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- Oxford News By Hana Edition 37
Oxford News By Hana Edition 37
Pass the parcel?
Mark Skipworth
December 18, 2025
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 37
Oxford Outlook: Pass the parcel?
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Glad tidings we bring! Well, sort of. We learn this week that the Environment Agency (EA) has begun ‘planning work’ to clear Oxfordshire’s shameful River of Rubbish. About time, you say, but…
This latest announcement by the agency is contained in a UK government press release which, I’m sorry to say, raises more questions than it answers.
We are told, for example, that “additional advice from the Fire and Rescue Services has indicated the possibility of a fire on site, which could have widespread impacts on the community, including closing the A34 major highway, raising air quality issues from the smoke, and interrupting electrical supplies”. Blimey.
Given this new, emerging but entirely predictable danger from the rubbish dumped there, the heap of which started to build as long ago as July, why, only now, is the EA beginning its “preparations” - i.e. more delays - for the clearance work?
The government press release states: “The Environment Agency is not legally responsible for clearing illegal waste, and is not funded to do so.” Really? So who, then, is responsible?
The EA, declares the release, “continues to support the principle that the criminals responsible should cover the costs of clearance” but “retains the power to take action in wholly exceptional circumstances”. Confused? Leaving aside the River of Rubbish, are we to understand that in most other circumstances, fly-tippers must be caught, charged, convicted and then made to pay up before any clearance work can be carried out? Hmm.
Meanwhile, the scandal of large-scale illegal dumping by organised criminal gangs deepens and widens daily. It’s been calculated that across the nation as a whole, enough waste is illegally dumped every year to fill Wembley Stadium 35 times over. And according to The Sunday Times, there are at least 550 “detections” of potential illegal waste sites in the southeast of England alone, including more than a dozen in the Oxford area.
It seems this tide of illegal dumping is swelled by rising landfill charges. It’s estimated that fly-tippers can save up to £25,000 per truckload by operating illegally. So lucrative is their trade, it's even been worth their while on occasion to purchase or rent farmland in order to dump their rubbish without detection.
The EA is facing mounting criticism for its perceived slowness in tackling the issue. But, as we now gather, it is not legally responsible for clearing illegal waste after all!
Time to play Pass the Parcel?
For everyone who made it to the great Banbury Christmas Tractor Run and, I trust, gave generously in support of Katharine House Hospice, here’s a reminder of what a glorious spectacle of light and noise was on display last weekend. And if you weren’t able to make it, here’s what you missed. It is, by the way, still possible to donate via the hospice website at khh.org.uk.
* Oxford Outlook falls on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day this year, so this newsletter will be taking a break for a couple of weeks. Normal service will be resumed on Thursday, January 8. To you, dear reader: Have a happy and peaceful Christmas and a prosperous New Year!
Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor
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Databox
“It’s the economy, stupid.” That was the catchphrase coined by strategist James Carville during Bill Clinton’s successful 1992 US presidential campaign. And the state of our local economy in Oxford will dominate people’s thoughts, particularly during this expensive time of year.
Thanks to the Office for National Statistics, we can provide a ‘ham and eggs’ snapshot:
Employment:
Economic inactivity rate. Oxford 18.1%, better than the national local authority average of 20.8% in 2023;
Employment rate. Oxford 80.8%, better than the national local authority rate of 76.6% in 2023.
Pay and income:
Gross disposable income per household. Oxford £24,772, better than the national local authority average of £23,192 in 2023;
Gross median weekly pay. Oxford £690, better than the national local authority average of £629 in 2025.
Productivity:
Gross Domestic Product per head. Oxford £55,374, significantly better than the national local authority average of £31,333 in 2023.
Business:
Active businesses (number of enterprises). Oxford 5,330, lower than the national local authority average of 5,775 in 2024;
Business births. Oxford 10.0%, slightly lower than the national local authority average of 10.4% in 2024;
High growth businesses. Oxford 7.6%, significantly better than the national local authority average of 4.4% in 2024.
So, economically, Oxford is doing pretty well in relative terms. Unlike the City’s football team. Scroll down to Sport to discover the doom and gloom.
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in and around Oxford…
Top Stories From Oxford This Week
Duke of Marlborough strangulation case in Oxford adjourned
Bbc -
The Duke of Marlborough, 70, faces accusations of repeatedly attacking the same victim over two years. The hearing at Oxford magistrates’ court was adjourned. Details about the nature of the attacks and legal proceedings remain undisclosed.
Former Oxfam boss to sue charity over dismissal
BBC News · December 16, 2025
Halima Begum, the former chief executive of Oxfam GB, is pursuing legal action against the charity, alleging constructive dismissal in a "hostile" environment while denying bullying claims that led to her removal. Her lawyer described the circumstances as a "victimising witch-hunt", and it's reported that about 70 staff members have rallied in her support.
Environment Agency begins ‘planning work’ to clear Oxfordshire’s River of Rubbish as fire risk emerges
Oxford Mail · December 11, 2025
The Environment Agency has announced plans to clear a waste dump in Kidlington due to fire risks that could impact the community, with preparatory works starting soon. EA chief executive Philip Duffy emphasised their commitment to addressing the criminality behind the illegal waste and ensuring community safety through collaboration and enhanced security measures.
Government response to waste crime 'not sufficient'
BBC · December 17, 2025
Baroness Shas Sheehan criticised the government's inadequate response to waste crime after a significant fly-tipping incident in Oxfordshire, urging for more accountability from the Environment Agency. Despite their preparations to clear the illegal dump, concerns remain about transparency and the need for stronger action against such environmental violations.
Oxford University student charged with stirring up racial hatred after chanting 'put the Zios in the ground'
The Jerusalem Post | JPost.com · December 16, 2025
Samuel Williams, a 20-year-old student at Oxford's Balliol College, was charged and suspended after participating in a violent chant that included antisemitic phrases, sparking widespread controversy and raising important questions about free speech and political expression in academic environments.
Oxford hospital doctor: 'I am sleep-deprived, overworked and deserve more'
BBC News · December 17, 2025
Resident doctors have begun a five-day strike, accusing the government of neglecting their reasonable demands for better pay and working conditions, while Health Secretary Wes Streeting claims to have addressed these issues. Despite a proposed 28.9% pay rise, doctors like Oxford’s Dr. Heather Gunn remain concerned about the lack of specialty training positions and fear unemployment in the near future.
Greengrocer Bonners leaves Oxford Covered Market after 70 years
BBC News · December 14, 2025
Bonners, a beloved greengrocer in Oxford's Covered Market since the 1950s, has closed after 70 years, marking the end of an era as it was the last greengrocer in the historic market. Oxford City Council expressed their sadness and plans to find a new trader to keep the market's vibrant character alive.
Oxfordshire ring road to get 50mph limit after public consultation
BBC News · December 16, 2025
Oxfordshire will implement reduced speed limits on several roads, including a 50mph limit on the A423 Southern bypass and a 30mph limit on parts of Old Abingdon Road, following strong public support for the measures. The Oxfordshire Liveable Streets community group backs these changes but calls for even lower limits to tackle noise pollution and improve community well-being.
Last order dates for Christmas delivery from Amazon, M&S and more
Oxford Mail · December 16, 2025
As Christmas approaches, ensure your gifts arrive on time by checking the last order dates from major UK retailers: Adidas and JD Sports suggest December 19 for standard delivery, while Amazon Prime offers one-day delivery until December 22. For sending parcels via Royal Mail, remember the final posting dates: December 17 for 2nd Class and December 21 for 1st Class services.
Emma Watson's 2025 net worth of £64m revealed
Oxford Mail · December 16, 2025
Emma Watson, renowned for her role as Hermione Granger, has paused her acting career to pursue a DPhil in creative writing, while her net worth is estimated at £64 million, primarily from fashion endorsements. Despite facing a driving ban for speeding, her financial status remains robust, allowing her to navigate such challenges with ease.
'Our baby died at 10 days old due to Oxford maternity failings'
BBC · December 17, 2025
Joseph and Lauren Courtney-Thompson tragically lost their baby, Willow Rose, just ten days after her premature birth due to critical failings in maternity care at the John Radcliffe Hospital, including a biopsy performed without consent. The couple is now advocating for improvements in hospital practices to prevent similar tragedies, as the hospital admitted to significant oversights in Willow's treatment.
Water voles spotted in River Thame for first time in 20 years
BBC News · December 16, 2025
The River Thame Conservation Trust has confirmed the return of water voles, Britain's fastest-declining mammal, in its catchment area after nearly 20 years, thanks to video evidence captured by volunteers. This exciting development raises hopes for the species' recovery and prompts public involvement in reporting any sightings or signs of American mink.
Man pleads guilty to murder of Rachael Vaughan in Abingdon
BBC News · December 15, 2025
Robert Richens, 35, has pleaded guilty to murdering 40-year-old Rachael Vaughan in Abingdon on May 30, after he reported the crime to police without attempting to assist her. He is set to be sentenced on January 30, as detectives condemn his "callous" behaviour following the tragic incident.
Oxford's black pine: From Tolkien's favourite tree to the growth of a royal sapling
BBC News · December 15, 2025
The iconic black pine at the University of Oxford Botanic Garden, beloved by JRR Tolkien and Sir Philip Pullman, was felled in 2014, leaving a legacy cherished for nearly two centuries. In a poignant revival, King Charles III planted a sapling grown from the original tree's seed in 2021, honouring the garden's rich history while standing near its former site.
Witney shops call for end to lockdown road restrictions
BBC News · December 16, 2025
Business owners in Witney are urging Oxfordshire County Council to lift traffic restrictions on the high street, citing a significant drop in sales due to reduced customer access. A recent survey revealed that nearly all local businesses support this move, as they struggle with the impact on lunchtime trade despite ample nearby parking and plans for upcoming area improvements.
Second sighting of 'crocodile swimming' in Oxford stream
Yahoo News · December 15, 2025
Two alleged sightings of a "crocodile" in Oxford have sparked curiosity, with witnesses claiming to see a creature resembling a small alligator swimming in Castle Mill Stream. Despite the excitement, experts emphasize that such reptiles cannot survive the UK's cold climate, leading to humorous speculations about their presence and a recommendation to visit the nearby crocodile zoo for warmth.
Man charged after cryptocurrency raid on car in Oxford
Bbc -
Masked robbers in Oxford executed a daring theft, making off with phones and a luxury watch worth around £450,000, sparking safety concerns in the community. Authorities are actively investigating the crime to identify the suspects and recover the stolen goods.
Sport
Oxford Outlook: The U’s
Preston North End at the Kassam was always going to be tough for United. PNE are near the summit of the table in third. Oxford are very much at the other end. A 1-2 home defeat was the last thing the U’s needed. It pushed the men in yellow into the relegation places.
As previously mentioned in this column, United need to avoid sinking into League One to justify (and fill) their swanky new all-electric stadium complex in Kidlington. It’s the football that’s lacking spark right now.
Drop zone dogfight:
21st Portsmouth: 20 points
***************************
22nd Oxford United: 19 points
23rd Norwich City: 17 points
24th Sheffield Wednesday: minus 9 points
Wednesday are pretty much condemned, thanks to points deductions (and not being any good). Two relegation places to avoid. The U’s are one point behind Portsmouth with a better goal difference. But Pompey have a game in hand. And Norwich are breathing down United’s neck.
Next up for the men in yellow are Charlton Athletic away (20 December, 3pm). It’s not quite a “must win” match. But it’s definitely a “don’t lose” fixture.
The Sports Desk
Property news
What’s on in and around Oxford?
Rare edition of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland to go on display for the first time
Oxford Mail · December 16, 2025
A rare edition of "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland," known as the ‘Michelson Alice’ and featuring annotations by Lewis Carroll, will be displayed for the first time in the UK from January 16 to February 26, 2026. This exhibition at the Weston Library and Christ Church aims to celebrate Carroll's literary legacy and enhance public understanding of his work.
All photos are credited to source articles or Mark Skipworth unless otherwise specified.
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