A new barber has opened in Abingdon, on the High Street, founded by two barbers who have worked in the town for 6 and 12 years respectively. Drawing on their knowledge and client base, they’ve joined forces to launch their own business. They provide another option to anybody looking to get their hair cut in Abingdon.
Justin and Samantha have opened the Craftsman Taproom in the former Added Ingredients stop on Stert Street, as a venue for locally brewed beer in Abingdon.
Justin, a local carpenter and joinery lecturer, began brewing at home and has steadily grown his craft, selling at local markets and beer festivals. One of his standout brews, Scooby Doo, was the first to sell out at the recent Oxford Beer Festival. He also has a new beer called ‘Magic Midget’.
The Taproom will be open Thursdays and Fridays from 5pm to 10.30pm, Saturdays from 10am to 10.30pm, Sundays from 11am to 6pm, and Bank Holiday Mondays (there are two in May) from 11am to 6pm. On its opening night on May 1st, the venue was full of visitors.
Newcomer was on hand to capture the moment, and sent me photos of Justin and Samantha, beer enthusiasts Steve and Charles from CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale), who enjoyed the beer, and Justin’s dad in sartorial splendour.
Wine is also available for those who prefer it. The shop will still feature Martin’s photographs during some day times.
Newcomer added that Justin is a 5th Dan in Karate – so best not to cause any trouble at closing time.
Polling stations in Abingdon opened today (Thursday, 1 May 2025) from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM for the election of councillors to Oxfordshire County Council. It is predicted to be the hottest day of the year and the warmest May Day ever. The Guildhall is used by people in the town centre.
After a break of three elections, Preston Road Community Centre is once again being used as a polling station. It will be used by most residents south of the River Ock, apart from a smaller number who vote at the Abingdon Carousel Family Centre.
Many of the trees in Albert Park have come into leaf during April.
Some leaves appear individually, while others emerge like a fountain.
The result is tender, fresh foliage.
There’s also been a lot of blossom — trees, lilacs, and roses are all in bloom.
A team from a tree company has been planting new trees and managing the older ones. Today, other contractors were zipping around on lawn mowers, cutting grass at great speed or strimming around tree trunks.
Some areas are being left for wildflowers, mostly bluebells, dandelions, buttercups and daisies.
Albert Park has enjoyed a lot of warm, sunny weather over the past week — today reached about 26°C.
Robins, blackbirds, wood pigeons, crows, tits, and magpies are commonly seen in the park, just as they are in nearby gardens. Red kites circle overhead.
I hope to capture some less common birds during the year. This nuthatch was seen in the park walking the tree.