KV
Kidlington Voice
Local Writers for Local Readers


 May 2026 

flourish flourish
Kidlington Voice
Online Magazine
kvoice.co.uk

MMXXVI
★★★★★
SME Southern Enterprise Awards
'Most Innovative Local Journalism Platform'
1.1 kvoice.co.uk



Today KV 2026


Thursday
7 May 2026

11:52 AM

KV 2026 QUICK LINKS
featured advertisers

I'm looking for ...


• a Marquetry expert
• an Operatic Society
• a Lighting specialist
• a Lettings agency
• an Estate Agent
• a Tattooist
• a firm of Solicitors
• a Drainage specialist
• a Care Home
• a helping hand
• a Landscaping service
• a Solar Panels supplier
• a Roofing specialist

To advertise on KV

CONTACT
Alice Parker-James
Publishing Director
alice@kvoice.co.uk


i1

Forge Garage




Forge Garage
Derek Woolford of Forge Garage

Kidlington's Forge Garage is on the move to Enslow

Forge Garage has been part of Kidlington’s history for decades — and thanks to determination and community support, its story is continuing at Enslow.

Derek Woolford (pictured above) started working at Forge Garage when he was just 19 years old. Now 54, he has dedicated 35 years of his life to the business, becoming the owner 5 years ago after the sudden and very sad passing of Alan Beckley, who he had worked alongside for 30 years. The garage itself dates back to the 1950s, built on the site of a former blacksmith's workshop on The Moors, which is how Forge Garage got its name. It became a family-run business in 1961 when Fred Beckley took it over, later joined by his son Alan, who continued running it after his father’s death in 1983. Over the years, it became a trusted, well-known part of the local community. Recently, they were given the devastating news that the council-owned land on The Moors was being sold, and Derek and his colleague Rolland were given just two months to vacate the site after more than 70 years of the garage being based there. Despite the challenges and tight timeframe, they are so relieved to say that Forge Garage will continue. They have secured new premises in Enslow, near the old Rock of Gibraltar pub. For now, Derek and Rolland are working from a temporary building on the site while a new permanent garage is being completed. The aim is to keep everything running as normal as possible during this transition. MOT testing will also be starting up again in the next few weeks, as soon as the licence for the new premises comes through. This has been an incredibly stressful time, but the support, kindness, and encouragement they have received from customers and the local community has meant so much. Forge Garage may be moving location, but the same dedication, experience, and friendly service remain. They look forward to welcoming both old and new customers in Enslow, OX5 3AY.

i64
Roofing


Roofing

MLJ ROOFING LIMITED
Business or home, bungalow or garage — whether its a new roof installation, repair, or maintenance, look to MLJ Roofing Limited for your domestic or commercial roofing requirement carried out in Kidlington and the wider Oxfordshire area. To discuss your project, telephone Matthew on 07739-391873 or email info @mljroofingltd.co.uk

i62
Afro Shop
Afro Shop

2-Sisters Afro Shop
The Kidlington Centre OX5 2DL
Tel: 01865-602245
i27


Art Exhibition



Lincroft Meadow Art Exhibition

Lincroft Meadow Care Home

    In April 2026 Lincroft Meadow hosted its first Art Exhibition which featured works by Lincroft Meadow residents, relatives, and team members. The exhibition included a selection of watercolours by Mavis Burley including some of her stunning paintings of Oxford scenes, University buildings and landmarks. We also exhibit pieces by David Phipps, Celia Orr and Celia's daughter Charlotte Orr—see 'Women of Oxford' above. We raffled one of Mavis's paintings of a scene in Venice and raised over £200 for the Alzheimer's Society. We would like to thank everyone who contributed to making the Exhibition so successful. In fact, we've received so much fantastic feedback that we're already thinking about doing it again next year.

Click here to find out more about Lincroft Meadow Care Home.

i9


Cinema
Cinema
Photo courtesy Ian Wallman

Ultimate Picture Palace

Kidlington Film Buffs

Cinema may close

Kidlington's Giles Woodforde writes:

Many cinema enthusiasts from Kidlington include the Ultimate Picture Palace (UPP) among their favourite go-to venues in Oxford. A Grade II listed building, the UPP is one of the oldest purpose-built cinemas in Britain — the first flickering film was projected there in 1911. Now community run, the cinema has just launched a campaign to try and ensure its survival. The building badly needs investment to improve access, film-viewing quality and greener energy use. Planning permission for the necessary work has already been secured, and funders are keen to help — so long as the UPP can secure its long-term lease from an Oxford College.

Read more, and sign the petition.


i25
 
 
 
New Book



'The Oxford Chair' —is a short story self-published in paperback (pocket book size, around 95 pages) by Kidlington novice writer Paul Humphreys.

Available now from Amazon at £9.99.

The Oxford Chair

The Oxford Chair is a gently comic, self‑aware, and affectionately Oxfordian tale about a retired man—Paul Humphreys—who decides to attempt his first piece of creative writing. Lacking experience but rich in curiosity, he sets out to acquire a proper ‘Writer’s chair’ hoping it might help him begin a narrative. What follows is a layered story told through a conversation between Paul and a sceptical friend. Paul recounts how he found an old, battered chair—supposedly at Emmaus in Cowley—and became convinced it once belonged to J. R. R. Tolkien (The Lord of the Rings), who then gifted it to C. S. Lewis (The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe). The friend doubts this, but Paul insists, weaving a narrative full of Oxford lore, literary history, and whimsical logic.

More ...
i14

Solicitors
New Office in Summertown

New Office in Summertown

LOCAL TO KIDLINGTON

SE-Solicitors is proud to announce the opening of its new office in Summertown, Oxford, strengthening its commitment to delivering clear, strategic and relationship-led legal services to businesses and individuals across the region.

Summertown Office
The Old Bakery
18-24 Middle Way
Summertown OX2 7GL

Tel: 01865 561000

i26

Drainage


Oxon City Drainage
Oxon City Drainage
Kidlington
Tel:07828-212990
Oxon City Drainage for all your drainage needs. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing top-quality drainage services for residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Whether it's routine maintenance, blocked drains, or emergency repairs, you can count on us for quick and effective service around the clock.

Click for more ...
i43
Home School

Are you a parent or guardian faced with the prospect of home-schooling your child, but you don't know where to begin?


Education Otherwise

UK Charity Reg No 1055120

Education Otherwise is a charitable organisation which has been supporting home education and home educating families for over forty years.

i91
1.2
Notable Dates
May 2026

Notable Date

  26 May 2026 Tue  

Kidlington & District Historical Society

Historical Society 7.30pm at The Baptist Church, High Street, Kidlington, OX5 2DS. 'Knossos – Myth or Reality', a talk by Dr Andrew Shapland. Visitors are always welcome and need not be accompanied by a member. The charge is £5.00 on the door (50p if under 26).


Notable Date

  16 May 2026 Sat    

Oxfordshire Craft Guild
at ArtWeeks 2026

Oxfordshire Craft Guild

From Saturday 16th May to Monday 25th May 2026: sixteen OCG members will be exhibiting alongside a group from Viridian Artist, at St Barnabas Church, Jericho, Oxford OX2 6BS. Shown above, the marquetry work: 'University Graduation' by Gabriella Blakey.


Notable Date

  9 May 2026 Sat    

Kidlington Gardening Society

Kidlington Gardening Society
2.00pm to 4.00pm at Exeter Hall small hall. The Society's Annual Cake and Plant sale. Cash only please.

Notable Date

  9 May 2026 Sat    

Artists at St Mary's

Artists at St Marys
Sat 9th May to Sat 16th May 2026 at St. Mary's Church Kidlington.

CLICK for details

Notable Date

  6 May 2026 Wed    

Kidlington Gardening Society

Kidlington Gardening Society
7.30pm at Exeter Hall small hall. A talk by Katharine Woods: The development of a small Arts & Crafts house and garden. All welcome. £3.00 for non-members. Refeshments 50p.






KV 2026 About Us

KV is free-to-view and welcomes everyone with an interest in the future of Kidlington. KV is also QI (quite interesting): see KV's list of Notable Dates published up to 12-months ahead of time. KV is supported by advertisers who seek to increase local awareness about their business enterprise. KV is managed by people focused on developing local journalism online.

We publish, you write.

To have something published

CONTACT
Alice Parker-James
Publishing Director
alice@kvoice.co.uk





KV 2026 About You

Be a local reporter. Submit an article. Publish your story. Advertise your business. Promote your brand. Add an upcoming event. Subscribe to our newsletter. Vote in a KV poll. Be seen on KV.

You write, we publish.

To submit an article

CONTACT
Alice Parker-James
Publishing Director
alice@kvoice.co.uk

i3


imMay

More...

Notable Dates
for
upcoming
months
continue
in this column
below.

Continue to
scroll down
for more...

⇊

⇊

⇊

1.3
 
 
 
New Bridge



Plans are unveiled for a new walk bridge from Kidlington's Parkway railway station to an Oxford University College's computing education and data centre

Computing Education

    'EXOq' [short for 'Exeter College Oxford, Quantum'] is home for global research, innovation, and education—including Further Education for aged 16+— set within parkland in a highly sustainable location on land owned by Exeter College alongside Kidlington in Cherwell District. In addition, the parkland will provide additional flood storage capacity. New footpaths will connect to canal-side walks, cycle paths and the footbridge to Oxford Parkway providing east-west connectivity. A further education college will provided skilled local employment opportunities in hardware and Information Technology.

    Rector of Exeter College, Dr Andrew Roe CB, said::  “This strategic development represents a significant investment in both national capability and the local community.”

Click here to find out more about plans for EXOq.

i10




Monthly


Kidlington News
i103


 
 
 
Employment



Kidlington's Alex Ingram secures a job with the help of Oxfordshire's Supported Employment Programme

Employment Support

    Alex Ingram, aged 21, who lives in Kidlington, had faced challenges in securing and sustaining work, until he connected with Oxfordshire County Council's Supported Employment programme. With guidance from the council's Employment Advisor, Linda Walker, and the backing of a supportive employer in Kidlington, Alex was offered a full-time role in a warehouse at Savona Food Service. The company was so impressed after meeting him that they created a daytime position specifically for Alex, having previously only offered night shifts. Linda worked closely with both Alex and Savona to ensure a smooth transition into the workplace. Since joining, Alex has flourished; growing in confidence and recently achieving a major milestone: earning his forklift truck licence.

    Councillor Tim Bearder, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care at Oxfordshire County Council, said::  "This is what Supported Employment is all about. "It's not just about helping someone into a job ‒ it's about recognising their strengths, supporting their growth, and working with employers to create opportunities that change lives. "Alex’s story is a shining example of what can be achieved through purposeful collaboration and tailored support."

Click here to find out more about Oxfordshire's Supported Employment Programme.

i8

Estate Agent

Thomas Merrifield

Thomas Merrifield

Estate Agent
1B The Hampden Building
High Street
Kidlington OX5 2DH
01865-379880
Be the first to know about exclusive updates, local property news, industry insights and market updates. Visit our website and sign up to receive our property newsletter.


i33
Friendship


Lincroft Meadow Care Home

Monthly Friendship Café


Lincroft Meadow Care Home

Lincroft Meadow Care Home
Last Thursday of every month.
See also: KV's Notable Dates.

Lincroft Meadow provides 24-hour residential, nursing, dementia and respite care for the elderly in an elegant and spacious home incorporating numerous thoughtful and practical features which ensures our home is able to meet the changing needs of its residents. All residents benefit from living in a caring environment with generously appointed private bedrooms with en suite wetrooms, and plentiful communal living areas including sitting rooms, restaurants, cinema, hairdressing salon, activities and wellbeing room and private dining room for special family occasions.


i53
Monthly


Kidlington News
i103
Eco

Kidlington Eco Group

Kidlington Eco Group
Photo: Kidlington Eco Group

Kidlington Eco Group is a network of ecologically-minded agencies, groups, and individuals working towards a greener Kidlington and world.

i81


 
 
 
Local Links
KVoice Magazine

Kidlington Community

Kidlington Wikipedia Kidlington Parish Council Kidlington Area Strategy Kidlington Eco Group Kidlington Cricket Club Kidlington Photo Group Kidlington Library Kidlington Gardening Society Kidlington & District Historical Society Kidlington & District Information Centre Kidlington Amateur Operatic Society (KAOS) Kidlington Running Club Kidlington Crime Statistics Fix My Street The Oxford Mail Oxford Webcams Roman Catholic Church Anglican Church Methodist Church Baptist Church



 
 
 
Local Writer
David Meara
David Meara

David highlights two of his recent publications:

  • Oxford: A Potted History

  • 50 Gems of Oxfordshire

i92
1.4
Property
Finders Keepers

Finders Keepers is a highly regarded property agency that has been serving Oxfordshire for over 50 years. With eight offices spread across the county, it is a trusted and reliable source for anyone looking to rent, let, buy, sell or invest in property.


226 Banbury Road
Summertown
Oxford OX2 7BY

01865-311011
We launched in 1972 as an acquisition and investment service and soon became the leading letting agents in Oxford, letting and managing thousands of homes from our offices in North Oxford, Central Oxford and East Oxford, Abingdon, Banbury, Bicester and Witney. Our experienced and knowledgeable teams offer a personalised service to each of our clients.


i63
Marquetry


Art in Wood

Art in Wood
Gabriella Blakey
Unique handcrafted objets d'art.


To continue the series of my commissioned bamboo jewellery boxes, I was asked to decorate this one with 'Passiflora Caerulea'. This plant is an evergreen climber with large white flowers and central filaments of cornflower blue and purple. It was already by 1569 a well known herbal remedy in Brazilian folklore. However, it was the Jesuit Ferrari who later gave the plant its Christian symbolism by seeing in the flower the instruments of Jesus's Passion and Resurrection such as: the 3 nails of the cross and the crown of thorns. That's why it seems to add a touch of paradise to any gardens. With the slim tendrils I shaped the initials of the names of the couple who commissioned the box. As both share the same letter H, I interlaced them into a romantic monogram.


i52
Tattoo


Tattoo Artist Kidlington

Evolution Tattoo Studio

Tattoo Artist Kidlington
Paul Humphreys
Evolution Tattoo Studio
OX5 1TL
07999-337508
For our most recent tattoo images uploaded this month, visit our website and click on our links to our Instagram and Facebook. To book an appointment, drop a message to 07999-337508.


i41
KAOS


Kidlington Amateur Operatic Society

KAOS



Providing a fun, friendly, inspiring environment in which people, regardless of age, gender or experience can learn and perform a wide variety of choral music.


Did you know that KAOS has been presenting concerts and musical shows in Kidlington for over 40 years? We usually put on three performances a year: a Spring Concert, a staged Autumn Production and a Christmas Charity Concert. We hope to see you soon!





i71
Startups


Is your new enterprise
starting up in 2026?

Be seen on KV



Quote Ref: KV2026
i83
Solar


UK Solar Generation

UK Solar Generation
Turn your property into a mini power station by installing roof-mounted solar panels supplying electricity directly, and you can sell the excess.

Oxfordshire-based UK Solar Generation prides itself on its mission to provide decarbonised solutions to households in the UK by working with the private sector to meet the demanding budgets households have to face.


i73
Neighbour
Kidlington Information Centre
i54
2.1Newsletter

NEWSLETTER 2026. Would you like to receive an occasional newsletter by email from KV in 2026?


We'll send an occasional email highlighting significant updates posted here on KV including upcoming notable dates, articles by local writers, and promotions from local businesses.

Intuit Mailchimp

You may unsubscribe if you no longer wish to receive our occasional emails.

i22


 
 
 
Rosie

Kidlington's Magic Elephant

In 1937, Rosie the elephant helped two young goats – Capra and Carmelita – escape from Kidlington's Zoo.

Click to download the story, here:

Kidlington Story
Image generated by AI
Rosie could perform magic tricks and make things disappear.

Do you have a Kidlington Story to tell?

Send your story to:
alice@kvoice.co.uk





Your Story

Do you have a local story to tell?

Help Writing
Image generated by AI

Contact alice@kvoice.co.uk to have your story or article produced and published here on Kidlington Voice Online Magazine.

i101
Estate Agent

Thomas Merrifield

Thomas Merrifield

Estate Agent
1B The Hampden Building
High Street
Kidlington OX5 2DH
01865-379880
Be the first to know about exclusive updates, local property news, industry insights and market updates. Visit our website and sign up to receive our property newsletter.


i33
Friendship


Lincroft Meadow Care Home

Monthly Friendship Café


Lincroft Meadow Care Home

Lincroft Meadow Care Home
Last Thursday of every month.
See also: KV's Notable Dates.

Lincroft Meadow provides 24-hour residential, nursing, dementia and respite care for the elderly in an elegant and spacious home incorporating numerous thoughtful and practical features which ensures our home is able to meet the changing needs of its residents. All residents benefit from living in a caring environment with generously appointed private bedrooms with en suite wetrooms, and plentiful communal living areas including sitting rooms, restaurants, cinema, hairdressing salon, activities and wellbeing room and private dining room for special family occasions.


i53
Property
Finders Keepers

Finders Keepers is a highly regarded property agency that has been serving Oxfordshire for over 50 years. With eight offices spread across the county, it is a trusted and reliable source for anyone looking to rent, let, buy, sell or invest in property.


226 Banbury Road
Summertown
Oxford OX2 7BY

01865-311011
We launched in 1972 as an acquisition and investment service and soon became the leading letting agents in Oxford, letting and managing thousands of homes from our offices in North Oxford, Central Oxford and East Oxford, Abingdon, Banbury, Bicester and Witney. Our experienced and knowledgeable teams offer a personalised service to each of our clients.


i63
Marquetry


Art in Wood

Art in Wood
Gabriella Blakey
Unique handcrafted objets d'art.


To continue the series of my commissioned bamboo jewellery boxes, I was asked to decorate this one with 'Passiflora Caerulea'. This plant is an evergreen climber with large white flowers and central filaments of cornflower blue and purple. It was already by 1569 a well known herbal remedy in Brazilian folklore. However, it was the Jesuit Ferrari who later gave the plant its Christian symbolism by seeing in the flower the instruments of Jesus's Passion and Resurrection such as: the 3 nails of the cross and the crown of thorns. That's why it seems to add a touch of paradise to any gardens. With the slim tendrils I shaped the initials of the names of the couple who commissioned the box. As both share the same letter H, I interlaced them into a romantic monogram.


i52
Tattoo


Tattoo Artist Kidlington

Evolution Tattoo Studio

Tattoo Artist Kidlington
Paul Humphreys
Evolution Tattoo Studio
OX5 1TL
07999-337508
For our most recent tattoo images uploaded this month, visit our website and click on our links to our Instagram and Facebook. To book an appointment, drop a message to 07999-337508.


i41
2.2
Notable Dates
June 2026

Notable Date

  30 Jun 2026 Tue  

Kidlington & District Historical Society

Historical Society 7.30pm at The Baptist Church, High Street, Kidlington, OX5 2DS. AGM and members evening with coffee and quiz. Visitors are always welcome and need not be accompanied by a member. The charge is £5.00 on the door (50p if under 26).

imJun
2.3

Drainage


Oxon City Drainage
Oxon City Drainage
Kidlington
Tel:07828-212990
Oxon City Drainage for all your drainage needs. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing top-quality drainage services for residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Whether it's routine maintenance, blocked drains, or emergency repairs, you can count on us for quick and effective service around the clock.

Click for more ...
i43
Driveways



AC Drives

AC Drives

AC Drives & Landscaping Services
94 London Road
Headington
Oxford OX3 9FN
Tel: 0800 012 6473
Email: info@aclandscapers.co.uk

AC Drives & Landscaping is a local, independent family run business with many years of experience.
"We pride ourselves on the quality of our work and the long lasting relationships we have built with our customers over the years. So, whether you are looking for that beautiful driveway, that fabulous patio area or for some secure fencing, we can help. Click to visit our website and read our reviews."


i111




Roofing


Roofing

MLJ ROOFING LIMITED
Business or home, bungalow or garage — whether its a new roof installation, repair, or maintenance, look to MLJ Roofing Limited for your domestic or commercial roofing requirement carried out in Kidlington and the wider Oxfordshire area. To discuss your project, telephone Matthew on 07739-391873 or email info @mljroofingltd.co.uk

i62
Solicitors


SE-Solicitors
SE-Solicitors

SE-Solicitors
Bicester Office
5 Sheep Street, OX26 6JB
Tel: 01869-252861

Please note that our Bicester Office is located around 10-miles north of Kidlington from where our wide range of legal services includes: Agriculture | Banking & Finance Disputes | Commercial Property | Corporate & Commercial Law | Country Homes & Estates | Debt Recovery | Dispute Resolution | Employment Law | Family Law | Inheritance amp; Estate Planning | Insolvency | Residential Property | Wills, Trusts & Probate.


i61
Lighting


Oxford Solar Lighting



Oxfordshire's newest Solar Lighting Supplier for all your garden needs



Oxford Solar Lighting is the new Oxfordshire-based supplier of solar lighting for your garden. For more information and to contact us, click to visit our website.


i72
Hair


FoxyLocks

Haircuts at home for friends and family

£75 for 3 • £60 for 2 • £40 for 1

Book with Michelle on 07531717991 or email foxylocks70 @gmail.com


FoxyLocks (I'll bring my own brush)
i23
2.4
KAOS


Kidlington Amateur Operatic Society

KAOS



Providing a fun, friendly, inspiring environment in which people, regardless of age, gender or experience can learn and perform a wide variety of choral music.


Did you know that KAOS has been presenting concerts and musical shows in Kidlington for over 40 years? We usually put on three performances a year: a Spring Concert, a staged Autumn Production and a Christmas Charity Concert. We hope to see you soon!





i71
Startups


Is your new enterprise
starting up in 2026?

Be seen on KV



Quote Ref: KV2026
i83
Solar


UK Solar Generation

UK Solar Generation
Turn your property into a mini power station by installing roof-mounted solar panels supplying electricity directly, and you can sell the excess.

Oxfordshire-based UK Solar Generation prides itself on its mission to provide decarbonised solutions to households in the UK by working with the private sector to meet the demanding budgets households have to face.


i73
Neighbour
Kidlington Information Centre
i54

Drainage


Oxon City Drainage
Oxon City Drainage
Kidlington
Tel:07828-212990
Oxon City Drainage for all your drainage needs. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing top-quality drainage services for residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Whether it's routine maintenance, blocked drains, or emergency repairs, you can count on us for quick and effective service around the clock.

Click for more ...
i43
Driveways



AC Drives

AC Drives

AC Drives & Landscaping Services
94 London Road
Headington
Oxford OX3 9FN
Tel: 0800 012 6473
Email: info@aclandscapers.co.uk

AC Drives & Landscaping is a local, independent family run business with many years of experience.
"We pride ourselves on the quality of our work and the long lasting relationships we have built with our customers over the years. So, whether you are looking for that beautiful driveway, that fabulous patio area or for some secure fencing, we can help. Click to visit our website and read our reviews."


i111




Roofing


Roofing

MLJ ROOFING LIMITED
Business or home, bungalow or garage — whether its a new roof installation, repair, or maintenance, look to MLJ Roofing Limited for your domestic or commercial roofing requirement carried out in Kidlington and the wider Oxfordshire area. To discuss your project, telephone Matthew on 07739-391873 or email info @mljroofingltd.co.uk

i62
3.1
 
 
 
Gabriella

Gabriella Blakey retires from Oxford's Ashmolean Museum

Gabriella Blakey

    The Ashmolean Museum has announced to its colleagues: "I am writing to share the news that Gabriella Blakey, one of our brilliant Gallery Lecturer team, will be retiring after over 30 years at the Ashmolean. Gabriella first joined the Museum as a Gallery Invigilator before moving into her long-standing role as a Gallery Lecturer, where she has delivered tours and talks for a wide variety of groups – from schools to community organisations and evening visitors. Throughout, she has shared her knowledge, creativity and warmth with audiences of all kinds. We have especially valued her generosity and insight into the stories within the collection. I know that many colleagues who have worked alongside her will also hold fond memories of her time here."

    Gabriella writes: "The moment for saying 'farewell' to the Ashmolean has come, and my fingers are typing some words in the hope the right ones will come swiftly in winged thoughts of thanks and gratitude, for the experience I have had of being among the best collection of art in the world. Guiding taught me to share with the public the value of the artists' freedom to express themselves and have this extraordinary wealth of artistic individuality to be considered, studied and appreciated. For the aim of the artist has always been to represent the world we are in. Works of art, such as paintings, are windows into our own human complexity. Is not the Museum the place where the inspiring muses live? Yes, because they are the souls of each works we call Art. So farewell. I will miss you!"

Gabriella has also been a long-standing supporter of Kidlington Voice, and we wish her every good fortune in her retirement. Please click here to see some of Gabriella's own marquetry work.

i6
3.2
Notable Dates
July 2026

Notable Date

  28 Jul 2026 Tue  

Kidlington & District Historical Society

Historical Society 7.30pm at The Baptist Church, High Street, Kidlington, OX5 2DS. 'Exercise Southern Reach - the conception of an Antarctic expedition', a talk by Al Sylvester Visitors are always welcome and need not be accompanied by a member. The charge is £5.00 on the door (50p if under 26).

imJul
3.3
Oh Dear



Nobody Reads Adverts
Image generated by AI

NOTE TO ADVERTISERS

Think awareness, not sales.

Online advertisers aim to reach a larger and broader audience than from printed publications. But, in the mind of buyers, making a purchase follows the same sequence: awareness, knowledge, liking, preference, conviction, sale.

Creating awareness is always the first step. Here's a test: are there any organisations on this page that you had not heard of before, even if you might never buy from them?

IN OTHER WORDS
Advertising is not about you selling to them. If they need to buy, it's about them buying from you.




Police

Thames Valley Police

Thames Valley Police

The local Police Force works closely with the Kidlington & District Community Forum to consider matters of common concern to our local area.




i11





University

Harris Manchester College

Harris Manchester College

It's never too late

Harris Manchester College is unique within the University of Oxford in that it is the only college exclusively for students aged over 21. There is no upper age limit, and HMC has accepted students into their seventies! If you are considering a return to higher education — or wondering what it would take to enter higher education as a mature student at one of the world’s top universities — then click here to discover more.



i7


Parish

Kidlington: Village or Town?

Parish Council Monthly Reports

Kidlington Parish Council
Read the most recent report from Kidlington Parish Council.


i12
 
 
 
Local Photo
KVoice Magazine
Local Photo

Kidlington girl, aged 10, offers a picture of her artwork for this month's KV photo. October 2025.

KV says, "Thank you, young Miss B."

Do you have a local photograph to publish on KV?

Send your photo to:
alice@kvoice.co.uk





Puzzle Club


Puzzle

The Daily Puzzle Club is based in Kidlington.

i93

3.4
Solicitors


SE-Solicitors
SE-Solicitors

SE-Solicitors
Bicester Office
5 Sheep Street, OX26 6JB
Tel: 01869-252861

Please note that our Bicester Office is located around 10-miles north of Kidlington from where our wide range of legal services includes: Agriculture | Banking & Finance Disputes | Commercial Property | Corporate & Commercial Law | Country Homes & Estates | Debt Recovery | Dispute Resolution | Employment Law | Family Law | Inheritance amp; Estate Planning | Insolvency | Residential Property | Wills, Trusts & Probate.


i61
Lighting


Oxford Solar Lighting



Oxfordshire's newest Solar Lighting Supplier for all your garden needs



Oxford Solar Lighting is the new Oxfordshire-based supplier of solar lighting for your garden. For more information and to contact us, click to visit our website.


i72
Hair


FoxyLocks

Haircuts at home for friends and family

£75 for 3 • £60 for 2 • £40 for 1

Book with Michelle on 07531717991 or email foxylocks70 @gmail.com


FoxyLocks (I'll bring my own brush)
i23
4.1

2026
PLAN AHEAD

Reserve a place on KV to
advertise your business or
promote your upcoming event.
4.2
Notable Dates
August 2026

imAug
4.3

Drainage


Oxon City Drainage
Oxon City Drainage
Kidlington
Tel:07828-212990
Oxon City Drainage for all your drainage needs. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing top-quality drainage services for residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Whether it's routine maintenance, blocked drains, or emergency repairs, you can count on us for quick and effective service around the clock.

Click for more ...
i43
4.4
Estate Agent

Thomas Merrifield

Thomas Merrifield

Estate Agent
1B The Hampden Building
High Street
Kidlington OX5 2DH
01865-379880
Be the first to know about exclusive updates, local property news, industry insights and market updates. Visit our website and sign up to receive our property newsletter.


i33
5.1

2026
PLAN AHEAD

Reserve a place on KV to
advertise your business or
promote your upcoming event.
5.2
Notable Dates
September 2026

imSep
5.3
Driveways



AC Drives

AC Drives

AC Drives & Landscaping Services
94 London Road
Headington
Oxford OX3 9FN
Tel: 0800 012 6473
Email: info@aclandscapers.co.uk

AC Drives & Landscaping is a local, independent family run business with many years of experience.
"We pride ourselves on the quality of our work and the long lasting relationships we have built with our customers over the years. So, whether you are looking for that beautiful driveway, that fabulous patio area or for some secure fencing, we can help. Click to visit our website and read our reviews."


i111



5.4
Friendship


Lincroft Meadow Care Home

Monthly Friendship Café


Lincroft Meadow Care Home

Lincroft Meadow Care Home
Last Thursday of every month.
See also: KV's Notable Dates.

Lincroft Meadow provides 24-hour residential, nursing, dementia and respite care for the elderly in an elegant and spacious home incorporating numerous thoughtful and practical features which ensures our home is able to meet the changing needs of its residents. All residents benefit from living in a caring environment with generously appointed private bedrooms with en suite wetrooms, and plentiful communal living areas including sitting rooms, restaurants, cinema, hairdressing salon, activities and wellbeing room and private dining room for special family occasions.


i53
6.1

2026
PLAN AHEAD

Reserve a place on KV to
advertise your business or
promote your upcoming event.
6.2
Notable Dates
October 2026

imOct
6.3
Roofing


Roofing

MLJ ROOFING LIMITED
Business or home, bungalow or garage — whether its a new roof installation, repair, or maintenance, look to MLJ Roofing Limited for your domestic or commercial roofing requirement carried out in Kidlington and the wider Oxfordshire area. To discuss your project, telephone Matthew on 07739-391873 or email info @mljroofingltd.co.uk

i62
6.4
Property
Finders Keepers

Finders Keepers is a highly regarded property agency that has been serving Oxfordshire for over 50 years. With eight offices spread across the county, it is a trusted and reliable source for anyone looking to rent, let, buy, sell or invest in property.


226 Banbury Road
Summertown
Oxford OX2 7BY

01865-311011
We launched in 1972 as an acquisition and investment service and soon became the leading letting agents in Oxford, letting and managing thousands of homes from our offices in North Oxford, Central Oxford and East Oxford, Abingdon, Banbury, Bicester and Witney. Our experienced and knowledgeable teams offer a personalised service to each of our clients.


i63
7.1

2026
PLAN AHEAD

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advertise your business or
promote your upcoming event.
7.2
Notable Dates
November 2026
imNov
7.3

2026
PLAN AHEAD

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advertise your business or
promote your upcoming event.
7.4
Marquetry


Art in Wood

Art in Wood
Gabriella Blakey
Unique handcrafted objets d'art.


To continue the series of my commissioned bamboo jewellery boxes, I was asked to decorate this one with 'Passiflora Caerulea'. This plant is an evergreen climber with large white flowers and central filaments of cornflower blue and purple. It was already by 1569 a well known herbal remedy in Brazilian folklore. However, it was the Jesuit Ferrari who later gave the plant its Christian symbolism by seeing in the flower the instruments of Jesus's Passion and Resurrection such as: the 3 nails of the cross and the crown of thorns. That's why it seems to add a touch of paradise to any gardens. With the slim tendrils I shaped the initials of the names of the couple who commissioned the box. As both share the same letter H, I interlaced them into a romantic monogram.


i52
8.1

2026
PLAN AHEAD

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advertise your business or
promote your upcoming event.
8.2
Notable Dates
December 2026

imDec
8.3
Solicitors


SE-Solicitors
SE-Solicitors

SE-Solicitors
Bicester Office
5 Sheep Street, OX26 6JB
Tel: 01869-252861

Please note that our Bicester Office is located around 10-miles north of Kidlington from where our wide range of legal services includes: Agriculture | Banking & Finance Disputes | Commercial Property | Corporate & Commercial Law | Country Homes & Estates | Debt Recovery | Dispute Resolution | Employment Law | Family Law | Inheritance amp; Estate Planning | Insolvency | Residential Property | Wills, Trusts & Probate.


i61
8.4
Tattoo


Tattoo Artist Kidlington

Evolution Tattoo Studio

Tattoo Artist Kidlington
Paul Humphreys
Evolution Tattoo Studio
OX5 1TL
07999-337508
For our most recent tattoo images uploaded this month, visit our website and click on our links to our Instagram and Facebook. To book an appointment, drop a message to 07999-337508.


i41
9.1

2026
PLAN AHEAD

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advertise your business or
promote your upcoming event.
9.2
Notable Dates
January 2027



imJan
9.3

2026
PLAN AHEAD

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advertise your business or
promote your upcoming event.
9.4
KAOS


Kidlington Amateur Operatic Society

KAOS



Providing a fun, friendly, inspiring environment in which people, regardless of age, gender or experience can learn and perform a wide variety of choral music.


Did you know that KAOS has been presenting concerts and musical shows in Kidlington for over 40 years? We usually put on three performances a year: a Spring Concert, a staged Autumn Production and a Christmas Charity Concert. We hope to see you soon!





i71
10.1

2026
PLAN AHEAD

Reserve a place on KV to
advertise your business or
promote your upcoming event.
10.2
Notable Dates
February 2027



imFeb
10.3
Lighting


Oxford Solar Lighting



Oxfordshire's newest Solar Lighting Supplier for all your garden needs



Oxford Solar Lighting is the new Oxfordshire-based supplier of solar lighting for your garden. For more information and to contact us, click to visit our website.


i72
10.4
Startups


Is your new enterprise
starting up in 2026?

Be seen on KV



Quote Ref: KV2026
i83
11.1

2026
PLAN AHEAD

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advertise your business or
promote your upcoming event.
11.2
Notable Dates
March 2027

imMar
11.3
Hair


FoxyLocks

Haircuts at home for friends and family

£75 for 3 • £60 for 2 • £40 for 1

Book with Michelle on 07531717991 or email foxylocks70 @gmail.com


FoxyLocks (I'll bring my own brush)
i23
11.4
Solar


UK Solar Generation

UK Solar Generation
Turn your property into a mini power station by installing roof-mounted solar panels supplying electricity directly, and you can sell the excess.

Oxfordshire-based UK Solar Generation prides itself on its mission to provide decarbonised solutions to households in the UK by working with the private sector to meet the demanding budgets households have to face.


i73
12.1

2026
PLAN AHEAD

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12.2
Notable Dates
April 2027

imApr
12.3

2026
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12.4
Neighbour
Kidlington Information Centre
i54

Kidlington Voice Online Magazine
May 2026
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Alice Parker-James
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KVoice Magazine