BBC Oxford Weekend Breakfast Blog

Sunday 5th September

2010-09-08T20:41:00.000+01:00

Listen Again

You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer.
Just follow this link: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p009pyhx
*available until 0600hrs 12/09/10

Sunday 29th August

2010-08-31T14:38:00.001+01:00

Listen Again

You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer.
Just follow this link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p009k2s5
*available until 0600hrs 05/09/10

Saturday August 28

2010-08-28T08:24:00.002+01:00

Farewell!!

As I move on to pastures new (weekdays 4-7 pm if you haven't heard) we signed off with a show packed full of fun.

Making Waves

We spoke to Jubilee Sailing Trust sailor, David Sage who was setting off for a 100 mile row down the river Thames in order to raise funds for the sailing charity. The five day row is in memory of David's godson, Lieutenant Dougie Dalzell who was sadly killed in combat on his 27th birthday in February this year. Dougie's Sergeant, John Amer, was also killed by another explosion and three other members of Dougie's platoon were badly injured, including loss of limbs as a result of the same explosion.
To sponsor this exciting and worthy challenge please visit: http://www.dougiedalzellmemorialtrust.co.uk/

Engine Cleaning

We also caught up with Steve Atkins who is also doing his bit for charity.

But he's not rowing down the Thames, walking the Ridgeway or swimming the channel. He's cleaning...a TRAIN, well, an engine, at Didcot.
And it's going to take him up to a week...

For more information visit: wwwbuymycharity.com/v2/steveatkins

Dorchester Crafts

Professional crafts people are showing off their skills at Dorchester Abbey over the next three days.
It follows a very successful event two years ago -- but this one is bigger.
The crafts being featured this year are carving, lettering, building and restoring in stone; woodworking and furniture making; stained glass; lime-wash, plastering and wattle and daub; lead working; blacksmithing; calligraphy; illumination; bookbinding; wall painting and embroidery.

Sue Nixon told listeners all about the event.

Uffington White Horse Show

If you fancy getting out into the countryside tomorrow or on Monday - you might like to visit the Uffington show - which is in its 39th year.
This two day show has lots of new attractions including racing pigs and a lurcher display as well as a vulcan bomber, and their traditional Sunday service, in a picturesque spot.
It's very much a community based event, and money raised goes back into projects for the villages of Uffington, Baulking and Woolstone.

Organisor Mike Thomas joined us to explain all about what's going on.

For more details visit: http://www.whitehorseshow.co.uk/

Sunday 22nd August

2010-08-22T08:47:00.001+01:00

Listen Again

You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer.
Just follow this link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p009f196
*available until 0600hrs 29/08/10

Saturday August 14th

2010-08-14T08:01:00.003+01:00

Cropredy weekend
It's Cropredy festival weekend and surprise surprise the rain gathers over the county.
However, the weather hasn't dampened the spirits as a host of performers spoke to us about what it means to perform at the country's premier folk festival.

Get hooked on fishing
Want to try your hand at fly fishing? Then you can get a free lesson today at Farmoor Reservoir.
There's a day of activities, hosted by the Environment Agency in conjunction with Thames Water, Oxfordshire Association of Young People and the Angling Development Board, will allow the whole family to have a go at fly fishing.
It's for complete beginners or for those that already know a thing or two and want to improve their fishing skills.
Environment Agency Fisheries Officer Tom Sherwood joined us to explain all.

Livestock
If i said Livestock Festival to you -- you might start thinking pigs and sheep.
But no -- the village of Stratton Audley in Bicester has set up its own music festival, which it describes as "putting the boot into boutique".
So it might not atrract a hundred and seventy thousand crowd like Glastonbury -- but it's got some trully international music and a family friendly day tomorrow.
And it's supporting a great charity -- the Anthony Nolan Trust.
Malachy O'Neill is one of the organisers and he told our listeners all about what's happening.

Getting extreme
Carterton will be alive with skating and BMX competitions today .
Their Extreme Wheels day has become an annual party event -- and it's very much organised by local people.
Adrian Coomber helped put the event together and explained all about the event.

Cropredy
With a host of big acts performing at the festival, we scooped up a handful of them to tell us all about their Cropredy experience so far.
Among those we chatted to were Big Feet, Mabon and Ahab.

Sunday 8th August

2010-08-08T10:30:00.001+01:00

Listen Again

You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer.

Just follow this link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p00957zv
*available until 0600hrs 15/08/10

Sunday 1st August

2010-08-01T09:46:00.003+01:00

A field fire caused trouble at this years Oxfordshire and Thame County Show. I was there and took the following videos:

No one was hurt, but over 20 cars were caught up in it!

Saturday July 31

2010-07-31T07:15:00.004+01:00

Heading to the Oxfordshire County & Thame Show

As Phil and a clutch of BBC Oxford presenters head to the Thame Festival later today - we caught-up with another set of great guests to start your weekend off with.

Last night at the proms
After wowing audiences in Spain, the Oxfordshire County Youth Orchestra return to Oxford to play its last concert of the summer.
Tony Mealings Head of Music Service at the County Council, joined us to explain all about the tour and how orchestra will be playing its last concert of the season at Oxford Town Hall tonight.

Super Gran

Having scaled the fourth plinth at Trafalgar Square last year, 85-year-old Gwyneth Peddler decided to celebrate her latest birthday by again hitting new heights - this time climbing the rigging of a tall ship.

She told listeners all about her latest endeavours and about planning something out of reach for her next birthday.

Castle scoops green award

A local beauty spot, Wallingford Castle Meadows - and a partnership between South Oxfordshire District Council and local charity, the Northmoor Trust, has scooped the Green Flag Award for the third year running.

Alexis Pim, Director of Land, Learning and Engagement at Northmoor Trust, joined us in the studio to explain how protecting wildlife, excavating and volunteer support helped them continue their award winning success.

For more information visit: http://www.northmoortrust.org.uk/

On the trail

The Cherwell Food and Drink Trail, new guides for discovering artisan food producers, farm shops and farmers' markets, is being launched today at the Oxfordshire County & Thame Show today.
Emma Hamer, is the owner of Meadowsweet Farm in Horley near Banbury, which is on the trail,

joined us to explain all about it.

Sunday 25th July

2010-07-25T08:15:00.001+01:00

Listen Again

You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer.

Just follow this link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p008xh4s

*available until 0600hrs 01/08/10

Get Active Walk Photos

2010-07-25T06:47:00.001+01:00

We've started a Flickr group for photo's from our walks. If you come along and take some nice picks, or want to see what it's like, have a look:

Direct link to the Get Active Walk Flickr Group:
http://www.flickr.com/groups/1488403@N23/

Saturday July 24

2010-07-24T07:46:00.004+01:00

Get active, love parks
The breakfast show encourages listeners to enjoy the great outdoors today as we set-off on the Get Active walk in Henley from 10.45-11am at the car park between Hambledon and Mill End.

Love Parks Week
Hug a tree or stroke a flower as today kicks-off Love Parks Week.
Emma Williams from the Botanic Gardens, who explained how they are holding a Great Plant Picnic.
She said how the public can enjoy a trail around the Garden. Bring a picnic, relax and enjoy live music, family cooking and flower themed stories.
For more information and to find out about other places getting involved visit:www.loveparksWeek.org.uk/

Idle Motion
In a couple of weeks time the Edinburgh Fringe gets underway and it's always surprising who takes part. Returning again this year is our very own physical theatre company Idle Motion!
They have a new production called The Vanishing Horizon and to explain all, company manager Grace Chapman and Ellie Simpson came in to the studio.

They explained how the show is improvised and created from workshops.

For more information about the tour visit: http://www.idlemotion.co.uk/.

Samaritans Get Motoring
One organisation that you can count on to be there when times are tough is of course The Samaritans. They are a round-the-clock service and are running a campaign to remind us of that. It's called 24:7 and oddly, it involved driving a little green smart car.

Helen and Matthew from the organisation popped in to tell listeners all about the initiative.

For more information about the Samaritans visit: http://www.samaritans247.org/

Kidney Care Project

A pioneering new project designed to help young adults with long term kidney conditions, has been launched at the John Radcliffe Hospital.
Dan Lonsdale has first hand experience of how a centre could make a difference, as last year he gave his kidney to his brother Jamie.

He told listeners all about this and how his brother went on to win Gold at the Transplant Games in China.

Free London 2012

To mark the two year countdown to the London Olympics, Oxford leisure centres are opening their doors to all comers with a weekend of free activities and celebration challenges.

Paul Williams is a fitness instructor and is challenging people to get rowing and the Ferry Leisure centre.

He joined us in the studio to explain all about the initiative.

Get Active Walk - July 2010

2010-07-24T07:07:00.000+01:00

The weather was very hot and sunny for the last walk. Fortunately it was shady in quite a few places. It was a lovely walk in a beautifully quiet part of Oxfordshire. The site of the Roman Villa near East End served as a very interesting place to have lunch. A couple of our walkers decided to take advantage of a particularly shady spot a little before the end and wait there to be picked up by their chauffeur. Thankfully everybody arrived back at the car park safe and sound.
Use the link below to look at the photos from the last walk and to see the friendly people who take part.

You can also use the link to view galleries from earlier walks.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/oxford/hi/things_to_do/newsid_8155000/8155566.stm

The next walk is on Saturday 24th July in the Henley-on-Thames area. We'll meet in the car park between Hambledon and Mill End at 10.45 am to start at 11.00am. You'll find Mill End on the river North of Henley. Use this link to get an OS map (ignore the red circle): http://www.multimap.com/maps/?qs=hambledon#map=51.55845,-0.86938154&dp=os&bd=useful_information&loc=%20:51.5562:-0.8693:11mill%20end,%20henleyMill%20End,%20Berkshire,%20England

The route goes over Hambledon Lock to Aston, up hill slightly for a short distance to cut across to Remenham Church Lane and down towards the river. We touch the outskirts of Henley, walk along the west bank of the river and back over Hambledon Lock to return to the car park. The walk is about 6 miles long and includes tracks, footpaths and quiet roads. There's a very short section of pavement walking as we approach the bridge at Henley before getting on to the riverside path. It shouldn't be muddy but boots or sturdy shoes are still recommended because the ground can be uneven in places. As usual well behaved dogs are welcome and the walk will be led at a pace to suit everybody.
As it is still summer we thought we'd stop for a picnic somewhere near the river. We were lucky last time no reason why we shouldn't be again! Make sure you remember to bring your picnic with you.
Everyone should sign the disclaimer and if new people wouldn't mind completing a monitoring form that would be great. Please make sure you sign the disclaimer every time you come on a walk.
So, whether you've joined us before or not, and feel that you can manage this walk put the date in your diary and come with us.
The weather of course is unpredictable and unknown at this stage. We'll walk in all but the worst conditions but if you're in any doubt about whether the walk is going ahead listen to Phil Mercer's show on the Saturday morning between 6am and 9am.
Many charities encourage walking as a way of raising money. So before the start of the walk we are asking for a donation of £1 for a chosen charity. So far we have raised nearly £1,300 for both local and national charities. Before the walk this month we'll make a collection for Oxfordshire Mind which provides help, support and information for people who are experiencing a mental health problem.
For more details about the walk contact BBC Oxford Action Desk 08459 311 222 or email katie.brown@bbc.co.uk before Wednesday 21st July.
We look forward to seeing you on the next walk.
Best wishes,
CSV Action Desk
Proposed dates for future walks: Sunday 22nd August, Saturdays 25th Sept and 23rd October.

Sunday 18th July

2010-07-19T08:14:00.000+01:00

Listen Again

You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer. Just follow this link: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p008svyh
*available until 0600hrs 25/07/10

Saturday July 17

2010-07-17T07:45:00.006+01:00

Vuvuzelas in Bicester

Don't be alarmed if you hear the invasive drone of the vuvuzela across Bicester this morning.
It's not the return of the World Cup - but a rallying call from campaigners wanting a new community hospital in the town.
Some residents believe the wait has gone on too long and are voicing their concerns outside the NHS Oxfordshire offices this morning.
Leader of the Save Our Community Hospital Campaign is Cllr. Les Sibley joined us to explain all about it.

Songs for the wildwoods

A Witney choir is helping to raise £70,000 to buy woodland for the villlagers of Wychwood.
'Voice Box' are performing a concert at the New Beaconsfield Hall tonight - and all moneys raised will go to the Wychwood Wild Garden Appeal.

Their chairman Mike Watson told us all about the concert.

If you would like to donate to this great cause please visit: http://www.wychwoodworldgarden.org.uk/ or you can call 0845 8056804

Big lunch

If you missed breakfast don't worry, the big lunch takes place tomorrow and breakfast show regular Simon Kenton (from CAG) and Tim Nicholson (from lcon) came into the studios to explain all.

If you want to pop down to one of the lunches visit: http://www.thebiglunch.com/ for more details.

For more info about the Low Carbon North Oxford initiative visit: http://www.lcon.org.uk/

Tim and Simon

Sunday 11th July

2010-07-11T15:07:00.002+01:00

Listen Again

You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer. Just follow this link: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p008pcgx
*available until 0600hrs 18/07/10

The programme features a live twenty-minute interview with Oxford-based best-selling author Philip Pullman.

My first Tomato

2010-07-10T10:35:00.004+01:00

Here is the first Tomato to appear on my plants. Fingers crossed there are more to come!

Saturday July 10

2010-07-10T07:41:00.010+01:00

Listen again to this programme. Click here
The programme is available until 0900hrs 17/07/2010

Bumper weekend
After the action-packed weekend last Saturday, the fun continues as we countdown to this Sunday's British Grand Prix.

Wallingford dig
Archaeologists from across the country are descending on Wallingford for the next fortnight as they try to uncover what lies beneath the town's surface.
We spoke to Wallingford Museum curator Judy Dewey who explained all about the project (in its third year)and this year's main excavation site, which will be in Queen's Arbour,(part of Castle Meadows), where an interesting feature revealed by geophysical surveys will be investigated.

Mountain trek
From reviewing the papers for us last week, former rally driver Penny Mallory
is now attempting to scale Mount Elbrus in Russia - Europe's highest mountain.
She told listeners all about the trek, in aid of the charity www.righttoplay.org.uk, which is an international children's charity that uses sport and play programmes to improve health, develop life skills and foster peace for children and communities in some of the most disadvantaged areas of the world.

Alice's Day
It's Alice's Day today and to celebrate, there's a whole host of events, which bring all of Lewis Carroll's fantastical characters to life.
Esther Browning from The Story Museum joined us to explain what's going on.
For more details visit:www.storymuseum.org.uk/alice

World cup success?
After the football team's lacklustre display and Andy Murray falling at the semi-final at Wimbledon, sports fans finally have something to cheer about at the rowing world cup.
We spoke to Henley rower Anna Watkins, who has already won two golds and a silver medal, and is hoping to make it a hat-trick this weekend in Lucerne.

British Grand Prix
As Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton do battle at Silverstone this weekend, we spoke to one of the unsung heroes who help make the event run smoothly.
We spoke to Peter Greenhaulgh,Deputy Chief Incident Officer, who works in race control - in charge of all the marshals.
We also caught up with BBC Oxford's Ross Heaton who gave us a run down of how things are shaping up in qualifying.

Warborough Festival
Elvis tribute acts, exotic belly dancers, saucy satirical singers - oh and racing camels - might not be everyone's idea of a country show - but then the Warborough & Shillingford Festival isn't your average village affair.
In fact the ingenuity and diversity of the festival's acts has made it one of the most anticipated events on the Oxfordshire calendar.
We spoke to Wilf Eaton - Warborough Festival Co-ordinator and performer Dillie Keene about how the concept was bourne and what people can expect.

Sunday 4th July

2010-07-06T14:27:00.003+01:00

Listen Again

You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer. Just follow this link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p008ksz6
*available until 0600hrs 11/07/10

Saturday July 3rd

2010-07-03T08:05:00.005+01:00

Festival Fever
As Phil Mercer enjoys all the fun of Cornbury Festival, Joel Hammer took the reins of the Saturday Breakfast Show.
The first weekend of July sees a host of weird and wonderful festivals going on and we caught up with a few of the people involved.

Giddy up!
First up we spoke to Verner Wass who is organising the Banbury Hobby Horse Festival running over the weekend.
She told listeners all about the performers including:the Sailors Horse from Minehead in Devon, one of the great traditional groups, and bringing things more up to date will be the performance artist Matthew Cowan and his hilarious 'Four Hobby Horses of the Apocalypse'.
For more details visit: www.hobbyhorsefestival.co.uk

Rugfest
From Horses to rugby (not wigs!) as we spoke to husband and wife Kate and Andrew Stinchcombe-Gillies, about this year's Rugfest in Wallingford.
The event is organised by Wallingford Rugby Club as a club fundraiser and as a family centric community event. Largely promoting local bands and local breweries with local sponsors for local people; this year's event introduces a Friday night session to kick start proceedings.
The fabled Scotsman, Jackie Leven, will headline a mellow acoustic evening on Friday followed by a lively day of activities and performances on Saturday - jam packed with local bands such as Quadrophobe, Spring Offensive and Jessie Grace.
For more info visit: www.rugfest.co.uk

Cowley Road Carnival
Cowley Road Carnival is back.... for the whole weekend.
There's a Fiesta in the Park (open air concert not small car) today, followed by a carnival proper tomorrow.
Joining us in the studio was Stuart from Horns of Plenty, which are taking part in the parade, and the Chair of trustees Paul Wolf.

Oxford United Fun Day
Kelvin Thomas, Chairman of the newly promoted U's, joined us to tell us all about the great activities and events going on at the fun day at Kassam Stadium today.
Joining in on all the fun will be BBC Oxford's own Jerome Sale.

SUNDAY JUNE 27

2010-06-27T08:18:00.006+01:00

Listen Again

You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer. Just follow this link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p008g4wb
*available until 0600hrs 04/067/10

Football Fever

In anticipation of England's World Cup knock out match with Germany, Phil talked to our reporter out in South Africa, David Garrido. He was able to give us a real sense of the building atmosphere for this crunch match between two arch rivals where the stakes couldn't be higher.

Volunteering and Faith in the Community

Phil spoke with Bishop Colin Fletcher and Alison Baxter from Oxfordshire Community Voluntary Action (OCVA) in the studio and they were able to give us an insight into the integral contribution that faith groups make to the voluntary sector across Oxfordshire. We also spoke to street pastor David Law who volunteers every Friday in Wantage and twice a month in the Grove area.

Sunday Papers

Our paper reviewer this morning was Catherine Shock from the Oxford Jewish community.

Saturday June 26

2010-06-26T07:14:00.006+01:00

Get Active Weekend

As we hit the hottest days of the year so far.... this weekend is packed full of sporty and outdoor activities.

We spoke to Wimbledon correspondent Jamie Broughton and our man in South Africa Matt Cole, who gave us the lowdown on England's big game against the Germans this Sunday.

Hit for six!

With the current high temperatures it seems a like a distant memory since the county was hit by mass floods three years ago.

We caught up with Charlbury Cricket Club's Chairman Malcolm Harper whose ground was wrecked by the rain.

He explained why the clean-up process has taken so long and how they're ready to play again with a special match involving former Zimbabwe pace bowler Henry Olonga.

Oxfordshire Youth Games

Keeping on the sport tip - Margaret Jones, project manager for Oxfordshire Youth Games 2010,

joined us to explain all about the games. She explained how it's a mini olympics with various sports and activities taking place.

It all happens this Sunday at the University Sports Complex on Iffley Road and The School of St Gregory the Great in Cricket Road.

For more information visit: www.oxfordshiresport.org/oyg

Earth Mission

Tom Berry from Earthwatch popped in to the studios to tell listeners all about how he is looking to recruit volunteers for their next big project.

Volunteers are needed to join the Climate Change in Wytham Woods expedition. Based at Earthwatch's Europe Regional Climate Centre in the beautiful, ancient Wytham Woods, volunteers will have an exciting opportunity to contribute to forest research which is assessing the impacts of climate change on forests worldwide. As an Earthwatch volunteer, you'll learn the many field techniques essential to capturing accurate data, and will work closely with both scientists and fellow volunteers.

For more information visit: www.earthwatch.org/europe

Climate challenge

Oxfordshire schoolchildren challenged BBC Oxford, and its listeners to take climate change seriously - and prove it.
Dashwood Community School in Banbury has been working with the Museum of Natural History and the Botanic Garden as part of the Ark Project.

We spoke to some of the children involved and are offering listeners the chance to do their bit for the environment and plant their own seeds.

To pick-up your free packet of seeds email Phil at mercer@bbc.co.uk

Grow-your-own Challenge

2010-06-24T11:40:00.005+01:00

Today should be fun.

I'm off on my way down to the Ark that is sat outside the Oxford Museum of Natural History to meet the children from Dashwood Community School. They are going to challenge the listeners of BBC Oxford to grow-your-own!

So to get things started: I've planted some Tomatoes and Chard. Lets see how long they last!

If you want to join in, email me your pictures, plus a name a location and I'll pop them here on the blog!

mercer@bbc.co.uk

Sunday 20th June

2010-06-20T15:57:00.003+01:00

Listen Again

You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer. Just follow this link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p008bmbb
*available until 0600hrs 27/06/10

Saying "Sorry" - Healing and Forgiveness

In the week that the Saville Report into the events of Bloody Sunday was published, and in which the Prime Minister David Cameron apologised for what happened, we looked into the process of healing and forgiveness.

Phil spoke to the Right Reverend Ken Good, the Bishop of Derry and Rafoe, as well as the Right Reverend John Pritchard, the Bishop of Oxford. It was a thought-provoking discussion.

Blow the Whistle

We spoke to Jonny Goodchild from an organisation named Open Doors, which is asking people from around the world to "Blow The Whistle" on the suffering of Christians in some of the nations participating in the World Cup.

Sunday Papers

Our paper reviewer this morning was Leo Bowder, from the Oxford Unitarians.

Saturday June 19

2010-06-19T06:48:00.008+01:00

Augmented Reality

We kicked off the weekend with a science lesson from BBC Focus Magazine's Jheni Osmond.

She gave listeners the lowdown on augmented reality and fear.

Mock Mayor

We spoke to Tony Legge about the Mock Mayor election in Abingdon today.

He explained how by ancient tradition, a "mock mayor" the mayor of ock street (abingdon), is elected each year to tell the civic mayor where he/she's going wrong in the way that court jesters criticised the king.

The event starts from 10am at the Brewery Tap pub and the new mayor will be announced at 4pm.

Woodstock Carnival

Woodstock's annual carnival takes place today and Dennis Allen chairman of the Woodstock charity carnival joined us. He explained how this year's carnival is part of the wider celebration to commemorate the building of the wall around the park, which was called The Royal Park of Woodstock, and we now know as Blenheim Park.

Woodstock will be alive with stalls, street entertainment, drummers and live music, as well as the grand parade from 5pm.

It's a dogs life

Champion dog handler Hollie Kavanagh joined us with her doberman Seamus to tell listeners how she will be heading to Denmark to represent the UK in the world dog handling competition. The 15-year-old explained how she has been working with dogs since she was seven and how excited she is to be representing the country.

We will catch up with Hollie next week to see how she fares.

Ciao Ark

Paula Clark from the Children's International Arts Organisation (CIAO) joined us to tell listeners all about an exciting new project celebrating the arts and environmental science.

The festival includes a host of art workshops and kids will get the opportunity to help build an Ark on the lawn of the Oxford University Museum.

For more information, visit: http://www.ciaofestival.org.uk/

Sunday 13th June

2010-06-13T06:24:00.007+01:00

Listen Again
You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer. Just follow this link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p00872p4
*available until 0600hrs 20/06/10

Open Farm Sunday

Phil was joined in the studio by Tom Allen-Stevens (above), owner of Faringdon's Wicklesham Farm and the National Co-Ordinator of Open Farm Sunday - a very special event in which more than four hundred farms nationwide open to the public with the aim of increasing understanding of what happens on farms as well as what they produce.

http://www.farmsunday.org/ofs/home.eb

Oxford Friendship Walk

Ahead of tomorrow's Friendship Walk, we were joined by Fazal Hussain, Chairman of the Oxford Central Mosque Society, Adele Moss from the Oxford Jewish Community and Rev. Bob Wilkes Vicar of St Michael's on the Cornmarket and City Rector.

Our paper reviewer this morning was Andy McCulloch, from Adventure Plus in Witney. http://www.adventureplus.org.uk/

Saturday 12th June

2010-06-12T06:50:00.015+01:00

World cup fever

As the England get set for their opening game of the world cup we get in the party mood with a host of interesting guests.

Flying high

Next month sees the annual Air Tattoo in Fairford.
We caught up with Tim Prince, chief executive of the International Air Tattoo and also in charge of the charity that runs it.

He gave listeners a rundown of what's on offer and how it has become the biggest event of its kind in the world.

Bio detection dogs

You may have heard of the marvellous work that dogs can do to help people - like detecting cancers and warning people that they are going to have an epileptic seizure. We caught up with Claire Guess from charity Hypo Alert Dogs to give listeners a rundown of how they train the pooches.

For more information or to get involved you can visit: http://www.hypoalertdogs.co.uk/

Pride festival

Rainbow flags at the ready as Oxford gets set for the annual Gay Pride Festival.

Helen Charlesworth (above) joined us to tell us all about the parade and the spectacular party in the park.

The parade begins at noon from St Michael's Church, at the corner of Clarendon Street and Ship Street, with the party taking place at Oxpens Field.

Awards will be handed out for best dressed and there will be a host of live entertainment.

For more information visit: http://www.oxfordpride2010.org.uk/

Crying for England

All the talk has been of the football World Cup but we had a potential world champion in the studios, crying his heart out.

The Town Crier World Championships are taking place in Chester and we caught up with Oxford's leading contender Anthony Church (below).

He explained how he fell into the profession and gave listeners an earful of what he will be bellowing at the championships.

Head in the clouds

If you can't wait for next month's Air Tattoo then don't worry because there will be 30 aircraft flying over the county today as part of the Queen's birthday celebration.

It'll be a stunning display of military aircraft - and three of the largest, the VC10s and a Tristar are flying out from RAF Brize Norton.
We caught up with one of the pilots from Brize, Wing Commander Al Green, and asked him all about it. So: if you are at a loose end this afternoon you can catch the procession from around 1.10pm.

Keith Chegwin

Legendary presenter Keith Chegwin joined us to tell listeners how he is heading a star-studded line-up for the annual Make-a-Wish Ball at Blenheim Palace today.
Keith, a patron for the charity, explained all about the event including a celebrity auction.
To find out more about Make-A-Wish or to refer a child for a special wish, visit: http://www.make-a-wish.org.uk/

Sunday 6th June

2010-06-06T08:26:00.007+01:00

Listen Again

You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer. Just follow this link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0083v4b
*available until 0600hrs 13/06/10

Beyond Football in South Africa
Phil was joined in the studio by the Rev. Charlotte Bannister-Parker (right, above) and Kathryn Ellis (left, above). Charlotte is the Bishop of Oxford's Advisor for Overseas Programmes, and Kathryn has organised a charity called Fund a Football, which aims to raise money and then provide footballs for South African parishes that they both visited recently. The parishes are in the Diocese of Kimberley and Kuruman in South Africa.

We also heard from Andy Drake from Christian Vision for Men, as well as Deacon David Bright from Wallingford Baptist Church. Andy spoke about how some churches are trying to get more men visiting by screening world cup matches. Wallingford Baptist Church is one church that will be doing this.

To support Fund a Football, you can send a cheque to:

Kidlington PCC, Parish Office, 19 Mill Street, Kidlington OX5 2EE. Marked "Fund A Football".

Conservation and Christianity

Phil spoke to Robert Sluka, who volunteers for A Rocha, which is a Christian conservation organisation.

Origins of Oxford Street Names - Over to You

2010-06-06T06:56:00.004+01:00

Following the recent bank holiday show when Anne Spokes Symonds came in to talk about the origins of Oxford's street names, we publish here the list of 28 names whose origins still elude the team. Can you help?

It has to be said at this point that Anne and her collaborator, Nigel Morgan, have discovered the background to 1,500 names, so 28 remaining is really rather impressive. If you can help them close the gap please email any info at all to mercer@bbc.co.uk or write to the team at BBC Oxford, 269 Banbury Road, Oxford OX2 7DW.

Beechey Avenue Marston
Belvedere Road East Oxford
Binswood Avenue Headington
Cumberland Road East Oxford
The Dale Barton
Everard Close Headington
Faber Close Littlemore
Glanville Road Cowley
Harbord Road Cutteslowe
Haslemere Gardens North Summertown
Hayward Road North Summertown
Hillsborough Close Rose Hill
Larkins Lane Old Headington
Lewell Avenue Marston
Lyndworth Close & Mews Headington
Overbrook Gardens Greater Leys
Purland Close Temple Cowley
Ringwood Road Risinghurst
Roberts Close Sandhills
Sefton Road Headington
Shorte Close Horspath Driftway
Staverton Road North Oxford
Stephen Road Headington
Stewart Street New Hinksey
William Street Marston
Wingate Close Blackbird Leys
Wychwood Lane Risinghurst
York Close

Saturday June 5

2010-06-05T09:04:00.004+01:00

Early birds

The glorious weather has really made Oxfordshire look stunning - especially in the morning.

And the birds have been getting very excited, singing their hearts out at dawn every morning.

Colin Williams, Reserves Ecology Officer for BBOWT, joined us to explain which songs belong to which bird.

Greece lightening

Do you fancy learning Greek in the park?

After last year's successful Latin in the Park project in South Park, the Iris Project has organised a similar initiative this year - learning Greek.

Dr Lorna Robinson, Director of the charity, joined us to tell listeners all about how they can pop down to South Park or Bury Knowle Park to learn their alphas and omegas in the sun!

It starts at 2pm and for more information visit: http://www.irismagazine.org/

Voices of Oxford

Mozart's Requiem is being performed in Oxford's Town Hall this evening, and rehearsals start in just a few hours time!
It's hoped that as many as seven hundred singers will attend the event, which is in aid of MacMillan Cancer support.
Sheridan Edward joined us to explain how he set-up the charity following the death of his mother Gloria from cancer.

Rehearsals begin from 2pm with the final performance starting at 8pm at the Town Hall.

For more information contact Sheridan at: info@voicesofoxford.com

To hear some of the selected choral movements visit: http://www.voicesofoxford.com/ from Sunday.

Flowers at the Castle

If you didn't manage to get down to see the Chelsea Flower Show this year -- you might like to take a look around Oxford Castle this weekend.
The 900 year old site is going to display all kinds of flowers, plants and fascinating gardening gadgets.

Jean Pierre Morilleau, General Manager of the Oxford Castle, explained all about the festival.

Fire Award

Yesterday the men and women from Hook Norton Fire Station went to Wembley - their station was up for a prestigious national award.
They were nominated for station of the year at the Spirit of Fire Awards.

Stuart Garner told listeners how the station made it a double success for Oxford at Wembley following United's promotion.

Monday 31st May

2010-05-31T07:54:00.005+01:00

A very good morning to you.

iCowley - Family History

Carl Boardman came in to the studio to talk with Phil about a new project opening its doors in Cowley this week, to offer a free service helping people to trace their family tree.

It is in the Templars Square Shopping Centre, 39-41 Pound Way, and will be open 1st – 30th June, Tuesday – Saturday 10.30am - 4pm.

www.icowley.info

Sunday 30th May

2010-05-30T10:53:00.003+01:00

Listen Again

You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer. Just follow this link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0080bsc
*available until 0600hrs 06/06/10

Good Morning.

Churches and Prostitution

The recent events in Bradford have highlighted the vulnerability of women who work in the sex trade. There are hundreds of church groups working to help these women and these groups have united under the banner of an organisation called Beyond the Streets. Phil spoke its Director, Mark Wakelin. Phil also talked to Kerry Mitchell from the English Collective of Prostitutes.

Peddling Padre

We connected live to an aircraft carrier off the coast of Dunkirk to talk to Father Roger Dawson, who has just completed his charity bicycle ride from Normandy to Dunkirk.

His fundraising site is: http://www.bmycharity.com/peddlingpadre

Eurovision

After the woes of following the UK entry's progress, Phil caught up with reporter Alex Grundon to go over the highs and lows of last night's Eurovision Song Contest.

Sunday Papers

Our paper reviewer this morning was Shaunaka Rishi Das, the Director of the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies.

Saturday May 29

2010-05-29T07:56:00.005+01:00

Listen again right now on the iPlayer
(until 0900hrs 05/06/2010)
Click Here

Bank Holiday Weekend
As the Bank Holiday weekend begins so the weather turns grey!
However, there's still plenty going on and we caught up with a host of people involved in some of the big events this weekend.

Dunkirk Flotilla
British and French veterans gather on the beach of Dunkirk today to remember Britain's biggest rescue operation on its 70th anniversary, we spoke to Commander Tony Long from Iffley, who has been guiding the flotilla.
We also spoke to our reporter Gavin Lee, who is in Dunkirk.
He explained what was happening in Dunkirk including the veteran soldiers returning after evacuating 70 years ago.

Science Saturday
Jheni Osmond from BBC Focus magazine joined us to give us the lowdown on among other things Man Flu!

Golf Marathon
Lucy Eckley and Stella Krajewski from Macmillan Cancer Support urged listeners to get involved in a golf fundraiser next month.

Macmillan have organised a Longest Day Golf Tournament which includes:
300 shots, 72 holes, 20 miles and four golf courses - it's a tough challenge
They explained how Macmillan Cancer Support is looking for teams to enter its Longest Day Golf Tournament on Sunday 20 June, its first ever in Oxfordshire, to help make a difference to people affected by cancer.

Teams can sign up online at www.macmillan.org.uk/oxfordshire or call 01869 322279

Eurovision
The annual pageant of pop and pap is almost upon us. Up to a hundred and fifty MILLION people are expected to watch the Eurovision Song Contest around the world tonight -- and this year it's being hosted by Norway. Our reporter Paul Henley gave us the rundown on who's hot and who's not.

English Music Festival
The 4th English Music Festival takes place in and around the Oxfordshire village of Dorchester-on-Thames, over this late Spring Bank Holiday weekend.
Highlights include a lost symphony and 'world premiere' by York Bowen and the rarely heard 1st Piano Concerto by Montague Phillips with the BBC Concert Orchestra.
Founder and director of the event Em Marshall explained what the English Music Festival is all about?

For more details about the festival visit: http://www.englishmusicfestival.org.uk/

Sunday 23rd May

2010-05-23T08:27:00.013+01:00

Listen Again

You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer. Just follow this link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p007wq6k
*available until 0600hrs 30/05/10

John Sentamu

Following his visit to Oxford, the Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, spoke about Mission in the new century, and the new government of the UK.

Love Oxford
Ahead of today's big event in South Park, we were joined by the organiser of the event, Rev. Charlie Cleverly and also Ellen Harvey (above) who is attending today for the first time.
http://www.loveoxford.org.uk/

Iraq

Phil spoke to Hadani Ditmars, who has written several articles for the New Internationalist magazine, about her travels in Iraq- both before the start of combat operations in 2003, and again recently, seven years on. She is also the author of "Dancing in the No-Fly Zone", all about her Iraqi journeys.

The Peddling Padre

Phil was joined in the studio by Father Roger Dawson, who is about to embark on a very special charity bicycle ride from Normandy to Dunkirk. His sposorship page is here: www.bmycharity.com/peddlingpadre

Our paper reviewer this morning was Jo Duckles, editor of The Door.

Saturday May 22

2010-05-22T07:02:00.009+01:00

Listen Again

You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer. Just follow this link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p007wbrx
*available until 0600hrs 29/05/10

Booby Birds
As we brace ourselves for the hottest weekend of the year (so far!) we caught up with a group of brave women taking part in a major fundraising event for Breakthrough Breast Cancer today.
They're doing a skydive at Weston on the Green, and raising thousands of pounds for the charity.
One of them is TV and radio presenter, Caroline Feraday who told listeners how she got involved and how being a flying travel reporter will hopefully stand her in good stead.

Building award
As three Oxfordshire buildings were given top awards for their design this week, from the Royal Institute of British Architects, we spoke to their chairman for the southern region, Phillip Waddy about the county's success.
One is a world famous museum, the Ashmolean, another is a performance space, the Auditorium at Corpus Christi College, and the third is the refurbishment of a private house, albeit a rather posh one!

Lawnmower man
As the weather hits high temperatures, we spoke to Don Wales who is attempting to break the lawnmower land speed record. Don, the son of Malcolm Campbell, who broke the land speed record at the seven-mile long beach in 1924, and the nephew of speed hero Donald Campbell, is taking an Oxfordshire built MOWER to the famous Pendine Sands in Wales to try to go faster than any gardener has been before.

Mud house
An enterprising couple from Oxfordshire told listeners all about how they are building a trully eco-friendly house made of mud, clay, straw and sand. Lutvi and Rubi Radwan who live at Willowbrook Farm, Hampton Gay, told us all about what inspired them to make the bold move and how they are running workshops to help others looking to follow suit.

Paper review
Stephen Tall, head of development at the Bodliean Library, was our paper reviewer today and found a host of interesting stories.
Stealing the most column inches was Boyzone's Ronan Keating marriage breakdown.
Also making the news was Nick Clegg's start in the Government, MP's expenses (still making the headlines) and how keeping books at home will increase the chances of youngsters staying in education.

Sunday 16th May

2010-05-16T06:28:00.006+01:00

Listen Again

You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer. Just follow this link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p007s6fj
*available until 0600hrs 23/05/10

A very good morning to you.

Church, Choirs and Technology

Phil was joined in the studio by (from left to right) Rev. Hugh White - the Vicar of Deddington, David Phalatse - Choir Director from the South African parish of Resurrection in Mafikeng, Hans Boeryd - a Priest from Sweden and the Rector from the parish Sofiakyrkan in Jönköping, and David Rogers from Rally FM.

This weekend in Deddington is the Maurice Frost Festival ( http://www.deddington.org.uk/community/church/parishchurch/mauricefrostfestival2010 ). Choirs from Deddington's link parishes in South Africa and Sweden will be joining the Choir of St George's Windsor for some remarkable, inspiring international music and worship.

The Big Game

Ahead of the big match at Wembley Phil was joined by Oxfordshire author Peter Tickler (above), who wrote "Blood on the Cowley Road", who chose the Kassam Stadium as his Faith Place some ten years ago. Phil also spoke to our own Malcolm Boyden at Wembley.

Our paper reviewer this morning was the Revd. Dr. Gillian Straine, the Curate of Kidlington.

Saturday May 15

2010-05-15T07:01:00.006+01:00

U's Mania
This weekend revolved around Oxford United's march to Wembley as they look to gain promotion to league two.
We looked at the build-up to the game as well as a host of events taking place around the county.

Strictly Great Tew
Political editor and strictly star John Sergeant spoke to us about why he feels Great Tew is his iconic place in England.
He explained how growing up in the village during the 1950's as the son of a vicar was an interesting childhood and how the village managed to stave off modern living to uphold its traditional ways.

Identity Project
Dr Daniel Glaser joined us to explain all about The Identity Project happening this weekend in Oxford.
The project is a series of exhibitions, talks and films exploring who we are and what influences our thinking and understanding of human identity and will take place throughout the summer at venues across the city.
Dr Glaser told listeners about a host of events happening in the city including a screening of Nature's Great Experiment - a short film looking at twin studies.
For more information visit: http://www.wellcome.ac.uk/

Levellers Day
Oxfordshire plays host to world experts today to discuss the future global food shortage.
It's happening in Burford on Levellers Day - which commemorates the stand Levellers soldiers took against Oliver Cromwell's supression in the 1600's.
Author Tristram Stuart spoke to us about the event and some of the discussions that will take place. He explained that they will be looking at why are we facing this potential food shortage in the future and how serious the problem could be.

The OSCA's come to Oxford
Eco-guru Simon Kenton from the Community Action Group (CAG) joined us to explain about the new green awards taking place in Oxfordshire.
Oxfordshire County Council will be hosting the Oxfordshire Sustainability and Conservation Awards (OSCA's) in July.
If your local school or community group is currently involved in a project that helps to reduce waste, save energy or increase biodiversity then they want to hear from you!
The top prize for each category is £1,500. For more information and to enter online, visit: www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/oscas
Deadline for entries 16th June 2010.

Paper Review
Mark Mullen, music teacher from Cokethorpe School, reviewed this weekend's papers and all the top stories.
Stories making the headlines included: the fallout from the election, the nurse victimised for whistleblowing abuse at her hospital and England striker Wayne Rooney sporting a big beard.

Sunday 9th May 2010

2010-05-09T19:39:00.003+01:00

Listen Again

You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer. Just follow this link:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/console/p007nsbk
*available until 0600hrs 16/05/10

For information about the show, please click here.

Saturday May 8th

2010-05-08T07:01:00.015+01:00

Listen Again

You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer. Just follow this link:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p007nfx0
*available until 0900hrs 15/05/10

Election 2010
Election fever still lingers as discussions of coalitions and partnerships take place. We gave a comprehensive rundown of who took the seats in our county and spoke to the various leaders.

Science Saturday
Jheni Osmond from BBC Focus Magazine brought listeners up-to-date with the latest science news from around the world. She explained about how the technology behind the six million dollar man is making it in to reality and even on to the High Street.

Indian Song and Dance

Dr Samuel Rabi joined us in the studio to tell listeners all about a colourful evening of song and dance planned in aid of the Thames Valley Air Ambulance service.

He organised the event to raise money for a charity that does life-saving work day in and day out but rarely gets the kind of publicity or support it deserves.

Held at the Helena Kennedy Student Centre at Oxford Brookes University next Saturday, the evening will include: classical dance from Meera Shah, folk-dancing from students at the Kala-Arpan school of dance and a sumptuous three-course dinner.

For more information and to book tickets you can contact Dr Rabi at samuelrabi@hotmail.com

Teddy Bears Picnic

If you go down to the Radcliffe Square today expect to see a furry surprise as teddy bears gather for a picnic this afternoon.

One of the organisors of the event Mary Ann Mackenzie, spoke to Vicky about the picnic in aid of the Oxford Children's Hospital and a new children's book aimed at being polite.

The picnic runs from 1pm-5pm.

Wallingford Car Rally

Car enthusiasts can head to Wallingford this Sunday to see a host of vintage cars including the 1973 Triumph Stag featured in the TV show Ashes to Ashes.

There will be over 150 vehicles of every type, including cars, vans, commercials, military vehicles, fire engines, police cars and Top Fuel Dragsters. There will even be a traction engine, plus a vintage motorcycles and bicycles.

The event will start from 11am- 5pm

For more information visit: http://www.wallingfordcarrally.org.uk/

RAF Falcons

Flight Lieutenant Rory Jackson spoke to listeners about the launch of the RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team 2010 season. They will be performing one of their world famous, and breath taking, displays over the skies of Oxford.
You will have the opportunity to talk to members of the team about their job, not just as a member of the Display Team, but in the wider context of training personnel in specialised parachuting roles.
The Team have been invited to "drop in" at Oxford Parks at an Event organised by the Rotary Club of Oxford before donning their running shoes to take part in the 5k Oxford Fun Run where they will be running for their chosen charity "Headway".
For more details visit: info@oxfordfunrun.org.uk

Sunday 2nd May

2010-05-02T07:33:00.005+01:00

Listen Again

You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer. Just follow this link:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/console/p007jk3d
*available until 0600hrs 09/05/10

A very good morning to you.

Paul Jenner in for Phil on this wet, wet morning.

Speak No Evil

Following a now notorious incident with a radio microphone in Rochdale this week, Paul spoke to Rabbi Pete Tobias about the power of the tongue, and how the dangers of its misuse were well undertood all the way back to biblical times.

Just Politics
Krish Kandiah (above) from the Evangelical Alliance came into the studio and talked with Paul about the intersection between Christianity and politics. He has written a book called 'No Spin, Sleaze or Scandal... Just Politics.' For the book, Krish spoke to three politicians - a Conservative, a Liberal Democrat and a Labour MP -about their faith and their political life. He believes that Faith and politics are intrinsically connected. Would more politicians acting through their faith mean that there would be less spin and sleaze in our nation's political life?

Our paper reviewer this morning was Imam Monawar Hussein - the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Oxfordshire and the Muslim Tutor at Eton College.

Saturday May 1

2010-05-01T06:18:00.003+01:00

Live from Magdalen College
The big May Day celebrations were taking place in the city today and the show came to you from Magdalen College to catch all the action.
Joining us were Daniel Hyde, Michael Duffy and Edmund Smith from the Magdalen choir to tell us all about how they prepared for their early start.
Superintendant Amanda Pearson was also on hand to give listeners a rundown on how many people broke through the barriers to make the jump off Magdalen Bridge.

Discovering Places
Debbie Dance from the Oxford Heritage Trust explained how a new initiative, Discovering Places, aims to get people to visit some of Oxford's less known green spaces.
A series of walks are taking place this weekend to celebrate Oxford's best kept secrets including around Old Headington and Boars Hill.
For more information about the walks visit: www.oxfordpreservation.org.uk/news/discoveringPlaces

Pole Dancing
Dance tutor Kate Whitely and pupil Nicola Stokes told listeners all about dancing around a different pole.
Kate has set-up a pole dancing class which is used as a way of keeping fit. The pair explained how people can attend a six-week course to learn all the moves to manouvere around a pole.
They will be hosting a show at the Regal tonight in aid of charity Pathways workshop.
If you are interested in attending you can turn up at The Regal tonight where tickets are on sale on the door or for more information visit www.danceinspires.co.uk

History of May Morning
Mark Blanford Baker Head Bursar of Magdalen College gave an insight into the history behind May Day and its celebrations.

Paper Review
Today's guest reviewer was Ann Spokes Simmons who gave a rundown of what is making the news in this weekend's papers.
Hitting the headlines (still) is Gordon Brown's microphone gaffe, the oil spillage in the Gulf of Mexico and the volcanic ash which is still lingering.

Oxford Homeless Pathways

2010-04-25T08:43:00.011+01:00

Oxford Homeless Pathways work with users of O'Hanlan House. Here are some of their photographs:

For more information have a look at the Blog for Sunday 25th April.

Sunday 25th April 2010

2010-04-25T07:21:00.007+01:00

A new home for Oxfords Sikh Temple
President of the Oxford University Sikh Society, Priya Atwal came into the studio to tell us about the Sikh Community's difficulty finding a permanent place of worship. Currently the 15-20 regular worshippers pray in a Sikh members house. Priya is starting a big campaign to find a new location for a permanent Gurdwara (temple) in Oxfordshire.

Today at St Gregory School on Cricket Road, Cowley the Sikh community will be celebrating Vaisakhi, the birth anniversary of Khalsa, with a procession along the Cowley Road due to start at 11am.

Photography for the homeless
We spoke to Ed Hart who has helped to develop a project with Oxford Homeless Pathways, which encourages Oxfordshire's homeless to pick up a camera and take inspiration from their surroundings. Learning to use digital editing, the project can allow individuals to build their self-confidence and develop some valuable skills.

There will be a small exhibition of work at Fusion on the Cowley Road soon, so we will keep you updated on that. In the meantime you can see some of the groups pictures here.

Paper Review
Kathy Stock, Sculpture Co-ordinator at the Turill Sculpture Garden and member of the Oxford Jewish Community was in this morning to review the weekend papers.

Oxfordshire Devotional
This morning's Oxfordshire Devotional came from Witney, at the High Street Methodist Church led by the Reverend Richard Donoghue.
Faith Place Regent's Park College in Oxford was our faith place this morning. Originally in London, it now trains men and women for the Baptist Ministry here in Oxford. Hedley Feast spoke to the College Chaplain Myra Blythe.

Dorchester Debate
Dorchester Abbey will be opening its doors to the prospective parliamentary candidates in the Henley constituency on Wednesday 28th April. Rector Sue Booys told us that everyone is welcome and it will be a great opportunity to come along and hear the constituents views and ask them questions about issues they are concerned about.

Sunday 18th April

2010-04-18T08:27:00.006+01:00

Listen Again

You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer. Just follow this link:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0079v0r

*available until 0600hrs 25/04/10

A very good morning to you.

Poland's Grief

Phil spoke to Genya Goodall from Banbury's Polish Association about her own and her community's feelings at this difficult time, ahead of a community church service later today in Banbury.

The Science of Volcanos

Phil was joined in the studio by the Oxfordshire-based petrologist (rock expert) Professor Peter Treolar (below), to speak of all things volcano.

Our paper reviewer this morning was Leo Bowder (below), from the Oxford Unitarians.

Saturday April 17

2010-04-17T07:17:00.012+01:00

Listen Again

You can listen to this show again via the BBC iPlayer. Just follow this link:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0079gk2
*available until 0600hrs 24/04/10

Beyond the pole

Helen Baxendale was in town for the premier of her latest project 'Beyond the Pole' directed by her partner David Williams and with a cast including Green Wing's Stephen Mangan and Mark Benton. She told listeners all about how she got involved in the project and her decision to take a back seat from acting in this particular film.

The plot covers a documentary film crew follows the first carbon neutral, organic, vegetarian expedition ever to attempt the North Pole. Simultaneously Saving the Planet and getting into the Guinness Book of Records Brian and Mark hope to kill two birds with one stone. Unfortunately, they have never done anything like this before.

David Williams discussed the challenge facing independent films like this in getting distribution. So give them a hand by asking for it at your local cinema.

http://beyondthepole.com/

How to save a life!

Christine Mitchell came into the studio to tell listeners how being saved from choking by a passer-by while out running led to her becoming a St John Ambulance volunteer.

Christine explained how a couple of years ago, while training for a triathlon, she found herself gasping for breath after taking a drink.

Fortunately, some young people nearby came to her rescue and after performing first aid on her and ultimately saved her life.

Now Christine is urging people to learn first aid through St John Ambulance's 'The Difference' initiative which offers a new range of first aid courses to meet the needs of home or leisure activities.

To get involved and collect a card with basic first aid instructions just simply text LIFE to 85010.

Going green

Jo Hamilton from Climate eXchange popped in to tell us all about the Ideal Green Home Show next Friday and Saturday.

Being held at Oxford Town Hall, the show has a host of experts, architects and renewable energy companies to help you live a greener life.

Visitors to the Green Home Show will be able to find the advice, products and installers to transform their home, including architects, eco-designers, solar hot water and solar photovoltaic installers, grey water and insulation installers, plus suppliers of eco-products, recycled materials and a host of energy saving advice.

The show runs next Friday (4-7 pm) and Saturday (10am-4pm) for more information see www.climatex.org/whats-new/ or http://www.ecovation.org.uk/

Keeping on the green trail, Henley resident Dick Fletcher told listeners all about another fascinating green initiative happening in Henley today.

A display of thermal images of four hundred houses in the town will show who is using the right insulation. Organised by a (non-political) group of residents called 'Henley in Transition' which aims to make the town carbon neutral by 2012.

It's on from noon to 3pm today at Henley Town Hall.

Sunday 11th April

2010-04-11T06:46:00.002+01:00

For more about this morning's proceedings, do take a look at the programme page: here.

Saturday April 10

2010-04-10T07:48:00.011+01:00

Along the Ridgeway

Producer Vicky Parsons and friend Emma Hall kept listeners on track with the second part of their Ridgeway walk series. The durable duo battle the winds as they made their way from Ogbourne St George in Wiltshire, across the M4 and then up to Oxfordshire and the wonderful views on White Horse Hill.

Vicky will give listeners her next instalment of adventures on the Ridgeway in next week's show.

For more information about the walk visit: www.nationaltrail.co.uk/ridgeway

Skate Park
From walking to rolling as Berinsfield looked forward to the opening of a new skate park today. With a strong sporting pedigree in the area thanks to a successful boxing club and football team, Berinsfield hopes to farm the next Tony Hawks.
Berinsfield Parish Councillor Ken Hall explained how thanks to a large lottery grant and some money from the parish council, local kids (and young at heart adults) can now practise their half-pipes and ollies.

Framing the future of Wallingford

A visit to Wallingford this Friday was on the cards as big plans and new developments are on the cards. Wallingford Museum are planning to construct a new timber framed building. Museum curator Judy Dewey and Peggy (who knows all there is to know about timber) gave Phil a tour of the site and explained where the wood had come from.

The Shift

Local filmaker David Trumble popped into the studio to tell listeners all about the film premiere of his latest production The Shift.

Thanks to funding from the Oxfordshire Community Fund (OCF) and donations from family and friends, the film is about a paramedic called Damon Yorke. The paramedic, who is struggling with a personal crisis, struggles through a particularly stressful night shift alongside his driver Joe which leads to an inevitable confontation between the two. The busy film-maker has also been busy making another film 'Beyond the Pale' starring A-lister Helen Baxendale, who will be appearing on the Breakfast Show next Saturday.

The OCF is holding the gala premiere of the films on 15 April at the Phoenix Picture House in Walton Street, Oxford.

Love your museum

Christopher Brown, director of the Ashmoleum museum, told listeners how the recently revamped museum was one of eleven across the country taking part in the 'I love my museum' project.

The £100,000 prize is awarded to the museum or gallery for a project completed in the last year, that the Judges deem demonstrates the most originality, imagination and excellence. The Prize, which has been sponsored by the UK’s leading independent art charity, The Art Fund, for three years, aims to increase public appreciation and enjoyment of the UK’s museums and galleries.

The public can vote for their favourite long-listed institution and leave comments for the Judges on the Art Fund Prize website telling the Judges why they should win. The poll results and online comments will be given to the Judges for their consideration when selecting the Short List and Winner. Visitors to the website can enter an exclusive competition to win a limited edition Jonathan Yeo print.

For more information go to: www.skyarts.co.uk/artfundprize

Sunday 4th April

2010-04-04T06:41:00.001+01:00

Please visit the programme information page here to see more about the morning's show.

Saturday April 3

2010-04-03T07:19:00.008+01:00

The Great Outdoors
With the longer days and improving weather (supposedly!) this week's show was all about the great outdoors.
Producer Vicky Parsons explained how she, along with her friend Emma Hall, is tackling the 87-mile long Ridgeway - in six sections.
Vicky will tell listeners all about her adventures in next week's show.

For more information about walks on the Ridgeway you can log onto the website: www.nationaltrail.co.uk/ridgeway

Thrill Seeker
For those looking for something a bit more adventurous, Thames Valley Orienteering Club's Peter Narramore told listeners about an orienteering event in Shotover next Sunday. Often described as a 'race with navigation' , orienteering involves navigating your way through a forest or across a moor from one checkpoint to the next until you complete the course.
Also featuring on the show was BBC's Roger Hammett who told listeners about a website that has advice and guidance on a range of activities from den building to archery or white water rafting.
For people looking to follow the Ray Mears path of surviving out in the wild, there are some great tips on the website.
For more information about the orienteering event at Shotover next Sunday (April 11) visit http://www.tvoc.org.uk/

For a host of Thrill Seeking events going on around the country and tips and advice on, among other things, kite-flying visit: www.bbc.co.uk/thrillseeker

Freewheeling
Listeners were encouraged to get on their bikes to take part in the first ever Freewheeling cycling festival.
Organisor Emily Sharp pedalled into the studio to explain how she hopes the event, in Abingdon next week, will kick-start people of all ages to enjoy the fun and freedom of a spring bike ride.
The event will feature three guided cycle rides of 4 miles, 10 miles and 27 miles and there will be cycling enthusiasts on-hand to offer information and inspiration. There will also be bikes available for those who don't own one!
The event takes place next Sunday at Abingdon Market Place from 10am-noon.
For more information visit: http://www.abingdonfreewheeling.org.uk/

Emily (right) with friend Jo-Anne Croft

Banbury Market

Denis Stanley told listeners all about the great local produce on offer at Banbury's Market, taking place today at Banbury Market Place from 8.30am. It'll be there on Thursday and Saturdays.

Sunday 28th March

2010-03-28T07:15:00.007+01:00

For this programme's main BBC page please visit here.

A very good morning to you. Phil is back in the presenter's chair today.

The Jews of Medieval Oxford

We went on a journey to discover the Jewish Community that lived and thrived here in Oxford from their arrival in the country in the eleventh century all the way up to the expulsion of the Jews from England by Edward the First in 1290. Pam Manix (below, right) - an historian and member of the Oxford Jewish Heritage Committee, and Evie Kemp (below, left)- the Convenor of the Oxford Jewish Heritage Committee came in to the studio to talk to Phil about history and the current work of the Heritage Committee, including the fascinating new heritage website: http://www.oxfordjewishheritage.co.uk/

Pam also takes guided tours around the city - details can be found on the website.

Wantage Methodist Chapel

Gill and Gordon Skidmore (below) joined Phil in the Studio to talk about the campaign to refurbish the Wantage Methodist Chapel. There will be a fundraising dinner event at Oxford's Randolph Hotel on the 24th April, with Paul Mayhew-Archer (the creator of the Vicar of Dibley) as the speaker. If you would like to support the refurbushment effort in any way then you can call Gill on 01235 766655 or email gill.skidmore@nuffield.ox.ac.uk

Our paper reviewer this morning was Shaunaka Rishi Das (below), who is the Director of the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies.

Saturday March 27

2010-03-27T07:37:00.009Z

BBOWT Reserve

BBOWT's Chris Hanningdon came in to the studio to tell listeners about the new nature reserve opened in the beautiful village of Letcombe Regis.

Chris also made a plea for volunteers to help run the new wildlife reserve near Wantage.

For details about the reserve and volunteering opportunities visit the BBOWT website: http://www.bbowt.org.uk/

Spring Open Day at Boundary Brook Nature Park
With guided walks and the chance to try some pond-dipping, visitors may see some early butterflies the Oxford Urban Wildlife Group will be busy this Sunday.
http://www.ouwg.org.uk/

Retrader

Phil spoke to the man behind a new website that matchmakes businesses in an attempt to reduce waste and cut costs.

Retrader is a new materials exchange website set-up by Oxfordshire Waste Partnership (OWP) that enables businesses to pass on materials they no longer and get pre-used materials from other businesses.

Joining Phil in the studio was Paul Mocroft, the man behind the idea, and Steph Griggs-Travarthen from Oxfam and Dave Beesley from B-Line who have benefitted from the scheme.

For more details you can log-on to retrader.org.uk

Oxford Literary Festival

Literary festival organisor Sally Dunsmore popped in to tell Phil about the big names attending this year's festival.

This year's line-up includes: David Mitchell, who will be interviewing Wantage MP Ed Vaizey; Joanne Harris, author of the novel Chocolat.

Talent Oxford

The county's undiscovered stars get the opportunity to shine at this year's Talent Oxford event.

Joining Phil in the studio was Talent Oxford's Lydiah Igweh to explain how hopefuls can take part.

The event will take place this May and will include the categories: Best Dance Act, Best Vocal Act, Best Group Act, Most Original Act and Aspiring Star Award.

Judging the winner will be X- Factor finalist Rachel Adedeji.

For more information about the competition visit: http://www.talentoxford.co.uk/

Sunday 21st March

2010-03-21T06:11:00.009Z

A very good morning.

Wesley Smith (below - looking very bright at 6.30am!) in for Phil.

The Devotion this morning was read by David Huss (below), the Curate at St. Paul's in Banbury. Some other highlights:

Cranmer

This afternoon there will be special prayers said at the site where Archbishop Thomas Cranmer - who wrote the Church of England's first liturgy - was burnt to death in Oxford's Broad Street. Prudence Dailey - the Chairman of the Prayer Book Society (below) came into the studio to talk to Wes about today's events and the life and work of this Christian Martyr.

Pope Visit

Following the announcement of the Pope's visit to Britain this summer, Wesley spoke to Terry Sanderson from the National Secular Society. The Society has said that the Catholic Church should pick up the bill for the visit instead of the British taxpayer. Expressing some controversial opinions, this was a thought-provoking interview.

Sunday 14th March

2010-03-14T06:17:00.007Z

Good morning. Wesley Smith in for Phil Mercer today.

Love Bicester

Revd. Chris Boyce (above) from the Emmanuel Church in Bicester came in to the studio to chat with Wes about "Love Bicester", a series of events about to kick off and running 20th - 28th of March. You will hear about robots, avatars and you may even see Phil Mercer in action. See http://www.lovebicester.co.uk/ for more information.

The Museum of the Book

Wes spoke to Revd. Rob Cotton about a forthcoming exhibition in May at Sandown race course that will show the personal bibles of all sorts of people, from Reggie Kray to Elvis Presley.

Our paper reviewer this morning was Revd. Dr. Gillian Straine (above), Curate of Kidlington.

Sunday 7th March

2010-03-07T07:56:00.014Z

One Stop Guide to.....Jesus!

Oxfordshire author Mike Beaumont is celebrating selling a hundred and twenty thousand copies of his last book - the "One Stop Guide to Jesus" - which has been printed in fifteen different languages.

Mike Beaumont, from Oxfordshire Community Churches, and presenter of the Journey's series on BBC Oxford, came in to the studio to tell us how much he learnt whilst researching for the book, and ponder how much of his book is lost in translation when it is published in Chinese!

Remembering Haiti

It's only been a couple of months since the devastating earthquake hit Haiti's capital Port-au-Prince and it is so easy to forget about this once the cameras move on, but Oxfam's Ian Bray who recently returned from Haiti came in to highlight the on going dangers that the people of Haiti face.

Ian has worked for Oxfam for more than 10 years, with over 7 years experience as an aid worker in Indonesia and Southern Africa. As the rainy season is threatening to descend on Haiti in April, the makeshift camps which now house many of those who have lost their homes are at risk of floods and the spread of disease. For more information on what you can do to help, visit the Disasters Emergency Committe website at: http://www.dec.org.uk/

Cakes for Haiti

Phil also spoke to Janet Mohapi-Banks who is helping to organise a national cake sale to raise money for Haiti. So if baking is your forte, then find out how you can help at: http://www.cakesforhaiti.org/

Papers

Our paper reviewer this morning was Jo Duckles, editor from The Door.

Making Football History

Clare Marsh is making history today by becoming only the second woman to referee a championship football match. Her brother Chris will also be on the pitch as line's man. If you fancy becoming a referee there is a new course starting soon in Bicester, for more details go to: http://www.oxfordshirefa.com/splash.aspx

Saturday March 6th

2010-03-06T08:11:00.006Z

Oxford Preservation Trust (OPT)

Debbie Dance, director of OPT, explained how the trust's annual awards will include a new comunity award. Debbie told us: "The idea of a new award is a recognition of the way in which individual groups and neighbourhoods can make a difference. A place is about its people and this is nowhere more true than Oxford."

Projects nominated must be accessible to the public or seen from a public place.

For more information and a nomination form visit: http://www.oxfordpreservation.org.uk/ or email info@oxfordpreservation.org.uk

Oxfordshire Science Festival

Science Oxford's Renee Watson popped into the studio to tell listeners all about the science festival launch this weekend. Renee gave an insight into some of the fun activities happening all over the county including a performance by world street dance champions Step 2 and How to be Super!

The festival runs from March 6 - March 21 for more details visit: http://www.oxfordshiresciencefestival.co.uk/

The Big Lunch and Clean-up

Eco-guru Simon Kenton breezed in to tell us about a host of eco-friendly events going on in Oxford over the weekend.

Simon will be urging people to swap their unwanted goods before getting involved in one of many litter-picks happening in the county.

If you want to do your bit for the community details are below.

Sat 6th Low Carbon Headington swap shop, 10-1pm, Gladstone Rd community centre
Sat 6th Dean Court swap shop, 10-12pm, Dean Court social club.
Sat 6th Dean Court litter pick 11-1pm, meet at social club
Sat 6th Waterways litter pick, 2-4pm, meet outside Kids Unlimited, Apsley Rd at 2pm
Sun 7th Waterside litter pick, 2-4pm, meet outside Kids Unlimited, Apsley Rd at 2pm

Holi Mela Festival

Kashmira Patel told us all about the Hindu Festival of Colours - Holi - being celebrated in Headington this weekend.

The Holi Mela is being organised in aid of the Oxford Hindu Temple and Community Centre Project, which is aiming to build a temple here in Oxfordshire.

So, if you fancy adding a splash of colour to your weekend, get down to Headington this Saturday.

The festival takes place at Sandhills School from 12-5.30pm.

Saturday 6th March

2010-03-06T07:06:00.002Z

Elaine emailed in this picture from last weeks Get Active walk. We are still scratching our head trying to work out if its one tree gone mad or two trees intertwined! Botanists, please help!

Sunday 28th February

2010-02-28T08:31:00.008Z

Good morning. As February draws its last breaths, there were some fascinating guests on the show. Paul Jenner presented the show today, as Phil takes a well-earned rest...

Street Pastors

http://www.streetpastors.co.uk/

Backed by the police and the council, a scheme named Street Pastors is officially launched in Oxford this week. Those behind the scheme aim to offer a helping hand to vulnerable people and those who may have had a 'few too many' in the City Centre at night. Reverend Kathryn Bracewell (left) and Rob Winn (centre), who are the organisers of the Oxford scheme, as well as Neil Townsend (right) who heads up the Wantage scheme, came in to the studios to see Paul and discuss late night goings on. Neil's tips from his experiences in Wantage include flip-flops for those in high heels and, wait for it... lollipops.

Kindness

Paul spoke to Dr David Hamilton, author of a new book all about Kindness, about the importance of it and even its possible health benefits. Paul also discovered the '21-day kindness challenge' - to do a minimum of one act of kindness each and every day for 21 days, which prompted him to pledge to bring biscuits in to the office more often.

Our paper reviewer this morning was David Cranston (above), Consultant Urologist in Oxford.

Sunday 21st February

2010-02-21T07:07:00.007Z

Good morning...

Female Hindu Priests
Chanda Vyas, a woman from a Brahmin family who lives in Leicester, claimed this week to be the UK's first female Hindu priest. Phil talked to Dr Diwakar Acharya (below) from the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies about the notion of female priests in Hinduism and found out about how traditionally there were female priests in the past.

Euthanasia
Phil spoke to Jean Davies, the head of the European Right to Die Movement, about euthanasia and the law in the light of the BBC presenter Ray Gosling incident being arrested and being bailed until April after claiming to have smothered his ex-lover who was suffering from AIDS.

Classical Masterpiece
This morning, as ever, we played a gem of a classical track. If you like the one today then it was from the album Luminosity, by composer James Whitbourn, and it is on the Naxos label.

Oxfordshire Churches Windfall
With the news that three churches in our county have just been awarded thousands of pounds by English Heritage, Phil had a chat with North Moreton's vicar Jason St John Nicolle about what they will be doing at All Saints' Church with the money. All £74,000 of it.

Our paper reviewer this morning was Leo Bowder (above) from the Oxford Unitarians.

Saturday 20th February

2010-02-20T08:06:00.011Z

Morning

Oxford Dance Festival

http://www.dancinoxford.co.uk/
I had my dancing shoes at the ready as I welcomed Oxford Dance Festival's Miranda Lawrence into the studio this Saturday. Miranda told our listeners all about how two months of dancing in the city will kick off with five dance performances in five locations, on the hour, every hour.

Commotio Choir
www.commotio.org/

Matthew Berry, conductor of local choir Commotio, joined me in the studio to talk about the success of the group's latest CD, which is riding high in the classical charts. Matthew told me how the CD includes a reading by Desmond Tutu as well as a fusion of Indian influenced instruments. You can catch the choir at St Barnabas Church, Jericho, on March 13.

'Baby Branson'
http://www.flyvarsity.com/

Martin Halstead flew into the studio to tell us all about his latest venture. Martin, dubbed Baby Branson, told listeners all about his plans to set-up a flight from Oxford to Edinburgh. Martin told me all about his fascination with flying and about being compared to Richard Branson.

Flights depart from March 1st and plans are already in place for another route to Newcastle.

Barton Playtime

pathfinder@oxfordshire.gov.uk

Howie Watkins from Oxfordshire County Council came in to tell listeners about a variety of play features planned for Barton. The play area will include a range of indoor and outdoor features and will be built with the help of children, young people and parents of Barton.Children and parents from Barton can get a chance to look at the plans at Underhill Circus today from 11am-4pm.

Sunday 14th February

2010-02-14T07:24:00.007Z

Georgia's Heart Galaxy
http://www.galaxyzoo.org/

I had a chat to Georgia Barrie a Physics student at Oxford University who came across this amazing (and very appropriate to the day) galaxy. It is actually called
587729227151704160, but the campaign is on to make it 'Georgia's Heart' Galaxy and she found it while helping catalogue galaxies on the Galaxy Zoo website which was set up by the University.

Economics vs. The Environment

http://www.earthwatch.org/

I caught up with a fascinating man at Oxford's Earthwatch Institute, Pavan Sukhdev, who heads up the UN's Environment Programme and is in charge of a new study - TEEB - which is all about the relationship between economics and the environment. As well as hearing about his work I asked him how he remained so positive, especially after Copenhagen.

Prisoners

http://www.sowingseeds.org.uk/

The Prison Reform Trust has just called for prisoners to be given the vote. I spoke to Gram Seed, a former prisoner himself, who thought this is not by any means the biggest issue facing prisoners today. He has founded a charity, Sowing Seeds Ministries, and told us a little about what they do.

Our paper reviewer this morning was Ken Barnes, from the American Mission in Oxford.

Sunday 7th February

2010-02-07T07:42:00.017Z

A very good morning to you...

Phil's Dilemma
So you're walking down the street and something catches your eye. Is it? Yes; it's a £20 note.

What to do? Well it happened to Phil yesterday in Reading. This prompted a lively debate, with lots of callers with ideas including donate the money to charity or take the money to a local police station. Poor Phil, the audience decided that he is not a charity...

The International Staff Songsters

The famous choir of the Salvation Army is visiting Oxfordshire for the first time this week. Elaine Heaven (who is a member of the choir) and Captain Mark Wolstenhome came in to the studio to talk all about it.

Warmth

Dr Brenda Boardman, Emeritus Fellow at the Environmental Change Institute and author of 'Fixing Fuel Poverty' (ISBN: 978-1844077441), joined Phil to discuss what for many is the biggest issue of the day: climate change. How does she view those who claim there is no such thing as man-made climate change? How can fuel poverty be eradicated when there is a global drive to massively reduce fuel consumption?

The Pope
With The Pope confirming this week that he will be visiting the UK later in the year, Phil spoke to Charles Wookey, the Assistant General Secretary of the Catholic Bishop's Conference, about some of the main issues facing the Church today.

Our paper reviewer today was Rev. David Wilbraham (above), the chaplain of the Thames Valley Police.

Saturday 6th February

2010-02-06T08:00:00.004Z

Morning,

Oxford Fashion Week

http://oxfordfashionweek.com
Organisers Sarah and Stacey popped in to encourage you to try out for the Fashion Week, they are looking for people to be models. The casting sessions are on Saturday 13th from 11am in Oxford Town Hall.

Award Winning Shop
http://ewelmevillagestore.co.uk
The new Ewelme Community Shop have won the title of Oxfordshires best community shop. The competition is run every year by Oxfordshire rural Community Council and Ewelme is particularly chuffed because it only opened last May.

Kenton Theatre
http://www.kentontheatre.co.uk
The Kenton Theatre has long been a popular venue in South Oxfordshire and in the last few days the people of Henley have come a step nearer to owning it. Contracts have been signed which signal the end of 18 months of talks to safefuard the Grade 2 listed building. But the Kenton's trustees now have six months to raise 350 thousand pounds to buy the freehold as we found out from Wendy Boucher the theatre's managing director.

The 2nd Anniversary Ball.
Derek and Susan told us of their plans for tonights Anniversary Ball with special guests and a chance to have a spin round the dance floor yourself.

Sunday 31st January

2010-01-31T07:48:00.015Z

Greetings.

As January draws to a close, Oxfordshire awoke to a chilly morning and a packed Sunday Breakfast show.

The Dead Sea Scrolls
We heard from Geza Vermes, the Emeritus Professor of Jewish Studies at Oxford University. He recalled how he published the first doctoral dissertation on the Dead Sea Scrolls... in 1953. He has just brought out two books- one on this topic, and the other about the "real" Jesus. A fascinating man.

Poverty
This week it was revealed that the gap between rich and poor is wider today than it was forty years ago. Oxford's Chris Brazier (below), who co-edits the magazine New Internationalist, joined Phil in the studio to discuss poverty and its causes. They were joined on the line by David Stapleton from Banbury who runs a money management course, and Jim Hewitt who has run Blackbird Leys' Credit Union for twenty years.

'The Subversive Jesus'
Phil spoke to Mother Winsome from the community of St Mary the Virgin in Wantage about her story - she trained to be a lawyer in New York before deciding on a religious life. She is giving a talk at Christ Church, as part of their series entitled The Subversive Jesus.

Saturday 30th January

2010-01-30T07:46:00.004Z

Morning.

Big Garden Bird Watch
http://www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch/
http://www.bbowt.org.uk/
http://www.rrm.co.uk
Today is the day to sit and spend an hour counting the birds. Have a look on the RSPB website for details. You can also head to the River and Rowing Museum in Henley to find out more as well.
In similar news, we heard about an unusual visitor to the BBOWT nature reserve at Chimney Meadows. A Bittern.

Get Active
http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/oxford/hi/things_to_do/newsid_8155000/8155566.stm
We had details of the Get Active Walk along the Phoenix Trail later today.

Wantage Councillling Service
http://www.wantagecounselling.org.uk/
They have a special exhibition on at the the Vale and Downland Museum. If you want more information about their work, the phone number is 01235 769 744.

Sunday 24th January

2010-01-24T07:50:00.015Z

Good morning.

An interesting show indeed.

The Holocaust
With Holocaust Memorial Day just around the corner, on this coming Wednesday the 27th, we heard from local artist Nicholas Hedges who will be unveiling a public art installation in Shotover Park. Also gap-year student Jack Livesey spoke with Phil - he has been to Aushwitz and told us about how that visit has affected him and his studies.

House of Lords - The Big Debate
(You can listen to highlights here)
Joining Phil in the studio this morning we had three special guests to discuss the presence of Bishops in the House of Lords - the so-called 'Lords Spiritual' - whose future will be debated this coming week in the Upper House. Our guests were:

Rt. Rev John Pritchard - Bishop of Oxford
Dr Evan Harris - Member of Parliament for Oxford West and Abingdon
Lord Bill Bradshaw - Baron of Wallingford

Our paper reviewer this morning was James Panton, Co-Founder of the Manifesto Club and Lecturer in Politics at St John's College, Oxford.

Saturday 23rd January

2010-01-23T08:34:00.003Z

Morning,

I'm still recovering for my adventure in to the world of TV last night, if only someone had told me my collar was turned up!

County Swap Shop

http://www.cagoxfordshire.org.uk

This morning Frances Buckle stood in for Eco Guru Simon to tell us about this years annual clear out that is the Swap Shop. If you missed it today there are plenty that happen other weeks have a look at the Community Action Group website.

Walk for Haiti
There are plenty of events happening around the world raising money for those caught up in the earthquake in Haiti. Justin Davis from Blackbird Leys and some friends will be walking from the community centre along the Cowley Road in to the city centre raising money as they walk.

The Disasters Emergency Committee website is here: http://www.dec.org.uk/ if you want to help the national campaign.

The Landfill Prize
http://www.enoughness.co.uk/
This follows on quite nicely from the Swap Shops. An award for the object that has the least use and takes up valuable space in our rubbish tips. Things like the Motorised Ice Cream Cone and the Ear Dryer are already on the list. What would you add?

Next week we are off on the next Get Active Walk. If you fancy joining me and the team, then have a look at the details here.

Get Active Walk - Saturday 30th January 2010

2010-01-21T10:58:00.000Z

The next walk is on Saturday January 30th 2010. The walk is in the area to the east of Thame. We’ll meet at the Three Horseshoes pub in Towersey at 10.30am to start the walk about 10.45am. The route includes a section of The Phoenix Trail, the tarmac and gravel path created on the dismantled railway line that runs between Thame and Princes Risborough. The rest of the route includes farm tracks, quiet roads and a short footpath. This route has been carefully chosen to avoid getting wet feet but it’s quite muddy in places, so boots or sturdy shoes are highly recommended. The walk is fairly flat and about 6 miles long. As always the walk will be lead at a pace to suit everybody. Well behaved dogs are welcome but for the safety of cyclists in particular, must be on a lead while on the Phoenix Trail.

Everyone should sign the disclaimer and if new people wouldn’t mind completing a monitoring form that would be great. Please make sure you sign the disclaimer every time you come on a walk.

After the walk we can have a well earned lunch at Three Horseshoes pub in Towersey. I have made a group booking for about 2.00pm and I will have a menu so that we can order our food before we set off. If you’d like lunch make sure you give me your order on Saturday morning!

So, whether you’ve joined us before or not, and feel that you can manage this walk put the date in your diary and come with us.

The weather of course is unpredictable and unknown at this stage. We’ll walk in all but the worst conditions but if you’re in any doubt about whether the walk is going ahead listen to Phil Mercer’s show on the Saturday morning between 6am and 9am.
Many charities encourage walking as a way of raising money. So before the start of the walk we are asking for a donation of £1 for a chosen charity. So far we have more than £1,080 for both local and national charities. Before the walk this month we’ll make another collection for the Foetal Medicine Unit at the J.R. Hospital.

To book a place or for more details contact

Best wishes,
CSV Action Desk
Dates for future walks: February 27th and either 20th or 27th March BBC Oxford Action Desk 08459 311 222 or email katie.brown@bbc.co.uk

Sunday 17th January

2010-01-17T08:14:00.002Z

Good morning. Well, the snow seems to be on its way out for now-however in its place there is ice and it has not been easy going on the county's roads.

A packed breakfast show this morning, with all sorts to think about.

Haiti
The latest from Haiti as Phil spoke to the head of Tearfund's Disaster Management Unit, Oenone Chadburn. We also listened to a Haitian Methodist Minister who has not heard from his family since the earthquake struck.

The Disasters Emergency Committee website is here: http://www.dec.org.uk/

Equality Law vs. Faith?
The Editor of the Church of England newspaper, Colin Blakely, discussed the issues raised by the new Equality Bill. Is it a necessary measure to bring equality and fairness to all of our institutions, or does it represent a genuine threat to religious freedom?

Charity Armed Forces Walk
Phil caught up with Anne Cox who is in the midst of a 500 mile walk organised by Honour Our Troops- a not-for-profit organisation- and is braving the elements to raise money and increase awareness of the difficulties faced by serving soldiers and their families.
Our paper reviewer this morning was the Reverend Sarah Tillett, the Minister for Bloxham parish and also a director of Tearfund.

Saturday 16th January

2010-01-16T07:00:00.005Z

Haiti
This morning we had the latest on the devastating earthquake, speaking to Save the Children and the Rotarary Club (Oxford Isis). If you want to give some money go to http://www.dec.org.uk/ or pop in to the Westgate Shopping Centre today where the Rotatarians will be showing how a ShelterBox can make a huge difference.
Call 0370 60 60 900
Post: Please send a cheque made payable to DEC HAITI EARTHQUAKE and send it to DEC HAITI EARTHQUAKE, PO BOX 999, LONDON, EC3A 3AA

The Big Map of Oxfordshire
Sanders of Oxford has an exhibition showing some old prints and engravings of Oxford including one massive 6ft by 5ft map of the county. You can pop in to see for yourself today from 10am.

Framed for the Future

Judy Dewey the curator of the Wallingford Museum popped in to the studio to tell of grand plans to construct a new timber frames building in the grounds of the musuem. It should be happening over the summer, but they need your help.

The River Thames - Then and now
Author and photographer Graham Diprose popped in to tell about his challenge to recreate the photos of Henry Taunt. The exhibition is on at the Oxfordshire Museum in Woodstock from today. http://www.henrytaunt-footsteps.co.uk/

Sunday 10th January 2010

2010-01-10T06:44:00.018Z

Good Morning,

Well this is the fifth day of the big freeze, so the show is a little different to the normal one. You can get the latest on Oxfordshires situation from this page of the BBC Oxford website: Go...

This is the list of cancelled church services for today, as well as services that have had their times changed:

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Oxford

The 8.30 am service at Claydon

The 9.30 am service at Mollington

The 11.00 am service at Wardington

Kennington Methodist Church, Upper Road, Kennington - 10.30am

Bicester Spiritualist Church

Grove Free Evangelical Church, Grove - Morning and evening services

St Michael's of All Angels at Newton Purcell - morning service

All Saints' Church in Wollstone, the 9.45am service

St Nicholas at Baulking, the 8.45am service

St Margaret's Church in Binsey, Holy Communion at 9.00am

St Denys' Church in Little Compton, 9.30am is cancelled - so there will be one service in the five parishes which will take place at St Mary's at Salford at 11.00am

St Michael's in Begbroke 9.30am service, will now be held in The Priory.

Botley Baptist Church

St Faith's at Shellingford, the 10.30am service has been moved to to be a full service at 11.00am

St Laurence's Church in South Hinksey, 9.15am

Orchard Baptist Fellowship in Bicester, 10.30am

Mary Magdalene Church in Shippon, 10.30am

Cropredy Evensong

Earthwatch Special - Tuesday 29th December

2009-12-29T07:08:00.008Z

Earlier this year I had a chance to go away with the Earthwatch Institute on their Climate Champions week. 12 of us made our way to Hill End near Cumnor to learn about climate change and help out with research in to fragmented woodland.

Have a look at my blog written during the week:
http://bbcoxfordweekends.blogspot.com/search/label/Climate%20Trip

Photos from the week:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/philmercer/sets/72157622732517348/

Links:
Earthwatch
There were quite a few other organisations taking part in the week:
Oxfordshire Nature Conservation Forum
Oxfordshire Community Action Groups
Dorchester Carbon Project
Berks Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust

Geneva Special - Bank Holiday Monday 28th December

2009-12-28T06:47:00.005Z

It's an extended Weekend Breakfast Show this week, so we are doing things a little different. Today we are looking at the links between Oxford and Geneva as for the first time, the two cities are connected by air.

During a two day stay in Geneva, my producer Vicky and I were able to discover first hand the connections between Oxfordshire and the small but well connected city.

Have a look at our photos:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/philmercer/sets/72157623038872918/

Here is a map:
Click here

Christmas Morning

2009-12-25T06:28:00.003Z

Merry Christmas everyone.

I've always really looked forward to the Christmas morning show, I'm not sure if its due to all the lovely Christmas messages that people send in or all the extra sympathy it seems to garner just for getting up early and working. It might also be that I normally escape the madness of preparing Christmas lunch. Anyway, it's fun.

This mornings show looks forward to the Celebration of Christmas and features interviews with some of those who took part. Including the Archbishop of Canterbury and the actor Robert Hardy.

Saturday 19th December

2009-12-19T07:44:00.003Z

What a day. It's very cold, but thats winter for you. On the show this morning we heard from:

OxPAT
http://www.oxpat.org/
The charity that helps find funding for the many other charities helping the homeless of Oxfordshire are singing carols outside Oxford Railway Station at 1530hrs this afternoon.

The Ducklington Mummers
They are out this evening performing the traditional tale of good versus evil. You should be able to catch them around the following times in the following pubs:
8pm. The Fox, Stanton Harcourt
8.30pm. Strickland Arms, Ducklington
9pm. Bell Inn, Ducklington
9.30pm Plough Inn, Witney
10pm.Three Pigeons,Witney
10.30pm House of Windsor,Witney

Saturday 12th December

2009-12-12T08:06:00.003Z

Morning,

We've been covering more of the Climate Conference happening in Copenhagen again. For the latest from the event have a look at this website: http://en.cop15.dk/ We spoke to a couple of people involved.
Dr Dan Bebber is the lead scientist from Earthwatch. http://www.earthwatch.org/europe/
Anne Augustine works with Oxfam: http://www.oxfam.org/

The next walk is going to be on Boxing Day, we are heading to Blenheim Palace, here are the full details: http://bbcoxfordweekends.blogspot.com/2009/12/boxing-day-get-active-walk.html
Sing Christmas
Oxford is going carols mad today with lots of choirs singing all over the city. To find out who and where have a look at this site: http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/whatson-spotlight/
We also chatted to Michelle Anthony who created the Oxford City Singers earlier this year. They have their concert on this evening. For information go to: http://www.oxfordcitysingers.com/

Boxing Day Get Active Walk

2009-12-12T08:00:00.002Z

From Kate, our walk co-ordinator:

Well done to those who turned out on a dreary, damp day in November for the last walk. We all agreed if a walk hadn’t been arranged we probably wouldn’t have ventured out at all! Considering the weather we had a good turn out and raised over £50 for Children in Need. Many thanks to Pudsey for turning out to help with the collection and to see us off! If you haven’t already done so you can use the link below to look at the photos from all the walks and see the friendly people who take part.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/oxford/content/articles/2006/03/27/get_active.shtml

The next walk is on Saturday December 26th 2009. You’ll be able to walk off the excesses of the previous day! The walk will be around Blenheim Palace grounds so we’ll meet at the car park in Woodstock at 10.45am to start the walk about 11.00am. Depending on the weather between now and then we may decide to do a route that includes footpaths which may be muddy, so boots or sturdy shoes are advisable. The walk is fairly flat and about 5 miles long. As always the walk will be lead at a pace to suit everybody and well behaved dogs are welcome.

Everyone should sign the disclaimer and if new people wouldn’t mind completing a monitoring form that would be great. Please make sure you sign the disclaimer every time you come on a walk.

We’ve decided not to make a booking for lunch at a pub so we can go home and enjoy some leftovers rather than eat in a busy pub!

So, whether you’ve joined us before or not, and feel that you can manage this walk put the date in your diary and come with us.

The weather of course is unpredictable and unknown at this stage. We’ll walk in all but the worst conditions but if you’re in any doubt about whether the walk is going ahead listen to Phil Mercer’s show on the Saturday morning between 6am and 9am.
Many charities encourage walking as a way of raising money. So before the start of the walk we are asking for a donation of £1 for a chosen charity. So far we have more than £1,050 for both local and national charities. Before the walk this month we’ll make a collection for the Foetal Medicine Unit at the J.R. Hospital.

To book a place or for more details contact BBC Oxford Action Desk 08459 311 222 or email katie.brown@bbc.co.uk
We look forward to seeing you on the next walk.

Please let me know your email address if you are able to receive the newsletter by email.

Sunday 6th December

2009-12-06T06:29:00.006Z

Morning,

It's not surprising that we will be talking a fair amount about climate change today, with the Copenhagen Summit starting we'll talk to a couple of christians to get their point of view in More Questions Than Answers.
Rev Dr Gillian Straine curate from Kidlington popped in to tell us what churches in Oxfordshire are doing to make a difference.

Operation Christmas - Salvation Army
07852 576368
Cpt Mark popped in to the studio to remind us about how we can help this year. He's looking for 400 Christmas presents for 0-16 year olds, if you can provide one (unwrapped) pop it in to
St. Michael at the Northgate (Mon-Fri 9am-4pm) or any branch of Superdrug.
He is also looking for volunteers for there Christmas Day celebrations.

Comedy and Christmas
http://www.paulkerensa.com/gigguide.php
The comedy write Paul Kerensa talked to us about the challenges of trying to cheer up Christmas.

Papers. Here's a nice picture of David Cranston, who kindly reviewed the newspapers for us this morning.

Also let me introduce Rich, the newest member of the team and the man running things behind the scenes while the programme is on the air on a Sunday.

Saturday 5th December

2009-12-05T09:20:00.004Z

After an exhausting week including recording the carol service at Christ Church Cathedral, it's back to usual.

We spent some time looking at a couple of environment subjects:

Tree O'clock
http://www.bbc.co.uk/breathingplaces/treeoclock/
There are events at Stratfield Brake, Kiddlington. Boundary Brook Nature Park, Oxford and at The Wittenham Clumps.

The Wave
http://www.stopclimatechaos.org/the-wave
We also heard from some of the people heading down to London to take part in The Wave, a huge climate change awareness Rally.

Alice's Adventures Underground
http://www.oxfordtheatreguild.com/pages/productions/AAU/aau.html
Star of the show Olivia Jewson popped in to tell about this latest take on the Lewis Carroll classic.

Sunday 29th November

2009-11-29T08:37:00.004Z

More Questions Than Answers: Giving
http://www.givingwhatwecan.org/
We had a couple of guests discussing the pressure to give at this time of year. Geoffrey Richardson from the Blackbird Leys Credit Union (01865 718503) and Dr Toby Ord both have a lot of experience on this subject.

Nativity (U)
We talked to the director of the new movie that follows a primary school production of a Nativity play is on at the VUE and other cinemas over the next few weeks.

World AIDS Day
http://www.tht.org.uk/contactus/southeast/
http://www.oxford.anglican.org/the-door/news/world-aids-day.html
We heard about one project the Oxfordshire church is getting involved with in South Africa.

Saturday 28th November

2009-11-28T06:32:00.007Z

Morning,

Sorry I've been quiet on the blog this week, it's been a manic one with the final preparations for the recording of this years carol service on Tuesday. I even got to meet the Archbishop of Canterbury!

This mornings show is a great one.

Hayley Westenra
http://www.hayleywestenra.com/
She is appearing at St Mary's in Banbury tonight. She has a fantastic voice so I played her doing a bit of West Side Story.

Pop Up Restuarant
http://covertpopup.blogspot.com/
lara.tyrrell@merton.ox.ac.uk
Lara is running a one night only special restaurant to try and encourage people to think local when shopping. All the food is sourced (where possible) from local providers.

Affordable Housing
If you want to join the debate on how to improve the amount of affordable housing in Oxford, you need to go to the Quaker Meetings house in Oxford for 11am.

United Charities Christmas Bizarre
On today from 10 to 1 at the Town Hall in Wallingford.

Dorchester Carbon Project and The Wave
http://www.cagoxfordshire.org.uk/index.php
http://www.dorchestercarbonproject.org.uk/
http://www.the-wave.org.uk/
We heard about some of the exciting plans the guys in Dorchester-upon-Thames are putting together as part of an influential government initiative. We also heard how lots of people from Oxford are heading in to London next weekend for The Wave!

Artic Explorers
http://www.polarcommitment.com/
Ian and Claire popped in to the studio ahead of an adventure they are setting off on next year. They will be part of a team walking 800 miles across ice to the polar pole to raise money for Help for the Heroes and the Thames Valley Air Ambulance. Good luck guys.

Sunday 16th November

2009-11-15T07:13:00.003Z

Kalyan Das led the reflection this morning and Hedley Feast the Devotional. Helen Ann Hartley looked through the papers and also talked about the Shi Shi Go Shan festival in Faith Matters.

Songs of Praise
Website: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006ttc5
Todays programme is from Witney, so we had a chat to the minister of High Street Methodist Church in Witney who hosted the team.

I played the new song from Howard Jones called Soon you'll go. It's off his album Ordinary Heroes.

We looked at Interfaith Week and a special memorial service remembering those involved in Road Traffic Accidents. The latter is happening at St Mary's Church at 3pm.

Plus, we talked to Professor Diarmaid Macculloch about his TV series The History of Christianity currently playing on BBC Four. You can catch up on the series by following this link: Click here...

Saturday 14th November

2009-11-14T06:41:00.006Z

So I had a lovely Sunday off last week, but its back to the grindstone this morning. Last night the Oxfordshire Sports Awards graced the halls of the Kassam Stadium. To read the complete list of winners, click here...

Banbury's Canalside Development
If you pop in to Castle Quays today, you'll get a chance to have your say on plans to develop the area south from the shopping centre alongside the canal.

Jonny's Flight
Last week we spoke to Jonny Beech just before he set off with Nigel Lamb on the flight of a lifetime! Here are his pics:

Saturday 7th November

2009-11-07T07:26:00.006Z

Morning,
I've got lots of firework bits for you this morning. Including a look through what displays are happening around Oxfordshire. Click here for a full listing...

Have a Safe Fireworks night.
Guy and Richard from the Oxfordshire Fireworks Partnership popped in to the studio to give us some ideas of how to be safe this evening. The phone number for the partnership is 0845 8505 505 if you want to report any fireworks issues.

Boot Camp
http://www.wolfffitness.co.uk/
So we heard from Daniel Wolff who had details of how you could raise money for Cancer research by doing his Boot Camp today, details from his website.

Jonnie Beech designed this logo for Nigel Lamb the aerobatics display pilot and will be having the flight of his life later today when Nigel takes him for a two hour spin!

Climate Week gallery

2009-11-05T08:59:00.001Z

Here is a link to a flickr group I've created for the Climate Champions field week.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/philmercer/sets/72157622732517348/

Get Active Walk - Saturday 21st Nov 2009

2009-11-04T11:33:00.000Z

The next walk is on Saturday November 21st 2009. That’s the day after the BBC Children in Need Appeal so to carry on the fun bring a bear or wear something spotty! The walk starts at The Bear and Ragged Staff, Cumnor. It’s a circular tour around the picturesque villages of Cumnor, Bessels Leigh, Appleton and Eaton so there’s a little road walking. However, most of the walk is on footpaths, some of which are very muddy, so boots or sturdy shoes are advisable. The walk is fairly flat and about 5 miles long. As always the walk will be lead at a pace to suit everybody and well behaved dogs are welcome.

We’ll meet at the pub car park of at 10.45am to start the walk about 11.00am. Please park at the far side of the car park away from the pub. Everyone should sign the disclaimer and if new people wouldn’t mind completing a monitoring form that would be great. Please make sure you sign the disclaimer every time you come on a walk.

We’ve made a group booking for lunch at the pub for those who wish to have lunch afterwards. There’ll be a menu for you to choose from so make sure you order your lunch before we set off on the walk!

So, whether you’ve joined us before or not, and feel that you can manage this walk put the date in your diary and come with us.

The weather of course is unpredictable and unknown at this stage. We’ll walk in all but the worst conditions but if you’re in any doubt about whether the walk is going ahead listen to Phil Mercer’s show on the Saturday morning between 6am and 9am.

Many charities encourage walking as a way of raising money. So before the start of the walk we are asking for a donation of £1 for a chosen charity. So far we have raised over £1,000 for both local and national charities. Before the walk this month we’ll make a collection for the BBC Children in Need Appeal.

To book a place or for more details contact BBC Oxford Action Desk 08459 311 222 or email katie.brown@bbc.co.uk
We look forward to seeing you on the next walk.

Surprise... tis I on Lou's show

2009-11-02T11:56:00.004Z

So i got woken up with a bump this morning when Lou lost her voice and I got press gananed in to looking after her show.

My Story
http://www.bbc.co.uk/mystory
One of the subjects we covered was the BBC project My Story. If you want details of how to send in your ideas to My Story then you need to have a look at the website... or send your (up to) 1,500 words to:

BBC My Story
PO Box 65 655
London, W12 2BG

Annie Get Your Gun
The guys and girls of Wantage Stage Musical Co are putting on the Irving Berline classic at the Civic Hall from Wednesday to Saturday. Call 01235 770087 for tickets and information.

Sunday 1st November

2009-11-01T08:32:00.003Z

What a morning! We handed out the first tranch of tickets to this years carol service 'A Celebration of Christmas' we are holding it at Christ Church Cathedral. If you want to get some, they are strictly limited so it's first come first served. Send me an email mercer@bbc.co.uk if you would like some. We are restricting everyone to a maximum of 6 per household.

Street Pastors
We had an update from the new Street Pastor teams working in Wantage and Grove. If you want details email: wantageandgrove@streetpastors.org

Saturday 31st October

2009-10-31T06:48:00.003Z

Morning,

So I'm a bit dazed and confused after my week away learning about Climate Change, watch this space for my reports and interviews from there. This is the info from todays show:

The Big Climate Event
http://www.cagoxfordshire.org
Our Eco Guru Simon popped in to the studio to tell about their big event at Oxford Town Hall on the 7th November. It's a chance to share and learn ideas on how you can do your bit to help Climate Change. You'll need to book your place.

The Red Cross
http://www.redcross.org.uk/
The Oxfordshire Red Cross is marking its centenary with an event in the Clarendon Centre in Oxford from 9am. If you can't make it then have a look at the website or get in touch.
oxon@redcross.org.uk / 01235 552660

The Bunk Line
http://www.brazilproductions.co.uk
We heard from Nick Brazil about his latest documentary on the railway line from Cholsey to Wallingford.

I also promised I'd post up details of an event for Clive, so here it is:

Hi Phil
I would be most grateful if you will please be good enough to mention this charity fundraising event on your BBC Radio Oxford show this weekend.
I live in Freeland and have kidney cancer, and am trying to do my bit as a voluntary fundraiser for an excellent Oxford based cancer charity, UCARE, who are already dong so much to help others. This is the link to their
website: http://www.ucare-oxford.org.uk
We are holding a fundraising event by way of a concert to be given by the Radcliffe Orchestra, on Saturday, 7th November at the Tingewick Hall, which is on the JR Hospital site, and I attach a poster with the full details.
Tickets are only £8, including light refreshments, and will be available on the night, and beforehand at the Cairns Library, which is located in the academic centre of the JR hospital. This is also where the Tingewick Hall is.
I hope you can help us please. Many thanks.
Kind regards
Clive Stone

Dead Wood!

2009-10-29T23:09:00.002Z

Our main task today has been to venture out into the wildes of the county to assess the amount of dead wood that has collected on the woodland floor.

It was actually more fun and a bit easier than I had originally thought. Rather than count everything (an almost impossible task!) you just draw out regular lines across sections of a plot of the forest and then count any wood that is wider than 5cm diameter!

It did all begin to blur in to one after a while!

In the evening we began to think as a group, to see if there was one project that we could agree to put in to action together. A difficult choice as most of the ideas will require outside help. We shall see if we can get anywhere though. Watch this space!

Mini beasts and the great debate

2009-10-27T22:17:00.003Z

The Climate Camp continues and today we moved on to mini beasts, although not quite as we hoped. We were due to head out in to the woods to count millipedes and woodlice however the bit's of kit required didn't show up in time. So instead it was a day of leaf sorting and for the first time in a very long time for me, a go at sewing. Not something I was expecting really, but we had to put together some mesh bags for a new experiment on what affects the decomposition of leaves... mini beasts or bacteria!

Here are some pics from a lab experiment to see if it's possible to replicate some of the woodland conditions under a more controlled environment. The Woodlice in this tub started off with a selection of leaves and have created the top soil you can see in this pic. And it only took a few weeks!

Each evening we have a more formal learning session which last night dealt with the facts around Climate Change and today how that is affecting us and what we can do about it.#

This would take me a month to explain, but needless to say, it seems we are probably in a great deal of trouble! I'll try and explain it a bit later, but for now my bunk bed is calling me!!!

If I should enter the woods today...

2009-10-26T21:09:00.006Z

Today was the first day of some real work on the Climate Research field trip. After a briefing session in the lab giving us the basics on what Climate Change is and how woodland is part of the process we headed out to the trees themselves.

We were out to collect leaves and then count them. The first major learning point for me, the difference between Maple and Sycamore leaves!!!

Here are some of the pics:

Hill End - Base Camp

Heading out to the woods.

Tehri, showing us how they measure tree growth.

Climate Camp

2009-10-25T23:15:00.004Z

Hello from Hill End near Farmoor. This week I'm taking part in a Climate Change Field Study with Earthwatch.

They've invited me a long to get a sense of the problems facing the world and how we can make a difference. Also I'll be taking part in some actual research in to the affects of the changing environment on our woodland. I'll check back with any good gossip I get as the week goes on.

I've already hit one problem, the BBC laptop isn't liking the country air. I'll reboot and try it in the morning.

Look out Swampy, here I come!!!

Sunday 25th October

2009-10-25T09:26:00.005Z

A really busy one this morning, so here is the background information for you:

Universal Harmony
Website: http://www.nirankari.com/
The Universal Brotherhood meet in Oxford and have a special event on this weekend that aims to bring together people from around the country.

Banbury Cross
Website: http://www.banbury.gov.uk/
It's the 150th anniversary of the Banbury Cross this month, and today there was a special service of celebration being held.

Jo Thoenes climbs up Kilimanjaro
Website: http://www.bbc.co.uk/oxford/content/articles/2009/06/17/mountain_feature.shtml
Jo left on Friday to join 7 other people who are climbing up Mount Kilimanjaro to raise money for the NASIO Trust. Jo starts the climb today and is going to be giving us regular updates on this amazing challenge.

Saturday 24th October

2009-10-24T06:37:00.010+01:00

First things first. Don't forget: THE CLOCKS GO BACK TONIGHT. I'm having to cover the house with post-it notes to remind me!

It's a full one. Mercers Movies recommends Fantastic Mr. Fox
http://fliptips.blogspot.com/ for the full review.

Moon watching
Website: http://www.cnaag.com/
The Chipping Norton Amatuer Astrology Group are off to the Rollright Stones to go moonwatching today. We also learnt our word of the day... Bortle! Here's an explanation off the interweb! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bortle_Dark-Sky_Scale

Birding
Website: http://www.rspb.org.uk/
The RSPB are holding an event in Port Meadow, Oxford. It's a chance to learn how to make sure our winged friends are well fed for the winter.

Little planes
Website: http://www.heritage-motor-centre.co.uk/
Sunday is going to be fun at the Heritage Motor Centre in Gaydon where they are holding the Large Model Aircraft Show. Including a scale model of the Vulcan and Wellington bombers!

Art in Woodstock
Website: http://www.artinwoodstock.com/
Chris Baylis popped in to brief us the events of the next week.

What Recession.
We talked to Sian Holt from the new Fudge Kitchen shop in Oxford and Neil Kinch from Salters Steamers about how they were faring in these tough times.

Listen again to hear the whole interview.

Sounding off..

2009-10-22T13:50:00.002+01:00

It's been a busy week so far with lots of my time going on producing a special programme on the Sounds of Oxfordshire ready for the 1st November. We have had the artist Robert Jarvis putting together a work based around the sounds peculiar to Oxfordshire. It's coming together really well, so will be interesting when complete.

I'm also starting the packing for an adventure next week when I'm heading to Wytham Woods to take part in a Climate Study field trip! The Wellies were the first thing I got ready!

Sunday 18th October

2009-10-18T08:02:00.005+01:00

On the show today,

We got the latest on the Abingdon Marathon.
Website: http://www.abingdonamblers.co.uk/serve_page.phtml?static=marathon/race.htm
You can have a look at the map of the route on their website.

Art in Woodstock
Website: http://www.artinwoodstock.com/
Kathy Shock from the Jewish Congregation in Oxford.

More Questions Than Answers
We took a look at the current and past challenges facing Christians in Russia and Communist states. To follow the work of the Keston Institute have a look at their website.
http://www.keston.org.uk/

And Joel, presenter of Sunday Lunch was showing off his posh new get up! He is the king of bargain hunting! Just thought you should see where his money went!

Saturday 17th October

2009-10-17T06:24:00.008+01:00

Lots out and about around the county this morning.
Philip Waddy the new chairman of RIBA south popped in to tell us a bit about the current challenges facing architects in Oxfordshire.

Early on we heard about the charity ROSY:
http://www.rosy.org.uk/ or call direct on 01865 848696.

Don't forget we will also be going for a walk along the Thames Path south of Abingdon later... details of where to go are here... http://bbcoxfordweekends.blogspot.com/search/label/Walk

Thriving Sustainably
Website: http://www.thrivingsustainably.org.uk/
An event happening today at West Oxford Community Center in Botley.

Not Just A Walk in the Park
Website: http://www.orhcharitablefunds.nhs.uk/
Sunday will see a lot of people heading the University Parks in Oxford to take part in a fundraising event for the JR's Heart and Cancer centres.

Leaches Farm
Website: http://www.bbowt.org.uk/
Giles Strother took me on a tour of the new plot of land that BBOWT have managed to rescue thanks to your money.

Steampunk
Website: http://www.mhs.ox.ac.uk/steampunk/
Art Donovan took us on a tour of the rather bizarre exhibition at the Museum of the History of Science in Oxford. It runs until February 2010, so plenty of chances to go and have a look.

Tours aplenty this weekend

2009-10-16T11:53:00.002+01:00

Vicky and I are putting together the final plans for this weekends programmes and it is a bumper session of tours. You'll hear my look around the new Steampunk exhibition at the Museum of the History of Science, plus a first hand view of BBOWT's plans for Leaches Farm on the Oxfordshire/Buckinghamshire border.

On Sunday, More Questions Than Answers will take a look at how the church in Russia dealt with life under Iron Curtain and the freedoms since the fall of communism.

Wellies on early

2009-10-15T10:32:00.002+01:00

I ended up getting the wellies out a little earlier than planned. I headed off this afternoon to see how £200,000 will help to secure a piece of farmland that BBOWT want to buy.

It's at Leaches Farm on the Oxfordshire Buckinghamshire border. Giles Strother, the man in charge of all of BBOWTS reserves took me on a guided tour. It was fascinating to see how it looks now, before they get their mits on it. Give them a couple of years and it will be interesting to see how much wildlife has moved in.

Listen to the whole interview and tour on Saturday morning.

Wellies armed

2009-10-14T15:59:00.002+01:00

I've just had some exciting news, it loosk like I'm heading off on a field trip in a few weeks time.

The Eartwatch Institute have invited me and some bods from other Oxfordshire based organisations to take part in a field studies trip. Unfortunately not to China or South America, but instead to the Wildes of Wytham Woods!

I'm off to the Doc's tomorrow to see if I'm fit enough! Fingers crossed!

Sunday 11th October

2009-10-11T06:06:00.008+01:00

From Phil: Good morning,

Here are the bits and bobs from todays show. Got off to a sad start with the news that Boyzones Stephen Gately has died (according to their website).

Dr Robin Gibbons lead this mornings reflection.

The Oxfordshire Devotional this morning is one of our special on location episodes. The service was recorded at Magdalen Road Church in east Oxford. Thanks to our outside broadcast team of Mike for doing the hard work and everyone at the church for making him welcome.

NB/ I got a little stumped with that usual debate... is it Maw-dalen or Mag-delen Road. My understanding is that its Maw-dalen College and Street, but Mag-dalen Road! Obviously there are different opinions on this one! (mercer@bbc.co.uk if you want your say!)

Faith Place
This week its All Saints -- The village church of Sutton Courtenay and is the Faith Place of Ken Giles who told his story to Hedley Feast.

Emmanuel Church
http://www.emmanuelbicester.org.uk/
Great news from Rev Chris Boyce, the work has begun on building their new church. If you want to help them get to the total of £1.5 million, then call 01869 244918 or have a look at the website.

Hymns from Honeysuckle Cottage
Today Dr Gillian Warson looked at the hymn Awake my soul.

More Questions Than Answers
Lionel Tarassenko is an Inventor and Scientist and will be talking about his faith and working in the world of science tonight at Christ Church Cathedral. Have a look at the website for more information.
http://www.chch.ox.ac.uk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=854&Itemid=658