- Oxford News By HANA
- Posts
- Oxford News By Hana Edition 36
Oxford News By Hana Edition 36
In Our Best Light
Mark Skipworth
December 11, 2025
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 36
Oxford Outlook: In Our Best Light
Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here for instant sign-up.
We’ve seen plenty of them outside Parliament in recent weeks. I’m referring, of course, to the scores of tractors driven into London by disgruntled farmers on a Budget Day protest.
Tractors will again be on show this weekend, but in celebration rather than in anger.
The great Banbury Christmas Tractor Run returns on Saturday to complete its 10th year of charity fundraising for Katharine House hospice. More than 100 of these monster farm vehicles are expected to parade themselves “bejewelled” in elaborate Christmas decorations and flashing fairy lights.
I witnessed them strut their stuff for the first time last year. The effort which the individual tractor teams went to was nothing short of incredible. Believe me, they gave Blackpool Illuminations a run for their money.
This Saturday, the convoy will follow a 20-mile route through north Oxfordshire, visiting Banbury, Deddington and neighbouring villages. The organisers are hoping to raise more than £100,000 to support the Adderbury-based hospice. If you decide to go along, you will not be disappointed.
Christmas, as we all know, is a time for family, friends and feasting (all of which can sometimes bring their own challenges). But it is also a time for giving and remembering those who are less fortunate than ourselves.
Elsewhere in Oxford and around the county, charitable events and donations, especially Christmas lunches and food parcels, are being organised for many in need, such as homeless people.
When, this weekend, the tractors, with their horns honking and whooping, joyously light up our dark, wintry skies for a very good cause, it will be the perfect reminder that it’s worth our while to make an effort, too, and to show kindness; above all, to count our blessings.
* For the full itinerary of the Banbury Christmas Tractor Run, approximate timings, the best viewing spots and where to donate, go to the Katharine House Hospice website at khh.org.uk.
Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor
Make Oxford an even better community - share Oxford by Hana with friends and family for a more informed and better run city - local news and views you can use - forward this link for instant sign up
Databox
Homelessness in Oxfordshire, especially in Oxford itself, remains a significant issue, particularly with the rise in rough sleepers and households facing eviction from precarious private rentals.
While Oxford often sees the highest numbers, issues like “hidden homelessness” (especially among women) and complex needs (mental health, addiction) are prevalent across the county, with growing numbers of people being assessed as homeless.
Oxford's strong economy and high job density attract workers but drastically increase housing costs, making it one of the UK's least affordable areas.
According to the Office for National Statistics, the average age of death for a homeless person is 45 for men and 43 for women, compared with 76 and 81 in the general population.
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in Oxford this weekend…
Top Stories From Oxford This Week
Oxfordshire councillors award themselves pay rise of 8% – more than double the rate of inflation
BBC · December 9, 2025
Oxfordshire County Council has approved an 8% increase in councillors' basic allowance, raising it to £15,420 annually, alongside boosts to special responsibility allowances and childcare support, aiming to alleviate financial burdens and enhance diversity among candidates. These changes will cost the council an additional £130,837 in the 2026/2027 financial year.
Oxfordshire firefighters protest against proposed service cuts
BBC · December 9, 2025
Firefighters in Oxfordshire are rallying against proposed service cuts that could lead to crew relocations, altered shift patterns, and the closure of three stations, raising concerns about public safety and response effectiveness. The Fire Brigades Union is preparing for potential industrial action, urging for greater government investment to maintain adequate resources for the fire service.
'Spectacular' Banbury tractor run to return this weekend
Oxford Mail · December 9, 2025
Join the 10th anniversary of the Banbury Tractor Run on December 13, supporting Katharine House Hospice, with a festive 20-mile route starting from Spring Hill Farm at 5pm and concluding at the hospice by around 7pm. Help reach the ambitious fundraising goal of £100,000 while enjoying a parade of 100 tractors through Banbury and neighbouring villages—just be prepared for road closures from 5pm to 8pm!
Crisis backs danger call after man found sleeping in bin
BBC News · December 5, 2025
Grundon Waste Management has partnered with homelessness charity Crisis to raise awareness about the dangers of seeking refuge in waste bins during winter, following a near-miss incident involving a man found sleeping inside one. The campaign highlights the increased risks posed by quieter electric waste vehicles and calls for greater vigilance among staff.
Oxford congestion charge data published at grace period end
Bbc -
Oxfordshire County Council's initial data on the temporary congestion charge shows a significant drop in vehicle numbers entering the city centre, leading to increased public transport usage and more cycling and walking. While local businesses are concerned about foot traffic and sales, the council insists it is dedicated to ongoing evaluation and adjustments to balance congestion management with economic vitality and community needs.
Grieving Oxfordshire mum wants maternity probe to go much further
BBC News · December 9, 2025
Alice Topping, a grieving mother, criticised a national maternity care review for neglecting preventable deaths despite noting serious issues like cleanliness and discrimination. Baroness Valerie Amos acknowledged the shocking treatment women face in maternity care, while Yvonne Christley, chief nursing officer at the trust, emphasised the importance of feedback to improve practices.
Concerns over 'destabilising' impact of private cataract clinics
BBC News · December 9, 2025
Oxfordshire's Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee has raised concerns over private eye care providers, claiming their focus on profitable procedures like cataract surgeries is destabilising NHS services and compromising care for complex conditions. Campaigners warn that this trend is negatively impacting the Oxford Eye Hospital's operations, leading to reduced income and increased waiting times for patients.
German President visits Oxford as part of UK state visit
Ox · December 5, 2025
During his visit to the UK, German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier celebrated strong academic ties between Germany and the University of Oxford, highlighting collaborative research efforts and receiving an Honorary Degree in a ceremony marked by a performance from The Queen’s College choir. He emphasized the university's role in global society and committed to promoting inter-university collaboration and knowledge exchange.
'Crocodile seen in the water' at Oxford swimming spot
Yahoo News · December 10, 2025
A couple in Oxford reported spotting a creature they believe to be an alligator or crocodile swimming in the River Thames, speculating it may have escaped from a nearby zoo. However, the founder of Oxfordshire’s Crocodiles of the World zoo dismissed this idea, explaining that the UK’s cold temperatures are unsuitable for these reptiles to survive.
Cherwell second homes facing extra council tax charge
Bbc -
Starting next April, second homes in Oxfordshire’s Cherwell district will face an additional council tax charge aimed at tackling housing affordability and availability. The move is intended to encourage responsible property ownership, generate more revenue for local services and relieve housing pressures for residents.
BBC News · December 10, 2025
Sophie Kinsella, the beloved author of the "Shopaholic" series, has passed away at 55 after a battle with brain cancer. A former student at New College, Oxford, she leaves behind a legacy of humour and characters that captivated readers worldwide. Known for her lighthearted storytelling, Kinsella's works, including "Can You Keep A Secret?" and "The Undomestic Goddess”, have made significant contributions to contemporary fiction, despite her mixed feelings about the "chick lit" label often applied to her books.
Hotel in Banbury to stop hosting asylum seekers
The Banbury House Hotel, currently housing asylum seekers, has received a notice to stop serving in this capacity, raising concerns about the future of its residents and the local community. Details on the timeline for closure and alternative arrangements remain unclear.
Oxford man punches dogwalker's face as pit bull attacks dalmatian
Oxford Mail · December 8, 2025
A man in his forties was attacked while walking his dalmatian in Rose Place after a larger dog turned aggressive, leading to an altercation where its owner punched him in the face. Police are seeking witnesses who can assist with their inquiries; anyone with information can contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.
Oxfordshire MP pushes for 'urgently needed' new railway
Witney Gazette · December 9, 2025
Oxfordshire County Council has approved the OxRAIL 2040 strategy to reconstruct the rail line linking Carterton, Witney, Eynsham and Oxford, as Witney MP Charlie Maynard highlights its potential to ease A40 traffic congestion amid new housing developments. With 15% of 2,571 consultation responses supporting the initiative, the plan includes proposed stations in key areas to enhance connectivity and meet the needs of a growing population.
Lost Flemish masterpiece rediscovered behind altar at University of Oxford hall
BBC News · December 8, 2025
A long-lost masterpiece by Flemish artist Quentin Massys, titled Christ Blessing, has been rediscovered behind the altar at Campion Hall, Oxford, and is now on loan to the Ashmolean Museum. Confirmed by art authority Dr. Maximiliaan Martens, the painting showcases Massys's unique techniques and suggests a more direct involvement from the artist in its creation than previously thought.
Fans urge Jeremy Clarkson to propose as celebrity couple give public update on their relationship
Cotswold Journal · December 10, 2025
Jeremy Clarkson and Lisa Hogan, who have been together since 2017, celebrated their nine-year relationship on Instagram, with Hogan humorously claiming they've been together for "900 years." Fans are enamoured with the couple's chemistry, urging Clarkson to propose, while Hogan shares her diplomatic approach to maintaining harmony in their relationship.
Campaigners celebrate dismissal of Waterstock science park plan
BBC · December 8, 2025
Campaigners are celebrating after the Planning Inspectorate dismissed a proposal for a science and innovation park on green belt land, including part of Waterstock Golf Course, citing significant harm to heritage assets and the environment. Rob Arthur, chair of the Waterstock parish meeting, thanked the community for their support in this "David versus Goliath" battle against the development's anticipated impact.
Agatha Gritstie, Inspector Norse top Oxfordshire gritter list
BBC · December 8, 2025
Oxfordshire County Council has unveiled its fleet of 30 gritters, featuring pun-filled names such as "Agatha Gritstie" and "Inspector Norse" after a competition that received around 1,500 suggestions from residents. The names honour local figures, landmarks and even commemorate beloved gritter drivers, showcasing community spirit and creativity.
Oxford Union's new president says pro-Palestine voices face 'disproportionate scrutiny'
Middle East Eye · December 4, 2025
Arwa Hanin Elrayess has made history as the first Palestinian, Arab woman, and Algerian president of the Oxford Union, highlighting the challenges faced by pro-Palestinian candidates amid increased scrutiny and repression on UK campuses. Despite these obstacles, she advocates for the importance of diverse voices in discussions about Palestine and the need for engagement within institutions to foster reform.
Sport
Oxford Outlook: The U’s
United’s 2-0 defeat away to fellow strugglers Swansea City last Saturday was a terrible result.
The U’s needed at least a point from the fixture but ended up with the square root of zilch. It saw the Swans leapfrog the men in yellow in the Championship danger zone.
But then a crumb of comfort on Tuesday night. United held Blackburn Rovers to a 1–1 draw, earning a precious point. The result keeps the U’s out of the relegation positions for now, but only by two points.
Drop zone danger:
21st Oxford United: played 20, points 19
———
22nd Portsmouth: played 19, points 17
23rd Norwich City: played 20, points 14
24th Sheff Wed: played 19, points minus 9
The Owls of Sheffield seem doomed, but the Canaries from Norfolk could represent a threat. And Pompey more so. The south coast club have a game in hand and are only two points behind the men in yellow.
Next up in the Championship? Preston North End at home (Saturday 13 December, 3pm).
The Sports Desk
Property news
Religious hall and new build among priciest properties in Oxfordshire
Witney Gazette · December 9, 2025
Oxfordshire's luxury real estate market is highlighted by St Martin’s Estate, the UK’s largest new private residence listed at £50 million, alongside notable properties like Middleton Park for £18 million and Eynsham Hill for £8 million, each offering unique architectural charm and expansive amenities. Whether you're seeking grand estates or historic mansions, there’s a wealth of stunning options in this picturesque region.
Banbury: Plans for former Quaker meeting house to be turned into flats
Oxford Mail · December 7, 2025
David Watt has submitted a planning application to redevelop the vacant former Friends' Meeting House in Banbury into nine new flats while enhancing the site's historic character and creating an amenity area to promote residents' wellbeing. With no public comments received yet, the project aims to breathe new life into the unoccupied building since February 2022.
What’s on in and around Oxford?
'Spectacular' Banbury tractor run to return this weekend
Oxford Mail · December 9, 2025
Join the 10th anniversary of the Banbury Tractor Run on December 13, supporting Katharine House Hospice, with a festive 20-mile route starting from Spring Hill Farm at 5pm and concluding at the hospice by around 7pm. Help reach the ambitious fundraising goal of £100,000 while enjoying a parade of 100 tractors through Banbury and neighbouring villages—just be prepared for road closures from 5pm to 8pm!
Bodleian Libraries unveils Oxford University researcher portraits
BBC News · December 6, 2025
The "Catalysts" portrait series has been launched at the Weston Library to honour 19 leading innovators from Oxford University, including notable figures like Sir Adrian Hill and Prof Krina Zondervan. This collaboration between the Bodleian Libraries and the British Journal of Photography showcases the diversity and impact of Oxford's research community.
All photos are credited to source articles or Mark Skipworth unless otherwise specified.
This newsletter was partly curated and summarised by AI agents, who can make mistakes. Check all vital information.
For any issues or inaccuracies, please notify us here
View our AI Ethics Policy