Category: Thame news

  • Cricket: TTCC first team suffer defeat at Henley

    THAME Town Cricket Club’s first XI travelled to third-placed Henley on Saturday, July 14, in need of a win to kick off the quest for survival. Henley won the toss and put Thame into bat. In another poor batting display, Thame were all out for 73 after 25.4 overs, with skipper Mike Beard (37) providing some resistance. Henley then coasted their way to victory, reaching 74-0 from just 10.1 overs. Thame play an out-of-form High Wycombe side this Saturday, July 21, at Church Meadow, in a match sponsored by J Bennett & Son.

    Second XI falls to Brackley firsts

    THAME second XI welcomed Brackley to Church Meadow. Batting first, Thame regularly lost wickets with skipper Matt Furness (55) the only one to put up much resistance to Brackley’s bowling attack. This left Thame on an under-par total of 127. Despite some early wickets, a half-century from Brackley batsman Luke Stone meant the visitors chased down Thame’s total quite comfortably with five wickets remaining. Thame second XI face Long Marston away this Saturday, hoping to secure their spot in the promotion places.

    Rob Tomlin, who starred in the TTCC thirds’ win at Kingston Bagpuize

    Third XI win their third on the bounce

    THE thirds travelled to Kingston Bagpuize on Saturday and, choosing to field in the hot sun, made a perfect start, with Rob Tomlin (3-29) and James Olliver (2-13) reducing the hosts to 19 for 5. Kingston Bagpuize seconds dug themselves out of the hole through Murray (35) and Temple (39), against tight bowling. It was left to spin twins, Ian McStay (2-31) and Tim Hester (2-20), combined with a good run out (Olliver-Harris) to eventually prise out the remaining batsmen, with the final KB total at 136 from 40.1 overs. After tea, Thame started quickly on the fast outfield, but were pegged back to 41-4, with only Andy Jinman (27) getting runs. Ian Chappell (42*) and Ian McStay (28) compiled the match-winning partnership and Paddy Harris (17*) finished well after 28 overs. Thame thirds welcome Bledlow Ridge seconds to the LWS ground this Saturday.

    Fourths impress in a winning draw

    THAME fourths hosted Abingdon Vale, having beaten them two weeks before. Thame were put into bat and started well with Tim Dabbs (17) and Shay Reading (17). Tim Airstone then scored a masterful 75, supported by Josh Edworthy (22), to post a total of 190-9. On a variable wicket, Danny Thompson returned figures of 3-43, with support from Neil Smith (2-31) and Shay Reading (2-26). Despite a late flurry of wickets Abingdon survived for a draw on 174-8. Thame next play away to Westbury thirds.

  • Johnnie Littler: ‘Who has more fun than we do?’

    SUNSHINE, music and great merriment throughout the town, the perfect conditions on tap, for the Thame Town Music Convention and Festival, last Friday and Saturday, July 13 and 14.

    Steve Walwyn, lead guitarist with Dr Feelgood, who headlined TTMF18

    Thousands of people of all ages thronged from all corners of the town and beyond to join in and enjoy the music-making for what the organisers called ‘A Party with a Purpose’.

    Festival Founder, Johnnie Littler, the main driving force behind what was the second Thame Town Music Festival – and the first Music Convention, said:  “On behalf of the organisers and the volunteer army that worked so long hard to plan and deliver TTMF 18, I have to say that we are absolutely thrilled, delighted and a little bit proud of what was achieved. The people of Thame turned up to the party and enjoyed a spectacular day where live music was at the centre of events.

    “We had over 60 different bands and artists performing throughout the town on Saturday, to packed houses, as well as huge crowds in front of the Main Stage in front of the Town Hall. The Classical Concert on Friday evening was a sell out, the Songwriters competition at the Barns Centre was brilliant and the afternoon’s Convention was very interesting. Even though Tom Robinson was delayed because of huge traffic problems, we gave him a platform on the Main Stage to air his opinions on the music industry – and he didn’t hold back!

    Some of the TTMF18 volunteer crew enjoying a well-earned break

    “We should all be hugely grateful to all the performers, many of whom traveled long distances to play at the Festival. The partnership between the performers giving of their talent, the organisers providing the infrastructure and planning, our sponsors supporting us with the means to provide that infrastructure and the crowds that turned up to experience the day meant, I believe, that we delivered on our Mission Statements … A Party With A Purpose ….. Supporting Musicians ….. Not for Profit …. For The Love Of Music”

    Simon Markland, who runs The Thame Music Academy, added: “Local music events don’t get much better than TTMF! We visited various venues throughout the day, saw some incredible live music and enjoyed the buzz and atmosphere all over the town. Dr Feelgood really put the icing on the cake, looking forward to next year already!”

    Here, here to all that! We can’t wait for next year. MORE PICTURES HERE 

  • Key achievements in caring for the Chilterns and supporting local communities

    THE Chilterns Conservation Board, based in Chinnor, has published its annual review for 2016/17 highlighting the key achievements in caring for the Chilterns and supporting local communities to make the most of the many benefits the beautiful area offers.

    Beacon Hill, Image credit: Richard Gillin

    Some of the key achievements, which are only possible because of the support it receives from central and local government as well as public donations and volunteers, include:

    Beacons of the Past – a four-year project to explore and conserve Chilterns Hillforts, commenced this year, with a focus on increasing and enhancing public engagement and education

    The Chilterns Walking Festival, in its second year, which has gone from strength to strength, promoting healthy recreation and encouraging new and existing walkers of all abilities to explore the precious landscape

    The development of the biggest conservation and engagement project in the Central Chilterns to date has been The Chalk, Cherries and Chairs: Central Chilterns Landscape Partnership Scheme. This is a partnership of over 30 organisations which will deliver 18 community, wildlife and heritage projects. If successful with the Heritage Lottery Fund and with raising the match-funding, the Scheme will bring a total investment of around £2.8 million to the Chilterns.

    Spokesperson for the Chilterns Board, Vicki Pearce, said: “This year the Board will build on these successes to achieve even more for the Chilterns and its communities. We are currently working on a Food, Drink and Crafts bid which builds on the successful ‘Taste the Chilterns’ initiative. We are also working hard to get the best possible mitigation on new developments in the landscape and providing expert planning advice which helps secure long-term protection for the AONB. (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty).”

    The full report can be downloaded HERE    https://www.chilternsaonb.org/

    Volunteers wanted!

    The Board relies heavily on public assistance and engagement and is actively seeking the support, no matter how small, of volunteers across all projects. If you would like to get involved in helping to care for the Chilterns or to find out more information about the opportunities available please contact Vicki Pearce, Communications Officer at vpearce@chilternsaonb.org or call 01844 355 500.

  • Bell-ringing fair tradition to return for Thame fair 2018

    FOLLOWING the furore on local social media last year over the cancellation of Thame’s September Fair, and some very nasty accusations against Thame Town Council being banded about, it was evidently with great relief that the Council announced this week that it’s full steam ahead – well diesel mostly these days – for the fair to come to Thame this coming September 2018.

    An agreement has been signed between the town council and the Showmen’s Guild for three years, and ‘water under the bridge’ seems to be the view of most councillors. At the request of the Showmen’s Guild, the old tradition of the town Mayor ringing a ceremonial bell to mark the opening of the fair, will take place on Thursday, September 20, 2018.

  • WW1 inspired play will commemorate ‘Ten Tommies from Thame’

    THAME Remembers, the project which has spent the last four years researching the names on the town’s War Memorial and visiting their last resting places across four continents, will be marking the end of the project, and commemorating those who died, in a very special production at Thame Players Theatre in November.

    At the end of August 1914, the local paper at the time carried a report of ten men from Thame who had taken themselves off to Cowley Barracks to sign on for active service. Inspired by research from the Thame Remembers project and written by Thame Town Councillor and author, Catherine Jones, ‘Ten Tommies from Thame’ will be performed by members of the Thame community.

    The production will mark the centenary of the WW1 Armistice, by telling their story of Ten Tommies from Thame, following them from their civilian occupations in our quiet market town, on to their training with the Oxford & Bucks Light Infantry, and through their WW1 exploits on the Western Front, ending with an emotional homecoming – for those who made it back to Thame.

    ‘Ten Tommies from Thame’ is a re-telling of a part of our local history and promises to be a unique evening’s entertainment. With two performances on November 9, and 10, tickets, priced at just £6, are now available through www.thameplayers.co.uk or from Spear Travels, Greyhound Walk, Thame (01844 217228).

  • Police appeal following Thame burglary

    Thames Valley Police is appealing for witnesses following a burglary in Thame, sometime between 09.07.18 (23:00) and 10.07.18 (07:00) at a property in Marston Road.

     

    Entry was gained via a rear door and a car stolen. Anyone who may have seen any suspicious looking vehicles or people in the area or have any information relating to this message, is asked to call the police via the 24 hour non- emergency telephone number 101.

    Alternatively, if you have any information but wish to remain anonymous, please call crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online @ crimestoppers-uk.org. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.

  • Appeal to dog owners to clean up in nature reserve

    THAME’S Cuttlebrook Nature Reserve is being used as a dog’s toilet, says Thame Town Council, and is appealing for owners to please clean up after their pets.

    The appeal came following an agenda item on Tuesday’s Community Leisure and Recreation Committee to note a report from the Town Council’s Open Spaces Working Group, that measures were being taken to tackle dog fouling.

    Whilst there are no particular hot-spots for dog fouling in the Thame, ‘targeted notices’ are being placed on ordinary litter bins, including those in Cuttlebrook, telling dog owners that they can use them for bagged dog waste.

    “Some people seem to think that they can treat the nature reserve as if they were out in the open countryside,” said the Town Cerk, Graham Hunt.

    “It is difficult to change the irresponsible behaviour of a small number of people,” said Cllr Nigel Champken Woods, “but hopefully these notices will help.”

  • First ever League win for Thame’s lady cricketers

    THAME’S women claimed victory over Cookham Dean in their first-ever match in the Thames Valley Women’s League. Losing the toss, Thame Town Cricket Club’s ladies fielded first and held Cookham Dean to 147-7 in 30 overs, with newcomer Jill Nelson outstanding in the field. Wickets were shared amongst the bowlers – Sally Brentnall, Sarah Sanderson , Mel White, Bridget Cooper and Jess Clarke all taking one apiece.

    Victorious women’s cricket team in their first ever league win!

    In reply, Thame looked in command thanks to Beth John (47) and White (30), but a tense finish loomed as Cookham Dean’s bowled tightly. Sanderson’s steady innings, with support from junior Holly Zijderveld, in her first match, saw Thame through to 148 with 2 overs to spare.

    Men’s Firsts fail to follow up last week’s draw

    THAME TCC Firsts fell to a disappointing defeat at home to fellow-strugglers Finchampstead on Saturday. Batting first, Thame found the going tough against strong new ball bowling. With wickets falling at regular intervals, only Beard, Adams and Mushtaq scored over 20 and Thame finished on a well-below-par 149. Mike Higgs struck twice early on but 149 never looked competitive and Finchampstead reached their target for the loss of 5 wickets with overs to spare. Thame travel to Henley this Saturday.

    Seconds slip up at Bletchley

    THAME Town Cricket Club’s second XI travelled to Bletchley last weekend. Batting first, Bletchley started quickly, until youngster Jonathan Jelfs (4-52) made several breakthroughs. However, Bletchley’s batsmen were scoring quickly throughout to propel them to a strong total of 244 from 53 overs. In response, Thame lost wickets regularly, with the only resistance coming from Matt Furness (24), Daniel Patey (23) and Alastair Thomas (28). This left Thame all out for 147, meaning that they slip down to second place. They will look to consolidate their promotion position this Saturday, home to Brackley.

    Convincing win over second-placed Tiddington for ‘the thirds’

    THAME Thirds delivered another strong performance at home by beating second-placed Tiddington by seven wickets and leapfrogging them into second place. Thame made good use of a seaming track and skittled out Tiddington for 56 inside 30 overs. Wickets were shared around by debutant James Olliver (3-7), Luke Hayes (3-8) and James McStay (2-9). In reply, Thame scored the runs quickly as Guy Holmes (16*) guided the team home inside 10 overs. Thame Thirds next play Kingston Bagpuize away this Saturday, July 14 .

    Fourths beaten at Eynsham

    THE Fourths travelled to Eynsham and bowling first, were immediately under pressure. Eynsham’s batsmen declared on an impressive 254-3 off just 32 overs. Wickets were shared by Rob Tomlin, Dan Constant and Sean Hayes. Facing 58 overs chasing, Thame never looked like reaching the total. A Josh Edworthy (34) and Tim Airstone (26) partnership was the one high point for Thame. However, Thame eventually fell short of surviving for a draw – all out for 157 in the 55th over. They next host Abingdon Vale Four.

  • It’s almost here – LET THE MUSIC PLAY!

    THAME Town Music Festival is this weekend – all over Thame.  Starting on Friday evening, July 13, it’s the classical concert in St. Mary’s Church, Thame with Ann Mackay and Jack Gibbons playing a programme that takes us from Bach to Broadway via Chopin, Puccini, Rachmaninoff, Gerscwhin and Cole Porter. Also tonight in the Barns centre is the TTMF18 Songwriters Competition Final, where the ten finalists will play their winning entries to a panel of music industry judges to win a fantastic career enhancing prize. This is FREE entry.

    Saturday, July 14, is Festival and Convention day, in venues all over Thame. Check out the poster pictures to see the range of talent playing!.

    Festival Chairman, Simon Davidmann, is very excited about the event and offered the following good advice: “We are very pleased to be able to include some new venues to host music and I encourage you to walk around Thame and visit as many of the venues as you can, especially the places you don’t normally go. You may be surprised at just how much variety and quality this town has.

    “I also urge you to visit at least one of the Convention sessions in the Barns Centre. These are also FREE. We have some of the music industry’s leading speakers giving advice and ‘war stories’ from the perspective of the artists, Managers, Producers, record companies, festival directors and more. It’s not just for musicians; anyone who likes a good story or to hear sound advice will be highly entertained.

    “The music should be incredible. I’m thrilled we have such a strong line-up and are able to showcase so many styles. The Classical concert is a real coup for us, as is being able to attract such a quality list of performers. Personally, starting with Bach and finishing with Dr Feelgood sounds like the perfect weekend to me.”

    It does to us too and we wish this fantastic Free Festival and all its visitors a magical and musical weekend!

    http://www.thametownmusicfestival.org/

  • Are you being watched when putting valuables in your car boot?

    THAME’S Community Policing team have reported a sharp increase in thefts from motor vehicles during the past two months.

    Offender breaking into a parked car (for illustrative purposes only)

     

    They are advising people not to leave valuables on view and to be especially mindful when parking in remote locations or busy areas that there is a possibility that you may be being observed whilst you place all your items of value in the boot of your vehicle.

    • Always ensure that items of value are not left on display.
    • Try and place any valuable items in the boot before reaching your destination or take them with you.
    • Do not leave electronic devices in sleep mode or on standby in your vehicle. They can be detected!
    • Be mindful that you could be being watched.
    • Ensure that your vehicle is actually locked by trying the door handles. Key fob blockers are available online.
    • Be vigilant and report any suspicious people or vehicles by calling 101

    NOTE: You can read more about policing priorities and actions for our neightbourhood, including Anti-social behaviour, and burglaries, HERE