Monthly Archives: January 2013

Air Raid Training at Abingdon County Hall Museum

Air Raid Training
Yesterday in the basement of the County Hall, in Abingdon, Air Raid Wardens gave demonstrations throughout the day about what to do in case of a WWII air raid.

Given that Abingdon is close to an RAF base, and close to the MG tank factory, there is a serious risk that an attack by German bombers may hit the works or town.
Air Raid Training
Incendiary bombs like the one in this picture have caused a lot of damage in cities such as London, and Coventry, but they could be used against Abingdon.
Air Raid Training
We were told not to handle UXBs (unexploded bombs), but to scoop them up with the hoe and pan, and then put them into a bucket of sand.

We were also told about air raid shelters, and how to put on gas masks. Gas masks have special filters, and include a layer of asbestos, and should be carried at all times.

Finally we were taught some sounds to save our lives. They can be heard on this film recording of the event …

Free NHS dental checkup van

NHS dental checkup van
The free NHS dental checkup van has been on Abingdon Market Place over the last three days, and is there again today. It is available to people who have not been to an NHS dentist in the last two years. If dental problems are found then they aim to refer people to an NHS dentist.
NHS dental checkup van
The van started a tour round Oxfordshire in November, and is trying to address a perceived lack of access to NHS dentists in Oxfordshire.

Hallam Refused Planning Permission for 160 houses

Proposal for 160 houses refused
The Vale of White Horse has refused planning permission for 160 dwellings on a field South of Abingdon.

Grounds for refusal included:
1. It is outside the provisions of the approved local plan.
2. It would generate additional traffic in an area already at capacity.
3. It would lead to loss of the rural aspect of the area.
4. It would generate more sewage in an area already at capacity.
5. The developers have not even entered into discussions about social housing and help towards highway measures etc. .

Around 200 people have written in response to the planning application, the vast majority are against.

The developers, Hallam Land Management Ltd, may still appeal.