An Evening with Kate Atkinson in Abingdon

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Mostly Books put out the blackboard a few weeks ago to say they were welcoming one of the UKs most celebrated and loved authors, Kate Atkinson. The audience was at Trinity Church, Abingdon.

Tickets sold out quickly.

Kate Atkinson was there to read from her new Jackson Brodie novel, Death at the Sign of the Rook, and answer questions from Aileen from the Mostly Books team, and wide ranging questions from members of the audience.

Kate’s hand injury meant she could only sign books using a stamp, but she compensated with friendly chats that made each fan’s visit memorable.

Government approves plan for Abingdon Reservoir despite local opposition

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Last week we got the news that Thames Water has received government approval for its Water Resource Management Plan (WRMP), which outlines its strategy to ensure a sustainable water supply for the Southeast of England over the next 50 years.

The plan includes two major infrastructure projects: the South East Strategic Reservoir Option (SESRO, also known as the Abingdon Reservoir) and the Teddington Direct River Abstraction project. In addition to these infrastructure projects, Thames Water will implement measures to reduce water leakage and reduce customer demand, such as installing smart meters and promoting water conservation.

The next major step for Thames Water is to apply for a Development Consent Order (DCO) – required for the construction of the SESRO.

Local opposition to the project remains strong. The Group Against Reservoir Development (GARD) has vowed to continue fighting the plans until the DCO goes for approval, and may seek a judicial review.

The Vale of White Horse District Council (VWHDC) has expressed disappointment that the Secretary of State for the environment has not taken up their offer of a meeting to address their concerns. Councillor Bethia Thomas, the VWHDC leader, said ‘We remain opposed to these proposals, and this news makes taking a stand against this much more challenging, but we will continue to do what is within our limited power.’

Dog Swim Session at Abbey Meadows Open Air Pool

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There were some very excited dogs having a dip in the Abbey Meadows Outdoor Pool in the last swimming session of the season.

About 40 dogs enjoyed the swim between 6 and 7 pm, finishing off the 2024 outdoor pool season. There had been many fun sessions in the outdoor pool this season, from Meet the Mermaid and Hawaiian Cocktail Party to Diving training, Aqua fit, playing with floats, learning to swim, and just floating about in the sun or cloud watching.

The kiosk has also been open throughout the summer, and sells dog’s ice cream.

As the swimmers emerged, I asked Indy what he thought of the experience, and he responded with a happy woof.

Sadie, while a little more reserved, expressed her enjoyment with a wagging tail.

Thank you to Tim from Healthy Abingdon for the pictures inside the pool area.

Abingdon Healthfest 2024 – Some of the Stalls

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There were about 18 stalls on Abingdon Market Place for the annual Healthfest organised by the charity Healthy Abingdon.

The Reducing the Risk charity was new at the Healthfest. They help people who are experiencing or at risk of domestic abuse. They offer support, advice, and resources. They were the Mayor’s charity last year and are working to make Abingdon a safer place for everyone.

Dance Creative offered a free dance class. They specialise in helping older people and those with health conditions. Dancing can be fun, healthy, and a great way to meet new people.

The South Central Ambulance Charity raises money to help the ambulance service. They also support volunteers called Community First Responders. These volunteers help people in emergencies until the ambulance arrives.

The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Rawda Jehanli, was talking to stall holders and was impressed by the Healthfest.

The Abingdon Good Neighbour Scheme helps people by visiting them, running errands, and listening. They have been operating since 2010 and won the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2018

The Friends of the Open Air Pool wanted to know what people thought about the pool this year. Most people really liked it. They said the pool is warm and there are lots of activities to do. The only problem is that it’s not open during June and July – often the best part of summer. The Friends want the pool to stay open longer. The last day is Sunday 8th September. The last session is for dogs. It is already fully booked.