Upton Village

South Oxfordshire

The Firebird

Saturday November 18th, 7pm

The Oxfordshire Touring Theatre Company presents The Firebird at Upton Village Hall.

Tickets £7, £5 concession, available from Jessie West (10235 851206).

A family show for everyone aged six and over.

The story takes place in a Russian fairytale world where Ivan, a young stable boy, has the job of finding out who’s been stealing the Tsar’s golden apples. The thief turns out to be The Firebird and Ivan – accompanied by his toothless friend, Wolfie – pursues her through the dark and dangerous forest. Arriving at a mysterious castle, they meet a book-loving princess,imprisoned by the evil sorcerer, Koshchei. Getting themselves in to and out of various scrapes, our trio finally discover the source of Koshchei’s power and “with the help of the magic Firebird” uncover a few surprises before overcoming him and setting off once more in pursuit of fresh adventures.

The production includes video projection, specially designed costumes and an original musical score with live songs.

Steventon Reservoir – OCC Respond

County council gives cautious formal response to Steventon reservoir proposal

Oxfordshire County Council has given a cautious formal response to Thames Water plans to construct a huge new reservoir near Steventon.

Thames Water has said it needs the new reservoir to meet demands for the South East in years to come.

The county council is supporting the Vale of White Horse District Council’s consultation with local people.

A meeting of the county council’s Cabinet today formally endorsed a report that set out the authority’s thoughts.

These include:

  • The council’s concern that the Environment Agency should have enough time to assess Thames Water’s analysis of the need to meet the increase in demand for water.
  • The county council may have a view on the merits of alternative supply options and sites, if there is proven demand for more water, and a reservoir is the appropriate solution.
  • A request for informed public debate. This should include acceptable levels of service, water leakage, conservation requirements and water efficiency.
  • That sufficient analysis of far reaching sustainability implications should be taken into account – beyond the debate on the impact to the site itself and the surrounding area.
  • An expectation from the county council that Thames Water should encourage high water efficiency standards. The county council has invested in reducing its own water consumption over the last 15 years and would expect Thames Water to be setting high standards.
  • If the proposed reservoir does proceed the county council would want to closely examine impacts on the county including potential transport implications, a new road to replace the Steventon to Hanney road, mitigation of adverse effects beyond the immediate area.

Cllr Keith Mitchell, the Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “We’re at the early stages with this. We’ll be working hand-in-hand with our colleagues at the Vale of White Horse District Council. We will both be standing up for the people in the areas that are affected and the county as a whole. That will apply at every stage of this process.

Cashmere Mill Sale

Friday 20th and Saturday 21st October

Caroline Maunsell will be holding a Cashmere Mill Sale at Upton Manor Barn on Friday 20th October, 9.30am – 6.00pm, and Saturday 21st October, 9.30am – 4.00pm.

Cashmere for men and women at hugely reduced prices. All welcome.