Sam Riley

University of Oxford law professor Adam Webster argues that Britain’s work, school and childcare systems are fundamentally misaligned, leaving families financially and practically stretched. He says cost-of-living measures alone will not resolve the gap between school and working hours, particularly as most mothers now work and housing and childcare costs increasingly require dual incomes. Webster calls for expanded and better-paid parental leave, more childcare for school-aged children, and serious consideration of changing school and work hours. He also argues that technology has increased workplace flexibility while weakening boundaries around working time, and urges Andy Burnham’s government to pursue broader reforms linking work and care.

Banbury Music Mix will return to Banbury’s Market Place on Friday, July 31, with five local acts performing from 5:30pm to 10:30pm. The free event, organised by Banbury Town Council in partnership with Banbury Music Mix Radio, will feature live music, food and drink stalls, bars and onsite toilets. It is intended to showcase local musicians, provide them with exposure and attract visitors to the town centre while supporting local businesses.

Gateway Park at Graven Hill in Bicester has officially opened, providing footpaths, boardwalks, water features, seating, native planting and ecological corridors designed to support wildlife and community recreation. The site is also the new permanent home of the Pioneer Memorial, which honours Royal Pioneers and the veterans who served there. Lieutenant Colonel Billy Dilkes unveiled a new plaque with Pioneer Regiment representatives, while local residents’ leaders welcomed the park as an important shared space for the growing community.