A power cut affected the Preston Road Community Centre yesterday, May 22nd, 2024. The lights and other electrical systems went out at 2:09 PM. The centre contacted electricians who confirmed the issue wasn’t internal but a wider power cut.

They then reported the outage to Scottish Power. They confirmed that the power cut affected several properties in the area. Unfortunately, the power went out again at 10:06 PM, causing further disruption.

Contractors are currently working on Turner Road to replace a blown underground cable joint, the likely cause of the power cut. Scottish Power estimates that repairs will be completed by 4:00 PM today, May 23rd.

Thanks to our roving reporter for keeping everyone informed.

During this outage, Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, announced there will be a General Election on July 4th.

Abingdon Walking Festival: Join guided and self-guided walks showcasing Abingdon’s beautiful surroundings. The event runs from 9am to 4pm on Saturday, May 11th. See the walk options at Abingdon Walking Festival.

Witness Tradition: Mayor Making Ceremony: On Wednesday, attend the annual Mayor Making ceremony at St Helen’s Church, where the new Mayor and Deputy Mayor are installed.

Support Local Music: Make Music Abingdon: Looking for new music? Head to the Loose Cannon Taproom on Thursday for an original music showcase night featuring up-and-coming bands.

Ladygrove Meadow FunFair: Enjoy rides and treats at the Ladygrove Meadow FunFair. With good weather expected for Saturday.

Members and friends gathered for the opening of Abingdon Vale Cricket Club’s new bar this evening. This revamp is a direct result of the club’s recently secured 75-year lease, providing the stability needed to invest in its future. The new bar, along with the redecoration of a comfortable lounge area and a pizza oven and servery, offers a welcoming environment for members, supporters, and visitors alike.

Cricket is thriving at Abingdon Vale. The club has a junior program with over 120 players aged 5-17. The senior teams have two pitches where they can play two home matches each Saturday.

Mark Edwards, who managed the project, said, ‘Not only will it enhance the cricket experience, but it will also create a fantastic venue for children’s parties and other events.’

The new Gordon Rhodes Bar, named in honour of the late club president, chairman, trustee, and player, was officially opened by Abingdon’s Deputy Mayor, Councillor Gabby Barody – with the help of Chairman Rob Hood who delivered a tribute to Gordon, highlighting his dedication to the club. He also acknowledged Abingdon and Witney College’s valuable contribution in designing and constructing the bar.

For those of you following the Abingdon Passion Play 2024, there is an opportunity to hear some of the music for the play. On 21st April, at 5.30 pm, the Choir of St. Helen’s will perform “Music and Readings for Easter”, followed by the Abingdon Passion Play Singers, directed by Sally Mears.

At the Abingdon Library authors event in April, Peter Tickler will be talking about his new crime novel: The Tickler’s Jam Murders.  Peter previously talked about his next project, combining a murder story with his own family history. This is the finished product!

2024, is the 80th anniversary of the Friends of Abingdon saving the Abbey Buildings  in 1944 and founding the trust that owns, maintains and cares for them on behalf of the community. The Beer Festival is one way to raise money to improve the Abbey Buildings.

At Mostly Books there are two more events in April:

Thursday 25th April: Georgina Moore in conversation with Becky Hunter

Georgina Moore’s novel, “The Garnett Girls” is out in paperback. The novel is about the Garnett sisters, Rachel, Imogen and Sasha, and the impact of their parents’ passionate but doomed love affair on their lives. Each sister is struggling with their own challenges, but their mother’s silence about the past is preventing them from finding happiness.

Saturday 27th April: The Gruffalo’s 25th Birthday Party!
SOLD OUT.