Welcome to the May 2025 edition of the Town Council’s newsletter.
Councillor Jo Graves – 30 years of service
In-House Grounds Maintenance Team have made a great start!
Since April, our dedicated in-house grounds maintenance team has been hard at work, bringing new life and precision to the upkeep of our outdoor spaces. Their commitment to excellence is already visible, with noticeable improvements across our grounds.
By bringing grounds maintenance in-house, we’ve been able to better manage schedules and improve efficiency. The team’s hard work has helped enhance the appearance of our surroundings and maintain a pleasant environment for everyone.
If you haven’t already, take a moment to appreciate the fantastic work they’ve done—and be sure to say thanks when you see them! Their dedication is truly making a difference.
Chipping Norton Town Hall
Chipping Norton and the Second World War: A Tribute on VE Day
As we approach the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day on 8 May 2025, we reflect on Chipping Norton’s contributions during the Second World War and honor those who served and sacrificed.
Join us as we mark 80 years since Victory in Europe Day with an afternoon of tea, cake, music, memories, and togetherness.
🎶 Wartime Singalongs
Join in with classic songs from the 1940s in one of our four scheduled singalong sessions throughout the afternoon.
☕ Tea, Coffee & Homemade Cakes
Available all afternoon – just like the street parties of 1945! we are asking the community to donate their best bakes for the occasion – if you could help – please do drop a cake off on the morning – or get in touch with Tania using the details below for more info.
🖼️ Old Chippy Photo Exhibition
Take a trip down memory lane with a specially curated display of photographs of Chipping Norton through the war years and post-war celebrations.
🧑🤝🧑 Open Doors, Open Arms – This is an open house event – you’re welcome to drop in at any time from 2:00 to 6:00 PM. Whether you stay for 20 minutes or all afternoon, we’d love to see you.
To reserve seats for a singalong session, please contact: 📞 07561 707238 / 📧 events@chippingnonrton-tc.gov.uk
Wheelchair accessible | Free entry | All generations welcome
More About Chipping Norton Folk and Our Contribution to the War Efforts
RAF Chipping Norton: A Hub of Training and Defense
Established in July 1940, RAF Chipping Norton served as a crucial training ground for pilots during the war. Units such as No. 6 (Pilots) Advanced Flying Unit and No. 15 Service Flying Training School operated here, utilizing aircraft like the Airspeed Oxford and North American Harvard. Despite being targeted twice by the Luftwaffe in late 1940, the airfield sustained minimal damage and continued its operations until its closure in 1945.
Local Heroes and Regiments
Many residents of Chipping Norton joined various military units, including the Queen’s Own Oxfordshire Hussars, which transitioned to an anti-tank role during the war. The 3rd (Chipping Norton) Battalion of the Oxfordshire Home Guard was also formed in May 1940, comprising local men dedicated to defending the home front.
Evacuees and Community Spirit
On 1 September 1939, Chipping Norton welcomed evacuees from West Ham, including teachers and children, who arrived at the local station with gas masks and identification labels. The town’s residents opened their homes and hearts, showcasing the community’s resilience and compassion during challenging times.
Honoring the Fallen
The Chipping Norton War Memorial stands as a solemn tribute to those who lost their lives in both World Wars. Names of local heroes are etched into its stone, ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten. See More here: Traces of War
Join Us in Remembrance
We invite all residents to participate in our VE Day commemorations:
Community Tea Party: Join us in the Town Hall at 2:00 PM for tea, music, and shared stories, celebrating the enduring spirit of Chipping Norton.
Wreath-Laying Ceremony: Join the Royal British Legion for their wreath laying at the War Memorial at 7pm.
What’s On In Town Hall
You can see What’s On at the Online Calendars for Glyme Hall and Town Hall below – catch up on what’s happening and the groups you could be joining in and having fun with . Check them out below, or follow the Town Hall Facebook Page to see public events that have been listed:
Check out the activities from kid’s dance sessions and exercise for our more mature friends to support groups and more, all happening in Glyme Hall.
Choirs, singing groups, fairs, events, religious groups and so much more – it’s all happening in Town hall – as well as your Banking Hub for Town with Barclays and T.S.B. – take a look to see what you could be joining in with or getting support from.
For more details on any of the above, contact the event organisers directly, and if you need to connect with them, please do email events@chippingnorton-tc.gov.uk.
Blossom Day – Sunday 11th May 2025
The annual Blossom Day festival will take place on Sunday May 11th, from 12 to 3, at the Chipping Norton Community Orchard. Admission is free and all are welcome. Parking space is limited – please come on foot if at all possible. For details on how to get there, parking, and a map of the location, see here.
Flag-flying at the Millennium Garden
Last month we flew The Ecology and Earth Flag in celebration of Earth Day on 22nd April and The St George’s Flag in honour of St George’s Day on 23rd April.
You can contact staff and Councillors here:
Dates for your diary
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