Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity has merged with South Bucks Hospice. The combined organisation will continue under the Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity name, while Butterfly House in High Wycombe will remain the base for services previously offered by South Bucks Hospice. The building name will stay the same, and all existing services will carry on.

Both charities have supported local people for over 40 years, caring for thousands of patients with life-limiting illnesses and those needing end-of-life care. By working closely with Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, the charity says it will now be able to run more efficiently and expand services across the county and nearby areas.

Chief Executive Jo Turner, who will lead the merged organisation, said: “We are delighted this merger is complete and grateful for the positive response from our supporters. By joining together, we can provide even more care and support to patients and their loved ones. We know we can count on our community to continue helping us through fundraising, volunteering and donations.”

Chair of Trustees Noel Ratcliffe added that the move will strengthen financial stability and improve service delivery, helping more people receive hospice care when they need it.

Liz Monaghan, Lead Nurse for Palliative Care at Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, welcomed the merger. She explained that clinical teams will be able to use Butterfly House as a base, allowing them to reach patients in their homes more easily while also developing services offered at the centre.

The newly merged charity supports around 2,600 patients each year, with 125 staff members and over 1,000 volunteers working alongside healthcare partners to deliver care across the county.

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The problem began when a sudden pressure surge damaged parts of the estate’s water system, leaving most houses without water for much of Monday. Kingsbrook View Primary School also had to close as a result, but it reopened today once the supply returned.

Leep Utilities, the company that runs the local network, confirmed that repairs were carried out yesterday evening to fix the burst pipes. A spokesperson said: “Water should now be fully restored for all customers. More work will still be needed to make the network secure, but this will be planned to reduce disruption. Updates will be shared as soon as dates are confirmed.”

Residents said water came back between 9pm and 10pm last night. Some homes, however, reported flooding after the pressure changes, and one apartment block was badly affected. Local plumbing firms have stepped in to offer help, since Leep Utilities confirmed it would not cover repair costs.

Parents told the Bucks Herald that the sudden shortage caused major stress, with children upset and families forced to arrange childcare after the school closure.

Another source of anger has been poor communication. Many said it was quicker to follow social media than rely on official updates, and some even reported receiving different information than their neighbours.

Leep Utilities has said it is posting updates on its website, as well as sending emails and text alerts directly to those affected.

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Market Square & Cambridge Street Closures

The closures in Market Square will facilitate infrastructure upgrades, including improved power supply to support market expansion, enhanced lighting for heritage sites, and general beautification. Similarly, Cambridge Street is being pedestrianized between The Harrow pub and number 22, introducing a new public space with modernized street furniture, lighting, and resurfacing.

According to Buckinghamshire Council, these enhancements aim to boost safety, encourage a stronger nighttime economy, and improve the town’s overall aesthetic appeal.

A41 Bicester Road Lane Closures

Further road disruptions are occurring on the A41 Bicester Road near Broadfields, where a daily lane closure from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM is in place until March 21. This is to allow for the refurbishment of a toucan crossing, which is expected to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety.

HS2 Works in Wendover

Ongoing HS2 construction continues to impact Wendover, with overnight closures on the A413 London Road scheduled for:

• March 11–12
• March 21–22
• March 24–25

Each closure will occur between 8:30 PM and 5:30 AM, adding to the region’s existing transport challenges.

Additional Road Closures in Surrounding Areas

Several nearby villages are also affected by roadworks, including:

• Claydon Road, Hogshaw – Resurfacing from March 3–8 (9:30 AM–3:30 PM)
• Leighton Road, Wingrave – Surface dressing prep from Feb 28–March 7 (7:30 AM–7 PM)
• Bridgeway, Cuddington – Closed March 3–7 for vegetation clearance and structural repairs
• North End Road, Steeple Claydon – Excavation works from March 3–7 (8 AM–4 PM)

Traffic Management Measures

Temporary traffic lights will also be installed along Aylesbury’s key routes, including two-way signals on the A41 between 9 AM and 3 PM on March 13 and March 27.

Plan Your Commute

With multiple road closures in place, Aylesbury residents are advised to plan ahead, explore alternative routes, and check for real-time traffic updates. While the disruptions are inconvenient, these upgrades aim to improve infrastructure, safety, and the overall town experience in the long run.

For live traffic updates and official council notices, visit Buckinghamshire Council’s roadworks portal.

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Aylesbury

In Aylesbury, new cameras have been placed at these locations:

• A41 Exchange Street (North Eastbound carriageway): No right turn into Waitrose Car Park.
• A41 Exchange Street (South Westbound carriageway): No right turn from the Exchange Street Car Park onto A41 Exchange Street.
• Oxford Road: Enforcement of bus lane usage and monitoring of the yellow box junction.

Chesham

For Chesham, additional cameras have been installed at:

• St Mary’s Way (A416): Banned right turn from Bellingdon Lane.
• Moor Road: No entry into Moor Road.

Denham

In Denham, the following restrictions will be enforced:

• Oxford Road: No right turn into Oxford Road.
• A412 North Orbital Road: No right turn from the North Orbital Road.

High Wycombe

High Wycombe sees new enforcement measures at:

• A40 London Road: Monitoring of bus lane violations.
• Oxford Road: Yellow box junction enforcement.
• Amersham Hill: Yellow box junction enforcement.

Iver

In Iver, the restrictions focus on heavy goods vehicles:

• Bangors Road North and South: No goods vehicles exceeding 7.5 tonnes, except for loading purposes.

Padbury

In Padbury, the new restriction is:

• Lower Way: No entry into Lower Way.

These cameras are part of an ongoing initiative to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance safety on Buckinghamshire roads. Drivers are advised to adhere to the restrictions to avoid penalties and ensure smoother journeys for everyone.

Stay informed and drive responsibly!

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For years, South Lakes Zoo has been scrutinized by multiple investigations, including those led by the wildlife charity Born Free. Their findings have repeatedly exposed severe animal welfare failings and a significant number of avoidable animal deaths.

Earlier this year, more than 6,000 supporters of Born Free signed a petition urging authorities to revoke the zoo’s licence. This followed yet another investigation highlighting “catastrophic failings” in the care of animals at South Lakes Zoo.

A Long History of Issues

The zoo’s problems began surfacing as far back as 2013, with multiple disturbing incidents. These included:

• The tragic death of a keeper killed by a tiger.
• Nearly 500 animal deaths recorded over just three years.
• The controversial breeding and euthanasia of lion cubs.
• The revocation of the zoo’s licence in 2017.

In addition to animal welfare failings, the zoo has also faced legal disputes between the site owners, Zoo Investment Company, and the tenants, Cumbria Zoo Company Limited.

Born Free first visited the facility in 2017, prior to its temporary licence revocation, and flagged concerns about animal welfare and visitor safety to the local licensing authority.

Ongoing Failings and Investigations

Further visits in October 2022 and 2024 confirmed that South Lakes Zoo continued to fall short of standards outlined in the Zoo Licensing Act 1981 and the Secretary of State’s Standards of Modern Zoo Practice.

In October 2024, a BBC investigation revealed shocking allegations of neglect, preventable animal deaths, and disturbing images provided by former zoo employees. These findings underscored persistent welfare issues at the zoo.

The Future of the Animals Remains Uncertain

Reacting to the closure announcement, Chris Lewis, Born Free’s Captivity Research & Policy Manager, said:

“While we are pleased to see today’s announcement, exact details on the future of the animals and the site itself remain unclear. Born Free urges all parties to work together to ensure the welfare of the animals remains paramount until a time when appropriate homes can be secured for them.”

As South Lakes Zoo prepares to close its doors to the public, concerns remain about the wellbeing of the animals currently housed at the facility. Wildlife advocates, including Born Free, continue to emphasize the importance of finding appropriate homes where the animals can receive the care they deserve.

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• Calvert Road, Middle Claydon: Resurfacing works continue until Monday, December 9, under a road closure from 7am to 7pm.
• High Street South, Stewkley: Footway resurfacing persists through January 10, with multi-way temporary traffic lights in operation from 9:30am to 3:30pm.
• Lambourne Avenue and Spur Roads, Aylesbury: Coring investigations will take place from December 9 to 11, with give-and-take traffic management from 8am to 6pm.
• King Edward Avenue, Aylesbury: Lane closures and stop-and-go traffic are planned from December 11 to 13, between 9am and 3pm.
• Townside, Haddenham: Coring investigations scheduled from December 11 to 13, with stop-and-go traffic controls from 8am to 6pm.
• Cholesbury Lane, Buckland: A 24-hour road closure from December 9 to 20 for drainage improvement works.

Building work in Aylesbury Town Centre is also affecting parking availability at Exchange and Waterside North Car Parks.

Note: Schedules may change due to weather conditions. Stay updated to plan your journeys effectively.

Make sure to follow traffic updates and navigate safely!

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A city taxi driver has been penalized for denying a ride to a blind passenger and his guide dog. Krishnasamy Ananthan admitted guilt and was ordered by Milton Keynes magistrates to pay a total of £324, which includes fines and legal fees.

Buckinghamshire Council is set to review Mr. Ananthan’s taxi license.

The court concluded that Mr. Ananthan deliberately avoided picking up the passenger with his assistance dog. The magistrates highlighted that the booking clearly showed the passenger was accompanied by a guide dog, meaning the driver could have been aware of this before accepting the fare.

This gave Mr. Ananthan the chance to refuse the booking ahead of time if there was a valid medical reason, such as having an exemption certificate.

The fine issued to Mr. Ananthan was £135, alongside an order to pay £135 towards trial costs and an additional £54 victim surcharge.

Cllr Mick Legg, the Cabinet member for Regulatory Services, commented: “Refusing to take passengers with assistance dogs is not only illegal, but also deeply discriminatory. Everyone has the right to access the same services and I hope this case serves as a reminder that all taxi drivers are expected to comply with the law and accommodate passengers according to their needs.”

According to the law, assistance dogs must be allowed on any form of public transportation when their owner has mobility impairments or conditions like epilepsy. Drivers with valid medical exemptions are required to display a ‘notice of exemption’ on their vehicle’s windshield.

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A key recommendation is connecting with fellow taxi drivers. Sharing experiences with peers who understand the same challenges can provide much-needed support and relieve stress, especially during difficult mental health moments.

Drivers are also advised to incorporate calming breathing exercises into their daily routine. Taking a few minutes between fares to practice controlled breathing, such as the box breathing method (inhale, hold, exhale, and pause for four seconds each), can help reduce stress and refocus.

Adequate sleep is essential for mental health, though the profession’s long, irregular hours can make it difficult. Optimising your environment, such as using blackout curtains for daytime sleep, can help improve sleep quality and ensure you get enough rest.

Staying hydrated is another important habit. Drivers are encouraged to use large, reusable water bottles to stay hydrated throughout the day, which is safer and more convenient than relying on disposable plastic bottles, especially in hot vehicles.

A balanced diet is also key. Preparing meals in advance, high in protein and healthy fats, can help sustain energy levels. It’s best to avoid skipping meals or relying on snacks, as regular eating habits support both physical and mental health.

Lastly, regular physical activity is crucial. Even a brief walk between shifts can have a positive effect on both mental and physical wellbeing, helping to reduce stress and keep you in good shape.

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1. The Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

This stunning venue hosts a variety of performances, from musicals and plays to concerts and comedy shows. With its modern architecture and excellent acoustics, the Waterside Theatre is a cultural hub in Aylesbury. Be sure to check out the schedule and catch a show during your visit!

2. Waddesdon Manor

Just a short drive from Aylesbury, Waddesdon Manor is a magnificent Victorian mansion built for the Rothschild family. The house is filled with art, antiques, and exquisite gardens. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped grounds, explore the impressive collection of artifacts, and enjoy the seasonal events hosted throughout the year.

3. The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre**

Located in nearby Great Missenden, this museum celebrates the life and works of beloved author Roald Dahl. It features interactive exhibits, storytelling sessions, and a chance to explore the village where Dahl lived and wrote many of his famous stories. This destination is perfect for families and fans of all ages!

4. Aylesbury Park

For those looking to relax in nature, Aylesbury Park offers beautiful green spaces, walking paths, and picnic areas. The park features a children’s playground, a café, and plenty of open space for recreational activities. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely day out with family or friends.

5. St. Mary’s Church

This historic church, dating back to the 13th century, is an architectural gem in Aylesbury. Known for its stunning tower and intricate stained glass windows, St. Mary’s Church offers a peaceful atmosphere for reflection. Visitors can also learn about the church’s rich history through informative displays.

Aylesbury is a hidden gem with a wealth of attractions to explore. Whether you’re interested in the arts, history, or simply enjoying the outdoors, this charming town has something for everyone. Plan your visit and discover the beauty of Aylesbury!

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The road that crosses the railway between Aylesbury and Little Kimble stations reopened shortly before midnight on September 30.

New double barriers have been installed on both sides of the road. According to Network Rail, these new barriers are designed to prevent motorists from weaving around them. Additionally, obstacle detection technology has been implemented to identify any obstructions at the crossing, such as vehicles or pedestrians.

Network Rail has also introduced new signaling equipment that helps monitor the position of trains concerning the level crossing, resulting in a reduced alarm time for each train’s passage.

Emma Lockey, sponsor for Network Rail, stated: “We’d like to thank local people for their patience during our upgrade of Marsh Lane level crossing which is now safer for both rail and road users.

“As well as installing modern signalling equipment and special obstacle detection technology, the new double barriers will prevent the possibility of weaving around them when a train is approaching.

“We want to stress the importance of staying safe when using any level crossing and ask that motorists always stop at the barriers when the lights show and wait until the barriers raise fully to continue their journey.”

Network Rail has provided the following safety advice for pedestrians:

– Concentrate – it’s easy to get distracted, especially by phones, music, and conversation.
– Always follow signs and instructions displayed at level crossings.
– Check both ways before crossing – if there is a train coming, don’t cross.
– Understand the warnings which alert when a train is approaching (lights, barriers, alarms).
– Cross quickly, keeping children close and dogs on a lead.

Last year, a significant upgrade and realignment of the line were completed to enable HS2 trains to pass beneath the existing railway.

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