Security Fencing Erected at former St. John’s Ambulance HQ

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Security fences have gone up in front of the former St John Ambulance HQ off Caldecott Road in Abingdon. I can’t remember when I last saw it being used but it has been empty for a while now.

The St John’s Ambulance HQ first appeared in the 1969 Abingdon Directory (image above). Abingdon St. John Ambulance group operated a combined adult division, separate ambulance and nursing cadet divisions, and a Badger section for children under 11. They taught first aid to the public and maintained their own equipment and vehicles in the adjoining garages. The site has also served other community purposes. It was a polling station until 2019. There was a pre school there around 1990.

The land belongs to the Vale of White Horse District Council but appears to have a restrictive covenant — legal conditions limiting how the land can be used.

Three Markets, One Town

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One day after the Farmers’ Market, Abingdon hosted a Local Excellence Market. The Town Crier was once more ringing out a warm welcome, encouraging people to shop locally rather than online.

Martin had a stall showcasing his photographs. Among the visitors was the lady featured walking up St Helen’s Wharf in the snow — a scene from one of his most celebrated winter pictures. Martin had also been at the Farmers Market and will be at the Monday Market.

Busby Bees, a regular presence at both the Farmers’ Market and the Local Excellence Market, were notably absent from yesterday’s event. David said that it was the first Farmers’ Market he had missed in a long time.

Clare Cross shared her enjoyment of the Local Excellence Market, saying that it is usually busy. She had a selection of artworks on sale at half price, with proceeds going toward an animal sanctuary.

All these markets continue to be an important part of Abingdon life.

Tyre Sales Abingdon Closes After 30 Years; Kwik Fit to Open New Branch

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After three decades of service, Tyre Sales Abingdon, the local independent tyre specialist located behind the Esso Garage on Marcham Road, has closed its doors. The company will continue operations through its sister outlet, Sutton Courtenay Tyres, located just 10 minutes away.

Kwik Fit, a leading supplier of tyres in the UK, is all set to open a new branch at the former Tyre Sales Abingdon premises.

Thanks to Newcomer for this report.

The First Day of Spring in Abingdon

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The first day of spring brought blue skies and sunshine to Abingdon. People went outdoors to enjoy the town’s riverside beauty. Signs of the changing season were everywhere. Cherry blossoms from a fallen tree still bloomed and added colour to this view of Abingdon Bridge and The Nags Head pub.

Yellow daffodils near the water’s edge brightened the view of Abingdon Bridge and The Riverside Cafe – a popular spot for those wanting a coffee and cakes or lunch with a view.

From another angle, the spire of St Helen’s Church rose above The Riverside Cafe.

Cherry trees also bloomed near the Old Gaol.

For people who did not have to work  there was a chance to slow down and enjoy the beauty of the first day of Spring in Abingdon, the vernal equinox, when day and night are of nearly equal length. Although up to recently I used to think it was March 21st.