Motorists stopped by the police in Thames Valley will be asked to read a number plate from 20m and those who fail will have their licences revoked in a month-long campaign.

Road safety charity Brake is teaming up with police forces in Thames Valley, Hampshire and West Midlands for the campaign to raise awareness of driver vision in September.

Data will be collected from each test to improve the understanding of the extent of poor driver eyesight on our roads, which is thought to be vastly underreported in Government statistics.

Sergeant Rob Heard, representing the police forces taking part in the campaign, said: “All of us require good vision to drive safely on our roads - not being able to see a hazard or react to a situation quickly enough can have catastrophic consequences.

“The legal limit is being able to read a number plate at 20m, around 5 car lengths, however this is a minimum requirement and a regular eyesight test with an optician is a must if we are going to be safe on the road.

“Since 2013, the Police have a new procedure – Cassie’s Law - to fast track notification to the DVLA should they find someone who cannot read a number plate at 20m in daylight conditions.

“Offending motorists will within an hour have their licence revoked and face prosecution. During September, we will be carrying out 20m number plate checks at every opportunity and those who fail will have their licences revoked.

“I hope we do not find anyone and everyone makes sure they are safe to read the road ahead.”

This activity is part of a wider campaign to encourage the public and the Government to take driver vision seriously.

An estimated 1.5m UK licence holders have never had an eye test and crashes involving a driver with defective eyesight are thought to cause 2,900 casualties every year on the UK’s roads.

However, Brake believes the UK’s driver vision testing is inadequate and antiquated, requiring only a 20m number plate check when taking the driving test and nothing else for the rest of a driver’s life – one of only five EU countries to have such low standards.

The charity, alongside Vision Express, is urging the Government to tighten up UK driver vision laws and make eyesight testing compulsory before the driving test and each time a driver renews their photocard licence.

Brake director of campaigns Joshua Harris said: “It stands to reason that good eyesight is fundamental to safe driving, yet our current licensing system does not do enough to protect us from drivers with poor vision.

“It is frankly madness that there is no mandatory requirement on drivers to have an eye test throughout the course of their driving life, other than the disproven 20m number plate test when taking the driving test.

“Only by introducing rigorous and professional eye tests can we fully tackle the problem of unsafe drivers on our roads.

“Partnering with the police on this campaign will help us understand the extent of poor driver vision in the UK, an issue where good data is lacking.

“This is the first-step on the road to ensuring that good eyesight is a given on UK roads – the public shouldn’t expect anything less.”

Jonathan Lawson, chief executive of Vision Express, added: “We believe official government statistics on the impact of poor sight on road safety are the tip of the iceberg and we know the public feel the same as we do about tackling poor driver vision.

“A recent survey commissioned by Vision Express showed that 75 per cent want a recent eye test to be mandatory when renewing a driving licence.

“We fully support Brake in spearheading initiatives that encourage motorists to consider if their vision is fit to drive before they get behind the wheel.

“A vehicle driven by someone with substandard vision is a lethal weapon, it’s as simple as that.

“Deaths are occurring because some motorists are wilfully neglecting to get an eye test, putting lives in danger.

“That has to stop and we’re committed to working with Brake, the police and road safety organisations to put pressure on the Government to take action.”

Thames Water submitted its £11.7bn five-year business plan with a record spend on infrastructure to industry watchdogs Ofwat today (Monday, September 3).

The water company’s plan includes £2.1bn to boost resilience and reduce leakage and follows engagement with nearly one million customers over the last three years.

Seven out of 10 customers approved the final proposals, which contains plans for a four-fold increase in financial support for customers across London and the Thames Valley who struggle to pay.

The plan, covering the period 2020-25, features modest distributions to external shareholders of around £20m annually as Thames Water prioritises investment in its vast network, with average household bills remaining flat before inflation.

The water company says it will also increase its financial resilience, with gearing reduced to 76.2 per cent and the ‘equity buffer’ increased to £4.7bn.

Chief executive Steve Robertson said: “More than 15 million people in the UK depend on Thames Water every day to go about their lives.

“Our responsibilities to the environment and customers are huge, and we will partner with them and our peers to insulate our region from the effects of changing climate patterns.

“This includes planning for a strategic reservoir for the SE region of England and exploring the potential of water transfers.

“Our proposals are ambitious, well-costed and widely-supported by our customers, who agree we should prioritise the most vulnerable.

“Bills will be flat in real terms over the five-year period and our shareholders will receive annual distributions of around £20m as we prioritise investment on significantly improving service.

“I am really excited about delivering on these proposals and ensuring London and the Thames Valley has the modern and high-quality waste and water network its residents rightly expect.”

The plan will deliver an 18 per cent reduction in pollution incidents, cut leakage by 15 per cent and generate enough green energy to power 115,000 homes, according to Thames Water.

The longer term ambition is to have zero pollutions, stop abstractions from vulnerable chalk streams and halve leakage.

The company’s Smart Water Network programme will provide an enhanced level of insight in to its water systems, to allow teams to respond faster and more effectively to emerging operational issues.

This data will also underpin the modernisation of Thames Water’s control environment, covering all areas of its operations.

More than 200,000 customers who find it hard to pay will receive discounts of up to 75 per cent and those in vulnerable situations will be further prioritised during operational incidents, with the priority services register increasing seven-fold to 400,000 people.

After 2020, management bonuses and dividends will be tied to meeting targets on reducing leakage and pollutions, and increased customer satisfaction.

Thames Water is also overhauling its corporate structure to make it easier to understand, and plans to lower operational unit costs by nearly 14 per cent.

The following people from Aylesbury Vale and beyond have been sentenced at Wycombe Magistrates Court between August 15 and 31.

Thomas Phillips, 26, Turville Road, Aylesbury: owner of a vehicle which was not properly insured. Fined £50 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £30.

Kirsten Shadbolt, 30, Penn Road, Aylesbury: stole alcoholic spirits valued at £93 from Tesco. Fined £40 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £30.

Assaulted a male by beating. Ordered to pay compensation of £100.

Melissa Lee Lewis, 50, Owen Place, Aylesbury: stole candles and clothing valued at £191.40 from Tesco, Aylesbury. Committed to prison for two weeks because of prolific shoplifting. Ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £115.

Racially or religiously aggravated harassment towards another individual. Ordered to pay compensation of £80.

Possession of a quantity of cannabis. Fined £80.

Zdenek Chovanec, 36, Walton Way, Aylesbury: failed to provide a specimen of blood for analysis. Ordered to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work within the next 12 months. Ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £85 and costs of £775 to the CPS. Disqualified from driving fo 18 months.

Michael Fitzgerald, 28, Argyle Avenue, Aylesbury: stole bottles of whiskey and Jagermeister valued at £54 from Sainsburys, Aylesbury. Fined £200, ordered to pay compensation of £54 and a victim surcharge of £30.

Stole razor blades valued at £422.50 from Sainsburys. Ordered to pay compensation of £422.50.

Christopher Breese, 31, Hastoe Park, Aylesbury: drove a Kia Ceed dangerously on Chearsley Road, Long Crendon, crashing into several vehicles causing injury to drivers and damage to vehicles. Ordered to carry out 250 hours of unpaid work within the next 12 months. Ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £85 and costs of £965 to the CPS.

Reno Ambrosio, 58, Oxford Road, Aylesbury: pursued a course of harassment against two females a female by sending numerous unwanted phone calls and texts. Given a 12 week prison sentence suspended for 18 months. Ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £115, compensation of £50 and costs of £85 to the CPS.

Aaron Webster, 25, Portfield Close, Buckingham: assaulted a woman by beating. Fined £436, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £43 and costs of £520 to the CPS.

Shaun Vine, 35, Fletcher Close, Aylesbury: attempted to steal two Braun razors valued at a total of £674 from Boots, Aylesbury.

Stole a Phillips razor valued at £199.99 from Boots, Aylesbury.

Handled stolen goods - a Tom Tom sat nav.

Stole 3 Oral B electronic toothbrushes valued at a total of £900 from Boots, Aylesbury.

Damaged a Peugeot vehicle and garage roof tiles at a property in Fairford Leys, Aylesbury.

ordered to comply with a rehabilitation programme and pay compensation of £500.

Adam Lawes, 33, Lace Lane, Buckingham: assaulted a man causing him actual bodily harm. Given a six month prison sentence suspended for 18 months. Ordered to pay compensation of £2,000.

Shame Makore, 45, Oussulbury Lane, Aylesbury: used threatening/abusive words/behaviour to cause harassment in Jubilee Square, Aylesbury. Fined £120, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £30 and costs of £85 to the CPS.

Robert Smail, 26, St Catherine’s Court, Aylesbury: committed disorderly behaviour while drunk. Fined £600, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £60 and costs of £85 to the CPS.

Assaulted a constable in the execution of her duty. Ordered to pay compensation of £50.

Colin Final, 44, Bronte Close, Aylesbury: assaulted a woman by beating. Ordered to carry out 90 hours of unpaid work within the next 12 months. Ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £85 and costs of £135 to the CPS.

Sumaiya Choudhury, 33, Sawmill Road, Longwick: failed to provide a specimen for analysis. Fined £203, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £30 and costs of £775 to the CPS. Disqualified from holding a driving licence for 15 months.

Nigel Tomlinson, 60, Abbey Road, Aylesbury: assaulted a man by beating. Fined £190, ordered to pay compensation of £100 and costs of £85 to the CPS.

The organisation which runs a number of health services in Oxfordshire was praised by inspectors but concerns remained over safety in some of its operations.

Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust was rated as ‘good’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in a report published on Thursday (August 30) following inspections earlier this year.

The trust, which provides community health, mental health and specialised health services in Oxfordshire and beyond, welcomed the findings and said improvements are already being made to address the safety concerns.

Chief executive Stuart Bell said: “I am very proud of our caring staff for their contribution to delivering and improving our services before, during and after the CQC inspection.

“We made a major commitment to improving our services back in 2014 and we value the insights that our own efforts and this recent inspection process have given us.

“All of this helps our learning and we continue to work together to improve our services to benefit the people we serve.”

Oxford Health was given an overall rating of ‘good’ based on weighted scoring across all the services inspected.

No enforcement notices were issued and 12 out of 16 of the trust’s services were rated ‘good’ and one was ‘outstanding’.

Leadership training was widely available to staff and there were good working governance systems, the CQC found.

The trust was responsive to people’s needs across services especially in a crisis, including reducing the need for police involvement in mental health crises.

Patients and staff were able to give feedback; they knew how to raise concerns and there was good learning from incidents and complaints. Few services had long waiting lists.

There was strong team working across most services, care and treatment was well monitored and findings from this were used to make improvements, so that services were overall effective.

Perhaps most importantly from the trust’s perspective, staff were found to be caring and noted to be ‘treating patients with kindness, courtesy and sensitivity’.

Improvements are required in safety to ensure that across all trust services the same high standards are observed.

But seven out of the core 16 mental health and community teams run by the trust were rated as ‘requires improvement’ for safe.

Plans to address this includes the establishment of a ‘healthcare improvement centre’, which is using international best practice and practical expertise to foster improvement skills, for all levels of trust staff.

The ‘good’ rating pulls together findings from a CQC visit to the trust in March and April to check the quality of eight core services, with results from previous inspections of eight other community and mental health services – unchanged since a CQC inspection in June, 2016.

To read the report, click here.

A new Midsomer Tour package has been launched to help fans of the the popular TV series enjoy the filming locations around Thame and Chinnor.

The new tours start with a guided walking tour of Thame and are followed by a steam trip on the Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway (C&PRR), which includes cream tea in the afternoon tea car.

The new combined Midsomer Tour starts on Sunday, September 16, with further tours on Sunday, October 7 and Sunday, October 14.

Thame is one of the most frequently used filming locations in the popular ITV series Midsomer Murders, featuring either as Causton or as one of the fictional villages in Midsomer County.

The Midsomer guided walking tours of Thame have grown in popularity, following their highly successful début last year. For the new Sunday afternoon tour, you will be led by trained tour guides round many of the 20-plus filming locations in Thame town centre, including the Town Hall, Thame Museum, the Swan and Spread Eagle Hotels.

After the walking tour, your murderous adventure continues when you arrive at Chinnor Railway Station. The station became Holm Lane Junction in the Death in a Chocolate Box episode, when the station signs were changed, buffers were installed, and the station platform and train were drenched, to create the Midsomer illusion.

Taking your reserved seat in the afternoon tea car, you will pass over the level crossing at Wainhill, featured in The Made to Measure Murders. During the journey you will be served cream tea with locally baked scones, cream, butter and jam. The round trip lasts about 55 minutes.

Ray Gomm, special events manager at C&PRR, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be joining forces with Thame Midsomer Tours to provide a new Midsomer adventure, enhancing the experience that people have when they visit Midsomer County and highlighting C&PRR as a unique Midsomer filming location’.

Tony Long, co-ordinator for Thame Midsomer Tours said: “Just like C&PRR, the Midsomer Tours are conducted by volunteers. The more people coming on these new tours, the more funds can be generated, both to help maintain the railway and help Midsomer Tours donate to charitable causes locally.

“Last year we donated over £700 to the Mayor’s Charities and Thame Museum. The guides themselves don’t take any income from the tours.”

Becky Reid, market town co-ordinator at Thame Town Council, said: “6.5 million people watch Midsomer Murders in the UK and millions more worldwide. It’s one of the UK’s biggest TV exports, and when people see it on TV, they want to come and visit the beautiful towns and villages of Midsomer.

“While here, they spend money in our restaurants, pubs, hotels, shops – and now railways - which is good for our local economy.

“In Thame, it has also inspired specially created Midsomer products such as the popular Barnaby Buns, and newly launched Midsomer chocolate lollipops, both available from Rumsey’s Chocolaterie in Thame, a Midsomer filming location.”

The tour starts at 2pm from Thame Museum, one of the filming locations, and afterwards make your way by car or alternative transport to Chinnor Station to join the 4.30pm departure from Chinnor and enjoy a cream tea while on board. The Midsomer adventure ends at approximately 5.30pm.

There is a special joint ticket price of £25 per adult, which includes the walking tour, cream tea and table reservation, and the steam train trip. Places can be booked in advance at https://www.chinnorrailway.co.uk/product.php/204/midsomer-adventure-cream-teas.

There is no public transport available on Sundays between Thame and Chinnor. Car parking is free in Thame town centre and at Chinnor railway station.

Thame Players have announced that their panto for this festive season will be Beauty and the Beast.

The traditional panto with a modern twist has been written by experienced director and writer Ben Crocker, and will be performed on December 7-9 and December 12-16.

Ben comes from a theatrical family and is the son of actor and pantomime script writer, John Crocker.

Ben saw his first pantomime at the age of three and has been hooked ever since.

During the last 25 years he has directed over 70 professional productions, including 20 pantomimes.

Ten years ago, he started writing the scripts which contain all his knowledge, expertise and love of the art form.

A spokesperson for the players said: “They are very funny, fast moving and true to the original story.

“They are possibly the best scripts in the world - Oh, yes they are!

“Beauty and the Beast is extremely funny, full of action and great fun to perform.

Seeing Beauty with her Prince, Malabelle the wicked witch turns him into a Beast and so the tale begins.

With many hurdles to overcome Beauty is finally reunited with her Prince and all is right with the world.”

The players says this is a pantomime for all the family to enjoy at Christmas.

Classic characters such as the Dame, the Principal Boy and a female blacksmith will be appearing so this is a traditional pantomime with a modern twist which is suitable for the whole family.

It will be staged at The Players Theatre, Nelson Street, Thame OX9 2DP.

The show will start at 7.45pm, with matinees at 2pm and 5.30pm.

The box office will open on October 29 and tickets will be £10 with £9 concessions from Spear Travels on 01844 217228 or online at www.thameplayers.co.uk

Thame and District Rotary members, family and friends were given the guided tour of locations in Thame which appeared in the hit TV series of Midsomer Murders.

The tour was given by Tony Long of Thame Players and Erroll Bateman of Rotary, two of the official Thame Midsomer guides.

Graham Colverson, Thame & District Rotary Club president, said: “Our group thoroughly enjoyed the tour and learned about some interesting historical facts about Thame during the English Civil War and beyond. We recommend taking this tour to anyone interested in local history.”

Visit www.thame.rotary1090.org and for more on the tours visit https://www.visitmidsomer.com/midsomer-tours-walks-tall-thame/

About 500 people are expencted to take party in a big family orienteering event, the Thame Urban Race.

Organised by Thames Valley Orienteering Club (TVOC)and being held on Sunday, September 9, the event has the support of Thame Town Council.

There’ll be courses for all ages and abilities, and the event is described as like a giant treasure hunt around the town - with a twist.

A chance for families to get outside, explore the town and race around the checkpoints, it also ties in with the Town Council’s current Green Living Plan consultation.

The race is a unique opportunity to explore the streets, alleys and parks of Thame in an adventure race for all the family. No experience is necessary to take part.

It’s an urban orienteering event, with several courses of varying length and difficulty, suitable for families and children, from 1km to 8km. The longer courses are also geared up for the more competitive and for runners looking for a new challenge.

It’s also a race with a twist; the twist being that there is no set route to the courses. Each competitor is given a special orienteering map, showing a series of checkpoints.

The challenge is to visit all the checkpoints around Thame, choosing your own route between each one. Each checkpoint is marked by a flag and an electronic timing chip is used to record progress.

Mike Shires, from TVOC, said: “Most people don’t realise that orienteering is a competitive running sport. However, orienteering really is a sport for all. Our events attract keen runners as well as plenty of families who come along for a jog or walk around a course. It’s also a great opportunity for parents to have a run while the children tackle a junior course. At Thame, we’ll also have a special junior course too around Cuttlebrook Nature Reserve which is safe for young children to have a go.”

TVOC is Clubmark accredited and has around 300 members from Oxfordshire and the Thames Valley. The club was recently awarded Orienteering Club of the Year and organises around 35 events per annum, ranging from local events for 150 competitors to larger regional events with over 1,000 runners.

Club member Blanka Collis, 32, said: “It’s a good way of keeping fit and for me it is also more interesting than just jogging. It’s an extra mental challenge. Sometimes people think it’s like treasure hunting. They say: “I did that at school once-upon-a-time’ but it’s a running sport for all the family.”

To have a go at Thame, just turn up to Thame Town Hall between 9.30am and 11.30am. There will be plenty of help on hand for newcomers.

The cost is £7.50 for the shorter courses and £14 for longer courses, including a special map of Thame to keep as a souvenir, and hire of a timing chip.

For more details visit TVOC’s website at www.tvoc.org.uk or see the Facebook event page at www.facebook.com/tvoclub

Residents are being reminded of road closures as Thame prepares to welcome the fair back to town.

The September Fair will be in Thame between Thursday, September 20 and Saturday, September 22.

The fair will be open from 4pm to 11pm on Thursday and noon to 11pm on Friday and Saturday.

The President of the Showmen’s Guild and the Mayor of Thame will be ringing the bell to officially open the fair on Thursday at 4pm at the Dodgems.

Thame Town Council would like to remind residents and businesses of the road closures which will be in place for the event.

During the fair, a Temporary Road Closure and Traffic Regulation Order will be in force, which will restrict the entry of vehicles to the centre of Thame from 4pm on Wednesday, September 19 until noon on Sunday, September 23.

Traffic movement will be restricted and barriers will be in position at the following locations:

High Street at the junction with Bell Lane.

North Street at the junction with Wellington Street.

Upper High Street at the junction with East Street.

Rooks Lane at the Upper High Street junction.

Nelson Street at the Upper High Street junction.

Vehicles will not be allowed to park in the road or on the pavements of these affected roads.

Anyone parking will run the risk of causing an offence by obstruction and cars will be removed.

Both the High Street and Upper High Street car parks will be closed.

During the road closure, town centre bus stops will relocate to: The Thatch (buses to Oxford), Thame Museum (buses to Aylesbury) and Old Police Station (buses to High Wycombe). The taxi rank will move to North Street.

Parking regulations on Wellington Street, North Street and Southern Road will commence at 7am on Wednesday, September 19, to assist with traffic flow ahead of the town centre road closure.

Access permits are available for residents whose property is located within the road closure and have off-street parking. To apply for a permit, please contact Thame Town Council or visit the Town Hall.

Full details of the Road Closure Order can be viewed at the Information Centre in Thame Town Hall.

Thame’s MP was truly in the pink at the launch of a cancer campaign.

John Howell, MP for the Henley constituency, added a splash of pink to his usual attire to support Breast Cancer Now’s wear it pink fundraiser which will take place on Friday, October 19 to raise money for vital breast cancer research.

John was joined by over 200 other parliamentarians in Westminster, all encouraging people across the UK to take part on wear it pink day and raise money for Breast Cancer Now.

John is calling for his constituents to join him, as well as thousands of others across the UK to sign up and take part in wear it pink which takes place during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and to date has raised over £31 million towards Breast Cancer Now’s important work.

Anyone can take part in wear it pink, whether at work, school or in your community. All you need to do is wear something pink, or hold a pink themed event, and donate to Breast Cancer Now. With every penny raised, fundraisers across the UK will be helping the charity achieve its aim that, if we all act now, by 2050 everyone who develops breast cancer will live, and live well.

John said: “Breast cancer is still the most common form of cancer in the UK. Each year around 11,500 women and 80 men lose their lives to the disease. That’s why I’m so passionate about encouraging everyone in the constituency to take part in wear it pink day on Friday, October 19.

“Wear it pink is a great way to come together with friends and family to have fun whilst raising money for Breast Cancer Now’s vital research. As you can see from my photograph, all it takes is an additional splash of pink to your normal outfit!

“Breast cancer affects so many people in this constituency, so I hope that everybody here will get involved this October and support this very important cause.”

Joining the politicians at Westminster was Donna Fraser, four-time Olympian for Great Britain and Breast Cancer Now Ambassador. Donna, 45, retired from participating in professional athletics after she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2009, aged just 36.

Donna, who is now equality, diversity and engagement lead at UK Athletics, said: “I’m delighted to be supporting wear it pink this year – it is a fun and fabulous fundraising event which brings families, friends and work colleagues together to help fund research into this devastating disease.

“Breast cancer awareness and raising funds for research is hugely important to me - there are too many women being diagnosed with breast cancer, and sadly too many women still lose their lives each year. This cause is very close to my heart, and as someone who has personally been through breast cancer, I know just how important it is to raise money for research, to help reach a day where nobody dies from breast cancer. For me, that day can’t come soon enough.”

Baroness Delyth Morgan, chief executive at Breast Cancer Now, said: “We are really grateful for the enthusiasm and support shown by the MPs at Westminster. Everyone looked fabulous in their pink accessories and showed just how easy it is to add a touch of pink to your everyday outfit.

“We hope that by wearing pink, John will encourage his constituents to get involved and fundraise in their homes, schools or workplaces, and help us to continue to fund world-class research into this devastating disease.

“Wear it pink is a fantastic opportunity for communities across the UK to come together, have fun and show their support to this very important cause. By simply wearing something pink and donating what you can, you are helping raise much-needed funds to stop breast cancer taking the lives of those we love. Together we can take one step forward to help reach our goal that, by 2050, everyone who develops breast cancer will live, and live well.”

To take part in wear it pink this October, visit wearitpink.org/2018MP for further details, fundraising ideas and how to register for your free fundraising pack.

Tasty treats and music will feature highly on the agenda to sustain visitors to Thame Food Festival.

After you’ve taken in a demonstration or two and checked out the delights of the artisan stalls, you can grab a delicious drink at one of the lovely bars and join in the vibe at the Music Stage.

Sponsored by Festivales, Grant & Stone and Business Buddy there will be some amazing live acoustic music throughout Saturday, September 29 and Sunday, September 30, with plenty of seating.

Enjoy the beautiful sound offered up by John Buckley with his guitar or dance to the Dung Beatles, a five-piece Beatles tribute band on the Saturday. Whatever your music preference there will be something to get your toe tapping including on Sunday Elemental Joe, a jazz fusion band or A Little Bit of Country.

The Pop Up Pub will be packed with tasty tipples such as local award-winning brews including Crafty Fox, Rebellion IPA and Zeberdee.

There will also be a secret brew which will be revealed at the festival, brewed just down the road by XT Brewing.Sample the delights of traditional hand-picked ciders or a full range of wines and cocktails, such as Tipsy Gypsy Ice Tea – a lightly sparkling blend of award-winning British vodka, gooseberry, elderflower and Earl Grey.

The Botanical Gin Garden returns and is bigger and better than last year with an enchanting list of gins including The Lavendula G&T, made with aromatic Cotswold Gin with Cotswold Lavender served with Fever Tree Tonic, pink grapefruit and a bay leaf. Festivales will also be launching a sustainable reusable cup scheme this year. You pay a deposit on the cup and can reuse it as many times as you like, once you are finished you can return it and receive a refund for the cup.

To reduce the amount of single-use plastic, bottled water will not be sold over the bars. Instead, customers are encouraged to bring their own vessels and fill up freely at several water container points either around the festival or on the bars.The Festivale Bars will accept debit cards.

While you are wandering around the 150 plus foodie stands, the Prosecco Bicycle Bar will be doing the rounds to ensure you are topped up whilst you browse.

Visit www.thamefoodfestival.co.uk

An evening with a TV legend can be enjoyed in Thame next month.

Thame Players present ‘Only Fools and Boycie - an Evening With John Challis, on Sunday, October 14 at 7.45pm.

The show is an intimate evening with Only Fools And Horses actor John Challis.

Enjoy a very special evening with John Challis, one of the nation’s greatest comedy actors, best known as Boycie in BBC1’s Only Fools and Horses.

In this one-off show the national treasure will reveal secrets from the set with stories and anecdotes from his dazzling career.

Having worked with some of the biggest names in show business, he’ll be spilling the beans about Only Fools and Horses co-stars like Sir David Jason and Nicholas Lyndhurst and friends and fellow performers like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Oliver Reed and George Best.

He’ll also recall tales from his time in Dr Who, Coronation Street and other TV classics.

Mr Challis will also meet fans after the show to sign autographs and pose for pictures, while signing copies of his autobiography, Being Boycie, and novel, Reggie: A Stag At Bay.

A spokesman for the players said: “This is a real coup to get John Challis in the Players Theatre in Thame as part of his UK tour.

“So join us for this very special evening and see the real man behind the legend. It’s going to be a night to remember.”

John Challis, born in 1942, is an English actor best known for portraying Aubrey “Boycie” Boyce in the long-running BBC television comedy series Only Fools and Horses and its sequel/spin-off The Green Green Grass. Since 2015, he has made guest appearances as ‘Monty Staines’ from the seventh series onwards in the hit ITV comedy Benidorm, later becoming a regular from series 10 in 2018.

His other television appearances include Dixon of Dock Green, The Sweeney, Doctor Who (The Seeds of Doom), Dracula, Beau Geste, Juliet Bravo, Coronation Street, Bloomers, Citizen Smith, Ever Decreasing Circles, Doctor Snuggles, Chance in a Million, The Bill, One Foot in the Grave, Open All Hours, The New Statesman, Don’t Wait Up, Soldier Soldier, Brass Eye, My Family, In Sickness and in Health, Last Of The Summer Wine, and Heartbeat.

He has also featured in a number of stage roles.

Tickets for the show in Thame are £17 available online from www.thameplayers.co.uk or Spear Travels, Greyhound Walk, Thame, call 01844 217228.

A survey is being held to discover more about the cultural life in Thame and how much residents and visitors know about what’s on offer.

The survey organisers hope that by taking part, people will find just exactly how much there is to enjoy on their doorstep.

Could you answer these questions - where can you go locally to:

Watch an animated film about an 11-year-old girl’s courage on the streets of Kabul?

Spend an evening with John Challis, star of Benidorm and Only Fools and Horses?

Hear about the canal that Thame might have had?

A spokesman said: “You’ll be Thame’s top culture vulture if you can answer these questions! But if you couldn’t, maybe it’s because you didn’t realise that Thame has its very own theatre and museum.

“You’d be excused for not having noticed them - the theatre is inside a 100-year-old church hall just off Upper High Street and the museum is inside the former magistrates court building at the lower end of the High Street.”

The Players Theatre puts on a wide range of entertainment throughout the year – from plays and pantomime to music and comedy. It also has celebrity appearances – such as one by John Challis later this year. It also hosts film screenings organised by Thame Cinema For All, including recent releases such as The Breadwinner, an animated film about an 11-year-old girl living in Afghanistan.

The Thame Museum exhibits include fascinating glimpses of life 400 years ago that can be viewed with 21st century technology. It also has a regular programme of talks such as one coming later this autumn on ‘The Canal That Thame Never Had’.

The spokesman added: “We’d like to help the Players Theatre and Thame Museum by introducing them to a wider audience and letting people know what wonderful cultural and historical resources we have on our doorstep. So we’ve put together a survey that we’d like as many people as possible to complete, so you help by taking part. It doesn’t matter whether you’re aware of either the theatre or the museum or whether you’ve visited either in the past three years - all feedback is welcome. It takes less than 5 minutes to complete the survey.

“You might find something you didn’t know you could get in Thame, whether it’s the chance to experience great stand-up comedy every month, see brilliant films from Ladybird to On Chesil Beach, look at original Elizabethan wall paintings or hear about the history of plastic.”

The survey is open until the end of October, and to remind you to take part, you’ll find a link on social media too.

Find the survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/C7T8FJB

Enjoy all the pomp and ceremony of the Proms during a special night with the Thame Concert Band.

The community wind and brass band is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.

On Saturday, September 15 it will hold its ‘Last Night at the Proms’ concert at Christchurch, Thame.

It will feature all the favourites including Fantasia on a theme of British Sea Songs, Pomp and Circumstance, and Jerusalem.

There are a few tickets that will be available on the door but they have been selling fast.

The band received a grant from Thame Town Council which enabled it to buy some smart stand banners which will be on show, and a generous sponsorship from a local company purchased a smart new uniform.

If you would like an entertaining evening of popular music with refreshments and a raffle in the interval then head along to Christchurch.

The programme starts at 7pm, doors open 6.30pm.

Visit www.thameconcertband.org.uk and on Facebook at Thame Concert Band.

Many parts of the UK are in for a wet and windy week, with a number of low pressure systems crossing the Atlantic bringing unsettled weather.

Storm Ali will bring a spell of very windy weather with gusts of 50-60 mph possible inland.

The strongest winds will hit the north and west but the south east will also experience high winds.

Road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations possible.

Some damage to buildings is possible, such as tiles blown from roofs. Falling trees or branches are possible.

Strong winds affecting parts of Northern Ireland early in the day will continue to strengthen through the morning and then extend across many parts of Scotland and northern England and northwest Wales. For some exposed areas, in particular parts of western Scotland, gusts could reach in excess of 75 mph in places. There is also an Amber warning for Northern Ireland, parts of Scotland and the far northwest of England. The gusty winds will be accompanied in places by heavy, squally showers, making driving conditions difficult. The winds will gradually ease later on Wednesday, firstly across Northern Ireland, northwest Wales and northern England and then across Scotland.

There will be some humorous talking going on at the Thame Town Hall.

Thame Speakers Club will be in action when members and non-members take part at their ‘Humorous Speech Contest’ on Wednesday, September 26.

The Speakers Club welcomes visitors to attend the contest even if you don’t want to speak, but just listen.

A free welcome glass of wine will await you on arrival at the event that kicks off at 7.30pm with an informal networking session - a great chance to meet new faces from the local area.

The speaking will begin at 8pm and continue until 9.30pm.

A club spokesman said: “An entertaining evening is guaranteed, and with speakers of all levels competing, it’s a great chance to gain insight into how you can develop your own public speaking skills, no matter how competent you feel.”

Wellbeing expert George Anderson, who since joining Toastmasters in 2007 has developed a career in public speaking, said: “Toastmasters has helped me build my confidence in public speaking, as well as teaching me how to become a more effective communicator. At the open evening I’ll be sharing some of my experiences as a professional speaker, as well as some of my top tips for improving your presentation skills.”

The club’s following meeting will be held at the new venue of the Thame Barns Centre, where the club have moved to from the Cross Keys Pub. More details at http://www.thamespeakers.co.uk

Guests will always be admitted free and not expected to speak. Parking available on site.

Contact club president Dom Stanway-Williams on 07908 111 959 or domstanway@gmail.com if you have any questions.

A schoolgirl from Thame has raised hundreds of pounds to help children facing illness, by having her amazing long hair cut short.

Karolina Kocurek, aged 11, a pupil at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Thame, had knee length hair before her new look.

She decided to have her hair cut and donate it to The Little Princess Trust which provides the free wigs for children suffering with hair loss.

Karolina would like to encourage other girls who decided to cut their hair to donate them to The Little Princess Trust and help other children.

She also wanted to collect funds for the trust and you can support that at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/joanna-kocurek

Her mum Joanna said: “We would like to thank Alistair from Maze Hair in Thame for a perfect cut and for his great patience in the difficult moments just before the cut.

“We would also like to thank Fr David and all the lovely people from St Joseph’s Catholic Church in Thame who donated more then £400 for The Little Princess Trust.”

A fitness ‘MOT’ day is being held once again in Thame for people aged over 60.

Last year’s event proved a huge success, with the tests fully booked.

Anyone who would like to attend the Functional Fitness MOT Day and Information Fair at Thame Town Hall on Friday, September 28 are being encouraged to book.

The fitness day will run from 9.30am to 12.30pm, with information stalls to browse for visitors.

The Functional Fitness MOT was developed by the partnership between the Glasgow Caledonian University, the British Heart Foundation National Centre for Physical Activity and Later Life Training.

A physiotherapist, fitness instructor or postural stability instructor will take the participants through seven tests that will give them an indication of their exercise performance.

Each test comes with a set of ‘normal values’ for people of different ages - from 60 to 90 years - and this will give participants an idea of whether they are doing well compared to their peers, or whether they could benefit from being more active.

Participants will have the opportunity to book an appointment, which is advised, or can just turn up.

There will be a list available of local activity opportunities the participants may like to join in with, and some online websites that will give more information.

Organisations invited to attend include AGE UK Oxford including the Community Information Network, Thame Leisure Centre including GO ACTIVE, The British Heart Foundation, Diabetes UK, Dementia Oxfordshire, Occupational Therapy.

Make an appointment for a fitness test with Anita Clayton on 01844 217646.

Businesses should be truly buzzing when a new informal networking event is launched in Thame.

Business Buzz is to open its doors at the Black Horse on Thursday, October 4 and will be officially opened by Deputy Mayor of Thame, Cllr Linda Emery.

There is no membership to Business Buzz and the informal monthly meets are friendly and fun, take place in the heart of the town and attract attendees from a variety of industries.

The networking organisation is already established in across the region and in February regional lead Katrina Sargent launched events in Bicester and Banbury.

Katrina said: “We have been delighted with the turnout. There is always a great mix of local businesses and a fantastic atmosphere. People really seem to enjoy the relaxed format and make some great new connections.

“The way we structure the events means we attract a high amount of people new to the networking scene - there are no 60 second speeches which can be unappealing to some individuals. For just £5 on the door people can explore and identify opportunities that can positively impact their business. The environment allows conversations to flow naturally.”

Thame host James Brodie added: “I have been a fan of Business Buzz for quite some time, attending many of the events in other locations. It felt like a natural progression to take on the role of host and I have many clients in Thame and know a lot of people in the area. I am really excited to become part of the Buzz team.”

Founder Simon George says: “Business Buzz provides an environment for people to meet face to face on a regular basis. We believe business networking is a vital tool for all business and helps build trust amongst peers. I am constantly astounded with the stories we hear from our regular visitors gaining new business and tapping in to business support. Buzz provides the forum to share knowledge and ideas allowing businesses to thrive at a local level.”

Business Buzz will meet in Thame on the first Thursday of the month, between 10am and noon.

Business Buzz is sponsored and supported by JACKfm, B4 Magazine, Magenta Self Storage and A-Plan Insurance in Bicester.

If you are in business in Oxfordshire and want to know more please get in touch at katrina@business-buzz.org

More than 600 walkers, including families from Princes Risborough and Cuddington, joined Rennie Grove Hospice Care to celebrate a decade of the Chilterns 3 Peaks Challenge.

The spectacular walk, the last section of the Ridgeway National Trail, offered an opportunity to walk 7, 11 or 20 miles and raise vital funds for the hospice charity, on Sunday, September 9.

It was ideal walking weather with outbreaks of sunshine and a cool breeze as participants of all ages tackled the first two peaks of Whiteleaf Cross and Coombe Hill, while some persevered through more windy conditions to make it up to the top of the final peak at Ivinghoe Beacon.

Multitudes of mums, dads, kids, friends, colleagues and dogs showed their support for a vital local cause by taking part and thoroughly enjoyed the friendly and encouraging atmosphere of the event, which could not have taken place without the support of local volunteers and businesses such as the event sponsor, Origin and transport providers Arriva Buses.

Super-fit David Thomas and his son Zachary, aged 6, from Princes Risborough were taking on the 20 mile challenge despite having undertaking a mud run the day before. David said: “We are still tired from yesterday but wanted to do the Chilterns 3 Peaks too so we plan to make it all the way to the end.”

The MacBeth family from Cuddington and the McGough family from Ilmer, also took on the 7 mile challenge with their six children whose ages ranged from 5 – 12. Proudly displaying their medals at the finish line, parents Clare Macbeth and Gemma and Chris McGough said: “It was a gorgeous walk with beautiful views and we all thoroughly enjoyed it. It really helped the younger children to be walking together in a group and was very achievable for a family walk. Next year we’ll be aiming for the 11 mile route.”

Friends Aurora, Debbie, Karen, Laura and Jackie travelled from Wingrave, Watford and Clapham to take on the 20 mile challenge. Debbie said: “I’m a Macmillan cancer nurse and Laura is a radiographer so we know about Rennie Grove. We are all based at UCLH in London and are looking forward to the walk.”

Rennie Grove’s own Family Support Team were planning on getting to know each other better during the walk and had brought along partners, children and dogs too.

Mandy and Becky from Wendover and Weston Turville were undertaking the 20 mile route as part of their fitness regime. They said: “Although we walk locally we are keen to use today as a good opportunity to learn new routes.”

Align Design and Construct who are working on the HS2 project in the area brought a team of 15 people to undertake the Chilterns 3 Peaks Challenge. Jordana from Align’s community engagement team explained, “We are walking today to do something for charity and for the local community”.

Upon reaching the seven mile mark, many took the opportunity to reflect in Rennie Grove’s Memorial Woodland in Wendover. Those who were taking part in memory of a loved one could hang a memory tag with a personalised message on one of the trees as a dedication to their special person and take a moment to remember the good times that they had shared.

Friends Claire Beever and Heidi Bradley from Loosley Row near Lacey Green completed the 7 mile route with their children Tommy (10) and Jack Beever (12) and Christian (10) and Amelia (14) Bradley.

Speaking at the finish line, they said: “The countryside was stunning and it’s great that the event is so accessible for families giving them the chance to walk together. We will definitely take part again.” Claire’s husband, Dom, and Heidi’s husband, Alex, were both carrying on to complete the 20 mile route.

Arriva buses took seven mile walkers back to their own vehicles parked at Princes Risborough School whilst those walking on to complete the 11 mile route revived and refuelled before boarding the bus to Tring station to complete the final four miles on foot. Those who were taking on the ultimate 20 mile challenge trekked on to complete the entire route from Princes Risborough to Wendover and then continued on, joining the 11-milers at Tring Station before the final push to the top of Ivinghoe Beacon.

As participants reached the end of the challenge at the top of Ivinghoe Beacon, there were smiles all round and a great sense of achievement.

Rennie Grove shop volunteer Sandra Haine together with her husband Charles and Jerry Hall completed the 20 mile route: “It was a great day out. There was a really good atmosphere and spirit among everyone taking part and it was the perfect chance to get out in the fresh air and enjoy the countryside. The whole event was really well organised and the marshals were all so friendly.”

Speaking at the start of the challenge, Rennie Grove Hospice Care’s Chief Executive Stewart Marks said, “People arrived promptly and set off very enthusiastically on their Chiltern hills challenge. It’s great to see so many people taking part in a community event whilst raising funds for charity. Rennie Grove depends on the support of local people and we are so grateful for all those who have turned out today.”

Visit www.renniegrove.org