Work has been continuing over the weekend at the building previously known as the Ox Pub , to turn it into a Tesco Express. The opening date must be imminent.
Chiller cabinets can be see where there once was a bar.
Best One, a family run convenience store, two doors down, with just The Magic Wok separating their business from the new Tesco Express, will soon know the effect on their trade.
I see that one of Abingdon’s two guitar shops are waiting for more Ukeleles after the Christmas rush. The Ukelele has 4 strings and is easier to learn than a guitar. It is also easier to carry about, and cheaper.
On Monday 16th January, an Abindon Ukelele group will start – possibly the first ever Abingdon Ukelele group. The main aim is to play for fun.
There will be a Monday afternoon group at 2 pm and a Tuesday evening group. For more on the UK craze for Ukeleles read Ukelele sends UK crazy .
( Groups now full with a waiting list so have removed contact details for now.)
The biggest change to the Abbey shopping centre happening this year will be the demolition of 5 units and the erection of 2 larger two-storey shops in their place. The new shops will stretch back to the road and be as deep as the Co-op (ex Somerfields). Looking at the picture above the dark Dream Doors van will be inside one of the new shops. (I had not quite taken that in until today talking to NC).
Unit 29 will be demolished (was Abingdon Gift Centre until moved). Unit 30 will be demolished (was West End news until moved)
Unit 31 will be demolished. Unit 32 will be demolished (and so YMCA will move).
Unit 33 will be demolished (currently a temporary let to Calendar Club but was once Stead and Simpson). Unit 34 will stay and be refurbished (vacated by The Lemon Plaice anyway).
The big Market Place tree was recyled first, and there followed a host of smaller trees, some carried from nearby flats and houses ….
others brought by car from further out. The town council staff are hoping to beat last year’s total of 140 trees. The recycled trees will be used on places like the Ock Valley Walk.
Also, it is the last day today for the Calendar Shop, but the Christmas Shop is still in business..