shop, this café is renowned for its atmosphere and delicious toasted banana bread. It also offers extended hours for evening hours.

6. The Grand Café

Located on the site of England’s oldest coffee house, The Grand Café is more famous for its tea and opulent decor, offering a unique historical experience.

7. Colombia Coffee Roasters

Located in the Covered Market, this café specialises in single-origin coffee from Colombia, complemented by tasty baked goods.

8. The Ashmolean Café

Located in the Ashmolean Museum, this rooftop café offers stunning views alongside a solid coffee and tea selection, with profits supporting the museum.

9. The Edge Eatery

Located in Witney, Oxfordshire, this café receives a huge amount of praise for its delicious brunch & speciality coffee offerings.

10. Gatineau

Gatineau offers a range of artisanal fresh breads, viennoiserie, cakes, savouries, biscuits and chocolates.


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Discover Didcot Dairy story at Cornerstone

Round & About

Oxfordshire

Take a trip down memory lane this month and explore some local history

Job’s Dairy was once the largest privately owned dairy in the UK with many farms, processing plants, depots and stores located in the south of England and now its story is being shared thanks to the hard work of a group of volunteers.

The project which has been curated by Dr Leah Hewerdine and Ruby Livesey in partnership with other organisations is celebrating the heritage and community of the former Didcot Dairy.

The Didcot bottling plant played an important part in the diary industry, and local community, from 1935 and 1987 and was located west of the old railway line. The land, once used by the dairy in Didcot was purchased and re-developed for housing in the late 1980s. The house located on Western Avenue are believed to be the original location of the Didcot Dairy.

Job’s was a family owned business, and often employed whole families within local areas. Some sites included accommodation for employees, and their families.

To acknowledge and celebrate the town’s agricultural roots, an exhibition entitled Didcot Dairy Story tells the tale through a cow-fully curated displays of objects, photographs, video footage, and community memories. For those who can remember the dairy, it holds a special place in their heart.

Take a trip down memory lane to fresh milk and eggs on your doorstep, social events for all the family, and the crowning of Miss Job’s! The exhibition which is part of the Oxfordshire OxTrail is raising funds in support of Sobell House Hospice and other important local causes.


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