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- Oxford News By Hana Edition 67
Oxford News By Hana Edition 67
The price is right?
Mark Skipworth
August 06, 2026
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 67
Oxford Outlook: The price is right?
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He came, he saw, he fudged. Faced with the first real challenge of his prime ministerial reign, Andy Burnham has decided on a course of action that appears to have placated hardly anyone, least of all the family, friends and colleagues of PC Andrew Harper, victim of the most heinous of crimes.
PC Harper, you may recall, served with Thames Valley Police and was killed in the line of duty almost seven years to the day after he was dragged by a car down a country road as three teenagers fled the scene of a quad bike theft.
When it first emerged a week or so ago that two of his killers who were convicted of manslaughter might be able to apply for early release, there was national uproar.
Burnham’s intervention has failed to put an end to the controversy – quite the opposite, it seems. For only prisoners convicted of murder, rape, grooming and serious child sex offences are to be excluded from the scheme in England and Wales while those convicted of manslaughter will remain eligible.
In this week’s newsletter, the BBC reports that Jason Hogg, Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police, is so outraged by the government decision he is considering joining a possible legal action brought by the Police Federation of England and Wales to block the early release of PC Harper's killers. Serious stuff, indeed.
The elephant in the cell, so to speak, is prison overcrowding. The early release scheme is designed to buy the government time while brand new jails are built to accommodate burgeoning inmate numbers.
But what price justice? At the very least, killers of police officers or emergency workers should not be released early.
And the chief constable has gone further by questioning the government decision and where the line has been drawn: “I do not believe that people responsible for taking the life of another citizen in our country should be released early.” End of story.
Surely there must be a more imaginative way to tackle the issue of prison overcrowding without resorting to this shameful and upsetting early release scheme?
There are over 150 islands off the coasts of England and Wales. Is it too far-fetched to house criminal miscreants on two or three of the more isolated isles in temporary (but secure) constructions until the mess of prison overcrowding is sorted out?
Or what about housing them in other European countries with spare prison capacity? Yes, there are some.
According to the latest Council of Europe prison statistics, around half the cells are empty in Estonia (which has agreed in principle to rent out hundreds of them to Sweden). About a third of prison places is also empty in Lithuania.
Or what about reopening vacant police stations, hundreds of which have been closed in the last 15 years, and making use of their cells?
I know, radical alternatives, but we need a different approach if we want to deter crime.
The current solution – letting prisoners walk free early – is bound to undermine confidence in our already-battered justice system. This predictably lazy, here-today-gone-tomorrow-politicians’ way out will only add to the hardening cynicism of the electorate.
For the sake of the victims of crime past, present and future, you can do better than this shoddy scheme, Prime Minister.
Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor
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Databox
Over the last couple of weeks we’ve zoned in on comparative data relating to GCSEs and employment rates against the 20 most similar places to Oxford. This week we switch to house prices.
Average house price (May 2026)
1 Hammersmith & Fulham: £729,407
2 Wandsworth: £659,547
3 Kingston upon Thames: £584,403
4 Southwark: £578,683
5 Lambeth: £545,315
6 Guildford: £522,008
7 Hounslow: £501,326
8 Lewisham: £496,774
9 Oxford: £473,467
10 Cambridge: £467,028
11 Greenwich: 463,436
12 Woking: £441,435
13 Brighton & Hove: £403,999
14 Bristol: £354,924
15 Reading: £351,267
16 Crawley: £333,662
17 Cheltenham: £329,183
18 York: £308,786
19 Cardiff: £272,866
20 Leeds: £246,699
21 Newcastle upon Tyne: £207,029
Oxford is just in the top 10 on this metric. “Top” is, of course, a debatable term – “most expensive” would be more accurate.
The upper reaches of the table are dominated, unsurprisingly, by London boroughs. Seven sit in the top 10, with Hammersmith & Fulham out in front thanks to an eye watering £729,407 average house price. To reiterate, that’s the average.
Outside London, only Guildford (6), Oxford (9) and Cambridge (10) are in the top 10. Guildford is basically a London commuter belt satellite. So Oxford is the most expensive place to buy a home that is clearly outside the capital.
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in and around Oxford…
Top Stories From Oxford This Week
Police chief considers legal action over PC Harper killers' early release BBC News - August 5, 2026 Thames Valley Police chief Jason Hogg has urged the government to reconsider its early release policy, particularly for manslaughter convictions, following the sentencing of three teenagers for the death of PC Andrew Harper. Despite recent reforms under "Harper's Law", which mandates life sentences for those who kill emergency service workers, the application of these rules does not extend retrospectively, while Justice Secretary Alex Norris highlighted potential legal challenges and prison capacity concerns resulting from stricter release criteria. |
PC Harper’s widow 'will not give up' opposing early releases BBC News - August 6, 2026 Lissie Harper, widow of slain PC Andrew Harper, is campaigning against the early release of two of her husband's killers, Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers, who are eligible for release next year due to updated prison overcrowding policies. Despite a petition gathering over 440,000 signatures, the government asserts that those convicted of manslaughter can qualify for early release, prompting concerns about justice and the adequacy of the original sentences. |
New AI tool can predict heart failure at least five years before it develops Ox - A groundbreaking AI tool developed by researchers led by Oxford professor Charalambos Antoniades can predict an individual's risk of developing heart failure up to five years in advance using cardiac CT scans, demonstrating an 86% accuracy rate. With plans for regulatory approval and broader applications, this innovation aims to enhance patient care and reduce hospital pressures across the NHS. |
No start date for Oxford to Milton Keynes East West Rail trains BBC - August 3, 2026 Chiltern Railways has yet to launch passenger services on the East West Rail route between Oxford and Milton Keynes, despite having the infrastructure ready since October 2024. Ongoing preparations and station developments have contributed to the delay. Local residents are growing increasingly frustrated with the lack of service and perceive insufficient government support for the operator. |
Oxford among UK's most popular 'screen tourism' hotspots Oxford Mail - August 5, 2026 Recent research from Enterprise Mobility highlights a notable increase in UK domestic tourism driven by filming locations from popular television shows, with 40% of holidaymakers visiting these sites, especially among younger travellers (58% aged 18-34). This trend emphasises the need for the travel sector to integrate cultural influences into their marketing strategies, as on-screen narratives significantly shape consumer preferences and can present valuable growth opportunities. |
Heat anxiety: 'This year has been the worst' BBC News - August 5, 2026 Research from Oxford University reveals that high temperatures can significantly impact mental health, particularly increasing anxiety symptoms, as illustrated by individuals like Lauren Murphy who experiences heightened panic during hot weather. With coping strategies such as breathing exercises, she navigates the challenges posed by her anxiety, which affects nearly one in 20 of the UK population due to climate-related stresses. |
River Thames business fears 'dire situation' without rain BBC News - August 4, 2026 Greg Wheeler, owner of Cotswold Boat Hire, has raised urgent concerns about critically low water levels in the River Thames, which are hindering boat outings and risking vessel damage. He warns that without significant rainfall, local businesses dependent on river traffic could face severe disruptions, while the Environment Agency advises caution among river users to mitigate further issues. |
70s comedy legend calls for Jeremy Clarkson to enter politics This is Oxfordshire - August 5, 2026 John Cleese has endorsed Jeremy Clarkson for a position in the UK government cabinet, citing Clarkson's insights on badger culling and bovine tuberculosis from his Oxfordshire farm experience. This endorsement follows Clarkson's mixed feelings about culling effectiveness despite past support, amidst ongoing challenges with TB in livestock. |
Oxford Health named full member of UK dementia trials network Yahoo News UK - August 3, 2026 Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust has been designated a full member of the National Institute for Health and Care Research UK Dementia Trials Network, joining an elite group of just nine sites nationwide. This membership enhances access to early-phase dementia clinical trials for residents of Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire, promoting compassionate research aimed at improving the lives of those affected by dementia. |
Rare UK sighting of white stork in Oxfordshire Oxford Mail - August 5, 2026 Peter Scatchard's sighting of a rare white stork near Norreys Road and Chawley Lane in Oxford highlights the success of recent reintroduction efforts in the UK, while the return of an exceptionally rare shrike to the Outer Hebrides has drawn significant attention from birdwatchers, underscoring opportunities for wildlife tourism in the region. |
“Drill, baby, drill” approach to North Sea would cost households more than a fully renewable UK, finds Oxford analysis Ox - August 3, 2026 Dr. Anupama Sen, Head of Policy Engagement at the Smith School, contends that increasing North Sea oil and gas extraction will not enhance UK energy security or lower household bills; instead, a transition to renewable energy and electrification offers a more cost-effective solution. The analysis highlights the need for strategic financing to support this shift, particularly through the adoption of efficient heat pumps over traditional gas boilers. |
Florence Pugh spotted at UK music festival in the Cotswolds Oxford Mail - August 3, 2026 Florence Pugh, the acclaimed actress known for her roles in films such as Little Women, Midsommar and Oppenheimer, drew attention at the recent Wilderness Festival in Oxfordshire where she showcased a series of stunning outfits, including an eye-catching orange sequined gown and a vibrant yellow catsuit. Her appearances continue to highlight her influence both on and off the screen, particularly in her role as Yelena Belova in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. |
Oxford vaccine trial offers hope for hereditary cancer risk families BBC News - August 5, 2026 A groundbreaking vaccine trial targeting Lynch Syndrome, a hereditary condition linked to an elevated cancer risk, has commenced through a collaboration between the University of Oxford and Moderna. The trial aims to harness mRNA technology to train the immune system to detect and combat early pre-cancer changes, with the first participant expressing hope for significant advancements in cancer prevention for at-risk individuals. |
Police have new weapon to stop illegal use of e-scooters and e-bikes Oxford Mail - August 4, 2026 Thames Valley Police are launching the SmartTag initiative, utilising handheld spray devices that deploy a traceable forensic solution to link offenders to crime scenes, enhancing evidence collection. This innovative approach coincides with the planned expansion of e-bikes and e-scooters across Oxfordshire, aiming to improve policing efficiency and deter criminal activity. |
'Rug of remembrance' under way in Faringdon to honour animals in war BBC News - August 3, 2026 A project in Faringdon, Oxfordshire, led by a group of women, aims to create a "rug of remembrance" featuring 1,000 handmade purple poppies to honour animals that served or died in wartime. With over 400 poppies already crafted since July, the completed rug will be displayed on a model horse during remembrance services, highlighting the significance of recognising animal contributions alongside those of humans in conflict. |
UK air guitar scene revived by Oxfordshire dad Oxford Mail - August 4, 2026 Piers Burnell, a former education worker from Henley and passionate air guitar enthusiast, revived the UK's national championship after its pandemic hiatus, culminating in a lively competition where stand-up comedian Sam Nicoresti triumphed with her rendition of "Eruption" and will represent the UK internationally. Emphasising the importance of audience engagement and creativity, Burnell encourages aspiring performers to embrace their favorite music and exaggerate their movements for a captivating experience. |
Sport
Oxford Outlook: Leather on willow
There were thumping wins for both of Oxfordshire’s best two teams in the Home Counties Premier Cricket League last Saturday. Better still, Finchampstead CC lost. Oxford Downs were – for a matter of hours – top of Division One. However, High Wycombe CC won handsomely and snatched first place. But it remains tight as the teams enter the final straight of the season.
Oxfordshire Downs CC
The Downs enjoyed a comfortable seven wicket win at Harefield CC – a triumph which leaves them second in the table.
Result: Harefield CC 137/all out (57 overs). Oxford Downs CC 141/3 (32.3 overs).
Downs won by seven wickets.
Banbury CC
Banbury were even more impressive than their Oxfordshire rivals. They thrashed Great Brickhill CC, needing just 15.4 overs to reach the target. The men from Milton Keynes could only muster a meagre 82 runs, and Banbury eased past that total with plenty to spare.
Result: Great Brickhill CC 82/all out (31.2 overs). Banbury CC 86/1 (15.4 overs).
Banbury won by nine wickets.
Division One - top of the table
1 High Wycombe CC (244 points)
2 Oxford Downs CC (239 points)
3 Finchampstead CC (230 points)
4 Banbury CC (226 points)
5 Aston Rowant CC (200 points)
Whisper it, but Oxford CC are going great guns in the chase for promotion from Division Two. The top two go up to Division One - and Oxford are sitting pretty at the summit right now. They beat Wargrave CC by 29 runs last Saturday.
Division Two - top of the table
1 Oxford CC (243 points)
2 Datchet CC (223 points)
3 Wargrave CC (222 points)
4 Gerrards Cross CC (218 points)
5 Thame Town CC (186 points)
Fingers crossed for an Oxford Downs v Oxford derby next season. Pimms and prawn sandwiches obligatory.
The Sports Desk
Aaron Ramsey interview: I did not know if I would walk again
In an exclusive interview, Arsenal's cup final hero reflects on his career's pivotal moments, including Mikel Arteta's mentorship and his recovery from a severe leg break, emphasising resilience in sports. Now managing Oxford United, he applies lessons from his playing days and Arteta's leadership to foster a strong team culture and strategic planning for success on the pitch.
Oxford Cheetahs hold champions Poole to thrilling home draw Yahoo News UK - August 4, 2026 The SD Timmo Car Sales Oxford Cheetahs secured a hard-fought 45-45 draw against the Poole Pirates, showcasing exceptional teamwork despite being down to five riders. |
Property news
TV presenter sells £3.25m Cotswolds mansion with six bedrooms Oxford Mail - August 2, 2026 Joe Wicks, known as The Body Coach and recognised for his Lean in 15 cookbooks, gained fame during the pandemic as "the nation's PE teacher", earning an MBE in 2020. In 2023, he acquired a Grade II-listed country house near Chipping Norton for £2.9 million, featuring luxurious amenities and set on 2.5 acres among other high-profile residents. |
House prices edge higher in July amid ‘soft’ market, says Nationwide
Oxford Mail - July 31, 2026
Nationwide Building Society reports a modest 0.1% increase in average house prices to £277,542 in July, despite year-on-year growth slowing to 1.8% amid rising mortgage rates and potential policy shifts under new Prime Minister Andy Burnham. Meanwhile, HM Revenue & Customs indicates a 2% rise in residential property transactions for June, signalling ongoing activity in the housing market despite recent challenges.
Reach Oxford’s most discerning property investors - to list your property here contact [email protected]
What’s on in and around Oxford?
COLONIAL VIEWS OF INDIA The Ashmolean Museum is hosting the exhibition "Colonial Perspectives: The Photographs of Colonel Eugene Clutterbuck Impey" till December 13, 2026, showcasing 247 previously unseen glass negatives that capture pivotal moments of British colonial life in India during the 19th century, including the Indian Uprising of 1857. This collection offers a unique insight into imperial interests through portraits, staged scenes and cultural depictions, reflecting the complexities of colonial governance. |
A Midsummer Night's Dream – Creation Theatre
Creation Theatre revives its acclaimed open-air production of Shakespeare's comedy at Wolfson College Cricket Ground. Set beneath the summer sky, it's one of Oxford's signature theatre experiences and a perfect evening out.
'Scratch choir' to join Stornoway at hometown Oxford concert BBC News - August 6, 2026 Indie folk band Stornoway will launch their fifth album, Beyonder, with a groundbreaking event at the Sheldonian Theatre in Oxford on September 27, where they aim to create the largest impromptu choir in the city's history. Participants can join a "scratch choir" workshop led by Ben See, requiring no prior experience, culminating in a unique performance alongside the band. |
The Story Museum – The Mystery Academy: A School for Young Detectives
Families with children aged five and over can spend the weekend solving puzzles, cracking codes and uncovering literary mysteries at one of Oxford's best-loved attractions. The interactive exhibition runs throughout the school holidays and is ideal for younger visitors.
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