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  • Thriving Thame is a Quadruple Winner!

    FOLLOWING a string of awards recently, including becoming a finalist in the Great British High Street Awards, Thame shone once again at the recent Revive & Thrive Local Legends Conference held in Cheshire, bringing home four prizes!

    Helen Johns & Sonja Francis, 2nd and 3rd right, with fellow ‘Local Legends’

    The conference was held on March 2 and 3, to recognise the work of UK towns and cities involved in regeneration projects and achieving amazing outcomes within their communities and was attended by Sonja Francis and Helen Johns, steering group members of 21st Century Thame. They were nominated to attend as ‘Local Legends’ for their work on Thame projects, by Becky Reid, Market Town Coordinator at Thame Town Council.

    The four prizes were funded by sponsors of the Local Legends Conference, and all aimed at improving the town centre and building Thame’s profile, so that it continues to develop as a vibrant and flourishing market town.

    The prizes

    Global Treasure Apps, developers of an award-winning app that automatically updates with location-based content, will arrange a free treasure trail guide to Thame’s visitor attractions, with 12 months’ marketing support. Secondly, Noggin, the data specialists, will provide a half-day workshop to help Thame use data more effectively and support growth in the local area. Thame was chosen for the third award by Real Towns, who help communities bring smart technology and digital solutions to their towns, They will be providing a free digital health check for Thame and award a bronze, silver or gold badge that positions Thame in the Real Towns’ UK digital status league table. Thame’s final prize was awarded by Revive & Thrive, the originators of the Local Legends awards and publishers of Place magazine. They will produce a special issue of Place that promotes every aspect of Thame to national audiences, showing off all that is best about the town.

    ‘A fantastic boost for Thame’

    On hearing of Thame’s wins, Becky Reid said: “This is a fantastic boost for Thame, following our recent success in the Great British High Streets Competition. These great prizes will help us continue the journey to ensure Thame is the best of market towns for residents, businesses and visitors. On behalf of Thame Town Council, we look forward to working with 21st Century Thame and others to achieve measurable outcomes for the town.”

    Sue Martin-Downhill, chair of 21st Century Thame, said: “21st Century Thame was set up to facilitate projects that enhance the town for residents, businesses and visitors alike. Working in partnership with Thame Town Council, South Oxfordshire District Council, local businesses and community groups, we aim to protect Thame’s past while promoting its future as a vibrant town serving the whole community. These prizes will help us achieve these goals, to the benefit of all. Our work would not be possible without the help of volunteers like Sonja and Helen, who are passionate about their place, and we are always delighted to hear from anyone in the community, whether business or resident, who can help us in any way, however small, to achieve communal objectives.”

    Sharing knowledge and ideas about your place

    The Local Legends Conference was attended by over 80 representatives of UK towns and cities involved in regeneration projects and featured talks by keynote speakers such as Simon Quin, Director of the Institute of Place Management, Joe Barratt, co-founder of The Teenage Markets, and Jez Hall, Director of Shared Future CIC and coordinator of PB Partners, dedicated to participation and place-making. There were also case study examples from representatives of Legendary Places including Wimborne Minster, Kidsgrove and Loughborough and opportunities for the delegates to share ideas and suggestions.

    The Local Legends campaign includes four elements dedicated to successful place management: Inspire, Do, Deliver and Achieve. The campaign reaches out to Local Legends just getting started as well as those who have already successfully delivered an idea benefiting their place. Local Legends are individuals or groups of passionate people, local businesses, BIDs, councils, or town teams who, with imagination, energy and motivation have made their place remarkable.

    Getting involved

    Any businesses or individuals interested in learning more about 21st Century and how their skills and passion might help the partnership achieve good things for Thame, can contact Sue Martin Downhill via email: suedownhill@gmail.com

  • UPDATE: Bailed -Thame man questioned after woman found dead in Ludgershall

    THE man arrested on suspicion of murder following the discovery of the body of Samantha Blake-Mizen, has been released on bail until April 10.

    PREVIOUSLY – A 43 year-old man from Thame has been arrested and is currently in police custody follow a murder investigation into the death of a woman in the village of Ludgershall, Buckinghamshire.

    Officers were called at about 12.25pm on Sunday (5/3) by the ambulance service following reports that the body of a 47-year-old woman had been found in a property in The Green.

    A police spokesperson said: “A scene watch has been put in place at the property while an investigation into the incident takes place.”

    A post mortem was carried out yesterday (6/3) which revealed the cause of death to have been a subdural haematoma (Ed. usually associated with traumatic head injury).

    The woman has been identified as Samantha Blake-Mizen. Her next of kin have been informed.

    Senior Investigating Officer Det Ch Insp Ailsa Kent, of the Thames Valley Police Major Crime Unit, said: “I understand that there will naturally be some concerns in the community following this incident, but I would like to reassure people that a full investigation is taking place, and that an arrest has been made in connection with the incident.

    “We continue to support the family of the victim, at this very difficult time.

    “People living nearby may see an increased police presence in the area while enquiries are carried out.

    “I would like to appeal to anyone who has any information which they think could relate to this incident, no matter how small it may seem, to please call the Thames Valley Police non-emergency number 101 as soon as possible.”

    If you do not want to speak directly to the police you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.

  • Breaking news: Launch party for new kebab van

    FOLLOWING the delivery of a new, extra long, state-of-the-art kebab van, expected to arrive from Holland in Early April, there is to be a celebratory launch party in the Upper High Street, Thame.

    A queue waits patiently to be served an Atalay’s kebab in Upper High Street, Thame – Photo courtesy of Peter Sumerskill

    It is hoped that the big launch, planned for April 8, will include live music from a stage erected just behind Market House, where the newly crowned, Britain’s ‘King of Kebab Vans’, Rsl Atalay serves kebabs most evenings.

    The launch party will take place place between 4 – 8 pm, and will be a charity, fund-raising event and the lead-organiser, Dominic Stanway-Williams, is hoping to attract sponsorship from local businesses.

     

  • Mayor’s Charity Quiz Night raises £795

    THE Mayor of Thame, Linda Emery’s charity Quiz Night on Thursday, March 2, raised an impressive £795 for her chosen charities – the Red Kite Children’s Centre and Thame Youth Café.

    Mayor of Thame, Linda Emery, with the winning team – Wild Geese

    The quiz, which took place at Thame Leisure Centre, involved 16 quiz teams and was hosted by Thame ‘Quiz Amigos’ – Peter Lambert, Sue Boyle and Brian West. The winning team was announced, after a tough tie-breaker question, as ‘Wild Geese’ (pictured, with the Mayor) with runners up ‘Simon and his Ladies’.

    The Mayor also recently hosted a charity Snooker Competition at Thame Snooker Club raising £75. The finals take place this Wednesday, March 8, when everyone is welcome to pop along and support the teams.

    The Mayor has a final few charity events planned before the end of her Mayoral year in May, including a ‘Bubbles, Boards & Cream’ evening (March 9), Musical Evening (March 18), Golf Day (April 7) and a Charity Dinner (April 29). Previous events have been very popular and have sold out far in advance so it is advisable to book your place now!

    Go to https://www.thametowncouncil.gov.uk/the-mayor/ for more information or call the Town Council on 01844 260495.

  • The state of Oxfordshire’s nature

    WHAT’S the state of Oxfordshire’s wildlife? Which of Oxfordshire’s species are at risk? Are the flood meadows in good heart? How much woodland do we have? What can we all do to make things better?

    Oxfordshire’s 2017 State of Nature report is the most comprehensive review of the current situation for wildlife across the breadth of Oxfordshire. It covers all aspects of the natural environment including the status of our flora, fauna and land use. For over 18 months more than 60 skilled individuals and 40 environmental and conservation-focused organizations have worked on this report. It highlights the natural jewels in Oxfordshire’s crown and considers what is being done, and what could be done, to ensure these treasures will still be there to benefit future generations.

    Sian Liwicki, Chair of Trustees, for Wild Oxfordshire, said: In Oxfordshire there’s great resource of expertise and enthusiasm to tap into from volunteers to professionals and politicians, but we need to make sure everyone is pulling in the same direction. The Oxfordshire State of Nature Report is a vital first step, helping us to understand the threats and opportunities to our environment.”

    Oxfordshire’s State of Nature report will be launched on 21st March 2017 contact Wild Oxfordshire to reserve your copy. We are grateful to the thousands of hours of volunteer time, organizational resources and sponsors that have made the report possible.

    SOURCE: Contributed b Clare Mowbray
    Wild Oxfordshire

    For the latest conservation news, an evening talk or an afternoon of volunteering – sign up for a Free fortnightly Environmental Bulletin

  • ‘Best fielder in women’s cricket’ to run girl’s academy in Thame

    THIS summer of cricket is bringing with it a very exciting opportunity for girls in Thame and the rest of Oxfordshire. Ex-England international, Lydia Greenway, is bringing her cricket academy, Cricket for Girls, to Thame Town Cricket Club.

    The academy is open to girls up to the age of 18 years, and will be run on Friday evenings for seven weeks from May 5. The evenings will be split into two age groups, each session taking 90 minutes. The age groups are Under 11s and 11-18 years olds.

    Lydia has put together an impressive coaching team of ex and current international players and coaches. Any girls booking into the academy will have access to top class coaching for the seven weeks.

    “Cricket for Girls aims to allow every single female who wants to play cricket, the opportunity to do so,” explained Lydia. “Having female role models helps break down barriers which can often prevent females from taking up the sport. We offer cricket sessions which are fun, engaging and inspiring.”

    Over the course of a 13 year career for England, Lydia Greenway played in 14 Tests, 126 ODIs and 85 T20s. Amongst a number of highlights she made 2,554 ODI runs at 30.04, including one hundred and 12 fifties, and 1,192 T20 runs at a strike rate of 96.12. She has won two world cups and an ashes series in Australia. She was also rated by many as the best fielder in women’s cricket.

    “I am extremely excited about the launch of the female only academy sessions at Thame Town CC,” added Lydia. The aim of these sessions is to provide girls with the opportunity to have regular training from high quality coaches who have played the game at the highest level. The sessions are inclusive and open to ALL abilities. The sessions will cover all aspects of the game, including areas not always covered, such as increasing players tactical awareness, how to overcome challenges and working as a team. Cricket is a sport which teaches so much to young people and each of our sessions aim to provide the players with a positive all round experience of cricket.”

    To book on the course, register through the website www.cricketforgirls.com or by clicking on THIS LINK

    Thame Town CC has a Women’s section, three adult Saturday league teams and a Junior section with five age groups from Under 9s to Under 17s.

  • Funds available to promote youth social action

    UP to £5,000 is being made available to promote youth social action, by the Oxfordshire Community Foundation, deadline March 13!

    There are only two weeks left to apply to the Youth Social Action Fund . The fund promotes volunteering, fundraising and campaigning amongst young people aged between 10 and 25.

    A spokesperson for the foundation exlained: “We are excited to be able to provide Oxfordshire groups with money from the Big Lottery Fund and the Office for Civil Society via this grants round. The Youth Social Action Fund is open until March 13, for grants between £1,000 and £5,000. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to apply!”

    You can read the full eligibility criteria on the website: LINK HERE

    Projects do not have to be led by a youth group. Applications should be for a project that lasts up to a year, but it can be a one-off event. Projects can deliver opportunities in a range of contexts and settings: for example online, extracurricular, in clubs and groups, informally, or as part of structured programmes.

    Core costs are eligible if the other criteria are met, including how the project meets the principles of great youth social action.

    We would encourage eligible groups to start an online application to this fund ASAP. You can apply HERE

  • Thame pub group in The Sunday Times Top 100 employers

    THE Peach Pub Company, which runs The Thatch and The James Figg in Thame, has been named one of the best places to work in the country by The Sunday Times, in the newspaper’s annual survey of great employers. Peach shot into the Top 100 Best Companies to Work For at number 45, with a Two Star accreditation.

    Now in its 17th year, The Sunday Times Top 100 is an annual ranking and survey of the best of Britain’s employers. Its publication each year is a highly anticipated event in the UK’s business calendar.

    Frazer Sutherland

    Frazer Sutherland, Peach Partner said: “When we started Peach fifteen years ago we set out to open one, really great pub. Now, to be recognised as one of the best companies to work for in the whole of the UK is a dream come true.

    “We’re a great team of like-minded individuals serving fantastic food and drink with huge enthusiasm and it’s the team and our teamwork that make it possible for our guests to have a great experience every day in all of the 18 pubs we now have, including my two here in Thame.

    “Although we’ve won many awards from within the hospitality world for looking after our people and giving them inspirational training and development opportunities, getting recognition this time from outside our industry is even more meaningful. It’s tough for a hospitality company where the hours are long and the work is hard to be recognised as a great employer.

    “It’s a challenge for pubs, too. The great British pub industry will only be saved if we carry on making our pubs fun, exciting places to come to and for our people to work in.”

    Peach has four pubs across Oxfordshire including The Fishes in North Hinskey and The Fleece in Witney alongside The Thatch and The James Figg in Thame, plus a training and support centre in North Aston. The company has around 450 people on its team running 18 great gastropubs and one boutique hotel, The High Field Town House in Edgbaston, which it opened last summer.

    The Sunday Times Top 100 is drawn up after extensive data-gathering and analysis alongside an employee survey of companies operating across all industry sectors. By asking for the views of the people working for these companies what their employer and workplace is like, the awards get a true picture of which companies, like Peach, are the best to work for.

    “We are really proud to be included in the list and to be highlighted as a great employer,” added Frazer. “And now we’ve got this far it has to be our goal to be even higher up the list next year.”

    To find out more about joining the award-winning Peach team and benefit from great training and career opportunities, please go to www.peachpubs.com. The full list of The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies 2017 – HERE 

    The Thatch is at 29-30 Lower High Street, Thame, OX9 2AA. Tel: 01844 214340 www.thethatchthame.co.uk

    The James Figg, 21 Cornmarket, Thame, Oxon, OX9 2BL. Tel: 01844 260 166
    www.thejamesfiggthame.co.uk

  • ‘Honour the doner’ and Thame’s is Britain’s Best !

    WE all knew it, but now it’s official. Thame’s kebab van is the Best in Britain as voted for by all Atalay’s customers and friends from the Thame area and far beyond, and a panel of expert judges from the food industry.

    A jubilant Resul Atalay, between two Lindas! His wife (L) and Linda Emery, Mayor of Thame

    Atalay’s Kebab Van is based at the top of North Street behind Market House in Thame. It has grown in popularity since it was first awarded a licence to trade there in 1988, and queues can be found most nights outside the van waiting to be served by Resul (or Russell as he is known to most of his fans) or one of his twin sons, Joshua and Jason.

    The announcement that Atalay’s Kebab Van had won the ‘Best Kebab Van’ category in the British Kebab Awards 2017, saw Resul leap up from his seat with joy and his fellow table-guests surround him with hugs, back-slapping and kisses, before all filing onto the stage to receive the award.

    The event organisers later told the Atalays that their nomination had received more votes than ANY other nomination, in the five-year history of the awards! This was, in no small part, down to Thame resident, Dominic Stanway Williams, who originallt nominated the Atalays for the award, drummed up media attention and urged Thame kebab fans everywhere to vote for them.

    The night’s celebration by the 26-strong Thame, Atalaly supporters group – including the Mayor of Thame, Linda Emery – who had travelled to the prestiguous Park Plaza Westminster Hotel for the event, ended at the London Eye, with a champagne shower and ‘bubbles’ all round.

    Top kebab man, Rosul Atalay, told Thame.Net: “This was the highlight of everything I have been doing all these years. All I care about is using the best ingredients, and making people happy. I am so lucky to have the support of my wife Linda, and my children, and the people of Thame who I love!”

    The British Kebab Awards were founded by London restaurant owner, Ibrahim Dogus, who is also the man behind Bira London, a new beer specially brewed to go well with kebabs. Welcoming guests to the ceremony, he said the history of the kebab could be traced back to Homer’s Odyssey in the 8th century BC.

    He spoke of the dedication of all the people who work in the £2.8 billion kebab industry, calling them: “…the refuge, the light that shines out late at night in our neighbourhoods, serving hot food on a cold night.” Ibrahim also paid tribute to the many Turkish, Kurdish and other peoples working in the industry, who had come to this country ‘to work hard, and who pay their taxes.’

    Several Members of Parliament attended the awards ceremony which was hosted by Radio One presenters, Scott Mills and Chris Stark, who read out messages of support from both the Prime Minister, Theresa May, and Jeremy Corbyn. A grand raffle at this year’s awards ceremony raised money for the veterans’ mental health charity, Combat Stress.

    You can find out who the other category award winners were by visiting the British Kebab Awards website HERE and see MORE PICTURES HERE

  • Nominate YOUR unsung Thame hero!

    AS a way of recognising people in Thame who help their neighbours, support local groups or go out of their way for others in their community, nine years ago, the Town Council launched the Thame Town Awards. Since then, dozens of local people have been thanked and celebrated for working hard to make our community a safer, more vibrant and happier place to live.

    Each year the Council invites members of the public to nominate their local, unsung heroes, and this year is no different! They want you to tell them about individuals and groups who have made a special contribution to life in Thame. This could be a volunteer, a teacher, a shop worker, someone old, someone young – pretty much anyone! This year there are five categories in which you can make a nomination:

    Sporting Achievement
    Someone of any age who has shown great dedication to their sport. Perhaps a player, a coach, even someone who supports your team from the side-lines.

    Volunteer of the Year
    An individual or organisation who has worked tirelessly for the good of the community. Thame is a hive of community activity, but who deserves your nomination?

    Lifetime Achievement
    Someone who has made a significant contribution to Thame over an extended period of time. They could be anyone from a teacher or carer to a fundraiser or event organiser. This award can be made posthumously.

    Service with a Smile
    A business or an individual that consistently provides a faultless and friendly service.

    Creative Arts Achievement
    A person of any age who excels in the creative arts. This could be in acting, painting, music, dance, photography – the list goes on!

    One of last year’s winners, Angela Willson, was delighted with her Voluntary Individual award: “I was totally surprised to be nominated for the Voluntary Individual award in 2016. I have had the privilege of being part of Lea Park Residents’ Association for many years and this had opened up opportunities to take part in a number of Thame projects such as Thame Tidy Day. In the past I have attended the Thame Town Awards event which highlights the wide range of activities and services that are organised by ordinary Thame citizens. I am thankful to those who nominate others for recognition of their contribution to the life of Thame.”

    To nominate your local hero, visit www.thametowncouncil.gov.uk/town-awards and fill in the form, or pop in to the Town Hall Information Centre and pick up a voting card. You can find out more and meet some of the judges at the Thame Market Community Stall on Tuesday, March 14, 2017. You can follow the awards on Facebook ‘Thame Town Awards’ or on Twitter using #ThameAwards!

    The closing date for nominations is Monday, April 3, 2017. LINK HERE to read the terms and conditions. This year’s awards are generously supported by Risborough Carers, who are celebrating their 25th birthday in 2017.