See Jupiter from Sunningwell in National Astronomy Week

Jupiter
Apologies to Michael that there were no pictures of the Aurora Borealis, taken in Abingdon last week, but this evening (Saturday 08/03/2014) there is the chance to see Jupiter as part of National Astronomy Week. Meet by Sunningwell Village Hall at 7pm (Adults £2, Accompanied Children £1) and, weather permitting, telescopes will help you see Jupiter.

“Jupiter, the largest planet in the solar system, will be at its highest point in the sky for many years to come. Near their closest to Earth, Jupiter and its moons will appear obvious in the sky, offering fantastic opportunities to view the giant planet through a telescope.”

If anybody gets a good picture please send a copy to include here.

Abingdon Inner Wheel Gives Wheeled Toys to South Abingdon Children’s Centre

The first Inner Wheel club was formed in 1924 in Manchester by a group of Rotary Club wives. From small beginnings Inner Wheel has grown into one of the largest voluntary women’s organisations in the world.
Abingdon Inner Wheel
To celebrate their 90th anniversary the Abingdon Club used the money they raised at their ‘Biscuit, Sweet and Raffle’ stall at the Christmas Extravaganza, and donated wheeled, and other, toys to the South Abingdon Children’s Centre.

The Centre offers activities, courses, guidance and support to families and carers with children under five, in South Abingdon and the surrounding area and was recently threatened with closure by Oxfordshire County Council.
Abingdon Inner Wheel
Abingdon Inner Wheel President Lynn Stone said a few words and made the presentation. She was thanked by Councillor Sandy Lovatt, leader of the Town Council, and also a County Councillor who voted against the closure of the centre.

(Thanks for the report and picture of the presentation from Gladys.)

Abingdon Drama Club at 70

Abingdon Drama Club will be celebrating their 70th anniversary this year. There will be special celebratory events and an exhibition, as well the usual three annual theatrical productions.
Abingdon Drama Club
Their next production is Dangerous Corner by J. B. Priestley at the Unicorn Theatre (Wednesday 26th March – Saturday 29th March).

“Have you ever wished you hadn’t said something and as you watch the results of your careless words, wish you could turn back time?” This play does just that.

Some of the cast, and the director, are seen here at the Guildhall a few days ago.

Rowing – An Abingdon Tradition

Thanks to Michael for this preview
Rowing
April 6th sees the Abingdon Head of the River 2000m rowing race upstream on the River Thames. 400 competitors from across the UK visit Abingdon for this annual event on the river. All boats sizes and all classes race in four divisions through the day starting at 9:30 – 16:00.
Rowing
He says “Come and watch the racing and entertainment along the river bank, ample parking and hot and cold local refreshments available all day (Rye Meadow, by Abingdon town bridge). We have fantastic BBQ serving local organic meat, with fresh bread rolls that get delivered to the field that morning. We also serve teas, coffees and cakes all day long, and after 11am we have beer on sale supplied from the local Loose Cannon Brewery.

For more details see www.abingdonrc.org.uk.
Rowing
Abingdon has a great tradition in river sport. 100 years ago you might have gone down to the river to watch the Abingdon Skiff Regatta in July, or the Abingdon School Regatta in June. You can find more of what was happening 100 years ago on the Abingdon Heritage Twitter Feed.