News Headlines and Events
Here are the latest news and sport headlines coupled with those from the last few months....

Saturday 27th June

More flu - A second Aylesbury school was hit by swine flu yesterday. So far one pupil at the Thomas Hickman School has been confirmed with the virus, but the school plans to remain open next week.

Accident investigation – Police are appealing for witnesses after a 92 year old woman died after been run over by the car she had been travelling in. Police said yesterday she had just got out of the green Honda in London Road, Beaconsfield on Thursday afternoon, when it apparently moved forward, trapping her underneath. She died later in hospital.

Adams nark – Karen Adams, the grand-daughter of Frank Adams, the man who saved Wycombe Wanderers from going under 60 years ago by donating land for them to play on, has come out against plans by managing director Steve Hayes to take control of the club. The football club has had supporter involvement in its management since its existence 122 years ago, and Ms Adams said her grandfather – Adams Park is named after him – would not have wanted control to go to a single person. However, it is looking more likely that Mr Hayes will get the sufficient number of votes he needs at a crunch meeting on 6 July, but with a significant minority of shareholder supporters voting against him.

Taking a break – The Wycombe.info team is taking a short break. The service will resume in a few days.

Friday 26th June

Station closes – High Wycombe’s local radio station Mix 107 is closing down next Wednesday after losing £90,000 in the past year. Its twin station, Mix 96, covering Aylesbury is to remain on air. The station failed to establish itself as a local network, despite no opposition from the BBC, and averaged 15,000 listeners out of a potential listening audience of over a quarter of a million. The nine people employed on Mix 107 are expected to work on other stations owned by The Local Radio Company, Mix 107’s owners.

More swine flu – An Aylesbury school closed for a week yesterday after two pupils were diagnosed with swine flu. Parents at Pebble Brook School were urged keep an eye on their children to see if they were showing signs of the disease.

Jackson tributes – Tributes to Michael Jackson, who died last night, are planned at clubs in the Wycombe area this weekend.

Thursday 25th June

Swine flu – A case of suspected swine flu was reported in the Wycombe area last night when parents were told that a pupil at Altwood School in Maidenhead has the symptoms. Two schools in Wexham, near Slough, closed for a week yesterday after cases among pupils were confirmed, and in neighbouring Oxfordshire around 20 cases have been confirmed.

Market snub – Wycombe Council issued an embarrassing unreserved apology yesterday after one of its official reports referred to market stallholders as “whingeing traders”. The wording was contained in a council officers’ report on the future of the market and published on the council website, before being withdrawn after complaints. The report told of “whingeing traders complaining about lack of footfall because of the closure of Woolworths.”

First signing - Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor made his first new signing of the season yesterday, taking on out of contract Wigan Athletic midfielder, 20 year old Lewis Montrose. Further signings are expected this week. Meanwhile the Blues received a £700,000 windfall yesterday when former captain Roger Johnson moved from Cardiff to Birmingham for £5m. When Wycombe sold him to Cardiff there was a “sell-on” clause in the contract. Johnson is the first player from the Wanderers youth acadamy to make it to the Premiership.

Wednesday 24th June

Heritage warning – English Heritage warned yesterday that several conservation areas in the Wycombe area are threatened because councils have allowed out-of-character building extensions, too many satellite dishes and out-buildings that shouldn’t be seen. They named Chesham old town and Maidenhead town centre as areas faced with losing their charm, but added there were problems at Gerrards Cross Common, Taplow by the river, Iver, Stoke Green, Burnham and Uxbridge Lock.

Blues meeting – Wycombe Wanderers managing director Steve Hayes, who wants to take over the club but has to persuade supporter shareholders to back him, holds a meeting with them tonight to put his case. Mr Hayes, who owns rugby club London Wasps, who share the Wanderers’ ground, Adams Park, has issued a statement saying he has no intention to merge the two clubs.

New athletics track – Negotiations are under way to move Wycombe’s athletic track at Handy Cross to land at Sir William Ramsay School in Hazlemere. Handy Cross is to be sold for development and a new sports centre built in the town centre. But there’s no room for a full size track at the new site in Hughenden Road, so councillors are hoping to complete a deal which will enable pupils at the secondary school to share the track with local athletics clubs.

Tuesday 23rd June

Manager stays – Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor is staying at the club after a heart to heart with managing director Steve Hayes yesterday. Taylor was reportedly upset at not knowing how much money he had to buy players, and was on record as saying he was aiming for July 1 as the date to have all new players on board. It now seems he has received assurances, even though Hayes’s own position is not certain following his threat to stop funding the club unless shareholders concede full control to him.

Flooding concerns – Councillors in Windsor and Maidenhead are set to hold urgent discussions today after an Environment Agency report said nearly 11,500 homes in the area were in danger of flooding in future years because of climate change. Only three other areas in the country are more at risk.

Bucks Speaker - Buckingham MP John Bercow, elected the new Speaker of the House of Commons last night, is the first Speaker from Buckinghamshire since William Grenville in 1789. But even though at 46 Mr Bercow is a young Speaker, William Grenville, who is buried at Burnham, still holds the record as being the youngest...a mere 30 years old when he took the office.

Monday 22nd June

Club crisis – Wycombe Wanderers is in turmoil after reports yesterday that manager Peter Taylor is set to resign today in a row over lack of funding for new players. The move comes two days after the club’s main creditor, chief executive Steve Hayes, said he would walk away from the club unless supporter shareholders agree to a change of constitution that will give him full control. Three days ago the club’s captain David McCracken left amid reports that offers to renew his contract fell below his financial expectations. The club maintained a stony silence throughout yesterday.

Eden discounts – Rents for shops in Wycombe’s new Eden shopping centre have dropped by a third since the complex opened a year ago in an attempt to stop retailers pulling out. The retail property experts Colliers said in a weekend report that the discounts were some of the highest in the country. The tactic may have worked however, as around 10 units remain empty and a number of those are being filled in the next few weeks.

Victims recover – Three men seriously injured in a car accident that killed a 21 year old woman and a 24 year old man from the Wycombe area were making slow recoveries in hospital last night. The two, who died instantly when the Rover they were travelling in hit a lamppost and overturned at Chalfont St Giles on Friday, are expected to be officially named today. No other vehicle was involved.

Sunday 21st June

Quit threat – Shadow Justice Secretary and Beaconsfield MP Dominic Grieve said yesterday he would be ready to quit politics if MPs were regulated so much that they would lose their independence. He told a public meeting in Gerrards Cross that if a regulatory body for the House of Commons was imposed that was answerable to no-one, then he would leave politics “in despair”.

Blast inquiry – Police and health and safety experts will continue to comb a small industrial premises for clues today following a gas blast yesterday which killed one man and injured another. The nitrogen canister blew up at a works in Denham.

Saturday 20th June

Two die in horror smash – Two people died yesterday after a car containing five friends smashed into a lamp-post at an accident blackspot. The driver, aged 29, is in a critical condition and two other men, aged 21 and 24, have serious injuries following the smash on the Amersham to Denham Road at Chalfont St Giles. The two who died instantly, a man aged 24 and a woman aged 20, were named as Steve and Laura on blogs last night.

Supporters resign – Two directors of Wycombe Wanderers Supporters Trust resigned last night, hours after the club’s chief executive Steve Hayes made a predictable bid to take full control of the club. The club’s constitution means no single individual can own more than 25 per cent of the club, so the rules will have to be changed at a crucial meeting next month if Mr Hayes is to succeed. He said yesterday that he will withdraw funding if he doesn’t get his way – and as the football club already owes him at least £3m and is over £7m in debt that would mean the club going into administration.

Meanwhile, on the pitch, Wanderers captain David McCracken left the club last night to join Milton Keynes Dons – a move that will transform him from hero to villain in the eyes of many supporters who don’t recognise the north Bucks club after it entered the Football League by the “back door”, instead of qualifying like every other club.

MP faces music – Shadow Justice Secretary Dominic Grieve, the Beaconsfield MP, is holding a public meeting today to try and draw a line under any controversy surrounding his own expenses claims, which included taxpayers refunding him for a lost key to his garden shed. Wycombe MP Paul Goodman, whose expenses included a cot and a booster seat, has already said he will not be standing for re-election, having become disillusioned with the House of Commons. Amersham and Chesham MP Cheryl Gillan, who mistakenly claimed for dog food on her ex’s and whose latest claims show she received £275 for five portraits of herself has received support from Tory activists in the constituency.

Thursday 18th June

Deal defended - Wycombe based Bucks New University has played down mounting criticism over a tax-funded establishment sponsoring Wycombe Wanderers football shirts by saying that the move will promote the university at football grounds around the country and that the deal is part of a closer working relationshiup between the uni and the football club. Although the uni receives thousands from the Government to promote education, there is nothing in sponsorship or marketing rules preventing such deals.

Swans killed - Police are investigating after two swans were found, apparently stoned to death, on the banks of the River Thame in Thame. They were found shortly after people reported a group of youths throwing bottles at swans from a bridge.

Jobless slowing - Figures yesterday showed that in the Wycombe area the number of people signing on for unemployment benefit saw the smallest monthly rise of the year. At just under three per cent the number of jobless is still far less than the average in the country.

Wednesday 17th June

Shirt controversy – Bucks New University, based in High Wycombe, is set to face criticism after it announced yesterday it is to be next season’s shirt sponsor for Wycombe Wanderers Football Club. Both sides went out of their way to avoid the word “sponsor”, talking instead of a sport and education “partnership”, but the fact remains the state-funded uni will have committed thousands to having its name on the front of Blues’ shirts...the first university in the country to take part in such a deal.

Mystery death – An inquest yesterday failed to resolve the mystery of a man found with his throat cut in a suburban driveway. Nigel Lennon, aged 36, had more than 30 stab wounds in his neck when he was found dead in the driveway of a house in Downley last year. But although a pathologist said the wounds were similar to self-inflicted ones, and the police concluded Mr Lennon, from another part of Wycombe, had killed himself, the Coroner Richard Hulett said it was not possible to say how or why Mr Lennon died. The Coroner recorded an open verdict.

New look – The council began a two month public consultation yesterday on long term plans to radically change the look of High Wycombe’s town centre, getting rid of the concrete flyover that’s split the town since the 1960s, opening up the River Wye in its place and scrapping the multi-mini roundabout at the bottom of Marlow Hill. Critics say it’s a recipe for a massive traffic jam.

Tuesday 16th June

Shops boost – The council in Wycombe has bought up a number of freeholds of empty shops in the town centre and is offering them to businesses at discount rates in an attempt to fill some of the 30 empty units in the town. Meanwhile Bucks County Council announced yesterday it was prepared to help small businesses in the area with grants of up to £5k.

Houses needed – A battle to preserve green fields in the Wycombe area gets underway today after planners warned last night that new homes will be needed sooner than expected. The council hadn’t expected to release its reserve land in the district for nearly 20 years but now fears it may be much sooner. Environmental campaigners in Bourne End, Hazlemere, Tylers Green and Flackwell Heath are expected to mobilise against the plans.

Real Dons – Wycombe Wanderers has snubbed Bucks footballing rival, Milton Keynes Dons, by organising a pre-season friendly against AFC Wimbledon, the original Dons. The Blues have also lined up friendlies with QPR, Bristol City and Luton Town.

Monday 15th June

Rent relief – Thousands of council house residents in Wycombe are to get their recent rent increases halved after the Government gave the council more money to fund rents. Councillors will formally approve the giveaway tonight.

Lucky escape – A 22 year old Wycombe man is suffering shock after realising how close he came to serious injury yesterday. The man, a photographer, was standing by the circuit at Abingdon Motor Rally when one of the cars veered off the track straight towards him. Two marshals stood in front of him received serious injuries, but the photographer, who hasn’t yet been named, was treated for minor cuts and bruising.

No messing – A smash and grab in Gerrards Cross was anything but subtle. Saturday morning shoppers were astounded as two men wearing balaclava’s and holding what witnesses described as “a big axe” smashed the windows of the Bucks Gold Company, grabbed as much jewellery as they could from the display, and roared off in a fast Merc.

Saturday 13th June

Cruelty appeal – Amersham horse dealer Jamie Gray, who is today beginning a six month prison sentence for animal cruelty, is to appeal against his conviction. His wife, two daughters and 16 year old son, who yesterday received community orders after being found guilty of offences connected with the case, are to receive police protection following threats to the family following what vets described as the worst animal cruelty case they had known. The family were not at Spindles Farm in Hyde Heath last night where hundreds of horses were found in appalling conditions. If they appeal is lost they are likely to have to sell the farm to pay over £400,000 legal costs they have been ordered to pay the RSPCA . In addition 45 year old Jamie Gray has been banned from keeping horses for the rest of his life.

Redgrave returns – Sir Steve Redgrave will officially open his home town regatta when the Marlow Town Regatta gets underway today.

Friday 12th June

Collapse inquiry – Building inspectors will spend today trying to find out what caused the roof of a snooker hall in High Wycombe town centre yesterday. Five men were playing pool a the Hurricane Room in Corporation Street when the ceiling fell in without warning. Four managed to scramble to safety while the fifth was trapped in the debris and was rescued, unharmed, by fire fighters.

Thursday 11th June

Dramatic blaze – Firefighters were praised for their heroism and professionalism last night in preventing a blazing petrol tanker from exploding, with devastating consequences. Working against the clock – and at considerable personal risk - 50 firefighters spent three hours in containing the blaze on the M40 at Stokenchurch while at the same time drawing off some of the 8,000 gallons of petrol and diesel in the tanker. Environment Agency workers ensured the escaping fuel - flowing down the hill from the top of the Stokenchurch Gap – did not contaminate the drains. The motorway was closed during the operation late on Tuesday night/ early yesterday morning. Fire crews and specialist vehicles from throughout Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire were involved.

Party apology – The UK Independence Party apologised last night after complaints about the siting of an election banner in Beaconsfield. One of the struts to a memorial to Sinead Healy, who was murdered by her boyfriend in a layby in the town eight years ago, was used to support the large UKIP poster which then obscured the memorial.

Captain sought – Wycombe Wanderers captain Dave McCracken was said to be considering a number of offers from other clubs last night. The popular defender is out at contract at Wycombe, who have offered him an improved deal to stay at the club.

Wednesday 10th June

Rail chaos – Hundreds of non-tube using commuters will be stuck today after Chiltern Railways announced that it won’t be running services from Amersham and Chesham. The stations are owned by Transport for London which is closing them down because of the tube strike. Chiltern Railways also announced last night it will not be stopping trains at Wembley Stadium from noon today, disappointing thousands of fans hoping to use the trains to get to tonight’s England v Andorra World Cup qualifier. The company said it had been advised by police that it would be too dangerous because crowd control would be potentially impossible.

Old boy returns – Former Wycombe grammar school boy Jimmy Carr returns to the town tonight. He’ll be a mile down the road from his old school, starring in his sell-out comedy stand-up at Wycombe Swan.

Boss man – Wycombe Wanderers chairman Ivor Beeks became one of the top figures in British football yesterday when he was elected onto the Football Association’s Council. The veteran chairman will represent 25 clubs from the area on the decision making committees, including Reading, Watford, Barnet, Wycombe and 21 non-league clubs.

Tuesday 9th June

Mother’s grief – The 81 year old Marlow mother whose son was beheaded by Al Qaida terrorists in the Saraha desert last week is still too distraught to talk about her feelings. The mother of Edwin Dyer is being comforted by her three other sons. Some family members have expressed disappointment that Britain did not try to negotiate Mr Dyer’s release after his kidnap four months ago.

Bucks cost – New stats show that half of Buckinghamshire’s businesses either sold or made much less at the beginning of this year when the recession took a dramatic downturn. At the same time unemployment in the county doubled. However, a report by Seeda, the South East Economic Development Agency said that even though the jobless doubled to three per cent this was still far better than elsewhere. And businesses in Bucks are now confident things are picking up, says the report.

Rail warning – Chiltern Railways warned last night that some of its services will not stop at some stations in South Bucks if a London tube strike starts tonight. They expect packed trains and commuters from London should check carefully where trains are stopping before boarding.

Monday 8th June

New MP – Wycombe Tories meet tonight to begin their search for a new candidate to fight the next election in the constituency following Paul Goodman’s announcement not to stand for re-election. The seat – regarded as a Tory cert at the next election – will be much sought after by potential candidates.

Focussing opposition –Meanwhile, a number of Liberal Democrats in South Bucks want to approach Labour with a view to fielding just one opposition candidate against the Tories at the next general election. They are considering meeting Labour to see if they would agree to fielding one anti-Conservative candidate in true Blue Tory seats.

Woolies work – Mystery surrounds the company due to move into the former Woolworth store in Wycombe High Street. Work continued over the weekend in the store, but as yet there’s no official word on the future occupant.

Saturday 6th June

Don’t know, don’t care – Apathy was the real victor in Thursday’s county council elections in Buckinghamshire it became apparent yesterday. Just 40 per cent of people bothered to vote compared with 65 per cent in 2005 when the elections were last held. Of those that did vote, half voted Conservative, increasing the party’s stranglehold on a council it has held for over 100 years. Labour was virtually wiped out, taking just six per cent of the vote compared to 16 per cent last time. The Liberal Democrats, who lost one of their 11 seats on the council, saw their share of the vote fall from 31 per cent to 28 per cent, whereas the UK Independence Party, who took less than one per cent of the vote last time, took 13.5 per cent this time.

Friday 5th June

MP to go - Wycombe MP Paul Goodman is not seeking relection at the next election having become disillusioned with the House of Commons. The 49 year old former leader writer with the Daily Telegraph - the paper who's expenses revelations have shattered the credibility of MPs - said restrictions on MPs meant that in the future the quality and variety of people wanting to stand would be reduced so that "much future talent will avoid the Commons altogether." But Mr Goodman, who was elected in 2001, did not defend the expenses system, describing it in the Bucks Free Press as "contradictory and nonsense."

Voting Brisk – Meanwhile voting was brisk throughout much of the Wycombe area yesterday in the county and European elections although political debate in the area last night was on the timing of the next general election following a third Cabinet resignation last night. Bucks election results will be known this morning and the Euro results on Sunday.

Blues windfall – Wycombe Wanderers will be in for a financial windfall after their former skipper, Roger Johnson, look set to join a Premiership club last night. The midfielder was sold to Cardiff City for £275,000 but with a clause that Wycombe will receive more money if he is sold on. Now, with Birmingham likely to offer up to £5m for the player, Wycombe will receive a handsome slice.

Wednesday 3rd June

Mower probe – Police are investigating after an eight year old boy had part of his foot severed by the council mowing machine. The mower was apparently reversing when Damon King came into contact with it in Henley’s Binfield Heath park. Damon is in hospital where he will need several operations to put his foot back together again.

Motorway check – Highway engineers are carrying out detailed checks on part of the M40 after a three metre pothole suddenly appeared in the fast lane. Three lanes of the northbound section of the motorway near Beaconsfield are closed, causing enormous tailbacks. When the hole first appeared without warning on Sunday, engineers thought they could repair it within 24 hours. Now, they don’t expect to complete the repairs until late tomorrow. They are still investigating how it happened.

Twitter poll – It’s not likely to be the most sought-after Twitter page, but it’s not deterring Wycombe District Council from trying to inject some enthusiasm into tomorrow’s county council elections. They have set up a Twitter page to relay the results as they happen when the count takes place on Friday morning.

Tuesday 2nd June

UKIP boost – Local Tories are stepping up campaigning with just two days to go before the local and Euro elections after reports that their private polls are showing strong support among their traditional voters for UKIP, the UK Independence Party, which wants Britain to pull out of Europe.

Pinewood plans – Councillors in South Bucks yesterday received their biggest ever planning application – a massive £200m proposed extension to Pinewood Studios. The film world says the extension – to include a number of permanent sets – is needed to ensure the British film industry remains strong. The proposed 100 acre extension includes 1,400 flats to house studio workers. They say 1,600 jobs will be created.

Hotel plans – Meanwhile a number of plans have been submitted for new hotels in High Wycombe. Details to a scheme to convert offices above the Chilterns Shopping Centre into a 119 bedroom hotel were announced yesterday, and it’s expected that plans for a hotel above Wycombe railway station will soon be finalised. On a smaller scale, plans to convert the Wendover Arms pub in Wycombe into a 33 bedroom hotel have also been put forward.

Monday 1st June

Fireworks ban – A fireworks display which marks the end of Henley’s famous regatta won’t be held this year. Last year a rower was stabbed following what regatta organisers described as “a marked increase in drunken and potentially dangerous behaviour.” The regatta starts on July 1.

Flu alert – Schools in the Wycombe area are on full alert for swine flu as pupils return after the half term today. Eton College yesterday confirmed that four of their pupils had been diagnosed, with a possible 25 other cases. The college has been closed for the week. Meanwhile, a family of five in Oxfordshire were confirmed with the virus last night.

New baby – Strictly Come Dancing hostess Tess Daly is set to return to her Fulmer home today after giving birth to a daughter, Amber, at the weekend. Tess and husband Vernon Kay already have a four year old daughter Phoebe.

Friday 29th May

College closes – For the first time in living memory Eton College has had to close. Pupils have been given an extra week off after half term because a 13 year old student has been confirmed with Swine Flu and the school wants to make sure the infection doesn’t spread. Pupils due to take exams at the 570 year old college will be allowed to return under “controlled conditions”.

Thursday 28th May

Raves ravaged – Police revealed yesterday that they closed down four raves in the Wycombe area over the bank holiday weekend, including one in a tunnel under the Marlow by-pass. Police also raided unlicensed parties in Thame, Princes Risborough and Ivinghoe, seizing sound equipment and, in Ivinghoe, making arrests for drug possession.

Wednesday 27th May

Childminder freed - Keran Henderson, the Iver Heath childminder jailed for the manslaughter of an 11 month old baby by shaking her to death, has been released from jail after serving half her three year sentence. But Mrs Henderson, who is at the centre massive campaign to prove she was the victim of a miscarriage of justice, is unable to speak for herself because of a pending appeal against her conviction. Meanwhile, the foreman of the jury who convicted her and who spoke out against the conviction is to appeal to the House of Lords against his conviction for contempt of court. Michael Seckerson said in the Times that the jury did not fully understand the medical evidence in the case. Both he and the newspaper were fined for “revealing the secrets of the jury room”.

Tuesday 26th May

Tragedy appeal – Two devastated families will appeal for help today to find the driver of a 4x4 involved in an accident which killed an 18 year old Thame man and left his 17 year old girlfriend in a critical condition in a coma. Greg Stiles died instantly after his car left the road to avoid the 4x4 which had overtaken a line of cars at Kinsey near Thame. His girlfriend, Abigal Dowdy from Prestwood, High Wycombe, whom he met at Thame Leisure Centre where they worked, has remained in a coma since the accident eight days ago.

Saturday 23rd May

MP repays Aylesbury MP David Liddington is among the latest batch of MP's to have had his expenses revealed by The Daily Telegraph. Mr Liddington, whose consituency covers Princes Risborough was reported to have made claims for moisturiser, body spray, toothpaste and for his laundry to be done at a dry cleaners. The Conservative MP has decided to pay back the £51.09 for the toiletries admitting that many people will see them as over-generous. He has also referred his whole claims to the Conservative scrutiny panel set up by leader David Cameron.

Private Transport - Buckinghamshire County Council have awarded a contract to maintain the county's roads to private company Ringway Jacobs for eight years. The deal has effectively privatised the council's transport department with the company also having responsibility for sustainable travel, road safety and development control. The new body will be known as Transport for Buckinghamshire.

Friday 22nd May

Unemployment up Unemployment in Wycombe is at it's highest level for over 12 years new figures released show. Wycombe District Council's percentage of working age people claiming job seekers allowance was 2.9% in April above the 2.4% average for Buckinghamshire County Council. Chiltern District was at 2%, South Bucks at 2.1% and Aylesbury Vale at 2.2%. However Buckinghamshire still has one of the lowest rates of unemployment in the country with the national average at 4.9 per cent.

Thursday 21st May

MP's cutback - Local MP's who controversially claim a second home allowance despite their constituencies been only an hour or so train journey from Westminster will be forced to cut back their claims following new limits set yesterday. From now on MP’s will only be able to claim up to £1,250 per month in either mortgage interest or rent. However Beaconsfield MP Dominic Grieve and Aylesbury MP David Liddington currently both claim more than that and have said they are now considering their options with Dominic Grieve saying he may now swop his second home in Marlow, a rented cottage, to a more modest flat. Both men insisted however that they do need to have a second home to conduct their duties effectively as an MP. Wycombe MP Paul Goodman also claims the second home allowance but for now is unaffected by the new limit as his mortgage claim is less than the new maximum amount. In contrast MP’s in nearby Reading and Slough choose not to have a second home and instead commute into London when parliament sits.

Speaker Grieve? – Dominic Grieve meanwhile emerged as a possible contender to take over the soon to be vacant post of Speaker of the House of Commons after been touted in the Guardian newspaper’s editorial yesterday. Mr Grieve - who is often praised by commentators for his parliamentary skills - has so far not commented on the position. However as he is currently Shadow Justice Secretary it is unlikely he will want to give that up and miss out on the strong possibility of becoming a senior cabinet minister in a new Conservative government.

Wednesday 20th May

Legion destroyed - The Royal British Legion Hall in Broad Street, Chesham was completley gutted yesterday and it's roof destroyed after a huge fire engulfed the whole building. Over 50 fire fighters were called to the blaze which begun in the early hours of the morning which threatened nearby residences and led to precautionary evacuations. The cause of the fire has not yet been identified but arson has not been ruled out as police have asked for witnesses to come forward.

Jobs threat - The human resources director of Buckinghamshire County Council has warned that job losses should be expected within the public sector over the coming year as the impact of the recession spreads. Local authorities have already been forced to look for ways to make funding cuts without cutting services. A proposed project has already been drawn up by the county council and the four Buckinghamshire district councils to pool resources where possible for back office functions.

Old Library Plan - The old High Wycombe library in Queen Victoria Road could finally find a new use after standing empty for the past year. The building has been empty since last June when the libray moved to a new location in the Eden centre. However it has been revealed that the Swan Theatre have begun preliminary discussions to take over the building although have not revealed what they would use it for.

Tuesday 19th May

High savers People in South Bucks have some of the highest average bank balances in the country according to figures released by the Halifax Building Society. South Bucks and Chiltern authorities were both in the top 10 with the average at £14,210 and £12,758 respectively.

New Contracts Wycombe Wanderers defenders Craig Woodman and Leon Johnson have had their contacts extended by a further year until June 2011. The extensions were triggered due to a clause in their contracts meaning an extra year was automatically added when the club won promotion to league one.

Saturday 16th May

Gun charge – The son of a man with a debilitating disease who shot himself dead has appeared in court accused of supplying the gun to his father. Guy Button, aged 30, of Princes Risborough is alleged to have given his father Ian the gun and ammunition while visiting him at Northampton General Hospital. Mr Button senior, aged 63, later shot himself in the head in the hospital ward. Yesterday Guy Button was bailed to appear at court in Northampton again in July.

Why Wye? – A 47 foot long blue glass sculpture was unveiled in Wycombe’s Eden shopping centre yesterday depicting the River Wye as its centrepiece. The artist said the river was featured prominently because the vast majority of people consulted about the piece said they first thought of the river when they thought of High Wycombe. Which is odd really, because the council deliberately chose to hide the river in an underground culvert when they agreed plans for the new shopping centre.

Friday 15th May

Flash floods - Torrential overnight rainstorms brought flash floods to the Wycombe area last night, blocking roads and flooding cellars.

New hotel - Travelodge yesterday won their appeal to build a 75 bedroom hotel in the centre of Chesham.

Tickets boost - Wycombe Wanderers is selling hundreds of season tickets for next season following the team's promotion to League One. Last night the Blues learned they can look forward to another prestigious ground to visit - Elland Road - after Leeds failed to make it out of the League 1 play-offs. Other venues next season include Southampton, Norwich and Charlton.

Thursday 14th May

Shopping boost – Empty shop units are beginning to fill again in High Wycombe in a sign that the recession is easing. The clothing store Cargo are due to take a large unit in the Eden shopping centre and three other smaller units are being filled by local firms. Meanwhile an announcement over the future of the empty Woolworth store in the High Street is expected shortly. Workmen yesterday began emptying fixtures from the store as part of a refurbishment.

In contempt – The foreman of the jury in the Keran Henderson childminder case has been found guilty of contempt of court for speaking to the press about his concerns surrounding the case. Mrs Henderson of Iver Heath was found guilty by a 10-2 majority of shaking 11 month old Maeve Sheppard to death but the verdict has attracted major concerns and an appeal is pending. Yesterday jury foreman Michael Seckerson and the Times newspaper, to whom he spoke, were found guilty of contempt of court for disclosing details about the jury’s deliberations. They will be sentenced next month.

Gas worry – Hundreds of people contacted police, councils and gas companies yesterday after a strong whiff of gas pervaded much of south Buckinghamshire. Last night the National Grid confirmed the gas was not from a local source. It’s thought a gas cloud may have wafted over from the continent, but is not dangerous.

Wednesday 13th May

Waste boost – Work begins today to triple the size of High Wycombe’s main recycling centre – the appropriately named High Heavens – so that it can deal with increasing amounts of rubbish. The multi-million pound project will be completed by Christmas.

Club “safe” – Aylesbury United Football Club chairman Graham Read last night reassured fans that the future of the non-league club is safe even though a proposed ground-sharing deal with Chesham United fell through. The club will continue to look for another ground to share.

Ben’s mate – An unknown Henley teenager has landed a major role in the remake of the classic movie Ben-Hur. Toby Marlow, aged 14, from Henley will play Ben-Hur’s best friend Octovius. Filming begins in Morocco next week.

Tuesday 12 May

Store grows - High Wycombe's John Lewis department store is planning a major refurbishment so that it can sell clothing. The store wasn't allowed to sell clothing as part of its planning permission 20 years ago because the council feared the effect on the town centre two miles away. But with the new Eden shopping centre established in the town centre the council has indicated it's time to lift the ban. The Wycombe branch is the only John Lewish that's doesn't sell clothes.

Dog's breakfast - Chesham and Amersham MP Cheryl Gillian was inundated with complaints from constituents yesterday after she apologised for claiming for dog food as part of her Parliamentary expenses. She said it was an oversight and she had paid back the money. Despite the apology scores of people contacted her office to express their anger.

Monday 11 May

Grammar attack – Liberal Democrats plan to revive the campaign against the 11 plus and grammar schools in Bucks if they do well, as predicted, in next month’s local elections. They reckon there is growing disquiet about the selective system in the county. Three secondary school heads voiced their opposition in an interview with the Financial Times at the weekend. One said: “Failing the 11 plus is a catastrophe in young lives. We spend their first year here repairing their battered self-esteem.”

Rider killed – The main Henley to Oxford Road was closed for most of yesterday afternoon after a female motorcyclist hit a tree at Nettlebed and died instantly. She is expected to be officially identified today.

Somewhere boy – Movie insiders are predicting massive success for 19 year old High Wycombe actor Aaron Johnson who this week begins final scenes for Nowhere Man, a movie based on the early life of John Lennon. Aaron, a former pupil at the Jackie Palmer Stage School, has similar looks to the young Beatle and has wowed studio onlookers. The movie is due for release early next year.

Thursday 7th May

Jail threat – The Amersham horse dealer found guilty yesterday of causing unnecessary suffering to his animals could face jail when sentenced. James Gray and his 16 year old son James junior, of Spindles Farm, Hyde Heath, were found guilty of nine charges of causing unnecessary suffering and two of failing to protect animals from pain, injury, suffering and disease. His wife Julie and daughters Cordelia and Jodie were found guilty of two charges of failing to protect the animals. Thirty one horses, ponies and donkeys were found dead at the farm when RSPCA officers visited in January last year. More than 100 others were removed in a poor condition. The family will be sentenced next month.

Attempted murder – A man was charged with attempted murder yesterday after a 23 year old man was run over outside a kebab shop in Frogmoor, in the centre of High Wycombe. John Simpson, 21, will appear in court later.

Improper councillor – A councillor who tried to influence his council’s planning committee to turn down a planning application by his neighbour was officially reprimanded yesterday. The Standards Committee said Tory Andrew Hodgson, from South Oxfordshire District Council, had acted improperly and should apologise.

Wednesday 6th May

Stations saved – It looked last night that the local radio stations for Wycombe and Aylesbury – Mix 107 and Mix 96 – have been saved from going off air by a last minute deal. The Wycombe based Local Radio Company are recommending a take-over by a Cornish company in a deal that will give the Wycombe company £1m in cash to meet its bills. The company warned last month it may have to go off air at the end of April unless urgent funds were obtained.

Skipper stalls - Wycombe Wanderers captain David McCracken has stalled on a new contract with the club and is thinking of returning to play in his native Scotland, it emerged last night. McCracken, who scored the final goal of the season – a goal, it turned out, that was enough to give the Blues promotion, is out of contract at the end of the month.

Tuesday 5th May

Relatives search - People who may be relatives of soldiers found in a World War One unmarked grave are to be asked to donate DNA to help identify them. Nearly a quarter of the 400 soldiers recently discovered in a mass grave at Fromelles in northern France were from the Oxford and Bucks Light Infantry. It’s known a number of men from the Wycombe area were among those killed in the battle near Fromelles in July, 1916. Now, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, based in Maidenhead, need DNA to positively identify the bodies so they can be re-buried in a new military cemetery.

Swine flu victim – Health authorities and schools in the Wycombe area are on alert after a man in the Slough area was a confirmed last night as victim of swine flu. The man, in his 20s, had recently returned from Mexico. He has been given anti-viral drugs and doctors said last night he was in isolation and responding well.

Clear out – Wycombe Wanderers began preparations for League 1 by releasing nine of their first team squad yesterday. They included former top striker Scott McGleish and defender Will Antwi. With loanees returning to their clubs, manager Peter Taylor has slashed the squad to under 30, reducing the club’s high wage costs. New signings are expected in the close season.

Monday 4th May

Hotel quarantine – Hazlemere couple Eddie and Terri Sweeney have been quarantined in Hong Kong’s Metropark Hotel until the end of this week along with 300 other tourists because one of their party has contracted Swine Flu. They have been given anti-viral drugs.

Future plans – Work begins on digging up the pitch at Adams Park today in preparation for a new one, while in the boardroom Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor will begin outlining his needs for success in League One next season when he meets chairman Ivor Beeks and chief executive Steve Hayes.

Sunday 3rd May

Phew! – Wycombe Wanderers won promotion to League 1 yesterday by the skin of their teeth. They finished third, on the same points as fourth placed Bury but with a better goal difference of just one goal. The Blues lost 1-2 to strugglers Notts County before a capacity crowd of nearly 10,000, a record for a league game at Adams Park. The game finished a full five minutes before the Bury match against Accrington with everyone waiting anxiously for the final whistle at Bury’s Gigg Lane. After the game Craig Woodman was named player of the season and Matty Phillips young player of the season.

Saturday 2nd May

Wycombe expects – Wycombe Wanderers broke a record for pre-match ticket sales for a league game yesterday as they prepared for their promotion-clinching League 2 game against Notts County. When the club’s offices closed last night there were just 250 tickets out of 9,700 allocated for home fans. The club appealed for fans to arrive early to avoid congestion at the turnstiles. Manager Peter Taylor – who will also equal a record by managing five promotion-gaining teams if Wycombe do go up – has a fully fit squad to choose from.

Thursday 30th April

Officer resigns – An Aylesbury prison officer resigned yesterday after giving birth to a baby fathered by an inmate. Kelly-Anne McDade had already been suspended from Aylesbury Young Offenders jail. The 18 year old father, serving time for assaults, has been moved to another prison.

Coma relief – Young sportsman Joe Robinson came out of a coma yesterday three weeks after a car crash which killed a schoolfriend. The 19 year old, who plays rugby for Chinnor and cricket for Thame Town, is still seriously ill with head injuries.

Blues in red – Despite success on the pitch, Wycombe Wanderers are set to lose about a million pounds this season, members of the Wycombe Wanderers Trust will be told at their AGM tonight. The club owes around £7m to its millionaire chief executive Steve Hayes.

Tuesday 28th April

Hospitals ready – Local hospitals are ready to deal with suspected cases of Swine Flu emanating from Heathrow. Pilots and cabin crews, many of whom live in the Wycombe area, are automatically checked for symptoms of the illness and passengers from Mexico are being asked if they feel OK when they land at the airport. Stocks of the flu antidote are said to be in plentiful supply in the area.

Libs surge – Liberal Democrats are confident they will see a surge in support when local elections are held in six weeks. Private polls are showing voters are promising support, switching from both Conserv atives and Labour. In the Wycombe by-election in Totteridge last week the Lib Dems gained more votes that both Tories and Labour combined in a seat held by the late Glyn Galbraith, the leader of Wycombe’s Labour Group.

Big crowd – Wycombe Wanderers are set to announce special ticket deals today in an attempt to fill Adams Park for the final game of the season on Saturday. As it is, the biggest gate of the season is expected for the game against Notts County. The Blues only need a point to be sure of promotion.

Sunday 26th April

Not quite! - Wycombe Wanderers missed out on securing automatic promotion after drawing 1-1 at Port Vale in front of a large travelling support. However other results meant it was not enough to secure promotion and it will now come down to the final weekend of the season next week. Wycombe will be promoted to League One if they at least draw with Notts County at Adams Park next Saturday. The Blues could even be promoted with a defeat if other results go their way.

Friday 24th April

Death plunge – A man who fell to his death from the fourth floor of the Eden shopping centre’s multi storey car park in the centre High Wycombe was identified last night as Antony Williams, aged 45, from Hatters Lane, Wycombe. His death is not being treated as suspicious.

Lee’s deal – Lee McQueen, the Princes Risborough businessman who won the BBC’s The Apprentice last year, has sealed a major deal for his new boss Sir Alan Sugar. He has been working on a digital screen contract for Britain’s BP petrol stations which was finalised this week.

Coach convoy – A convoy of coaches will leave High Wycombe tomorrow carrying hundreds of Wycombe Wanderers fans to Stoke. They hope to see the Blues gain automatic promotion from League 2 with a victory against Port Vale.

Wednesday 22nd April

Thrilling finish - A cracking goal from John Akinde gave Wycombe Wanderers a vital win at Luton Town last night and put them within two points of League 2 leaders Brentford, who lost at Dagenham. It means that if the Blues win at Port Vale on Saturday they will all but be assured of promotion.

Tuesday 21st April

Snow go – Plans to make High Wycombe one of the country’s top winter sports centres are stuck in a snow drift. Legal issues surrounding the scheme at Wycombe Summit, the site of the former synthetic ski slope which was destroyed in a fire three years ago, have still not been resolved despite 18 months of wrangling. Now the council is set to reject new proposals from the company Snow Dome to make the building housing the proposed real-snow centre and ice rink bigger than originally envisaged.

Stage stung – A stage version of the famous movie The Sting is set to receive its UK premiere in High Wycombe next month as part of the Wycombe Arts Festival, which begins this weekend.

Poor record - Wycombe Wanderers boss Peter Taylor is reminding this players that tonight’s vital League Two game at Luton Town is not a foregone conclusion even though the Hatters are already relegated, thanks to a crippling 30 point penalty imposed by the FA for financial irregularities. The clubs have met 16 times – with Wycombe winning only twice.

Monday 20th April

Fore... and counting – Officials are to put a six metre high fence alongside the sixth tee at Wycombe Heights Golf Club because so many players are firing balls into the neighbour’s garden. Around 1,000 balls a year stray into the garden causing a health and safety hazard, says a council report. It also causes rows as golfers trespass into the owner’s property looking for their wayward balls.

Rebranded Luke – Meanwhile, at the other end of the golfing skills ladder, Wycombe professional Luke Donald is set to lose his sponsor RBS. The discredited bank is taking a low profile and withdrawing its logo from the clothing of sports stars. However, the 30 year old golfer won’t be out of pocket from a branding deal said to earn him £80,000 a year. RBS will substitute their logo for one of their subsidiary companies such as Direct Line or Churchill Insurance.

Mad Hatters rush – Luton Town are set to provide more tickets for Wycombe fans for tomorrow night’s crucial League Two game after Wanderers sold out their allocation. Over 1,000 Blues fans are travelling to Luton hoping to see Wycombe secure an emphatic victory similar to the 3-0 defeat of Aldershot on Saturday. A win against the Hatters would put Wycombe in second place and within touching distance of automatic promotion.

Thursday 16th April

Commuter tragedy – Commuters on their way home from work risked their lives to rescue a mother trapped in a blazing car which left the M25 and landed upside down in a field. They used coats, brief cases and car fire extinguishers to try and beat the blaze near junction 16 at Gerrards Cross. But their efforts were in vain. By the time the fire brigade arrived the 44 year old woman from Hertfordshire had died. Her nine year old daughter, who managed to scramble clear, is recovering in hospital. Last night ambulance and fire fighters praised the bravery of the motorists.

Carrying on – A cartoon film of the famous Carry On movies is to be made in tribute to producer Peter Rogers who has died at his Gerrards Cross home aged 95. Mr Rogers lived just a mile or so from Pinewood Studios where he made 31 of the legendary movies. Stars would often visit his home after a day’s filming. Plans to produce a revival movie, Carry On London, have been dropped, b ut the cartoon will feature caricatures of all the big names that appeared in the comedies.

Soccer compromise – Wycombe Wanderers and Luton Town reached a compromise last night to settle a brewing row over ticket prices. Luton, who are already relegated from League Two, want to earn as much cash as they can before the drop and proposed a ticket price of £20 for their clash with promotion chasing Wycombe at the basic Kennilworth Road ground next week. The Blues objected on behalf of their fans so after discussions Luton agreed to a “buy one, get one free” ticket deal.

Wednesday 15th April

Witness appeal – Police fear that the couple found dead in an upturned field off anisolated road may have died after being trapped in the car for up to 11 hours. The couple, who are not been officially identified until family members have been informed, were last seen in a pub where the dead woman in her 20s worked. They were travelling on a country lane near Benson in south Oxfordshire when the car apparently left the road and overturned in the early hours of Easter Monday. They weren’t discovered until noon. Police have appealed for witnesses.

Poisons warning – An investigation is being held in Henley after a pet dog roaming in council-owned woods died after eating rat poison. It’s thought that fly-tippers have been dumping rubbish in the woods and owners of adjoining allotments put out the poison to deter rats attracted to the rubbish.

Buyers struggle – Estate agents confirmed that the Wycombe area is following national trends, published yesterday, which show mortgages are becoming slightly easier to get, but first time buyers continue to struggle. Separate figures from the Tories showed that the Beaconsfield area is one of the worst areas in the country for first time buyers when comparing the average price of property in the area compared to average earnings.

Tuesday 14th April

Couple found – Post mortems will be held on a man and a woman today to discover how long their bodies were in an overturned car before being found. The couple – a man in his 40s and a woman in her 20s – were discovered in an overturned Citroen in a field near the village of Benson yesterday afternoon. The car wasn’t visible from the nearby Watlington Road even though it’s thought it skidded off that road, through a fence and overturned.

Race to the line – Wycombe Wanderers still have it all to do if they are to secure automatic promotion from League 2, following their 1-0 defeat at Exeter yesterday. The team showed signs of nerves in a pulsating game, but are still in a strong position in third with a game in hand over most other promotion rivals.

Monday 13th APril

Ex-manager dies – Former Wycombe Wanderers manager Mike Keen died at his High Wycombe home yesterday after a short illness. Mike, 69, made his name as a player with Watford, Luton and as QPR captain but became manager of his home town club between 1980 and 1984. He opened a successful sports shop in the town centre. His son Kevin who began his professional career with Wycombe went on to play for West Ham and Stoke, and is now first team coach for the Hammers.

Sunday 12th April

Onwards and upwards – A fifth goal in six games for on loan striker John Akinde give Wycombe Wanderers a vital win against Gillingham in a top of the table League Two clash yesterday. The Blues rode their luck, and the Gills missed a penalty, but the result means that with five games to go Wycombe are second in the table and have a game in hand over the clubs below them.

Saturday 11th April

Luke through – Wycombe golfer Luke Donald made the cut at the Masters tournament in Augusta last night, but all eyes were on his partner, the legendary Gary Player, who was taking part in his 52nd and final Masters. Donald also accompanied another golfing legend Jack Nicklaus in his last competitive major at The Open last year.

Friday 10th April

What’s on this Easter – A celebration of Henry VIII at the Chilterns Open Air Museum, trains in steam at Princes Risborough and Quainton, rural pleasures at the Thame Country Show and a major craft exhibition at Great Missenden are among Easter attractions in the Wycombe area.

There are special events at regular tourist attractions – Roald Dahl Museum, Odds Farm, the Home of Rest for Horses in Speen ,the Hellfire Caves and at Henley’s River and Rowing museum. In Windsor, the Windsor Eye is back while there are new exhibits at Legoland.

On the pitch it’s a crucial Easter for Wycombe Wanderers at the top of League 2. They entertain fellow promotion hopefuls Gillingham at Adams Park on Saturday and on Monday travel to another promotion rival Exeter.

Plenty of gigs at local pubs while on stage attractions range from The Chuckle Brothers at Wycombe Swan to the world’s longest touring pop group The Drifters at Hayes Beck. Check all the attractions’ websites for details.

Thursday 9th April

Jade’s legacy – The death of reality TV star Jade Goody has had an astonishing effect on the number of women in Wycombe area taking tests for cervical cancer. Health officials confirmed yesterday that the number of women in the area booked for cervical smears had leapt an incredible FORTY fold in the two weeks since Jade’s death.

Night out tragedy - An 18 year old sportsman from Thame is fighting for his life after being involved in a night out that ended in tragedy. Four friends from a private school in Oxford were travelling home when their car hit a tree on the A34. A 17 year old girl passenger, Grace Hardman, died. The 17 year old girl driving the car has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and driving under the influence of drink or drugs. Joe Robinson, who plays rugby for Chinnor and cricket for Thame Town, is in a critical condition in hospital with head injuries. Another male passenger, aged 18, received minor injuries.

Blues first – Wycombe Wanderers will create a bit of footballing history on Saturday by being the first club to produce a programme specifically for visiting fans. Supporters from Gillingham arriving at Adams Park for a crucial League Two promotion clash will be able to buy a programme featuring a Gills player on the front page, while the home fans will receive a programme featuring a Blues player. In an attempt to get a full house the club are introducing a “buy a ticket get one free” offer for the game.

Wednesday 8th April

Net widens – Police are widening the net to find the driver involved in a hit and run which killed a local cyclist and orphaned his 10 year old son. The family of Jim Fleming will give a press conference today appealing for the driver to contact the police. Mr Fleming, 47, died a week ago on the A413 Amersham Road at Gerrards Cross. His wife had died from cancer a year earlier. Police are making a nationwide appeal to find a blue van involved which will have been damaged. They say it may even have been dumped somewhere and burnt out. They are also appealing for three Polish men who stopped to help but drove on without leaving details. It’s thought they may have seen something important.

Base expands – Work has started on improving over 100 service homes at RAF High Wycombe after complaints they were falling below acceptable standards. More single accommodation blocks are also being built to cope with additional personnel now the base has been expanded. Around 2,500 people work on the site at Naphill.

Lucky seven – A dramatic injury time goal from Chris Zebroski gave Wycombe Wanderers their first win in seven games at Darlington last night and moved them back to second place in League Two. Earlier John Akinde put the Blues ahead before the Quakers equalised.

Tuesday 7th April

Pub game ban – Local landlords are set to ban a pub game because it’s making too many people violent and ill. Pub golf involves people drinking nine different drinks in nine different pubs while dressed up as golfers. Pubs in Henley have already banned the game after the Queen’s Head in the town was wrecked by drunken players. Now other pubs in the Wycombe area are considering joining the ban.

Pay soars – Pressure is mounting on local councils in Bucks to merge to save on astronomical salaries after figures yesterday revealed that the chief executive of Buckinghamshire County Council earns £200,000 a year and the boss of the smaller Wycombe District Council earns £141,000. A few years ago massive savings were made when neighbouring Berkshire County Council was merged into local district councils.

Passenger boom – The number of people travelling to High Wycombe by bus has increased significantly since the new Eden shopping centre opened a year ago, figures revealed yesterday. There’s virtually a 20 per cent increase in bus passengers while the number of park and ride passengers has risen by 58 per cent. Biggest leap is on the Thame to High Wycombe route which saw numbers rise by 60 per cent.

Monday 6th April

Fraud charge – Police hunting people responsible for a series of arson attacks on a Wycombe estate last night charged three people with in connection with an alleged insurance fraud. Two other teenagers earlier arrested with the three in connection with nine fires on the Castlefield estate were released.

Club’s agony – A village football club’s dream date at Wembley was shattered by the ref’s poor timekeeping. Chalfont St Peter were leading in the semi final of the Vase Trophy at Glossop at the weekend at the end of extra time. The fourth official indicated two minutes extra time. After four and a half minutes of extra time however Glossop equalised, and went on to win the penalty shoot out.

Friday 3rd April

Cycle tragedy – A 10 year old boy whose mother died last year from cancer is now an orphan after his father was killed in a hit and run accident. Police yesterday appealed for help in tracing the driver of a vehicle that ran into the back of cyclist Jim Fleming early Wednesday morning on the Amersham Road in Gerrards Cross. Mr Fleming, 47, of Denham died instantly. Last August his wife Pam died from cervical cancer. The couple had two grown up children and a 10 year old son William, who is now being cared for by the family.

Radio fears – Wycombe and Aylesbury’s local radio stations, Mix 107 and Mix 96 could be off the air at the end of the month unless the company that owns them manages to get a fresh injection of cash. Owners the Local Radio Company said shareholders had turned down a plan to inject more money in the company. It’s thought the company’s board are unwilling to accept a takeover from a smaller rival UKRD but says for now it is reviewing “all options”.

MP’s pub plea – Henley MP John Howell yesterday urged people to visit the pub more often. He is supporting a campaign to keep pubs in the Chilterns in business after latest figures show that in recent weeks nearly 40 pubs a week have been closing nationwide.

Thursday 2nd April

Murderer hunted – A man sentenced to life imprisonment for killing an Aylesbury man 35 years ago was being hunted last night by detectives investigating a murder in Yorkshire. Ernest Wright, aged 67, was jailed in 1973 after battering to death his mistresses husband Trevor Hale, burning his body and burying it in a shallow grave in Aylesbury. He was released on licence in 1999. Earlier this week he went missing after a 42 yearold man was shot in the back of the head and another man seriously injured with shots to the chest in Bradford. Police said last night that Wright, who has contacts in the Wycombe and Aylesbury area, should not be approached.

Water warning – The Environment Agency yesterday gave its starkest warning yet about local water shortages unless drastic action is taken to reduce consumption. The agency said that the flow of the River Thames and its tributaries would reduce by more than 50 per cent in the late summer in the next 40 years because of climate change. The rivers provide virtually all of the Wycombe area’s supply. Experts said that water meters in homes, which tend to reduce consumption, were vital.

Cyclist killed – A 47 year old cyclist died on a busy dual-carriageway at Gerrards Cross early yesterday after being hit by a car. The victim, a local man, is due to be identified today. Residents last night called for cycle tracks on the A416 Amersham Road to protect cyclists.

Wednesday 1st April

Hospital blunders – Bucks Hospitals Trust yesterday apologised to the family to a nurse who died while giving birth to the baby she had been trying to conceive for years. The inquest into 45 year old nurse Joanne Lockham, from Wendover, heard that four serious errors were made in the caesarean which led to her being starved of oxygen for 30 minutes at Stoke Mandeville Hospital. She suffered brain damage and her life support machine was switched off without her ever seeing her son Finn. The Trust said a change in procedures had taken place since the tragedy.

Gym deal – A last minute deal was reached last night which means that members of council run gyms in Wycombe, Marlow and Princes Risborough can continue using facilities today. Last week Nexus, the company that runs the gyms for Wycombe Council, wrote to 2,000 members saying that as it had lost the contract to run the gyms their membership would be no longer valid from today. But furious councillors reached a deal with the company yesterday which means that gym membership will be valid until the end of the year.

Poor show – Wycombe Wanderers turned in what was probably their poorest performance of the season in a game which was vital to win last night. Their 1-1 draw with lowly Barnet drew boos at the end of a game in which they could hardly put a foot right. The team are still fourth in League 2 with a game in hand, but there is clearly concern about the lack of confidence and ability.

Tuesday 31st March

Air probe – MPs are to consider the future of airfields at Wycombe and Denham as part of a major Parliamentary review into the use of air space. Noise protesters say that because more advanced private planes and helicopters are using Wycombe Air Park and Denham Aerodrome they should be regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority and the Department of Transport in the same way as bigger airports. Wycombe is now thought to be the busiest “non-airport” in the country, with nearly 100,000 air movements a year. The issue is to be considered by the Transport Select Committee.

Media concerns – The bosses of all the major local newspaper groups are to meet the Government to press for a change in merger rules it was announced yesterday. In the Wycombe area each of the main papers – the Bucks Free Press, the Bucks Advertiser/Examiner, the Bucks Herald and the Maidenhead Advertiser are all owned by different groups and under present competition rules are unable to merge.

Meanwhile, the Local Radio Company, the owners of Wycombe and Aylesbury’s local radio stations, Mix 107 and Mix 96, yesterday urged shareholders to pause while the group considered its response to a formal take over bid from the smaller rival radio group UKRD.

Festival queue – The queue for Reading Festival tickets began eight hours before they went on sale at Wycombe HMV store yesterday. By the time the tickets were available, at 7pm, around 200 people were ready to snap them up. The August Bank Holiday festival features Arctic Monkeys, Radiohead and Kings of Leon.

Monday 30th March

Radio takeover – The Wycombe based Local Radio Company is set to be taken over today by a smaller rival, the UKRD Group, in a deal worth over £1m. The company, which owns Wycombe’s Mix 107 and Aylesbury’s Mix 96, has suffered in the recession and recently announced plans to sell Jazz FM. The Local Radio Company runs 20 stations and UKRD runs six stations.

Arson alert – Anxious residents on a Wycombe estate are to meet with police after nine arson attacks in 10 days. Two houses in Castlefield estate have been set ablaze – one so bad it made a family homeless. Other attacks have been on cars and sheds. At the meeting tomorrow police will outline the special measures they are taking to find the culprits.

Pressing on – Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor is making plans for his team on the assumption they will be promoted this season. Despite a 1-1 draw against Shrewsbury on Saturday – which meant the Blues dropped to fifth place – Taylor is said to have opened talks with new loanee Frank Sinclair about a permanent move if promotion is secured.

Friday 27th March

Widow’s shock – Police have apologised to an Amersham widow after sending her the rope her husband used to hang himself. The blood-stained rope was among John Gilmore’s possessions sent to his wife Angie Gerrelli. An inquest heard that Mr Gilmore, 52, hanged himself in a park in South Wales. Police in Barry, who sent the rope with the possessions, said steps had been taken to ensure such a mistake didn't happen again.

Toilets closed – Three public toilets are being closed because the council can’t afford to keep repairing them after vandal attacks. The loos, in Richardson Street and Abbey Barn Road, High Wycombe and in Red Lion Way, Wooburn Green will shut for good at the end of the month and be demolished.

Experience arrives – Former Chelsea defender Frank Sinclair joined Wycombe Wanderers yesterday on loan from Lincoln City until the end of the month. Manager Peter Taylor swooped on the final day for signing loan players, saying he wanted more experience in the side in the final run up for promotion. Taylor knows the 37 year old well – he was in the Leicester side that Taylor managed in the Premiership.

Thursday 26th March

Maternity tragedy – A pregnant mum died after being starved of oxygen on the operating table while undergoing a Caesarean, her inquest heard yesterday. Joanne Lockham, 45, from Wendover, never saw her baby Finn, who was delivered successfully. Tubes that were meant to supply her with oxygen had not been put in place properly, the inquest heard. She died hours later after suffering irreversible brain damage. Mrs Lockham and her husband had been undergoing fertilisation treatment in trying for a child. The inquest at Amersham continues today.

Death investigated – The death of a 31 year old Wycombe man is being investigated after he collapsed and died less than three hours after leaving a police station. Marcus Cottoy, a father of one, was arrested on Sunday on suspicion of causing damage to a Wycombe pub. After 12 hours he was apparently taken ill and left Amersham police station to be medically cared for. He died later in Stoke Mandeville Hospital. A post mortem yesterday failed to determine how he died and further tests are being carried out. The Independent Police Complaints Commission have been informed as a matter of routine.

Private brigade – The council in Windsor is considering whether to be the first in the country to run its own fire brigade. Anger in the town over the proposed closure of Windsor fire station at night has led councillors to form a group to look at ways for running and paying for the service themselves.

Wednesday 25th March

Youngest MP? – A 25 year old Oxford University student is trying to become Britain’s youngest MP by winning the Wycombe seat at the next general election. The only problem is that Andrew Lomas is standing for the Labour Party, who finished in a distant second place at the last election. Still, even if he is hammered, he can take heart from a 26 year old budding Labour politician who got smashed in the neighbouring Tory stronghold of Beaconsfield in 1982. His name was Tony Blair.

Youngest councillor – Meanwhile a 22-year-old is aiming to become Wycombe’s youngest ever councillor next month. Tim Hewish, a Parliamentary researcher, is standing for the Conservatives in the Labour held ward of Totteridge. The by-election has been caused by the death of the council’s Labour leader Glyn Galbraith.

Allotments boom – The recession and the onset of Spring has brought a surge in interest in allotments in the Wycombe area. Demand is so great that the council are in talks with the National Trust to see if land at Hughenden Manor in Wycombe can be released for allotments.

Tuesday 24th March

Allergic horse – Pandora, a five year old thoroughbred from Flackwell Heath achieved world wide fame yesterday because she’s allergic to grass. Once the story broke on the internet it was featured on news sites throughout the globe. Pandora has to wear a special mask provided by her owners, veterinary nurse Emily Pearce,over her face to prevent a nasty skin reaction.

Woolies revival – Former Woolworth commercial director Tony Page is setting up a base in Maidenhead next month to create up to 300 shops – many old Woolies stores – selling computer games, DVDs and MP3 players. Some empty local Woolworth shops are thought to be on Mr Page’s shopping list.

Skins and punks – A former Wycombe punk who took hundreds of photographs of skinheads and punk rockers is set to make a fortune when is book is published tomorrow. Gavin Watson’s “Skins and Punks: lost archive 1978-1985” contains scores of pictures of punk life in the town and has advance orders in the thousands. He’s thought to be the only punk to have recorded skinhead/punk life from the “inside” at the time of the rage.

Monday 23rd March

Long delay – The Health and Safety Executive is under pressure to explain why their report into the Tesco tunnel collapse at Gerrards Cross is still not ready, three years and nine months after the accident occurred. The tunnel collapsed onto the main Wycombe to Marylebone railway line minutes after a train passed under it. Since then Tesco – who have written off £35m to cover the cost of the collapse - have employed new contractors who have completely redesigned the tunnel and are building a new one. But it is still not known exactly why the original tunnel collapsed because of the unexplained delay in the the health and safety report.

Arsonists strike – Police in High Wycombe are investigating two weekend arson attacks. In the first the Earl Howe pub in Holmer Green was badly damaged after a blaze started in the bar in the early hours when the pub was empty. In the second a semi-detached house was also badly damaged in Chiltern Avenue. Severe damage was also caused to the neighbouring home and residents were evacuated. No-one was injured.

Don’t panic – Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor cancelled his players’ day-off today for extra training amid fears that the Blues’ promising season is going pear-shaped. The team are now in the play-off positions after once leading League 2 by nine clear points. A 0-1 home defeat by Rochdale on Saturday is followed by an equally crucial game this Saturday against Shrewsbury, who are also in the play-off positions. Taylor said the nine games left this season were “absolutely massive”.

Friday 20th March

Jobs secured - Hundreds of jobs have been secured after two local firms learned yesterday they are to be part of a multi-billion pound project to develop the next generation of Britain’s supersonic stealth jets. Ultra Electronics, in Loudwater, and Martin Baker, the aviation seat ejector experts in Denham, will play major roles in the planes’ development, the Ministry of Defence announced. The news is welcome after the Wycombe area recorded its highest number of jobless claimants for 12 years this week.

Robot fish – Schools of robot fish are to be let loose in the River Thames so scientists can produce a 3D pollution map of the river. The fish-shaped devices are covered in sensors that will record and trace any harmful chemicals dumped in the river. The EU funded scheme, announced yesterday, is a trial. If it works the fish will be on patrol in all of Europe’s rivers.

Promotion push – Wycombe Wanderers boss Peter Taylor yesterday secured another promising 19 year old on loan in a determined effort to secure his side’s promotion. Lee Sawyer, a Chelsea youngster, is an attacking midfielder who will be used to try and beef up the Blues’ midfield scoring rate. Another 19 year old loanee, John Akinde, scored two goals in his debut against Brentford last week and Taylor is hoping for much the same when Wycombe host a crucial game against fellow-promotion hopefuls Rochdale at Adams Park tomorrow.

Thursday 19th March

Tagged patients – Dementia sufferers in the Wycombe area are the first in the country to be voluntarily tagged so they can be easily traced if they go AWOL, it was revealed yesterday. Health authorities throughout the UK are closely following Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Mental Health Trust’s trial with a selected number of patients. There are an increasing number of people suffering Alzheimer’s who lose their bearings and wander the streets, sometimes for days on end.

Medieval experiment – Criminology students from Wycombe’s Bucks New University conducted an interesting sociological experiment yesterday to test people’s reaction to a famous medieval punishment. Student Richard Barter was placed in stocks in the High Street under signs saying he was a persistent shop-lifter and was being subject to an experimental public humiliation sentence. Off-duty community police officers were also on hand to add authenticity and to ensure any abuse didn’t get out of hand. But passers-by, who were only told the 19 year old was innocent after they had given their views, weren’t inclined to throw rotten eggs as the public used to when stocks were commonplace. In fact one woman felt so sorry for him she gave him a bar of chocolate.

Service booms – Just two days after it opened, the new Beaconsfield Service Station on the M40 is proving very popular. Coaches and lorries in particular are pouring into the venue attracted by its ease of parking and convenient location. Marks and Spencer, who failed to get their food outlet at the service station ready in time for Tuesday’s opening, say they will be ready next week.

Wednesday 18th March

Flight protest – Wycombe has become the last local authority in the Heathrow hinterland to join the protest against a possible third runway at the airport. The local authority protest group 2M said yesterday Wycombe had come on board because aircraft noise would be increased over the district if a third runway was built. Previously Wycombe Council had been quietly in favour of Heathrow expansion, along with Slough, because it felt the economic and job generating aspects of the airport outweighed environmental blight. But when Slough came out against a third runway Wycombe found itself isolated and has now changed its position.

Horses rejected – The Horse Trust, the Speen based charity that takes in horses that can no longer be looked after by their owners, has had to stop taking horses for the first time in its 120 year history, it was announced yesterday. The charity has had a fivefold increase in the number of requests from horse owners unable to afford to look after their animals because of the recession. Now, it says it can simply take no more.

Barn storming – A Wycombe barn dance has inspired a number one hit. Barry Islands In The Stream - this year’s Comic Relief single which currently tops the charts - was first featured in TV’s Gavin and Stacey show as the highlight of a barn dance celebration for Gwen, one of the characters. The show’s co-writer, Wycombe comedy actor James Corden, told newspapers he came up with the idea travelling from his parents’ home in Hazlemere to his flat at the time in Beaconsfield. “I saw a sign for a Barn Dance at the roadside and thought ‘that’s it: Gwen’s celebration has to be a barn dance’.” From the barn dance came the song, which became a You Tube favourite. Consequently it’s now sold thousands as the Comic Relief single.

Tuesday 17th March

Wycombe Angel – A massive sculpture – Wycombe’s answer to the Angel of the North – is set to be given the nod by councillors tomorrow. It will be built on the roundabout at the bottom Marlow Hill and be of sufficient size to “create a strong visual gateway to the town”, says a council report. Councillors are set to approve the idea, but there’s no money available or even set aside, so it could be some years yet before anything materialises. One councillor said: “Wycombe was once famous for a giant archway of chairs across the High Street. Something like that, but even bigger, would be a major attraction.”

Services open – A new M40 service station opens day. It’s taken more than 10 years of planning wrangling before Beaconsfield Service Station – built at the junction of the M40 with the main Beaconsfield to Slough road – has been able to welcome its first customers.

Very taxing – A Wycombe software company had to apologise yesterday after a CD which was supposed to contain the latest PAYE tax tables instead contained children’s stories read in German. Software Logistics sent out hundreds of the CDs to small firms on behalf of the Revenue and Customs. They blamed the error on a mix up of labels at their German factory.

Monday 16th March

Jobless leap – New figures this week are expected to show a surge in the number of people unemployed in the Wycombe area. Although jobless numbers in High Wycombe, Aylesbury, Windsor and Maidenhead and the Amersham areas will be below the national average of six per cent, Job Centre officials have reported “significant” increases in people looking for work. It’s expected the local figure will be around three per cent, the highest in the area for over ten years.

Students views – Students in High Wycombe are to be surveyed to find out what sort of facilities they would like to see in the town. The move comes after figures show that students could make up more than a fifth of the town centre population in a few years because of the increasing popularity of Bucks New University and the development of more student accommodation.

Donald completes – Wycombe’s superstar golfer Luke Donald was relieved last night to get through a major tournament without a twinge to his troubled left wrist. He finished 20th at the World Golf Championship’s CA tournament in Miami with nine under par. The 30 year old had to withdraw from his last tournament earlier this month because of concerns over his wrist. He had an operation to repair a tendon last year which put him out of action for six months.

Sunday 15th March

Points shared - Wycombe Wanderers had to make do with a point against table topping Brentford yesterday after a thrilling 3-3 draw at a packed Griffin Park. In a topsy-turvey match, the Chairboys actually had a 3-2 lead thanks to 2 goals from loan signing John Akinde. However after Tommy Doherty was sent off for an elbow after 68 minutes it was also going to be a case of hanging on and the pressure became too much as Brentford equalised with 9 minutes to go. Brentford pushed for a winner but the Chairboys held out to bring a point home. WIth other results going their way, Wanderers remain in second place and well placed to push for promotion.

Saturday 14th March

Neighbour jailed – A High Wycombe man who shot his neighbour in a row over car parking is beginning a nine year jail sentence today. Harvey Turner, 43, of Everest Close shot Carlos de Souza, aged 48, in the stomach last July, seriously wounding him.

Bookings high – Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck restaurant in Bray has not suffered any fall in bookings despite a two week closure. The world class restaurant reopened on Thursday night after a mystery bug made a number of customers ill, but there have hardly been any cancellations of future bookings. Health officials from Windsor and Maidenhead Council say it could take some weeks yet before the cause of the illness is known, but in the meantime they have given the restaurant a clean bill of health.

Table top clash – Over 1,500 Wycombe fans are expected to travel to Brentford’s Griffin Park today for the League Two top of the table clash. But Blues manager Peter Taylor spent the day yesterday playing down the significance of the game, saying promotion was his aim and not necessarily the top spot.

Friday 13th March

Vet speaks out – One of the country’s top vets yesterday gave evidence in favour of Jamie Gray, the Amersham horse dealer accused by the RSPCA of cruelty to horses. John Parker, former chairman of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, said he didn’t think the animals affected had been starved but instead were suffering from worms and that Mr Gray was unwittingly using the wrong treatment. He pointed out that many of the hundreds of horses, ponies and donkeys at Spindle Farm in Hyde Heath were in good condition. Mr Gray and members of his family deny 10 charges of causing unnecessary suffering and two charges of neglecting an animal’s welfare.

New deal - While the shops at Wycombe’s Eden Shopping Centre – which celebrates its first anniversary today with special events – are feeling the economic pressure, the developers who borrowed millions to build the complex are in a corner too. But yesterday the Canadian retail developers Brookfield, who own 50 per cent of Eden, managed to ease the pressure by agreeing a £128m refinancing deal over the next five years for Eden with two German banks and the Nationwide Building Society.

William’s sadness – Prince William became patron of the High Wycombe based charity the Child Bereavement Charity yesterday and told of his sadness every Mother’s Day. “I have felt and still feel the emptiness on such as day as Mother’s Day,” he told a gathering of the charity yesterday. His mother, Princess Diana, died when he was 14 years old. It is expected that the Prince will soon visit the charity’s West Wycombe offices.

Thursday 12th March

Childminder appeal – Iver Heath childminder Keran Henderson began an appeal against her sentence for manslaughter yesterday even though she is due out of jail in six weeks. Mrs Henderson, 43, was jailed for three years in November 2007 for shaking 11 month old Maeve Sheppard to death – a charge she vehemently denied. Since then fresh medical evidence has cast doubt on the conviction and a campaign in her favour by villagers has highlighted the case. A preliminary hearing was heard in the Court of Appeal yesterday and the full appeal will go ahead, probably after she has been released early for good behaviour.

End of an era – A newspaper experiment that began over 40 years ago ended yesterday when it was announced that the Reading Evening Post would cease daily publication and instead become a bi-weekly. The paper – which sold for a time in Maidenhead and Marlow – was launched in 1965 as the first of a number of evening papers in the Chilterns and Thames Valley. Evening papers in Watford, Luton and Slough followed but one by one they all closed. Falling circulation and a drop in advertising led to the downfall of the Evening Post, leaving the Oxford Mail the only remaining daily regional paper in the Home Counties.

New striker – In a desperate move to find goal-scoring ways again, Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor last night signed a promising young striker on loan. Nineteen year old John Akinde has been signed from Bristol City for a month and will be available for crucial matches against other League 2 promotion chasers, Brentford and Rochdale.

Wednesday 11th March

Mum’s campaign – A High Wycombe mum is behind a campaign to re-release the song Tell Me There’s A Heaven as a tribute to Baby P, the north London child killed by abuse. Lisa Cosburn and five other mums launched a Facebook group and persuaded 17,000 people to support the move. It is being released by Chris Rea next week, with all profits going to the NSPCC. Mrs Cosburn’s own son Oliver bears a striking resemblance to Baby P.

War secrets – An exhibition opens today highlighting the secret war at Wycombe’s Hughenden Manor, the home of Disraeli. A 100 people worked at the house in the second world war making detailed maps from reconnaissance photos taken over Germany. The maps were used for successful bombing raids on Hitler’s HQ, the famous Dambusters raid and during D-Day.

Slowly slipping – A few weeks ago Wycombe Wanderers were nine points clear at the top of League 2. Today they are just two points ahead of the play-off zone and seven points behind leaders Brentford, whom they play on Saturday, after a 1-0 defeat at Lincoln last night. Manager Peter Taylor was still upbeat after the game but must now be concerned over his side’s inability to score.

Tuesday 10th March

Britain’s biggest – Planners have given the go-ahead for the development of Britain’s biggest computer data centre in High Wycombe. The multi-million pound data centre, which will also be the second biggest in Europe, is being built in four stages on the 50 acre site that houses the old Molins tobacco machine factory site at Saunderton. The complex will also be one of the country’s most heavily guarded facilities as it will house millions of financial and personal details. Work on demolishing the old factory buildings will begin in a few weeks and the first phase of the data centre, being built by e-shelter, will open next year, creating an expected 100 plus jobs.

Look familiar – James Corden, the Holmer Green schoolboy who has soared to fame as one of Britain’s top comedy talents, debuts in his first TV sketch show with his mate Mathew Horne on BBC 3 tonight. And if some of the weird and wonderful characters portrayed look slightly familiar, don’t be surprised – some are caricatures of people 30 year old James has met in his lifetime – most of it in the High Wycombe area. However, be assured that none of the characters in the pair’s first movie , being premiered next week, have a Wycombe connection. The film’s called Lesbian Vampire Killers. R
Goalie blow – Scott Shearer, who has been Wycombe Wanderers’ main choice goalkeeper for most of the year, has been ruled out of action for the rest of the season because of an ankle injury. The club said yesterday that a metal plate in his ankle needs to be removed because it is causing him pain. Jamie Young, who saved a penalty in Saturday’s game with Chesterfield, will be in goal for tonight’s visit to Lincoln.

Monday 9th March

Girl’s agony - A schoolgirl was so traumatised by a sex attack in Chalfont St Peter that it took her over three months to tell her family, it emerged yesterday. Last night police formed a special squad to help the girl and to track down the man who committed a serious sexual assault on her shortly after she got off a bus in Nicol Road on her way home from school at the beginning of December.

Council warned – Wycombe councillors will be warned in the starkest terms tonight that they can’t have their cake and eat it. In a dire report, finance bosses say that because of falling income on the one side and increased demand for council services on the other, there is a “significant risk” that the council will not be able to do all it wants to because it won’t have enough people or money. Tonight’s Cabinet will agree to not fill 18 vacant posts at the council and take cost-cutting measures that could lead to 27 redundancies.

Eden blow – Meanwhile Wycombe’s new shopping centre, the Eden, which celebrates its first anniversary this week, suffered its biggest shop closure yesterday when the fashion store Principles – which occupied one of the largest shop units -closed its doors. The group that owns Principles went into administration last week.

Sunday 8th March

‘Blood-sucking’ Wasps – The manager of Chesterfield Football Club launched an astonishing attack on Wycombe Wanderers yesterday, suggesting rugby club Wasps were sucking the blood from the football club. Lee Richardson had just seen his side concede an injury-time equalising goal from Jon Paul Pittman to earn the Blues a lucky draw. But he said he had no respect for Wycombe and other lower league clubs who hired out their pitches to rugby teams and as a result “destroyed” their pitches. He said clubs who did so should be penalised.

Nearly there – Local village side Chalfont St Peter are within striking distance of playing a game at Wembley after they got through to the semi-finals of the FA Vase yesterday, beating Needham Market in a penalty shoot-out, after the game ended goal-less.

Family affair – Wycombe’s Ellen Haynes and her 15 year old daughter Maryse will both represent Buckinghamshire today at a inter-counties cross country running event in Nottingham.

Friday 6th March

Noose tightens – Yesterday’s frantic measures by the Bank of England – reducing interest rates to half a percent and pumping at least £75bn of new money into the economy – will be discussed at a meeting of Wycombe area businesses next week. A Bank of England representative and a Government economic advisor will also attend. It comes as more small and medium sized businesses in the area are shortening hours or closing one day a week to save money. It was reported yesterday that the Bucks Free Press is to ask all its staff to take a week’s unpaid leave – this in addition to a pay freeze imposed earlier. Like all local papers the newspaper is suffering from a drop in ad revenue and falls in circulation.

Thinning duck - Celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal was said to be “upset and frustrated” last night because he still is unable to open his world famous Fat Duck restaurant because tests carried out by Windsor and Maidenhead health officials have proved inconclusive. It’s now 10 days since the chef closed his Bray eaterie, cancelling 500 bookings worth at least £130 a head. One of the 40 diners taken ill before the closure – former TV presenter Jim Rosenthal – said yesterday he was still ill, two weeks after the meal.

Old boys – Around 100 ex-Wycombe Wanderers players will salute the crowd before kick-off at tomorrow’s League Two match against Chesterfield. They’ll be there for the launch of the Wanderers Ex-Players Association and include some of the favourites from the Martin O’Neill side that launched the Blues from the Conference to the third tier of English football - Dave Carroll, Jason Cousins, Keith Ryan, Cyrille Regis and Simon Garner.

Thursday 5th March

Dead horses were “pets” – Jamie Gray the horse dealer accused of ill-treating animals at his Spindle Farm near Amersham told a court yesterday that some of the horses found dead were family pets waiting to be buried. He and others deny 12 charges of animal cruelty after 100 plus horses and ponies found dead or dying last year. He told the trial at Bicester, now in its ninth week, that horses often just dropped dead.

Tesco resumes – Work has restarted on a railway tunnel at Gerrards Cross nearly four years after it collapsed minutes after a train had passed under it. The structure was to support a new Tesco superstore but years of wrangling and compensation battles have delayed any further work. Now engineers have begun placing new structures over the line, working when trains are not running. It will be well into next year before the store opens its doors.

Plumber tribute – Hundreds of people are expected to attend the funeral today of a 21 year old plumber who was apparently electrocuted while working at a house in Maidenhead. Jack Rowlands, from Cookham Dean, died despite desperate efforts by paramedics to save him. An inquest is to be held once a Health and Safety Executive report has been completed. More than 200 people have paid tribute to Jack on Facebook.

Wednesday 4th March

Big delays – Both trains and traffic suffered major delays in High Wycombe yesterday after a lorry smashed into a rail bridge across the main Wycombe to Aylesbury Road near West Wycombe yesterday. The road was closed and trains held up for nearly an hour as the accident was cleared and engineers checked the bridge . No one was injured.

Hydro scheme scrapped – A scheme to generate electricity by building a hydro-electricity plant at on the Thames at Windsor’s Romney Lock has been suspended because of the recession. Energy company NPower have pulled the plug, saying it will cost too much, leaving the Environment Agency looking for another partner.

Winning in the rain – It poured with rain from start to finish, but that didn’t concern Wycombe Wanderers as they returned to winning ways against Chester at Adams Park last night in League 2. They won 2-0 with a spectacular flying goal from Matty Phillips and another from new boy Jon-Paul Pittman.

Tuesday 3rd March

No sabotage – Celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal said yesterday sabotage had been ruled out in the investigation to find out what made 40 diners ill at his Fat Duck restaurant in Bray. “All our systems, premises, supply chain and general hygiene have been cleared,” he said. “It is still a mystery”. He plans to open the 3 star Michelin restaurant again tomorrow.

Finnegan shock – Local sports officials were shocked by the death of boxer Chris Finnegan yesterday at the age of 64. The popular sportsman, from Iver Heath, was a bricklayer in the Wycombe area when he won a light heavyweight Olympic medal 40 years ago and went on professionally to become British, Commonwealth and European champion. His younger brother Kevin died just four months ago.

No pressure – Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor ratcheted up the pressure on his players yesterday by saying that tonight’s League Two match against Chester at Adams Park was a “massive, must-win” fixture. A win would put the Blues within one point of leaders Brentford.

Monday 2nd March

Sabotage probe – Health officials have not ruled out sabotage at Bray’s Fat Duck restaurant as the cause of a mystery bug that gave 40 diners stomach pains. Heston Blumenthal’s world famous 3 star restaurant has been given the all clear and is due to open again later this week after the chef closed it voluntarily. Sources of food served on the night have also been checked and are thought to have also been given the ok. Police say they are awaiting the results of tests before deciding whether to proceed with a criminal investigation.

Motorway noise – The Government has told local councils there’s no Government money available to take action to reduce noise on the M40 through the Wycombe area. Now councils are to get together themselves to see what they can do to alleviate noise nuisance to around 25,000 people who are estimated to live within earshot of the motorway in the Wycombe area.

Donald OK – Luke Donald is hoping to take part into today’s Honda Golf Classic in Florida after doctors said the “twinge” he felt in his left wrist was not connected with recent surgery he had to repair a tendon. The Wycombe golfer was on the 18th tee on Saturday when he withdrew from a major match with Ernie Ells saying that his wrist “didn’t feel right”.

Sunday 1st March

Donald’s fears – Wycombe’s golfing superstar Luke Donald is seeing a doctor today amid renewed fears for his career. He withdrew from the Accenture Match Play Championship on the 18th tee yesterday complaining that his troublesome left wrist did not feel right. The Beaconsfield Golf Club member was out of action for most of last year following surgery on the wrist, but had made a good start in his comeback this year.

Chef’s hope – Top chef Heston Blumenthal said yesterday he hopes to have his famous Fat Duck restaurant in Bray open again in a few days after revealing he closed it last week when nearly 40 diners fell ill. Health officials from Windsor and Maidenhead Council have checked out the restaurant – a Michelin 3star voted second best in the world – and given it the all clear. The cause of the tummy bug remains a mystery.

Goal shy – Wycombe Wanderers slipped to third place in League Two yesterday after another goal-less draw, this time at Morecambe. The Blues were running away with the League but after winning only four of the last 14 games and failing to score in three of the last four matches they are looking worryingly fragile. They now face a crucial March which will see them play seven games that will make or break their season – including matches against the two teams above them, Brentford and Rochdale.

Saturday 28th February

Teacher freed – A female special needs teacher from Thame who had sex with a 14 year old pupil escaped a jail sentence yesterday after the judge told her there were no facilities in prisons for helping women sex offenders. Catherine Armstrong, aged 33, was given a 12 month suspended sentence. She had been helping the boy cope with his dyslexia.

Snow bill – The cost of this month’s snowfall amounted to £360,000 to Buckinghamshire County Council alone, the local authority said yesterday. This included the cost of salt and grit, overtime and pothole filling. The cost to business in the area ran into millions.

Sensitive criticism – Wycombe Wanderers took the extraordinary step of denying a story in a local newspaper yesterday which had taken a swipe at London Wasps, the rugby club that shares Wanderers’ ground, Adams Park. They said manager Peter Taylor had not criticised the state of the pitch for the Rotherham match on Monday, which had taken place the day after Wasps had played on it, even though Taylor had implied that in his post match comments. Both Wasps and Wanderers are owned by millionaire businessman Steve Hayes.

Friday 27th February

On the up – The housing market is at last showing signs of moving, especially for the well off. Upper crust estate agents Knight Frank said yesterday that inquiries for homes valued at over £1.75m had increased by 50 per cent since the beginning of the year in Buckinghamshire. Meanwhile estate agents in the Wycombe area dealing with family sized homes said sales were also on the up.

Castle’s loss – Members of the Royal Family are expected to attend the funeral of the man responsible for running Windsor Castle. Former Surgeon General Ian Jenkins, who was appointed Governor at the castle by the Queen less than a year ago, collapsed and died there aged 63. A larger than life character he was a renowned host. One guest recalled “Sunday lunch with him lasted for six hours, with every course accompanied by at least two wines.

Thursday 26th February

Donald waits – Wycombe star golfer Luke Donald is bracing himself for bad news after his main sponsor, the troubled bank, Royal Bank of Scotland, yesterday announced it was stopping its sponsorship of the Williams Formula One racing team. RBS is looking to slash costs after losing millions.

Trial resumes – The Wycombe terror trial started again yesterday a week after the judge dismissed the original jury “for legal reasons.” The trial, where eight men, including two from High Wycombe, deny terrorist related charges, is expected to last up to ten months at Woolwich Crown Court.

Guard robbed – A security guard is recovering after being smashed in the face by an armed robber has he carried cash from a Tesco Express in Wooburn Green. Police are appealing for witnesses to the raid which took place in the centre of the village in mid-morning on Tuesday.

Wednesday 25th February

Inflation busters – Councils in Wycombe, Beaconsfield and Amersham and Chesham all agreed council tax rises higher than the rate of inflation last night in an attempt to makes ends meet. Some agreed other money raising schemes, such as increased car parking charges, while in Wycombe the town’s cabinet agreed to go ahead with the closure of the open air swimming pool at Holywell Mead.

Ambulance appeal – The recession is also hitting private funding of the air ambulance which operates in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. A £100,000 appeal was launched last night to fill a hole in the helicopter service finances.

Golf award – The Buckinghamshire Golf Club, based at Denham, is to be one of the qualifying courses for the Open next year, it was announced yesterday

Tuesday 24th February

Flightpath change – Air traffic controllers last night promised to come up with new plans to route aircraft over the Chilterns after a massive protest. Original plans to change air routes by Nats – National Air Traffic Services – would have introduced aircraft noise to parts of the area of outstanding natural beauty for the first time. Now Nats has said it will produce new plans in the summer which they say will reduce the area affected by noise.

School celebrates – The Redroofs Drama School in Littlewick Green celebrated the success of its former head girl, Kate Winslett yesterday following her Oscar for best actress in the movie, The Reader. Now the school is thinking of a permanent way to commemorate the achievements of its most famous former pupil.

Frustrating point – Wycombe Wanderers were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw at Adams Park last night despite heavy pressure on opponents Rotherham. It keeps the Blues in second position in League Two.

Monday 23rd February

Red beats green – Local councils are continuing to ditch green initiatives so they don’t go into the red. Wycombe Council will agree tomorrow to stop serving Fair Trade products in its offices and at functions and withdraw its support for Fair Trade status for the town in a bid to save money. Last week Bucks County Council froze work on a new recycling plant as part of a cost cutting programme.

Financier quizzed - An accountant, who is also the financial director of the Berkshire and Buckinghamshire Football Association, has strenuously denied claims that he defrauded his employer, Toys R Us, of millions of pounds. Paul Hopes has been arrested on suspicion of fraud and theft but has not been charged. Thames Valley Police’s Economic Crimes Unit are making inquiries but Mr Hopes, a well known figure in local football, says he will vigorously defend the allegations and a civil claim for damages launched by the toy company.

Pressure game – Wycombe Wanderers have a chance to regain joint top spot of League 2 if they beat Rotherham at Adams Park tonight. The match is being shown live on Sky.

Friday 20th February

Recession prayers – Clergy are holding special prayers for the future of Wycombe’s shopkeepers today. Both shoppers and retailers are being invited to a service in the town’s All Saints Church, which is surrounded by the market, to help them reflect on the recession. It comes on the day a number of retailers said they were “pleasantly surprised” by a slight upturn in trade this half-term week. It was also confirmed yesterday that Waitrose will join Debenhams as the main anchor store in Aylesbury’s new shopping complex, Waterside.

Council tax rise – Bucks County Councillors agreed to raise council tax by 3.7per cent yesterday – almost double the expected rate of inflation at the beginning of the financial year.

Another striker – Wycombe Wanderers took on a new striker on loan yesterday. Stuart Beavon is a hotshot from Weymouth. The move illustrates how manager Peter Taylor is prepared to take a chance with non-league players in the Blues final bid for promotion. His last acquisition – Jon-Paul Pittman from Crawley Town – scored a vital winner against Dagenham earlier this week.

Thursday 19th February

Project mothballed – Councillors say they have acted with “great disappointment” in mothballing a major environmental project because of the economic crisis. Bucks County Council had asked for tenders for a big composting centre in the county but yesterday put the whole scheme on ice. The council has already announced 400 job losses and are expected to announce other big savings shortly.

Jury dismissed – The media were ordered not to say why the judge in the Wycombe terror trial dramatically dismissed the jury yesterday. Justice Henriques, the judge at Woolwich Crown Court where eight men, including two from High Wycombe, deny terrorist related charges, told the jury they were being dismissed for legal reasons. The trial, which opened on Tuesday, is expected to start all over again next week when a new jury is sworn in. R
Keep snogging – Chiltern Railways have put a “Kissing is welcome” sign at High Wycombe station in a cheeky response to a railway company in Cheshire which earlier this week put up “no kissing” signs because kissing passengers held up commuters. “Wycombe is a romantic place and we wouldn’t dream of stopping kissing at our stations,” said a Chiltern Railways spokesman, beaming at the company’s successful publicity stunt.

Wednesday 18th February

Terrorist “ringleader” – A quiet former supermarket shelf stacker from High Wycombe was one of the two ringleaders of a militant fundamentalist Islamic group working on a plot that could have killed thousands of people, a jury was told yesterday. Prosecutors at Woolwich Crown Court said that when policed raided Assad Sarwar’s house in Walton Drive they found containers with hydrogen peroxide in his garage and martyrdom videos in the boot of his car. Sarwar and seven other defendants deny planning to blow up airliners taking off from Heathrow.
,br>Battle lost – Campaigners fighting to keep Windsor’s Fire Station open at night failed yesterday in their legal attempt to get a review over Berkshire Fire Brigade’s decision. They lost a High Court appeal despite high profile support from the likes of Sir Cliff Richard, Sir Alan Sugar and Dame Kelly Holmes.

Pittman power – Wycombe Wanderers new boy Jon-Paul Pittman scored the only goal – but a brilliant individual effort - as the Blues won a tense game at Dagenham and Redbridge last night to draw level on top of League 2 with Brentford but with a game in hand.

Tuesday 17th February

Terror trial opens – The trial of men accused plotting terrorist attacks on Heathrow planes is expected to get underway today after days of private legal argument. Two of the eight defendants – Assad Sarwar and Donald Stewart-Whyte – come from High Wycombe where they, and others, are alleged to have buried explosive material in woods around the town in 2006. The trial could take up to 10 months.

Defendants ill – The case against a Wycombe horse dealer and his family accused of cruelty to animals was dramatically suspended yesterday because of illness. Defendant Jamie Gray, of Spindles Farm, near Amersham, was said by his solicitor to have been referred to a psychiatrist by his GP, while his daughter and co-defendant, Jodie Gray has been rushed to hospital with suspected meningitis. The Grays, and other defendants, deny 12 charges of animal cruelty. Meanwhile there were reports yesterday that the RSPCA was called to Spindles Farm at the weekend where they took away a dead foal.

Booming uni – High Wycombe may escape the worst of the recession thanks to its booming university. Bucks New Uni reported that applications for courses had risen by more than a third for the new academic year in September, making it one of the most popular university’s in the country. Courses in business and sport; music management and film and TV production were the most in demand. The uni already has more than 9,000 students who generate tens of thousands of pounds into the local economy.

Monday 16th February

Baby breakthrough – Scientists yesterday announced the discovery of a condition in babies that has the effect of making it look as though a baby has suffered severe shaking. Lawyers for Iver child-minder Keran Henderson immediately said they will be using the latest developments as part of her appeal against a conviction of shaking 11 month old Maeve Shepperd to death. Mrs Henderson, half way through a three year jail term, has always insisted Maeve had a fit while she was changing her nappy.

Jail check – Security at Aylesbury’s Young Offender Institute is being tightened up after it was discovered that a prisoner serving 12 years for murder set up a Facebook profile and was using a smuggled mobile to access the internet and contact friends.

Council sadness – Yesterday’s Civic Service in High Wycombe – normally a joyous occasion – was overshadowed by the death 24 hours earlier of Glyn Galbraith, aged 54, the leader of Wycombe Council’s Labour Group, who collapsed from a suspected heart attack while jogging.

Sunday 15th February

Regatta ban – The organisers of Henley’s Royal Regatta said yesterday that for the first time in 100 years there will be no big firework display to mark the end of the event this year. There’s been increasing violence and drunkenness at the event in recent years, culminating in one Belgian rower being stabbed in the leg last year. The organisers said the trouble comes from visitors coming from other areas.

Losing ground – Another disappointing result for Wycombe Wanderers yesterday, not only losing 1-0 at Bradford but having striker Chris Zebrosky sent off. Brentford, who won, now lead the Blues by three points at the top of League 2, but Wycombe have two games in hand. However other clubs near the top are drawing ever closer to Wycombe and Brentford.

Snowdrop Sunday – West Wycombe Park opens its grounds today for its traditional Snowdrop Sunday walk to enable people to see thousands of snowdrops. Proceeds from the day go to the Child Bereavement Trust.

Saturday 14th February

Banks breached – The River Thames burst its banks last night as millions of gallons of water from melting snow and earlier rain storms flooded into the river from tributaries. The Environment Agency issued a flood warning to Henley, Medmenham and Purley and warned that riverside properties are likely to be flooded. Officials will be keeping a close watch on Marlow and Bourne End today to see if the river rises even further but fingers are crossed that it will not exceed last night’s peak.

Street shooting – A Wycombe warehouse manager was yesterday found guilty at Reading Crown Court of wounding a man in a street brawl but cleared of attempting to murder him. Harvey Turner will be sentenced next month. He was involved in fight with Carlos de Souza in Everest Close, High Wycombe last summer which resulted in Mr de Souza fighting for his life with gunshot wounds.

Bekonscot opens – The world’s oldest model village opens its doors for a new season today. Bekonscot in Beaconsfield celebrates its 80th anniversary this year.

Friday 13th February

Market move – Wycombe Council moved quickly last night to ensure that the town’s market is able to operate today after the company that runs it went into administration. Hughmark International took on responsibility for running the High Street market a year ago and amid much controversy promised to “modernise” it with a Continental flavour. After receivers were called in a related company to Hughmark was asked by the council to temporarily hold the licence while the future of the market is worked out.

GP centre – Plans to open a walk-in health centre at Wycombe Hospital – which could be run by a private concern – were unveiled by Bucks Primary Care Trust yesterday. The trust wants to find out people’s opinions before definitely going ahead.

Bye Scotty – Last season’s leading goalscorer, Scott McGleish, has almost certainly played his last game for Wycombe Wanderers after he was loaned out yesterday to Leyon Orient for the rest of the season. Although McGleish had made up disagreements with manager Peter Taylor it was clear he was not going to be an automatic choice for the starting line-up in every game and, at the age of 34, he said he wanted to move to a club where he would play more regularly.

Thursday 12th February

Claimants rise – The number of people in the Wycombe area claiming job seekers allowance was nearly double in January what it was just six months ago, according to official figures yesterday. Throughout Buckinghamshire it is now over 5,000 and in neighbouring Oxfordshire 3,500. However officials believe the true jobless figure is higher because they think many professional people made redundant in the last three months have not “signed on”. The jobless numbers in the area though are still less than half the national average.

Slither on – Motorists and pedestrians were again warned to take extra care today after an expected overnight frost. Yesterday there were scores of accidents on roads and pavements in the Wycombe area as people slipped and slithered to work on roads and pavements that were ungritted and unsalted. Last night Bucks County Council said it would be the same again today – they are concentrating their increasingly diminishing stocks of salt on major roads.

Bucks bound – Rocker Courtney Love has told journalists she is preparing to live in Buckinghamshire. The controversial star could make an interesting neighbour, especially if she moves in with the man said to be her latest boyfriend – Hollywood hell-raiser Mickey Rourke. She told reporters in Los Angles: “Buckinghamshire is where I want to go. I'm fed up with L.A. It's full of crazy people. People criticise Britain but it is still a cleaner, safer place to live than Hollywood.”

Wednesday 11th February

Floods alert – Melting snow and pouring rain brought flooding problems throughout the Wycombe area yesterday. People had to be rescued from cars in the Chalfonts, Holyport, George Green and Fulmer while in Thame the RSPCA rescued 120 sheep from a flooded field. Maidenhead recorded its wettest February day for 50 years – nearly three inches of rain in 24 hours – while weirs were fully open along the whole length of the River Thames. Many Thames-side roads are impassable.

Roads danger – The receding snow and water has revealed hundreds of potentially dangerous potholes in local roads. Council workers will today be carrying out emergency repairs to the worst of the potholes but police have warned motorists, and particularly motor cyclists and cyclists, to take extra care.

Toppled – Wycombe Wanderers lost their top spot in League 2 last night – where they have sat for four months - without kicking a ball. Brentford go top on goal difference after drawing at Accrington. But the Blues now have two games in hand over the Bees. Meanwhile manager Peter Taylor said yesterday he will be bringing in more players on loan in a bid to strengthen the squad in the final run up to the end of the season.

Tuesday 10th February

Amazing cure – An Amersham alternative medicine centre was thrust into a worldwide spotlight last night after it cured a boy of a disease so rare it didn’t even have a name. Eight year old Reuban Grainger-Mead had suffered from a debilitating disease – described as suffering a permanent hangover – since he was two. But after a course of special supplements prescribed by the Orchard Clinic for Complementary Medicine he has made a full recovery.

Flood alert – Torrential rain and melting snow has now made flooding a big concern. The Environment Agency last night issued flood watches on the River Thame catchment area and in areas of Wendover and Weston Turville where the Bear Brook flows. They also advised boats not use the Thames between Henley and Teddington because of dangerous flows. Ironically, a primary school in Princes Risborough had to close yesterday because it had no water after frozen pipes burst.

Not surprising – There was some sympathy, but little surprise, at Wycombe Wanderers yesterday over the sacking of Tony Adams as Portsmouth manager. Adams cut his managerial teeth at Wycombe where he oversaw victories in 12 of the 53 games he was in charge before walking out, speaking to the media before the chairman or fans.

Monday 9th February

Preparing for the worst – Businesses, councils and schools will spend today preparing for another major snowfall expected in the Wycombe area later today and overnight. Councils say that despite the shortage of salt, crews will spend the night trying to keep major roads open. Strong winds are expected to cause significant drifts in the Chilterns early tomorrow morning.

Car sold – One of the world’s rarest cars – which was High Wycombe’s most famous vehicle in the 1930s and 40s – was auctioned for three million pounds in Paris this weekend. The classic Bugatti 57S Atalante was found in a garage where it had been collecting dust for 50 years. It was originally bought by Earl Howe of Penn, the first president of the British Racing Drivers’ Club , in 1937 and was a notable local attraction.

Angry boss – Angry Wycombe Wanderers boss Peter Taylor has called for a review of a procedure for pitch inspections after he and his team wasted time and money travelling to a postponed match at Darlington on Saturday. He told the club’s website: ” We travelled 500 miles and spent eight hours on a coach plus an overnight stay in a hotel - and all for nothing. I know you can't do anything about the weather but I just feel that this decision could have been made earlier.”

Saturday 7th February

Roads danger – With the frostiest weekend of the winter forecast, Bucks County Council last night said it would be restricting the number of roads that are treated because it is running out of salt. The council introduced a rationing scheme restricted to main roads but warned motorists not to assume that even main roads had been salted. Similar moves were introduced in Oxfordshire. Thousands managed to struggle to work yesterday despite snowy conditions. In Wycombe the council had to recall waste collections crews because of deteriorating weather. During a respite late yesterday afternoon and evening thousands of shoppers overwhelmed supermarkets as they took the chance to stock up for the weekend. Elsewhere local corner shops have been enjoying bumper sales.

Station fight – Campaigners fighting to stop the closure of Windsor’s fire station at nighttime have enlisted top celebrity support. Local residents Sir Elton John, Sir Alan Sugar and Rolf Harris are among those speaking out against the plan drawn up by Berkshire Fire Brigade as a cost cutting measure. They are seeking a legal review of the decision in the High Court later this month.

Otters return – Otters are back on the River Thames for the first time for 35 years, Country Life magazine reported yesterday. Their presence has been discovered on a river island near a Thames lock. Their return is being put down to a healthy river environment and an abundance of fish.

Friday 6th February

Major precautions – Schools are being closed, trains cancelled and council services withdrawn in anticipation of a major overnight snowfall today. A snowstorm that wasn’t predicted took the Wycombe area by surprise yesterday morning, causing traffic chaos and further school closures. But today, as the Met Office warned that up to 15 cm could fall in the Wycombe area, transport authorities and local councils are hunkering down.

Battling on – An infant school that has never closed due to bad weather says it will do everything it can to remain open today. Manor Farm Infant School, in Hazlemere, High Wycombe, has been the only school in the area to remain constantly open throughout the spell of winter weather, even though it has meant headteacher John Dunbar setting off extra early from his home in Aylesbury. On its website, showing pictures of its children enjoying the snow in the playground, the schools tells parents not to assume the school is closed just because others are.

Bank reward – HSBC yesterday offered a £25,000 reward to help hunt down the robbers that wrecked its Flackwell Heath branch last week by using a mechanical digger to wrench out a cash machine from the wall. The four man gang escaped empty handed, but their clumsy robbery attempt – they also succeeded in badly damaging the adjoining post office and a Chinese restaurant, drew world wide publicity on the internet.

Thursday 5th February

Chocolate surprise – Fifteen illegal immigrants were being held in Maidenhead last night after they were found in a tanker full of chocolate powder on its way to the Mars chocolate factory in Slough. Fire fighters used thermal imaging equipment to ensure no-one was left in the tanker after the mean, covered in cocoa, were recovered from the vehicle. The Hungarian tanker driver is also helping police with inquiries.

Drugs insider – Police are thought to have an effective mole among local drug dealers after a second major raid in a week yesterday resulted in drugs and cash being recovered. Seven people were arrested, aged from 19 to 55, following early morning raids at four addresses in High Wycombe.

Wednesday 4th February

Supermarket wars – Supermarkets are gearing up to battle each other in the Wycombe area once the recession is over. Waitrose announced yesterday it is revamping plans to build a store to take on the controversial Tesco superstore being built at Gerrards Cross, and Sainsburys is introducing a store at Amersham in an attempt to dent Tesco’s dominance. Meanwhile, in the centre of Wycombe, Tesco is finalising plans to complete a major refurbishment of its Eden Centre store to compete with the Sainsbury superstore opposite, which will be opening later this year.

New station – A new digital radio station aimed at Wycombe, Slough, Windsor and Maidenhead began broadcasting yesterday. Asian Star Radio is the first station in the area to aim specifically at an ethnic group.

Cheerio Angelo – Last night’s postponement of the League 2 match between Wycombe Wanderers and Barnet robbed popular Columbian born striker Angelo Balanta of a final appearance at Adams Park. The 18 year old has returned to QPR after his loan spell ended. Meanwhile the Blues strengthened their lead at the top of the league without kicking a ball. Nearest rivals Brentford, who had a game in hand, lost to Morecambe, giving Wycombe a clear four point lead.

Tuesday 3rd February

Weather aftermath – A number of schools will remain closed and transport and public services will continue to be affected today as the Wycombe area adjusts after yesterday’s worst snowstorm for years. Railway and bus services will still not be back to normal despite overnight gritting on the roads and all night maintenance on railway lines. Waste collections, suspended yesterday, will also be affected. Social care bosses put out a special appeal last night for people to keep an eye on elderly neighbours after care workers were unable to reach all their charges yesterday, and hospitals just about coped after many staff were unable to get into work.

Finance contingency – In Wycombe it wasn’t just the people feeling the cold yesterday, the town’s finances are also distinctly chilly. The council announced yesterday it will need to increase its borrowing limit by £7m this financial year – that’s because it still has cash it can’t retrieve in a failed Icelandic bank and the income it gets from property and other fees are falling steeply because of the recession.

New striker – Wycombe Wanderers signed a new striker on the final day of the transfer window yesterday – a 22 year old Crawley Town player Jon-Paul Pittman, who manager Peter Taylor calls “as quick as a whippet”. The Blues were trying to sign another player, but it was unclear last night if they had missed the final deadline. Tonight’s match against Barnet will only go ahead if the referee gives the all-clear when he examines the Adams Park pitch this morning.

Monday 2nd February

Toothpaste worries – The recession is even hitting basic products like toothpaste. Five hundred workers at Glaxo Smith Kline’s factory in Maidenhead – which makes Aquafresh, Macleans, Corsodyl and Sensodyne – are expecting job loss announcements this week after the company said yesterday it was cutting thousands of jobs worldwide.

Motorists warned – Gritters have been out since the early hours spreading grit, sand and salt on major roads in the Wycombe area in preparation for the heavy snow which is forecast today and tomorrow. Officials warned motorists not to assume all roads have been gritted and urged extra driving care.

Ten wins – Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor has told players and supporters that he thinks the Blues will win promotion from League Two if they can win 10 of the remaining 18 matches. News of two new signings is expected today. Meanwhile ground staff are likely to switch on pitch heating today to try and ensure that tomorrow night’s match against Barnet goes ahead despite forecasts of severe winter weather.

Sunday 1st February

New players – Wycombe Wanderers hope to sign a new player today and another one tomorrow before the transfer window closes, manager Peter Taylor said last night. It ended a day of good news for the club – they beat Accrington Stanley 2-1 to remain four points clear at the top of League 2; and Taylor made up with the local paper reporters, whom he had earlier blacklisted, over a beer.

Saturday 31st January

Police probe – Police are investigating why five Wycombe venues at first confirmed that a pro-Palestinian MP could speak at a public meeting on Gaza and then hours later cancelled the arrangement. Thames Valley Police chief constable Sara Thornton ordered the probe after talking to MP Phyllis Starkey who believes pressure may have been put on the venues to cancel. Dr Starkey eventually gave her speech at the town’s Hill Top Community Centre this week to about 100 people. The venues that cancelled the previous arrangements have not yet been named.

Manager’s strop – Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor has stopped talking to the local paper the Bucks Free Press and denied journalists access to the players because the paper printed a story he didn’t want published – namely the fee involved in the sale of defender Mike Williamson. It’s going to cause embarrassment because the paper and the club are jointly sponsoring a Community Day event at today’s match against Accrington Stanley.

Weather alert – Forecasters warn that tomorrow will be the coldest day of the winter so far with temperatures in the Wycombe area plunging to minus six, with a dusting of snow. Heavier snowfalls are predicted for Monday night.

Friday 30th January

Ram raiders; sheep’s brains - Bungling bandits caused thousands of pounds worth of damage and left a village in shock yesterday after one of the clumsiest bank raids on record. CRASH – they nicked a mechanical digger to scoop out the cash machine from Flackwell Heath’s HSBC bank, taking most of the front wall with it; BANG – they drove the digger full pelt into the post office next door; WALLOP – with neighbours appearing from all over to see what the noise was about they reversed straight into a Chinese takeaway and other shops. After much cursing and failed attempts to get into the cash machine the four raced off empty handed late on Wednesday night in an Audi. “We won’t know whether to charge them with attempted robbery or severe incompetence when we get them,” a police investigator joked last night.

Rent boom – House hunters are turning to renting in such numbers that local estate agents are opening new offices simply to deal with inquiries for rented property. Yesterday Nationwide revealed that house prices in the Wycombe area took their biggest hit in the last quarter of last year, falling 11 per cent, and continued to fall in January. In neighbouring Windsor and Maidenhead prices fell eight per cent.

On yer ‘ed Olly – Wycombe Wanderers will be hoping for a few more goals from corner kicks after boss Peter Taylor signed 6ft 8in central defender Luke Oliver from his last club, Stevenage Borough yesterday. Luke, 24, a former Wycombe trainee, will be the tallest player in the Football League – he’s an inch taller than Peter Crouch - and he replaces defender Mike Williamson, a virtual midget at 6ft 3in.

Thursday 29h January

Secret inquests – Beaconsfield MP Dominic Grieve is to lead the fight to stop Government proposals to hold inquests in secret. Mr Grieve – dropped last week as Shadow Home Secretary – is leading the fight in his new role as Shadow Justice Secretary. The Government is proposing holding some inquests with security implications without a jury or public or press present. Mr Grieve told Parliament yesterday: “The proposals...completely undermine the whole purpose for which an inquest is convened in the first place.”

Leaky moat – The owner of an ancient moat house is suing road builders because he claims their work is draining his moat. Dr O. C. Penge says work on the Aston Clinton by-pass has altered the lay of the land so that the water table no longer naturally fills his moat at Drayton Beauchamp.

Dry Camilla – RAF chiefs moved a square bashing parade into a giant hanger at RAF Halton yesterday so that the visiting Duchess of Cornwall, who was inspecting the parade, wouldn’t get wet. Camilla was visiting the base near Wendover in her role of Honorary Air Commodore.

Wednesday 28th January

Oxford direct – Chiltern Railways began a formal consultation period yesterday over plans to build a new railway line which will result in a direct link between Wycombe and Oxford.

Staff shortage – Wycombe Hospital said yesterday that it had closed its special baby unit because of a shortage of trained staff. The unit is due to close at the end of the year and move to Stoke Mandeville Hospital. Now there are fears it may not reopen.

Clean sheet – After a couple of wobbles Wycombe Wanderers kept a clean sheet to earn a hard fought 0-0 draw at Macclesfield last night. They remain top of League 2, four points clear.

Tuesday 27th January

Bail hostel – A house in the centre of High Wycombe is the site of a controversial private bail hostel, the Government confirmed last night. The hostels, supervised by a private company, are being used in various towns and cities to ease overcrowding in prisons. But the exact locations are being kept secret so neighbours do not necessarily know they are living next to prisoners awaiting early release or suspects awaiting trials. However, after mounting pressure, the Ministry of Justice confirmed last night that one hostel had an HP12 post code, but refused to give the name of the road where it was based.

Hospital silence – Wycombe Hospital was hunting a whistle-blower last night after someone told a Sunday newspaper that the special baby unit had been closed after four babies were discovered to have the superbug MRSA on their skin. The mole told the Sunday Mirror: “The baby unit should be the cleanest part of the entire hospital, so for this to happen is totally unacceptable. Clearly hygiene standards have not been good enough." Bizarrely the hospital, which initially tried to keep quiet, said it had closed the unit to new admissions but that had nothing to do with the MRSA – “which was found on the babies’ skin, like most of the population, but was not an infection.” The hospital did not seek to reassure patients on their website last night nor, indeed, offer any explanation for the closure. The babies were quarantined after the discovery last week and are in no danger.

Jolly bad show – “Disgusted of Henley” won a famous victory yesterday when the owners of a planned lap dancing venue in the town backed-off in the face of howls of protest. The club was due to open at the weekend but held off because of the protests. Yesterday businessman Manowar Hussain said former nightclub in Greys Road would reopen as a new Latinos nightclub instead.

Monday 26th January

Grammar ruling – Lawyers for Buckinghamshire’s grammar schools are today examining a controversial ruling which may restrict the pupils the schools can take. In what some regard as a landmark ruling, grammar schools in Rugby, Warwickshire have been prevented from taking pupils from neighbouring Northamptonshire because it’s considered Northants comprehensive schools will be undermined. In Bucks a number of pupils who live in neighbouring Windsor and Maidenhead in Berkshire and in Henley and Thame in south Oxfordshire cross the border to attend Bucks grammar schools.

Sites seize-up – It’s emerged that work on half a dozen building sites in the Wycombe area has stopped because of the economic downturn. Construction work on the sites – mainly housing developments – will resume once things pick-up says construction companies. Meanwhile, the council will tomorrow ditch a £400,000 scheme to improve the Frogmoor area of High Wycombe because the funds aren’t available.

Making do – Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor has indicated he won’t immediately replace Blues captain Mike Williamson, who signs for Watford FC today. Wishing Williamson well in the future he told reporters yesterday : “At the end of the day we have lost a player. We could have done without it but it is not going to make a massive difference.”

Sunday 25th January

Willo goes – Wycombe Wanderers captain Mike Williamson will join struggling Championship side Watford tomorrow in a deal thought to be worth around £200,000. The highly rated defender’s contract with the Blues was due to run out at the end of this season so manager Peter Taylor thought the deal represented good business. Williamson didn’t play yesterday when Wycombe suffered their third defeat of the season at Bounemouth, losing 3-1. But they remain six points clear at the top of League 2 after their nearest rivals also had poor results.

Missing nanny – Concern was growing last night for a nanny who was last seen at the home where she worked in Chesham on Friday lunchtime. Hemalatha Jayasinghege, aged 53, is a Sri Lankan who speaks hardly any English.

Pool campaign – Campaigners trying to save Wycombe’s open air pool from closure plan to protest along the route of the Mayor’s procession to the annual civic service today. The council plan to close Holywell Mead pool to save money.

Friday 23rd January

River warning – The Environment Agency last night advised all boat owners not to use the River Thames between Caversham and Marlow because strong flows were making the river dangerous. The red alert is likely to remain in force all weekend as heavy rain pounds the area.

Races mix – High Wycombe was held up as an example where white people are moving into areas of the town once the preserve of mainly Asians, in an authoritative book published yesterday. Professor Ludi Simpson and Dr Nissa Finney looked at detailed recent statistics to disprove recent reports that race “ghettos” are forming in towns and cities with high populations of people with migrant backgrounds. In Wycombe – and six other centres in Britain – the facts are that more white people are moving into areas where black and brown coloured people are in the majority, they say in their book “Sleepwalking to segregation? Challenging myths about race and migration.”

School celebrates – The Redroofs Theatre School in Littlewick Green was celebrating last night after its former head girl – a certain Kate Winslet – was nominated for an Oscar for her performance in the movie The Reader. Kate, who was born in Reading, attended the school from the age of 11.

Thursday 22nd January

Ref slapped – A teacher playing in goal for his local team has been suspended from playing after he allegedly slapped a 22 year old referee around the face with his goalie gloves after being red-carded. The match – between the Dairy Maid and Haddenham in the Aylesbury and District League – was abandoned after 14 minutes following the incident, the Bucks Herald says today. The local Football Association is considering referee Ezra O’Neil’s report. The League had disciplinary problems three years ago when a player who had been sent off got in his car, drove on the pitch and ran the referee over.

Could be worse – Although unemployment in the Wycombe area rose in December according to figures released yesterday, the rise was less in percentage terms than other areas , and the total number of jobless – at just over two per cent of the working population – shows the area is faring better than most in the recession.

Road chaos – A furniture lorry which overturned and blocked all three London-bound carriageways of the M40 in Wycombe yesterday brought major delays. The good news was that the accident happened between slip-roads so traffic was able to drive up one slip-road and down the other. The bad news was that it took them through Wycombe’s notorious Handy Cross roundabout which was gridlocked for most of the 11 hours the motorway was blocked.

Wednesday 21st January

Police hunt – Police have stepped up patrols in Chalfont St Peter after a 23 year old woman was bundled into a car in Chesham Lane. The woman fought with the driver as the car sped off and managed to escape from the moving vehicle. Police have launched a major hunt.

Car park threat – Tranches of South Bucks will become nothing more than an airport car park if a third runway at Heathrow is built, Bucks County Council said yesterday. The council fears that new fast rail links from the airport to High Wycombe, Beaconsfield and Amersham will mean that travellers will drive and park to these towns before getting a train to the airport. Meanwhile, London mayor Boris Johnson is at the Beck Theatre in Hayes tonight to debate Heathrow expansion with local people.

Lap dance horror – Plans to open a lap dancing club in the centre of Henley this weekend is creating much alarm among the town’s elders. Town councillor Joan Bland told today’s Telegraph: "This is Henley, not Soho. I don't think it is befitting of Henley, we are country folk living in an historic market town and it seems very unnecessary.”

Tuesday 20th January

Demoted Dom – Beaconsfield MP Dominic Grieve was demoted from his Shadow Home Secretary job after just six months yesterday because he was simply too nice and not aggressive enough, friends said last night. He has been replaced by Chris Grayling, known in Westminster as “Attack Dog”, who was being promoted by David Cameron’s communications guru, former Sun editor, Andy Coulson. Meanwhile Maidenhead MP Teresa May became the most powerful woman in the party yesterday when she was made Shadow Secretary for Work and Pensions. Mr Grieve goes back to his old job as Shadow Justice Secretary and remains in the Shadow Cabinet.

Paper shuffle – Another local paper preapared to reduce its local presence yesterday in a move to beat the economic downturn, which is hitting the regional press hard. On the day the Government said it would see what could be done to help newspapers, Johnston Press – which owns the Bucks Herald and Thame Gazette – said it would be move sub editors from Aylesbury to a central base in Milton Keynes where they would join other sub editors from other papers in the Midlands. Last week the owners of the Buckinghamshire Advertiser in Chalfont St Peter and Chesham’s Bucks Examiner announced plans to move some of their staff to a central base in Surrey.

Historic day - Many of the hundreds of American citizens living in the Wycombe area will be attending a special Inauguration Day parties in Oxford and London this afternoon to witness on TV and celebrate the historic inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th US President .

Monday 19th January

Cuts battle – Local council unions are to wage a campaign against hundreds of planned job cuts in Buckinghamshire, saying that frontline services, such as teaching and social services, are bound to be adversely affected if back-office jobs are lost because frontline workers will spend more time on paperwork.

Motorway changes – The Government will announce later this week that motorists will be able use the hard shoulder of the M25 as a normal motorway lane, following a successful trial on the M42. It’s expected the hard shoulders will be ready in five or six years.

Contracts extended – Wycombe Wanderers, who have the best defence in League 2 , have extended the contracts of two of their key defenders – Gary Holt and Craig Woodman – so they will be with the club until the end of next season.

Sunday 18th January

On the fiddle –One of the largest gatherings of fiddle players takes place in Wycombe tonight as part of the 250th anniversary of the birth of Robert Burns. The Chiltern Fiddle Rally at Wycombe Swan features more than 80 musicians and top Scottish dancers.

Slip-up - League Two leaders Wycombe Wanderers suffered their first home league defeat since last February yesterday in a surprise 1-0 loss to Grimsby who, were it not for points deductions given to other teams, would be bottom of the league.

Saturday 17th January

Village gives thanks - Prayers of appreciation will be said in Turville Church tomorrow for Sir John Mortimer, the “Monarch of Turville”, who died aged 85 yesterday. Barrister and writer Sir John had lived all his life in his Turville Heath home. He loved the home and always returned there every night no matter how late he was working in London "so I can go to sleep to the sound of owls hooting and awake to the sight of red kites soaring". The area is now famed for the location of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and the Vicar of Dibley, but, Sir John wrote, “When I was a child all the cottages here were inhabited by farm labourers or bodgers who felled the beech trees, sawed them into lengths and turned chair legs on the lathes in their sheds for a pitifully small amount of money to the furniture factories in High Wycombe. “ His neighbour and friend, broadcaster Melvyn Bragg, said last night: “His life was encircled around his cottage and Turville. He was the monarch of our village.”

Search continues – Roman Catholics from the Wycombe area will join hundreds of others today in the search for a 15 year old Berkshire schoolboy who disappeared on his way to school 11 days ago. Police have called in experts and say they are pursuing “all lines of investigation” in their search for Joanthan Marques. Today’s volunteers will hold a short service near his Reading home before following the route to Jonathan’s Catholic school.

Grimsby visit – Wycombe Wanderers entertain Mike Newell’s Grimsby Town at Adams Park this afternoon in an attempt to maintain and extend their lead at the top of League 2.

Friday 16th January

Out on a limb – Pressure was mounting on Wycombe’s Conservative council last night to come out against the proposal for a third runway at Heathrow. The town’s Tory MP is against the plan, as are neighbouring Tory councils – Chiltern (Amersham and Chesham), South Bucks (Beaconsfield) and South Oxfordshire (Henley) as well as Buckinghamshire County Council. But Wycombe Council has always favoured Heathrow expansion and Tory leaders look as though they may stay out of step.

Jobs blow – The Wycombe area suffered its biggest potential hit of the credit crunch yesterday when the UK arm of the telephone equipment company Nortel went into administration, threatening the future jobs of the 1,500 people who work at its Maidenhead headquarters. The international company, based in Canada, filed for bankruptcy in Toronto on Wednesday. Nortel is Maidenhead’s second biggest employer.

Microchipped rubbish – Households in Henley and Thame are to be the first in the country to have their rubbish monitored by microchips placed in their wheelie bins. The chips – which record how much is being thrown away – will help improve recycling by identifying areas where recycling is poor, say the local council. But critics fear it will lead to people being charged depending on the amount of rubbish they throw away. The monitoring begins in June.

Thursday 15th January

Hotel plan – Developers announced plans yesterday to build a 126 room hotel above the Pure and Obsession night clubs in Wycombe town centre. A public exhibition of the plans will go on show next week.

Heathrow opposition – Representatives from Bucks environmental groups are planning to meet to see if they can form a Bucks against Heathrow Expansion group as the Government today announces the go-ahead for the airport’s third runway. Environmentalists believe none of the green measures to alleviate the consequences around Heathrow will have any effect in Bucks, which instead will suffer extra air noise, more traffic and increased pollution.

Mobile workers – Social workers and other council community employees could work from libraries instead of using up valuable office space, according to radical plans to cut back spending announced by Bucks County Council yesterday. The council believes workers can be more efficient if they use mobile technology and use their local library as a base. Union bosses think it’s all part of a council plan to sell off their expensive tower block headquarters in the middle of Aylesbury.

Wednesday 14th January

Hoax cost – Hoax calls to the fire brigade cost taxpayers in Bucks over £400,000 last year according to figures out yesterday. Fire engines were sent on 209 hoax missions, costing over £2,000 a time. A further 232 malicious false alarms were also made, but these were identified as hoaxes before the engines left their stations. Police said they will do all they can to prosecute hoax callers.

Golfing pioneer – A second year student at Wycombe’s Bucks New University has been chosen to be a golfing ambassador in an attempt to get more women interested in the sport. Lauren Drake is one of four students in her year on a sports management and golf studies BA course.

Spurs striker – Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor will decide today whether to sign up a promising Spurs striker whose career was blighted last year by hernia problems. Twenty one year old Simon Dawkins made one Spurs first team appearance after a long apprenticeship with the squad before his problem struck. But he is now said to be fully recovered and was watched by Taylor as he played for Wycombe Wanderers reserves at Marlow last night.

Tuesday 13th January

Only the beginning – Yesterday’s announcement of 400 job losses over the next three years at Buckinghamshire County Council is only the thin end of the wedge, union reps feared last night. As councils face massive drops in income, councillors are considering speeding up plans to merge the work of the area’s district councils and county council which will result in even more job losses.

Miracle boy – Disabled five year old Aylesbury boy Thomas Melville-Ross has become has become the first child in Britain to receive a new device implanted into his brain that will stop his involuntary muscle movements. Following ground-breaking surgery in London’s Kings College Hospital he will now be able to use an electronic wheelchair and a special laptop to help me move and communicate.

Historic funeral – The Chilterns church of St Leonard’s in Watlington will hold an historic funeral next week when people gather to say farewell to the last man in Britain who served in both World War 1 and World War 2. William Stone, who lived in the town for many years, has died in a nursing home at the age of 108. He was one of only four First World War veterans still alive and the last to have served in the navy in 1914-18.

Monday 12th January

Extra places – Local schools are having to find additional places this term for children who have been pulled out of private schools in the area because their parents can no longer afford the fees. It’s thought around 50 children in Bucks are transferring from private schools to state schools. Exams for 11 year olds wanting to go to private schools begin this week and figures are said to be well down on previous years.

Runway opposition – Opponents to Heathrow’s proposed third runway – which is expected to be given Government approval any day now – are still convinced the project will not get off the ground, provided the Conservatives win the next election. Because the runway would involve the eradication of the village of Sipson, a planning application for the runway would not be ready until 2011. However, according to well placed sources yesterday, if the Tories win the election in 2010, one of their first acts would be to abolish the runway plan and push through new rail links instead.

World premiere – The world premiere of a show celebrating the life and times of Charles Dickens opened in Thame last night. A celebration of Charles Dickens, starring Peter Egan and Elizabeth Garvie, will begin a nationwide tour later this month.

Saturday 10th January

Game off – Today’s Wycombe Wanderers game at Dagenham and Redbridge was called off yesterday because of a frozen pitch.

Friday 9th January

Forty empty shops – Music retailer Zavvi closed its High Wycombe store in the Eden shopping centre yesterday bringing the number of empty units in the new complex to 20. Add to that six empty shops in the nearby Chilterns shopping centre and 14 others in and around the town’s High Street and the number of empty stores in the town centre is now 40 – the highest in living memory. However, there was some good news on the horizon with reports that the clothing retailer TK Maxx is interested in taking over the Woolworth site and that supermarket Iceland is also looking to return to the town.

Bikers blow – Horse riders and walkers have won the first of a number of battles to stop motor bikes using bridleways in the Chilterns. A Government planning inspector has ruled in their favour in the first of 20 test cases in the Wycombe area. Bikers say bridleways should not be exclusively used by riders and walkers, but the riders and walkers say that if motorbikes are allowed to use bridleways it will be dangerous for people, horses and dogs.

Ex-manager’s rant – Former Wycombe Wanderers boss Paul Lambert let fly at current manager Peter Taylor yesterday, saying Taylor’s comments over Lambert’s attempt to buy the Blues star defender Mike Williamson were “nasty”. Lambert’s new club Colchester United have had two identical bids of £100,000 to buy Williamson turned down, prompting Taylor to say “if the bid wasn’t enough first time, it still isn’t”. Taylor was staying aloof from the row yesterday, but the notoriously short-tempered Lambert’s heavy handed tactics have landed him and his club in trouble with Scottish club Hibs. The Edinburgh club has reported Colchester to the Football League and the FA for making public a bid for one of their players – against usual convention. Colchester and Lambert used the same tactic in their Williamson bid, but Wycombe didn’t rise to the bait.

Thursday 8th January

Close encounters – High Wycombe officially becomes Britain’s UFO capital today. All the country’s sightings of unidentified flying objects will be handled by an RAF team based at RAF High Wycombe. Previously the team worked from a Ministry of Defence office in London. Nick Pope, a former UFO investigator, welcomed the move, telling The Sun: “The RAF will ensure sightings are investigated properly and should pay particular attention to sightings from pilots and cases where UFOs are tracked on radar.”

Newspaper cuts – Trinity Mirror, the company that owns two local newspapers in the Wycombe area – the Bucks Examiner based in Chesham and the Buckinghamshire Advertiser based in Chalfont St Peter – announced drastic action yesterday to try and cope with the credit crunch. Production of all its local newspapers in London and the south east is to be concentrated on one site in Surrey, as will the papers’ photographers. Reporters will be given mobile phones and laptops and told to work “remotely”, although at this stage there are no plans to close the Buckinghamshire offices. Nationally, the group is struggling – last year it cut over 1,000 jobs, closed 44 publications and enforced a pay freeze on its staff. Advertising revenues dropped by over 20 per cent.

Priests’ windfall – One of the most desirable properties on the banks of the Thames has been sold for over £20million. Fawley Court, between Henley and Marlow, is a magnificent mansion with grounds that sweep down to the river. A group of Polish priests – the Marian Fathers – took it over in the 1950s and used it as a prayer and recuperation centre for Catholics. But heavy maintenance costs have defeated them so they have sold the house, which needs major renovation, and its grounds to a private buyer.

Wednesday 7th January

Price of ice – A number of schools across the Wycombe area will remain closed or partly closed today – the first day of term – because frozen pipes have burst, causing flooding. Elsewhere emergency services were called to over a dozen accidents caused by skidding on black ice yesterday and breakdown services had their busiest day for years.

On the buses – Far more people are using free bus passes in the Wycombe region than had been planned for, a report to the council shows. In Wycombe alone the council is expecting to have to find £300,000 more than it budgeted for in this financial year. To help meet it the council is cutting back on other types of free transport schemes, such as rail and taxi tokens. Meanwhile Wycombe’s council leader Lesley Clarke yesterday ruled out dipping into council reserves to get round its general shortfall in funds. Instead, deep cuts to services are planned.

One Ronnie – Plans to unveil a statue of comic Ronnie Barker outside Aylesbury’s new Waterside Theatre are being considered. Ronnie began his show biz career in 1948 when he joined Aylesbury Repertory Company. The theatre is due to open early next year.

Tuesday 6th January

Air noise – Aircraft noise over Wycombe and Amersham areas will increase significantly if Heathrow changes the way it uses its runways, MPs and environmentalists warned yesterday. The Government is expected to give a decision soon on whether aircraft can land and take off on the same runways at the airport – an operation known as mixed mode. But if that happens aircraft approaching the airport will have to change their landing direction and height, airport watchers said last night. And one of the areas worst affected will be Wycombe and Amersham.

No offers – There is not thought to be any interest from any other retailers to take over the prime Woolworth store in Wycombe High Street after it closes for the final time tonight. However, there is said to be interest in both the Beaconsfield and Thame Woolies stores, which also close today. Meanwhile the children’s clothing store Adams closed both its branches in Wycombe yesterday, following the groups’ administration. The Adams and Woolworth closures in the Wycombe area have put nearly 200 people out of work.

Big freeze – Council gritter lorries operated until late last night and were due to be out again early this morning as temperatures plummeted to as much as minus five across the Chilterns. But the council warned motorists not to assume roads had been gritted and to drive with extra care. There were scores of bumps and bangs yesterday as motorists slithered to work.

Monday 5th January

Rail boost – Leaks to the Sunday papers yesterday suggested that High Wycombe and the rest of the Chiltern Line could have direct train services to and from Heathrow as part of a Government compromise to develop an unpopular third runway at the airport. It’s said the Government aims to propose a massive rail station north of Heathrow which would also have links to the main Paddington and Reading line. Better train services would reduce congestion and pollution around the airport, Whitehall sources told the press.

Hazlemere to Hollywood – Wycombe born star James Corden flies to Hollywood today to negotiate deals which, if successful, will make him a multi-millionaire. He is to read and screen test for a part in a blockbuster movie based on Gullivers’ Travels in addition to agreeing details with NBC to be an executive producer for an American version of his TV hit Gavin and Stacey. The 30 year old actor has spent Christmas with his parents and sister in Hazlemere.

Scotty beamed back – Wycombe Wanderers striker Scott McGleish – last season’s top scorer – rejoins the Blues today, having made up with manager Peter Taylor after a training pitch bust up. McGleish has been on loan to Northampton but is said to be keen to get back on the scoring trail with Wycombe again.

Sunday 4th January

Happy birthday – Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor received a perfect 56th birthday present from his players yesterday – a solid 2-1 win over fellow promotion chasers Bury. Matt Harrold and Angelo Balanta scored for Wycombe, and just to add a bit of late excitement, Wycombe defender Mike Williamson scored an own goal three minutes from the end. The Blues now sit eight points clear at the top of League 2.

Saturday 3rd January

Crash probe – An investigation is underway after police confirmed yesterday that a High Wycombe man killed in a car crash on Tuesday was being chased by a police car. Terry Hobson , aged 32, died after a BMW he was driving smashed into a tree in Long Lane, Hillingdon in the early hours on Tuesday.

Luke’s ready – The High Wycombe family of golfing superstar Luke Donald return to the town today after spending Christmas with Luke in Florida. After five months out of the game following a wrist operation, Donald says he is now feeling fine again and will be competing against the top players this year. He’s playing a tournament next week with his friend Tiger Woods, who has also been crocked for six months.

New player – TJ Moncur, a 21 year old defender signed from Fulham yesterday, is expected to be in Wycombe Wanderers line up when they play Bury at Adams Park this afternoon. There’s speculation that Moncur has been brought in to replace Blues defender Mike Williamson who is attracting interest from a number of clubs. Tony Adams, who brought Williamson to Wycombe, is rumoured to be ready to offer half a million pounds for Williamson to join him at Portsmouth.

Friday 2nd January

Town recognition - A campaign is underway for Beaconsfield to officially recognise newly knighted Sir Terry Pratchett, who was born in the town. Councillors will also think of ways to help brand Beaconsfield as a writers’ mecca, as other famous scribes, such as Enid Blyton and G.K.Chesterton also have close links with the town.

Car find – One of the world’s rarest cars – which was High Wycombe’s most famous vehicle in the 1930s and 40s – has been found in a garage where it collected dust for 50 years, auctioneers revealed yesterday. The classic Bugatti 57S Atalante – one of only 17 built - was originally bought by Earl Howe of Penn, the first president of the British Racing Drivers’ Club , in 1937 and was a notable local attraction. It was discovered a few weeks ago by the relatives of a Newcastle doctor who has recently died. It is expected to reach £3m when it’s auctioned in Paris next month.

We’re buying – Wycombe Wanderers boss Peter Taylor said yesterday that he expects to be buying players in the January transfer window in order to keep the Blues’ promotion push at full speed. He said he had already spoken to a couple of other managers about players’ availability.

Wednesday 31st December 2008/ January 1st 2009

Brrr! revellers warned – New year revellers are being warned not to be stupid as plunging temperatures will make it the coldest start to the new year for years. With many “auld lang synes” sung by the river, paramedics are particularly anxious people don’t take a dip. In fact bookies yesterday dropped the odds of the River Thames freezing over this winter from 100-1 to 66-1.

Prices slow – House prices have fallen much slower in the Wycombe area in 2008 compared to the rest of the country. Figures from the Land Registry show that house prices in the country dropped by an average 12 per cent. But in Bucks the drop was just over seven per cent. The smallest fall in the country was in neighbouring Windsor and Maidenhead – 6.6 per cent.

What’s on – You don’t need our advice on how to celebrate the new year. Just enjoy. A Happy New Year from all at Wycombe.Info

Tuesday 30th December

Secret centre – One of the most secret locations in Britain has let in TV cameras for the first time. The Space Operations Co-ordination Centre, based in a massive bunker in Naphill, underneath RAF High Wycombe, watches for missiles or unknown satellites across most of the northern hemisphere. Now the RAF has let Sky News take a look at the sophisticated equipment operated there as part of America’s Star Wars system.

Sales bonanza – The massive discounts appears to be paying off for shops in the Wycombe area. Most are reporting that sales and turnover over the last three days are up on the same period last year.

What’s on – The Roald Dahl Museum in Great Missenden – voted the best small visitor attraction of 2008 – is open again today, but will be closed tomorrow and Thursday.

Monday 29th December

Wicked, witch – Wycombe’s panto star is in trouble after dialling 999 in an attempt to get to the show on time. Linda Lusardi, who’ s playing the Wicked Witch at the Swan, was stuck in traffic on the M25 on Saturday and knew she was going to be late for the start of the show. So she dialled 999 and asked police if she could drive down the hard shoulder – a call which police later called an abuse of the emergency system. The show was delayed half an hour until the former model arrived.

Life’s a bummer – Wycombe Wanderers enjoyed a bit of luck with a fluke goal that enabled them to take a point at Gillingham yesterday. The Gillingham goalkeeper kicked the ball away, but the ball hit the backside of one of his own defenders and rebounded straight back into the goal. The 1-1 draw keeps the Blues at the top of League 2 at the end of 2008.

What’s on – The first exhibition of holograms for over 20 years in the UK is being shown at the Bucks County Museum in Aylesbury. It is 60 years since the art form was first introduced.

Sunday 28th December

Prison death – An inquiry is underway to discover how an 18 year old apparently killed himself on Christmas Day in his prison cell. Jonathan Campbell was found on Christmas night hanging in his cell in Aylesbury Jail. He was certified dead a few hours later. He was serving a seven and a half year sentence for kidnap and GBH.

New celeb – Girls Aloud star Sarah Harding is the latest celebrity to set up home in the Wycombe area. According to yesterday’s Sun she has bought a house in Chalfont St Peter with boyfriend Tom Crane, not far away from Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne’s mansion.

What’s on - The forecast is for bright sunny skies and cold, crisp air – perfect for walking. And there’s loads of guided walks available too – from an easier four miler looking at Windsor’s “nooks and crannies” starting at the leisure centre at 10am, to a six miler around Henley (Christmas cake and mulled wine provided) starting from the Market Square at 1pm. Of course, if you’ve money to spend you can simply walk round the shopping centres – the sales are in full swing.

Saturday 27th December

Woolies close – Woolworth stores in Aylesbury and Maidenhead close today as part of a phased close down of the High Street giant following its trading collapse. The Woolies’ in Amersham and Henley close on Tuesday and the stores in High Wycombe, Beaconsfield and Thame are among the last to close, on Monday 5 January.

Home point – Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor declared himself happy with a point after the Blues drew 1-1 with Exeter at Adams Park yesterday. It leaves the team seven points clear at the top of League 2.

What’s on – If you think the country’s going to the dogs, you may as well join them. Oxford Greyhound Stadium holds is Christmas meeting tonight.

Friday 26th December

Big blaze – Volunteer fire-fighters were among those whose Christmas Day was distrupted yesterday after an arsonist started a massive blaze at a High Wycombe scrapyard. Nearly 50 firefighters spent seven hours getting the fire in Cryers Hill Road fully under control yesterday morning. Meanwhile police in Aylesbury said that three house fires in a week were all a coincidence and not the work of a single arsonist.

Oh yes they are – Local pantomimes are enjoying big audiences as families face the recession with a laugh. Every panto in the district is sold out until the end of the week.

– For the first Boxing Day in years, Wycombe Wanderers have a home fixture today. The Blues will be hoping to maintain their impressive top spot in League Two when they entertain Exeter, kick-off 3pm. Hardly a “local” fixture, but that won’t worry Blues fans. Bars are open before and after the game at Adams Park.

Thursday 25th December

The team at Wycombe.Info wish you a Happy Christmas

News and events resume tomorrow.

Wednesday 24th December

Pubs fear – Pubs are hoping for a bumper Christmas holiday after what’s said to be the worst year on record for pub closures in Wycombe area. Latest to close is the Bird in the Hand in West Wycombe Road which shut its doors a few days ago, with no indication when – or if – it will reopen. It’s the latest in a long line of ex-pubs on the A40, the London to Oxford Road. A few weeks ago the Red Lion - formerly the Cock Inn - at Wycombe Marsh also bit the dust.

Festive feud – Supermarket Morrisons is under pressure to rethink its free parking policy after mayhem in its town centre car park in High Wycombe yesterday. There were angry scenes as motorists battled for car parking spaces, particularly when Morrisons shoppers trying to stock up for Christmas discovered that other motorists were taking advantage of the free car parking and walking off to Christmas shop in the town centre. The pressure will grow when Sainsburys opens its new superstore almost opposite Morrisons next year – the multi-storey car park alongside the development will charge parkers.

What’s on – Don’t forget train services finish early tonight – the last London to Beaconsfield, Wycombe and Aylesbury train leaves Marylebone at nine o’clock. If you are not visiting pubs or churches tonight, one of the TV treats is the Christmas special of the BBC Bafta-winning comedy Gavin and Stacey. It’s been quite a year for its co-writer and star James Corden, who also won Bafta’s comedy actor award. But no show biz Christmas for him. As always he’ll be out with old mates in Wycombe’s pubs tonight before enjoying a family Christmas at home in Holmer Green tomorrow with his parents and sister.

Tuesday 23rd December

Church robbed at Christmas – Thieves who stole valuable silver from a village church may have been working to order. A very rare Elizabethan chalice was among the haul at St Margaret’s in Lewknor, near Stokenchurch. A valuable 16th century silver plate was also taken by thieves who broke into the church safe in the vestry. The silver is worth tens of thousands of pounds. R
Councillor Ebenezer - Wycombe Council is being stingy with its handouts this year as it struggles to find three million pounds worth of savings. Dozens and local organisation will learn today that instead of getting a full year’s grant, they are guaranteed only three month’s worth of funding until the council sorts out its books. Some organisations that received money last year – like the Youth Inquiry Service, the local branch of the charity Relate and the town’s Environment Centre – have been told that from today they’ll receive no council contributions at all.

What’s on – Now the presents are bought – well, mainly - it’s time for the food. There are special Christmas Farmers’ markets throughout the Wycombe area today, including Beaconsfield, Prestwood , Aylesbury and Thame. Wycombe’s High Street market is also in full swing.

Monday 22nd December

Knife fight – A man is due to appear in court today charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent following a fight involving knives in the centre of Thame. Robert Newitt, aged 22, of Van Diemans Road, Thame was charged yesterday, a day after the attack. The victim, who hasn’t been named, is in hospital with arm injuries. Meanwhile in nearby Aylesbury a 27 year old man – a pedestrian - who died in a road accident in Elmhurst Road just before midnight yesterday, is expected to be named today. Police are appealing for witnesses to both incidents.

Eden casualty – The first closure of a store in the new Eden shopping centre in High Wycombe is due to take place in the new year, just nine months after the centre opened. Passionate about Perfume is thought to be a victim of the credit crunch. A number of shop units in the Eden are still awaiting occupants, although some new stores are due to open shortly.

What’s on – Bernie Clifton, the veteran comic described on his website as “famous for his ostrich riding abilities”, begins a busy Christmas week in Cinderella at Aylesbury Civic Centre today. He and the rest of the cast are performing twice a day, every day except Christmas Day, until next Tuesday.

Sunday 21st December

Top at Christmas –Wycombe Wanderers opened a nine point gap at the top of League 2 with a hard fought win at Shrewsbury yesterday through a single goal by Matt Harrold.

What’s on – Instead of taking the kids to see Santa today – they’ve probably seen him five times already – then why not visit Mr Toad in his caravan at Henley’s River and Rowing Museum today. Or –as it is the shortest day of the year – you could take the air. There’s a Winter Solstice walk from Bledlow village at 1.30.

Saturday 20th December

Sales up – Local estate agents reported yesterday in the last six weeks they have sold more houses than August, September and October put together as further glimmers of hope shone through the economic gloom. And as shoppers hit the stores during the last weekend before Christmas, many local retailers are reporting better than expected sales. However,yesterday’s closure of MFI and the reported restructuring of Homebase by its owners has brought uncertainty to the future of the Knave’s Beech off the M40 at Loudwater, where the two retailers are the anchor stores.

What’s on – Father Christmas takes to the trains today – providing there’s no elves on line of course. The steam railway at Chinnor are running Santa specials all afternoon

Friday 19th December

Wycombe cutbacks – The recession came close to home last night when the council said it was considering cutting jobs and freezing projects so it can reduce its spending by ten per cent. Plans to be discussed fully in the new year include losing 36 Wycombe Council jobs, closing the Bassetsbury Manor community building and the adjoining Holywell Mead swimming pool, relocating Wycombe Museum to a smaller premises; and freezing plans to upgrade the Frogmoor shopping area and redevelop the area around town’s fire station. In additiion, the council’s income from land and rents has been hit by the economic downturn, and a £2.5m investment in a stricken Icelandic bank hasn’t helped.

Driver freed – Wycombe bus driver John Houghton walked free from court yesterday after a judge ruled there was not enough evidence to convict him of causing death by dangerous driving. The court had heard the 57 year old driver had hit his brakes as soon as he saw 80 year old grandmother Wladyslawa Polataiko walk onto a zebra crossing in Desborough Road in August last year. But even though he was travelling at only 20mph he was unable to avoid hitting her. She died later in hospital. Friends of Mr Houghton said last night he was relieved but upset the case had been brought in the first place.

What’s on – We’re getting seriously Christmasy now. The ultimate in outdoor carol singing – gathered around the Christmas Tree at Windsor Castle, with lanterns, choirs, brass bands and maybe the odd Royal – is held this evening. And if you want to make a day of it, call in at nearby Ascot Racecourse this afternoon for the Christmas meeting.

Thursday 18th December

Holding on – The number of people officially unemployed in the Wycombe area is one of the lowest in the country, according to figures released yesterday. In the Wycombe area it is just one per cent and in Buckinghamshire as a whole it is 1.2 per cent – way below the national average of six per cent. However, analysts believe the a number of people who have lost their jobs in the last few weeks may not yet be claiming benefits and therefore don’t show up in the figures. There’s also evidence that a number of companies have put employees on short time working rather than lose them.

Illness spreads – Meanwhile there are more and more people off work through illness as a flu-type virus spreads through the Wycombe area. Supermarket shelves are running low on medicines and some schools and medical services have been struggling to cope this week.

What’s on – Close your eyes and you could be in Lapland and not the middle of Windsor. Real huskies are pulling real sleighs containing real people on not-so-real snow and ice in Windsor’s King Edward Court today.

Wednesday 17th Decemeber

Family’s apology – There was sympathy among senior medical personnel in the Wycombe area last night for the family of terrorist doctor Bilal Abdulla, yesterday found guilty causing explosions at Glasgow Airport and an attempted explosion in London. Abdulla was born in Aylesbury in 1980 where his parents – his father Talal a trainee doctor and his mother a pharmacist – worked at Stoke Mandeville Hospital. Last night his father, now a professor of medicine, apologised “deeply and sincerely” to the British people for the actions of his son. “The sky has fallen in on my family and we are still shocked,” he said. “I want to make it clear we do not approve of his actions nor understand his motive. This is not Islam”.

Inflation buster - Although inflation is set to fall to less than one per cent next year, Bucks County Council are recommending council tax increases of nearly four per cent from next Spring. The council blames the Government for not giving them enough grant. The Government says the council should make ends meet. Even with the increase the council says its cutting £16m from its spending.

What’s on – Ex Wycombe grammar school boy – now top comic – Jimmy Carr appears at Wycombe Swan tonight – relegating Snow White to morning and afternoon performances. Born in Slough, Jimmy quite likes his old school - the Royal Grammar - and has spoken at reunion dinners. In 1991 he was there at the same time as other famous old boys Matt Dawson and Luke Donald.

Tuesday 16th December

River rejection – The Environment Agency yesterday turned down a plan to stop a local river disappearing. The Misbourne dries up for most of the year because water and sewage companies extract most of its flow further upstream. Conservation groups, led by the Chiltern Society, drew up a plan for lining the banks of the river with clay to stop water seeping away. But the Agency said that would damage plants and insect life.

Animal horror claim - Graphic images of horses allegedly left to starve on a farm near Great Missenden were shown to a jury yesterday. Farm owners Jamie Gray, his wife Julie, daughters Jodie and Cordelia and another person who can’t be named deny 12 charges under the Animal Welfare Act. The RSPCA told the court that when they visited Spindles Farm nearly a year ago they found 32 animal carcasses. When they returned on another occasion they found seven horse skulls next to a gate.

What’s on – The Willie Garnett Big Band make some seasonal offerings at the Marlow Jazz Club tonight in the British Legion Hall.

Monday 15th December

Shops packed – High Wycombe’s new shopping centre packed in thousands of Christmas shoppers in its busiest weekend ever, retailers said yesterday. Recession worries were forgotten as free parking and new stores attracted shoppers. Many retailers said there was some evidence that shoppers who normally visited neighbouring centres in Reading, Watford or west London were instead trying out Wycombe this year

Embarrassing error – The Ministry of Defence was embarrassed last night after it announced that a Royal Marne killed in Afghanistan came from High Wycombe, when, in fact, he originated from Sheffield. Papers and other media outlets were said yesterday that Lance Corporal Steven Fellows, 26, died in his armoured car when a roadside bomb exploded was a Wycombe man. The ministry was unable to explain how the error occurred.

What’s on – Scrooge and Co take the stage at Windsor’s Firestation Arts Centre tonight for a week long run of A Christmas Carol.

Sunday 14th December

Wycombe marine killed – A Royal Marine from High Wycombe has been killed in an explosion in Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence announced last night. Lance Corporal Steven Fellows, aged 26, died in Helmand province while taking part in a routine patrol in his Jackal armoured vehicle on Friday. Yesterday three other Marines from his unit – 45 Commando – were killed by a child suicide bomber. Prime Minister Gordon Brown, visiting the Marines base last night, said L/C and his colleagues “will never be forgotten”. Prayers for him will be said in Wycombe churches today. He is the second Royal Marine from the town to die in Afghanistan. Joe Windall, 22,died two years ago when a plane he was flying in exploded.

Good draw; poor PR – Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor described yesterday’s goal-less encounter with Luton Town yesterday as a “good 0-0” and praised the efforts of all the players on a pitch covered with surface water. There was some annoyance from fans after the game however when the main bar at Adams Park was closed for a private function, denying many of them a drink after what was the final home game before Christmas.

What’s on – Rugby starlet Danny Cipriani will start today Wasps v Edinburgh game on the bench at Adams Park today after a bout of illness this week. The Heineken Cup game kicks off at 1.30pm

Saturday 13th December

Sat nav death – A driver who misunderstood his Sat Nav’s instructions is beginning a jail sentence today for causing the death of another driver. David Pulsford, 44, was driving in the dark when he turned the wrong way into a dual carriageway of the Amersham Road near Chalfont. He smashed head-on into a Saab driven by bride-to-be Samah Suliman,31, who died later in hospital. Police said Pulsford ignored two road signs indicating he should turn left into the dual carriageway but instead listened to his sat nav telling him to turn right. Sentencing him to 15 months for causing death by dangerous driving the judge, Justic Tyrer said : “Satellite navigation systems can be a useful aid but also a dangerous distraction.”

Flood alerts – Heavy rain today is likely to cause flooding problems in the Wycombe and Chiltern areas, weather forecasters are warning. Last night the Environment Agency put seven tributaries of the Thames on flood alert in Oxfordshire, warning that rivers may burst their banks.

What’s on – There was much sympathy among football supporters when Luton Town were docked a farcical 30 points at the beginning of this season. But such sympathy will go temporarily out of the window today when the Hatters visit Adams Park to take on Wycombe Wanderers in League 2.

Friday 12th December

Rape denial – A man charged with raping a 17 year old girl in High Wycombe 28 years ago denied the offence when he appeared in court yesterday. Geoffrey Stoneham, aged 62, from Kent was allowed bail but told to surrender his passport. He’ll stand trial next June.
Mounted cops – Mounted police began patrolling Wycombe’s town centre last night as part of a Christmas campaign to control yobs. With more clubs, pubs and entertainment venues than ever before in the town centre this Christmas – attracting all age groups – the police and council say the presence of cops on horseback will deter any rowdyism and make the town centre feel safe at night.

– Wycombe’s panto, Snow White, which launches at the Swan tonight, is a family affair. Show biz husband and wife pair Linda Lusardi and Sam Kane are joined on stage by their 12 year old daughter Lucy – the Good Fairy – and eight year old son Jack in the chorus line. Meanwhile in Windsor veteran comic Roy Walker comes out of retirement to play the Firestation arts centre tonight.

Thursday 11th December

Getting worried – There’s increasing concern about the future of Wycombe’s High Street as, along with other branches throughout the country, Woolworth begins a closing down sale today. Councillors and business leaders fear that if Woolies landmark building was empty for some time it would leave WH Smith – the only other “big time” retailer with a sizeable store in the High Street - and the town’s market isolated as most other main-line traders have moved to the Chilterns and Eden shopping centres further west.

Top banger – Chalfont farmers Stephen and Vicky Hinds are celebrating after their speciality chilli and coriander brand of sausages was named the National Pedigree Sausage of the Year by the British Pig Association at the Smithfield Christmas show.

What’s on – The choir of St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle perform their exquisite Christmas words and music concert tonight and tomorrow tonight. While, at the other end of the festive entertainment scale, the wonderfully named Ian Cognito joins other stand up comics Geoff Norcott and Matt Reed at the Hellfire Comedy Club in Wycombe Town Hall tonight.

Wednesday 10th December

Data deal – A deal to build Europe’s second biggest data centre near High Wycombe was agreed yesterday. The massive computer data storage building - covering 50 acres on the site of the old Molins cigarette machine factory at Saunderton – will have a turf roof and major landscaping so it blends in with the Chiltern countryside. But it will also be one of the most protected buildings in the country with high fences and an army of security guards.

"Grotesque" cruelty claim - Experienced vets had never witnessed such “grotesque” animal cruelty as that inflicted on horses and doneys at Spindles Farm near Great Missenden a court heard yesterday on the opening day of a ten week trial. Many of the animals had to be put down after they had been left to “stand a die” said the prosecution. James Gray, 45, Julie Gray, 41, Jodie Gray, 26, Cordelia Gray, 20, and a teenage boy who cannot be named are standing trial at Bicester Magistrates Court where they deny a total of 12 charges under the Animal Welfare Act 2006

What’s on - Christmas tours around Windsor Castle are underway most evenings between now and the end of the year...but they do set you back £50. Latest panto to launch is a non-professional production of Dick Whittington at Maidenhead town hall.

Tuesday 9th December

Wycombe's shops are holding out better than expected in the recession. Councillors were told last night that more than 10,000 people a day are visting the town's Eden Centre - less than earlier in the year when it first opened but "very, very good in the current economic climate", said Hugh McCarthy, the town's economy spokesman.

Monday 8th December

Sickness abounds – Councillors in Wycombe meet tonight to decide how to tackle massive sickness levels in the town hall. More than half of the staff in the council’s one stop shop are on long or medium term sickness leave says a report, with average sickness leave averaging more than 20 days a year for staff in the council’s customer services centre.

Booze bans – Windsor and Maidenhead look set to extend their alcohol free zones in their town centres after a big drop in booze related crime.

What’s on – Different slants on Christmas today – top folk singers gather at their Monday venue, Nettlebed village hall, for a Folksy Christmas, while Wycombe’s Environment Centre invites everyone to come and see how you can enjoy a “sustainable” Christmas. More traditional fayre at Wycombe’s Roman Catholic church, St Francis of Assisi with a carol concert tonight.

Sunday 7th December

Not all bad – Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor seemed almost relieved when his side lost their unbeaten record in a 3-2 League Two defeat at Aldershot yesterday. The Blues were the last professional side in England to still be unbeaten, a statistic that some believe was beginning to influence the dressing room. “Some might say the players are glad the unbeaten tag is out of the way,” he said after the game. The Chairboys are still six point clear at the top of the league.

Shops go mad – A cross the board 50 per cent reduction on everything at Woolworth and 30 per cent reductions in Bhs and House of Fraser – coupled with free parking in Wycombe town centre – caused shopping mayhem in High Wycombe yesterday. Woolies – which is in administration – had its shelves virtually cleared of toys.
RWhat’s on – The traditional Festival of Carols takes place in Wycombe Swan at 4.30 and 8pm today while at the Aston Rowant Nature Reserve between 5pm and 7pm there’s a festive Lantern Walk.

Saturday 6th December

YouTube hit – A spoof movie showing a drunk torn between two rival kebab vans in High Wycombe High Street, shot to the tune of The Good, The Bad and The Ugly, passed 23,000 hits yesterday and has sent sales at the two vans sky high. It was shot by students at Bucks New Uni in the town. Free parking – The council is providing free parking in its car parks in the centre of Wycombe today in a further attempt to lure Christmas shoppers to the town. What’s On – The National Trust’s Hughenden Manor is decked up for Christmas Victorian style, and opens its doors for the next week today. Tonight its the turn of Reading’s panto to debut – Dick Whittington at the Hexagon. Stars Eastenders’ John Altman and ‘Allo ‘Allo’s Guy Siner. `

Friday 5th December

Disco shooting – A man and a woman will appear in court today charged in connection with the killing of a Wycombe woman shot at a disco four years ago. Reston Braham, 46, of Rhine Close, Caversham is charged with the manslaughter of Natasha Derby, aged 23, who died of her injuries after the shooting on the dancefloor of the Wycombe Multi-Cultural Centre. Hazel Forde, also of Caversham, is charged with perverting the course of justice and being in possession of an illegal gun. Another woman, Michelle Phillips, is to appear in court later charged with perverting the course of justice. A man who was charged with Natasha’s murder in 2005 was later acquitted. The new charges follow a review of the case by police.

Stadium plan – Plans to extend Adams Park rather than build a new football/rugby stadium for WycombeWanderers and London Wasps are now being discussed according to informed sources. But before the stadium can increase significantly, a new road will have to be built to the M40 to improve access. Meanwhile on the pitch, Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor was named League 2’s manager of the month yesterday.

What’s on – Peter Duncan has written and directed Oxford’s panto, Sleeping Beauty, which opens at the city’s Playhouse tonight. Christmas theme at Wycombe Swan too tonight – a festive version of the west end singalong, Beyond the Barricades.

Thursday 4th December

Blues future – Steve Hayes, the managing director of Wycombe Wanderers, is expected to outline his thoughts on the future at the club’s annual general meeting tonight, after he took control yesterday of the rugby premiership team London Wasps, who share Wycombe’s Adams Park ground. Wanderers owe multi-millionaire Hayes around £7m but at present the club’s constitution prevents him from outright ownership. The move is likely to mean an even closer relationship between the Chairboys and the Wasps and Hayes made clear yesterday he wants to pursue plans for a new stadium in the town. He went out of his way to praise the local council for its “positive approach” in helping Wanderers and Wasps build a new 20,000 seater stadium.

Track worker killed - An inquiry is being held into how a railway track worker died after being struck by an early morning train at High Wycombe yesterday. The worker is expected to be named today. Early morning rush hour services were thrown into chaos when the station was closed while British Transport Police sealed off the area. Passengers in Wycombe were advised to start their journeys eight miles away in Amersham.

What’s on – More festive festivities today with the launch of Chesham’s panto – Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, starring Lee Bright and Alexis Corley at the Elgiva - and Marlow’s Christmas shopping night.

Wednesday 3rd December

Flying high – South American flair gave Wycombe Wanderers one of their best wins of the season at Adams Park last night. Brazilian Magno Vieira scored twice, Columbian Angelo Balanta knocked in a supergoal and Englishman Leon Johnson added a fourth in a 4-0 win against Macclesfield. The result puts the Blues seven points clear at the top of League Two and now 18 league games unbeaten. It was a particularly good result following a shock 2-0 defeat by non-league Eastwood Town in the FA Cup on Saturday and bearing in mind that three first choice strikers were missing through injury or illness and a fourth is out on loan.

Tree mystery – Police and council officials are baffled as to why someone went to enormous lengths – and risk – to kill off one of High Wycombe’s finest trees. The giant silver maple in the centre of the busy park, The Rye, was expertly attacked by someone with a chain saw who cut evenly around the entire bark. The attacker then poured fuel into the cut, thereby ensuring that the tree would eventually wither and die. Council workmen are now to cut it down and replant another, but in the meantime police are appealing for witnesses.

What’s on – They’re off...the local panto season gets underway tonight with two opening productions – Peter Pan at Windsor Theatre Royal with Jack Ellis, Christopher Parker and Gin the Dog, who came to fame in the Britain’s Got Talent TV show this year. Meanwhile there’s a local production of Dick Whittington at Marlow’s Shelley Theatre which finishes on Sunday.

Tuesday 2nd December

Driving out – The last Rover dealer in the Wycombe area is closing down in the new year. SMC in London Road will close in February and be demolished. The dealership, which has branches throughout Bucks and Berks, concentrated its Rover cars in High Wycombe after the car maker went under two years ago. Now spares and remaining cars for sale will be transferred to a smaller garage in Iver Heath.

Top ten – Rebecca Romera, the Marlow based athlete who is only the second woman to win Olympic medals in two separate sports – in her case cycling and rowing – was shortlisted last night as one of ten potential recipients of the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year. Viewers will make the decision later this month but Rebecca will have to beat favourites Lewis Hamilton and Chris Hoy.

What’s on – Peter Taylor – nominated yesterday as League Two’s manager of the month for the third month in succession – will be looking to maintain Wycombe Wanderers’ unbeaten league record tonight when the Blues entertain Macclesfield at Adams Park.

Monday 1st December

Green shoots? – Many shops in the Wycombe area reported brisk trading this weekend despite the poor weather. It coincided with good news for Woolworth staff in High Wycombe who are likely to be told this week that because the store is in such a prime location it is likely to be saved from closure. Meanwhile local estate agents reported that house inquiries and sales perked up in November for the first time for months. On the other side of the coin however, staff at the Wycombe based waste company Biffa may face redundancies after the company announced a restructuring.

Hit and run – A 12 year old girl is in a stable condition in hospital after a car accident in which the driver failed to stop. Six hours after the accident in Chapel Lane, High Wycombe, a 37 year old woman was arrested on suspicion of drink driving and failing to stop at an accident.

What’s on – Now December is with us, they are serving up traditional Christmas treats at the Wycombe Swan. Moscow City Ballet present The Nutcracker tonight and tomorrow night.

Sunday 30th November

Giant killed – Over the years Wycombe Wanderers has enjoyed being the giant killer in cup competitions. Yesterday the boot was on the other foot. The Blues, unbeaten in the league and riding high at the top of their division, were humbled by a club two divisions below them on a sloping ground not unlike the one Wycombe used to have in its non-league days. Eastwood Town won 2-0 in the second round of the FA Cup, leaving the Chairboys out of all cup competitions this season.

What’s on - The acclaimed Berks,Bucks and Oxon Big Band holds its annual festive gig at Bourne End’s Community Hall tonight, while Mendelssohn’s Elijah is performed at Wycombe Swan. Over in Oxford, popular comic Jethro is on at the city’s New Theatre.

Saturday 29th November

Upsetting journalists...Relations between police and local journalists are at their lowest after charges against a Buckinghamshire newspaper reporter were thrown out by a judge yesterday. A 50 year old part time weekly journalist, Sally Murrer, was interrogated three times, strip searched, held in cells for 24 hour periods and allegedly had her phone bugged after she allegedly received a tip about a local story from Thames Valley Police sergeant Mark Kerney. But yesterday Mr Justice Southwell ruled that evidence from a police bugging operation to try and prove that confidential information had been leaked was inadmissible. He criticised the police’s heavy handed methods, saying such methods should only be considered when national security was at stake.

The National Union of Journalists accused Thames Valley Police of acting “above the law, trampling over well-established journalistic rights.” But in a statement, the police refused to apologise or admit they were wrong, simply saying instead they were “disappointed”. Sgt Kerney retired early from the police force after suffering a stroke during a pre-trial hearing. Mrs Murrer says she is likely to give up journalism because of the stress, but may sue the police and give any damages to charity.

Upsetting politicians – Police succeeded in not only antagonising journalists around the country yesterday, but politicians as well. The arrest of front bench shadow spokesman Damien Green for also allegedly leaking information was rounded on by politicians from all sides. Beaconsfield MP Dominic Grieve, the Shadow Home Secretary, said Mr Green was bringing “perfectly legitimate matters” into the public domain.

Friday 28th November

New pub - Wetherspoon’s are bucking the trend and opening a new pub in Wycombe town centre today. The William Robert Loosley will feature two big bars and has plans to feature live bands. The company, which also owns the Falcon in the town centre, has spent more than half a million pounds refurbishing what was the Hogshead pub in Oxford Road. Originally is was the site of the Hull, Loosley and Pearce furniture store – and William Robert Loosley was the Wycombe carpenter who founded the shop nearly 150 years ago.

Managers meet – Wycombe Wanderers current manager Peter Taylor meets up with former manager John Gorman today to help promote Mr Gorman’s book at Waterstones in Wycombe town centre. The two are old friends, both playing for Spurs in their younger days. When Mr Gorman was in charge of the Chairboys three years ago, the team went 21 games unbeaten – a club record. So far Mr Taylor has led the team to 17 games unbeaten – and Mr Gorman hopes his old mate will beat his record. The pair are signing John Gorman’s autobiography from 1pm.

What’s on – Chesham holds its Victorian Christmas shopping evening tonight to get people in festive spirit, while on stage there’s Marlow’s comedy club at the Crowne Plaza while veteran comic Jimmy James, who makes Jonathan Ross and Russell Brand look like Andy Pandy and Teddy, plays Aylesbury Civic Centre. Strictly adult humour only.

Thursday 27th November

Worried shopworkers – Staff at Woolworth and MFI stores in the Wycombe area will hear what the immediate future holds for them today after both stores went into administration yesterday. In Wycombe, where Woolies landmark store stands on the site of the historic Red Lion Hotel, there has been concern over its future all year. The company is believed to have renewed its lease only at the last minute when it was due in the summer. Its closure would be a major problem for the council seeking to stop that end of the town becoming dead after the opening of the new Eden shopping centre. Similarly, any closure of the big MFI store in the Knave’s Beech retail park in Loudwater would leave a big hole to fill.

Cops boost – Sara Thornton, chief constable of Thames Valley Police, will today give her backing to a Government report which yesterday called for big pay increases for police working in the Wycombe and south Bucks area. The force has had trouble retaining police officers because they can move just a few miles to the Metropolitan Police area and earn £6,000 in allowances - £4,000 more than they get here. There are also other perks. The Home Affairs Committee said yesterday the difference needed to be much smaller.

What’s on – Contrasting entertainment next door to each other in High Wycombe tonight. In the town hall lively stand-ups Mike Wilmot, Mark Olver and Nathan Caton let rip at the Hellfire Comedy Club, while in the adjoining Wycombe Swan the rather more sedate Mozart Festival Orchestra present a concert by candlelight.

Wednesday 26th November

Wycombe tribute – Counillors are considering whether to set up a permanent memorial in the town to Richard Hickox, regarded as Britain’s finest conductor, who died from a suspected heart attack aged 60 at the weekend. Mr Hickox was born in Stokenchurch, learned his music at St Paul’s Church in Wooburn Green, where his father was vicar, and attended Wycombe’s Royal Grammar School.

Another win - Wycombe extended their lead at the top of the table after another impressive display at Notts County last night. The Chairboys dominated the match and ran out 2-0 winners to record their 10th league victory of the season and remain unbeaten. Wycombe are now four points clear at the top of league 2 with a game in hand over all their rivals.

Katherine’s rethink – Marlow’s world champion rower Katherine Grainger has decided against retirement to have a final fling for a gold medal at the London Olympics. The 32 year old was one of the favourites for a gold in the Beijing Games, but had to settle for a silver in one of Britain’s rare disappointments. Whether she is able to compete though depends on the rowing team’s management.

What’s on – Paddy McGuinness, the Bolton comic and sidekick to Peter Kay who was recently named Britain’s second most sexiest man, makes his stand-up debut at Wycombe Swan tonight.

Tuesday 25th November

Drivers warned – Police last night urged drivers to lock their car doors while driving through the Wycombe area at night after two incidents of a man jumping into the back seats of vehicles as they slowed at traffic lights or junctions. He then produces a knife and robs the driver. It’s thought the attacker – aged 18 to 20 – may be linked to other attacks.

Phone free – Chiltern Railways is thinking of putting rubber “shields” on some of its carriages on the Wycombe – Marylebone route to prevent passengers using mobile phones. It comes after a survey showed that passengers were often annoyed by loud-talking people on mobiles. A rubber shield on parts of a carriage would prevent radio signals getting to phones, thus creating phone-free areas.

What’s on – Richard Alston’s award winning contemporary dance company perform three new routines at Wycombe Swan tonight. Before the show the choreographer is talking to enthusiasts in the theatre’s adjoining Oak Room.

Monday 24th November

Terrorist killed - The suspected ringleader of an alleged terrorist plot involving people in High Wycombe was reported yesterday to have been killed in a US missile attack in the border regions of Pakistan. Rashid Rauf, aged 27, was reported killed along with at least four other alleged militants. Intelligence sources said he was behind a plot to blow up aircraft flying from Heathrow for which seven men, including two from Wycombe, are due to be retried next year. They deny any involvement.

Attendances down – More evidence this weekend that the economic downturn is hitting local sport. Crowds at Adams Park for both football and rugby were disappointing – around 4,500 turning up for Wycombe Wanderers game against Port Vale on Saturday, even though the Blues are unbeaten and top of the league, and just over 8,000 for yesterday’s London Wasps v Sale match in the Guinness Premiership, a match which would normally be expected to be a sell-out.

What’s on – The musical Chess opens at Oxford Playhouse tonight for a two week run. Meanwhile the popular folk music venue at Nettlebed features a night of tribute to Bob Dylan.

Sunday 23rd November

Big search – A former Army intelligence officer was found safe and well yesterday after a massive search involving helicopters and tracker dogs. Phillip Churm, 47, was reported missing after he didn’t return from a walk in Wycombe’s Bradenham Woods near his home on Wednesday afternoon.

Back on top – Wycombe Wanderers returned to the top of League 2 yesterday, two points clear and with a game in hand, after a solid win against Port Vale at Adams Park . Chris Zebroski and Matt Harrold scored two apiece in the Blues 4-2 victory.

What’s on – Adams Park hosts the premiership rugby match between London Wasps v Sale this afternoon. Elsewhere, a display of the Queen's Commonwealth Gifts from 1952 to 2007 will be on view at Cumberland Lodge in Windsor Great Park from 3pm to 5pm. Tonight veteran comic Ken Dodd plays Wycombe Swan, but there are only a handful of tickets left.

Saturday 22nd November

Silver lining - Wycombe Swan is relying on musicals to cheer people up as the recession threatens to bite next year. The theatre’s winter and spring programme, announced yesterday, includes Chicago, West Side Story, Flashdance, Blonde Bombshells, Honk! and David Essex’s new musical All The Fun of the Fair.

Papers relieved - There was relief among local newspapers yesterday when the BBC Trust turned down plans by the Corporation to launch BBC Local, a video news channel which many felt would be a major blow to local papers already suffering from decreased advertising revenues and declining circulations. Newsquest, owners of the Bucks Free Press, said yesterday it would be freezing the pay of all its staff, following a similar announcement from Trinity Mirror, who own the Buckinghamshire Advertiser/Bucks Examiner. Trinity Mirror added though that it would now be launching its own local video news channel.

What’s on – There’s a traditional lantern procession though Windsor this evening to mark the “official” start of Christmas festivities, and the Windsor ghost walks start for the season. Elsewhere, on stage, the Fast Show’s Simon Day plays Wycombe Town Hall while on the pitch Wycombe Wanderers play Port Vale at Adams Park. In Beaconsfield the town’s annual Art Show takes place at Beaconsfield School.

Friday 21st November

Boom day – The recession went out of the window for a day in Marks and Spencer yesterday. The new Eden store in High Wycombe had its busiest day since it opened after the company knocked 20 per cent off the price of virtually everything. It was just as hetic in other M&S stores in the area.

Million to one chance - A toddler needing a bone marrow transplant has found a donor with a perfect match in a million to one chance. Two year old Iona Stratton, a leukaemia sufferer from Tring, has a white father and a Chinese mother so the chances of finding a match was rare. But after an appeal on Facebook a woman in Australia responded and turned out to be a perfect match. Iona had a transplant on Wednesday.

What’s on – Waddesdon Manor is decorated for Christmas and opens to the public tonight with Christmas music and dancing. Further south, Ascot Racecourse hosts a big Christmas craft fair today, and while you’re that way, Eton switches on its Christmas lights. Last of the Chesham Comedy Club sessions tonight at Chesham FC’s clubhouse.

Thursday 20th November

Bizarre suicide – It looks like the man found with his throat cut in the driveway of a Downley home at the weekend was a bizarre suicide. Police said last night he had been identified but they were holding his name back until his mother, who lives abroad, had been informed. They said they felt no other person was involved in his death.

Doherty’s team – Babyshambles star Pete Doherty has paid £500 to kit out the pub football team at the Queen’s Head in Hazlemere, High Wycombe. The shirts have a transfer of his image on the front and now the 29 year old is hoping the play for the side. He was introduced to the pub by a mate.

What’s on – Stand up comics do their thing at the Hellfire Comedy Club in Wycombe Town Hall tonight; Aylesbury switches on its Christmas lights; and Irish entertainer Dominic Kirwan plays Aylesbury Civic Centre, accompanied by Tremeloes star Chip Hawkes.

Wednesday 19th November

Second rape – Police are investigating a second rape in High Wycombe in three weeks. The latest was an attack on a 23 year old woman in the gents toilets at the Orchard Reloaded night club in Hazlemere in the early hours of last Friday. A 22 year old man is helping police inquiries. It follows the rape of a 16 year old girl in Booker on Halloween.

What’s on – An advanced screening of the black comedy movie Choke is being shown at Wycombe Cineworld in the Eden tonight, two days before its official British launch.

Tuesday 18th November

No clues – Police were last night no nearer identifying the man found with his throat cut on a Downley driveway despite house to house inquiries and contacts with police forces throughout the country. Officers will spend today checking hundreds of recent missing person reports.

Trains disrupted – Hundreds of local train passengers can expect disruption tonight, tomorrow and Thursday while the signalling system for a new railway station near Aylesbury is connected up. Buses will run between Aylesbury and Princes Risborough and between Aylesbury and Wendover instead of trains, and Marylebone services to and from Wendover will be reduced. It is all to accommodate the new Aylesbury Vale Parkway station – the first new station in the area for over 50 years – which will come into operation on 14 December.

What’s on – The musical Annie opens for a five night run at Wycombe Swan tonight, while at Windsor’s Theatre Royal, Alan Ayckbourn’s adaptation of the farce Tons of Money also opens starring Christopher Timothy, Caroline Langrishe and Judi Dench’s daughter Finty Wiilliams.

Monday 17th November

Death mystery – Police will today launch a nationwide appeal in an attempt to identify the body of a man found dead with stab wounds in the driveway of a house in Downley at the weekend. After a post mortem yesterday police were still unable to say if the man, who had several stab wounds in his neck, was killed by somebody else. They also have no idea who he is, even though a mobile phone was found on the body. He is black, aged in his thirties, with a slight beard at the point of his chin. He was wearing jogging bottoms, a fleece, a beanie hat and trainers.

Company bid – A troubled High Wycombe based building company is expected to become the subject of a takeover bid this week. Taylor Wimpey, which has been laying off staff and whose share price has plummeted, is reported to be the target of two American private equity firms.

Manager linked – Watford Football Club was refusing to comment last night on reports that it wants Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor to fill its vacant manager post. Soccer sources claimed that Watford will ask Wycombe today for permission to talk with Taylor, who only joined the Blues this summer and has made a big impression. Wanderers are the only unbeaten side in the Football League.

Sunday 16th November

Death probe – A Home Office pathologist will carry out a post mortem on a man in his thirties found dead on the driveway of a home in Downley yesterday. He was found in Telford Way shortly after dawn at at eight o’clock with unspecified injuries to his throat, and it’s likely he had been there all night. Last night police were still keeping an open mind on how he died, but today’s post mortem should decide whether they are dealing with a murder case.

Sheep attacked – The National Trust said yesterday it may have to close off the Chilterns beauty spot, Coombe Hill, near Wendover, to the public if some dog owners continue to refuse to put their dogs on a lead. A number of rare sheep grazing around the headland have been attacked and injured by dogs, despite prominent notices requesting pets to be leashed.

Great show – Wycombe Wanderers’ unbeaten run was extended with a thrilling 1-0 victory over Bradford City at Adams Park yesterday, following a determined goal from full back Lewis Hunt. However, it was the introduction of lively on-loan striker Angelo Bulanta at the start of the second half that galvanised the side and made them worthy winners over their promotion rivals.

Saturday 15th November

Passengers searched – Police checked passengers arriving in High Wycombe via train last night to see if they were carrying knives. The mobile “knife arch” which was used at Aylesbury College earlier this week, was set up for six hours at the railway station entrance. It was part of a clamp down on knife related crimes. Meanwhile, four people were being held on drug-related crimes last night after police raided a number of addresses in High Wycombe.

Tourism award – The Roald Dahl museum in Great Missenden won a top tourist award yesterday. It was named best small visitor attraction in the 2008 Enjoy England Awards for Excellence.

Ownership bid – Wycombe Wanderers fans will have more to discuss than maintaining the club’s unbeaten record when they gather for the match against Bradford City at Adams Park today. They’ll also be discussing an offer by the club’s multi-millionaire managing director, Steve Hayes, to convert nearly £6m the Blues owe him into shares, provided he becomes sole owner of the club.

Friday 14th November

Arson attacks – Police and fire experts are trying to determine if two major blazes in the space of eight hours yesterday were started by the same arsonist. At one o’clock in the morning a pair of barns at Copas Farm, Cookham were destroyed, killing 500 chicks, destroying tons of hay and wrecking farm machinery. Then, seven hours later a warehouse at Brittanica Nuseries in Farnham Royal was virtually destroyed. Last night it was still unclear if that was the work of an arsonist.

New striker – Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor pulled off a coup yesterday landing one of football’s leading youngsters for an eight week loan. Eighteen year old Angelo Bulanta has already made 19 appearances for Queen’s Park Rangers and scored three goals. Now he is with the Blues to ensure he gets more first team experience.

Thursday 13th November

Station plans – Planners reached agreement yesterday on major improvements to High Wycombe’s railway station. Room will be made for buses to pull into the station forecourt so passengers can get straight from train to bus and vice versa to and from all areas of the town. A multi-story car park will more than double the car parking capacity and improvements will be made to give better access to the station for cyclists and pedestrians. Chiltern Railways will now draw up a detailed plan, which is also likely to include provision of a hotel above the existing station buildings. The whole development could be completed within two years.

Jobless up – As expected, the number of jobless leapt in the Wycombe area during October according figures announced yesterday, but officials believe the true position may be worse than official figures show. An extra 500 people claimed jobseekers allowance in October in the Wycombe, Beaconsfield and Amersham area – and increase of around 20 per cent. But it’s thought hundreds are not claiming allowances and many more are working shorter working weeks. According to the stats, around one per cent of the working population is officially unemployed, one of the best positions in the country. Most of those losing their jobs are in managerial and professionals roles. Figures for Windsor, Maidenhead and Aylesbury regions show similar increases.

Christmas is official – The festive lights go on in Wycombe tonight marking the official start of the Christmas countdown. There’ll be a Christmas parade through the town from 6pm headed by Father Christmas and reindeers. Stars of Wycombe Swan’s panto will also be around.

Wednesday 12th November

Jobs gloom – Major companies with headquarters in High Wycombe announced nationwide job cuts yesterday, some of which are expected to fall in this area. Builders Taylor Wimpey said a further 1,000 job cuts were planned and technology company Psion announced 200 job losses. Nearby, publishers Yell, based at Reading, announced 1,300 job losses. It’s expected that when official unemployment figures are announced tomorrow they will be the worst for 10 years, both locally and nationally.

Knife arch – A thousand students at Aylesbury College yesterday became the first in the area to have to walk through a “knife arch” to get to their classes. The mobile arch, which detects weapons being carried by people who walk through it, was set up in a surprise move by police. However, none of the students were detected carrying any weapons. Police are expected to launch knife arch spot checks at other colleges in the Wycombe area.

Parking row – A councillor said last night he will try to get parking tickets withdrawn after they were issued to musicians taking part in the Remembrance Day parade in Princes Risborough on Sunday. The band members, from RAF Halton, had parked on double yellow lines near to the start of the parade, but Councillor Dennis Green said they should not have been issued because of the “sensitivity of the day”. But another councillor said he would fight any attempt to rescind the tickets. “Taking part in a Remembrance Day parade doesn’t mean you are above the law,” he said.

Tuesday 11th November

Flood alerts – The Environment Agency issued a dozen flood alerts in the Thames region last night, including the area around the River Thame, following heavy rain. There have been a number of alerts in recent week causing concern that the ground is already saturated even before winter sets in. Police urged motorists to slow down as minor flooding affected evening rush hour roads.

Second restaurant – Sir Terry Wogan’s daughter Katharine opened her second pub restaurant in the area yesterday with her husband Henry Cripps. The White Oak at Cookham has been refurbished and will be run on the same lines as the couple’s first pub restaurant, the Greene Oak at Oakley Green. Sir Terry, who is once again hosting the BBC’s Children in Need appeal this week, and his wife Helen live nearby in Bray.

Cup win – A hat-trick from striker Matt Harrold and another goal from Matt Phillips gave Wycombe Wanderers a comfortable 4-1 win at AFC Wimbledon last night in the first round of the FA Cup at the Dons ground in Kingston last night.

Monday 10th November

Heathrow clash – Local Tory MPs will find themselves in a clash with local businesses organisations over the proposed third runway at Heathrow this week. They will vote against the proposal when it is discussed in the Commons, knowing that virtually every business organisation in the area, as well as the Tory controlled Wycombe Council, is in favour of the scheme. The Government will announce its decision before Christmas, and indications are they will let the third runway go ahead.

Abandoned hedgehogs – The Tiggywinkles wildlife sanctuary in the Chilterns is being inundated with baby hedgehogs. The centre said yesterday that 120 baby hedgehogs were brought to it last week alone, bringing the total in their care to 500. They fear that many of the babies still in the wild will die because of the recent cold spell.

Cup draw – If Wycombe Wanderers manage to beat AFC Wimbledon in tonight’s first round of the FA Cup they will face another non-league side in the next round. The draw yesterday pitched the Blues away to the Nottinghamshire side Eastwood Town.

Saturday 8th November

Stadium still on – Wycombe Wanderers yesterday assured fans that the move to a new stadium is still on the cards, even though recent comments from senior figures at London Wasps, the rugby club who are partners in the deal, have indicated that Wasps want to move back to central London. Blues chairman Ivor Beeks said he was encouraged by the support of both Wasps and the local council.

Driver jailed – A motorist who failed to stop after running down and killing a 69 year old woman was jailed for 31 months yesterday. Philip Dench, aged 39, of Waddesdon, ran over Patricia Morris, on the A41 at Aylesbury. Having knocked her over, a court heard, he then drove over her prostrate body in his haste to get away. It later transpired he had been drinking cider and was uninsured.

Friday 7th November

Ambulance changes – The Wycombe area ambulance service is planning to reduce its targets for reaching seriously ill people in rural areas while improving its timings in built up areas. At present the South Central Ambulance aims to reach 75 per cent of people with life-threatening conditions within eight minutes. Yesterday the ambulance trust said it wants to reach 65 per cent of people in that time in the countryside but 85 per cent in urban areas. The plan, however, is causing concern among health service commissioners.

Phone rethink – Orange yesterday backed off building a controversial telecom mast after it obtained planning permission by default. Wycombe Council failed to send the right objection letter to the company about Orange’s plan to build a mast in Foxes Piece, Marlow. It didn’t realise until the time for objecting ran out so the phone company won permission without a fight. But after an outcry, the company said last night it was delaying any move to build the mast until it had further talks with the council about finding a new site.

Judo coup – The world’s top judo players are likely to converge on High Wycombe for training after the town’s Judo Centre received notification that it is to be an official pre-Olympic training centre for the 2012 London Games.

Thursday 6th November

Shopping boost – Town centre car parks in High Wycombe will be free on the three Saturdays leading up to Christmas the council announced yesterday. The unprecedented move follows pressure from shops increasingly worried about the economic downturn, and will cost the council thousands of pounds. The only exception is the car park at the Eden Shopping Centre, but as a concession the centre management has agreed to free parking there every evening after 6pm from next Thursday until Christmas Eve.

Rumour countered – Meanwhile, the department store House of Fraser was forced to issue a statement yesterday rebutting rumours that it was closing down and Debenhams was to take its place. Rumours began just weeks after the store opened in the spring but reached such a pitch that staff at the store began asking managers for reassurances. The rumours – spread on local websites – were launched by people who think House of Fraser is too posh for Wycombe and want Debenhams to move in because they think it’s cheaper. House of Fraser last week announced increased profits, due in part to the success of the Wycombe store.

Wednesday 5th November

Historic night – The US election drew unprecedented interest throughout the Wycombe area early today with hundreds staying up throughout the night to follow the historic victory of new president Barack Obama. Election parties were held in the homes of many of the American community who live in large numbers in the, as well as on the campus at Bucks New University.

Grammars attacked – Schools Secretary Ed Balls launched a fresh attack on grammar schools yesterday, accusing them of making pupils who fail the 11-plus feel like failures. In Bucks grammar schools fear they will be pressurised by the Government to merge and provide fewer places. In the meantime, Mr Balls said he will divert more money to secondary schools in the county and to other secondary schools in the country where selective education remains.

Bus crash – A car driver who died after a crash with a bus in Marlow Bottom yesterday is expected to be named today. The man, in his thirties, was declared dead at the scene in Wycombe Road. No-one on the single decker bus was injured.

Tuesday 4th November

Court appearance – Warehouse manager Harvey Turner, aged 43, of Everest Close, High Wycombe will appear in court today charged with the attempted murder of neighbour Carlos De Souza, aged 48, who was shot in the stomach earlier this year. It's expected a trial date will be fixed.

Fireworks flop – A combination of the economic slowdown and the bad weather has led to a big fall in the sale of fireworks, according to local retailers. One bright spot was a group of Americans who bought £500 worth of fireworks in Maidenhead hoping to celebrate the victory of their candidate in today’s American presidential election.

Apprentice Day – Shoppers in Wycombe will be involved in a competition based on the tv show The Apprentice later this month. Students at Buckinghamshire New University will be trying to sell goods in Wycombe Market, including a new type of doughnut, as part of a challenge to commemorate Enterprise Week.

Monday 3rd November

Runner recovers – A 44 year old man is recovering in hospital after suffering a cardiac arrest half way through the Marlow Half Marathon yesterday. An air ambulance had to be called to airlift the runner to Wexham Park Hospital.

Flood watch – The Environment Agency put the River Thame catchment area on flood watch alert last night after the weekend’s torrential rain storms. There’s concern that the ground in the area is more saturated than usual as winter approaches.

Crowds down – There’s signs that the credit crunch is hitting local sport. Less than 8,000 turned up to watch London Wasps beat Gwent Dragons 21-10 at Adams Park yesterday, when a sell-out crowd of 10,000 was expected, while Wycombe Wanderers crowds have hardly exceeded 5,000 this season even though the team is unbeaten and on a good run

Sunday 2nd November

Adams attack - There was tight lipped anger and bewilderment within Wycombe Wanderers last night after former manager Tony Adams – the new man in charge at Portsmouth – continued his campaign to belittle the club that gave him his first chance in management. In a second condescending attack in 48 hours, Adams told the Sun that Wycombe were so poor when he was manager he had to buy chairs for the players to sit on – a claim thought to be untrue. Earlier Adams had claimed he had been brought in to “save the club” and that everyone in Wycombe thought him a success, even though the club was relegated under his charge.

Still unbeaten – Meanwhile the Blues are somehow managing to survive without the input of the Portsmouth boss. Wycombe are the only club in the Football League and the Premiership without a league defeat this season, their unbeaten record being maintained with a 0-0 draw at Rotherham yesterday. Wanderers are second in League 2 with a game in hand.

Fireworks hit – Torrential rain put a dampner on charity firework displays last night. All of the big firework shows were planned for last night and all went ahead despite the rain. But crowds were well down on last year.

Saturday 1st November

Rethink over death – Police are taking a second look at the circumstances surrounding the death of an 85 year old man two days after he was confronted by two armed, masked burglars in his home in Winter Hill, Cookham. A post mortem concluded that Richard Atherton died from natural causes, reducing the chances that police were conducting a murder inquiry. But yesterday police said further post mortem tests were being carried out to determine the “exact” cause of Mr Atherton’s death, and the results would not be known for some weeks.

Shop wars – Rival shopping centres have launched a surprise attack on Wycombe’s new shopping complex the Eden, as the vital Christmas shopping period looms. The Chimes in Uxbridge and the Harlequin in Watford distributed tens of thousands of leaflets in the Wycombe area yesterday trying to attract shoppers away from Eden. Watford and Uxbridge drew thousands of shoppers from the Wycombe area last Christmas and they don’t want to give them up without a fight.
Bond mania – The frenzy surrounding the new James Bond film Quantum of Solace paid off in the Wycombe area yesterday, the opening day of the film. It was shown 25 times in High Wycombe cinemas alone and each performance was to a sell-out audience. Cinema complexes in Maidenhead, Aylesbury and Gerrards Cross were also sold out.

Friday 31st October

Hi tech – Buckinghamshire has the highest proportion of people involved in hi-tech industries than anywhere else in Europe. Figures from the EU yesterday showed that 11,5 per cent of the working population was involved in computer related industries. In the Wycombe area, the percentage is even higher, making hi-tech firms the biggest employer in the area.

Halloween patrol – Extra police patrols will be out in areas of Wycombe tonight to ensure that Halloween pranks don’t turn to vandalism. They have given out hundreds of posters to people who don’t want Halloween callers on their doorstep.

Thursday 30th October

Roads misery - Thousands of Wycombe area motorists endured a day of misery yesterday as the freak weather from the previous night caused havoc on the roads. The M40 was closed in both directions until late yesterday afternoon after two lorries collided at 3am, killing one of the drivers. A cargo of lard spilled across the motorway covering an area the size of a football pitch. The accident – plus the closure of the Wendover by-pass after an accident – brought gridlock to most local town centres. In addition, the 3cm of snow that fell on Wednesday night, followed by a sharp frost, caused dozens on minor accidents on unsalted roads. It was the first significant October snowfall in the Wycombe area for 74 years.

Swan attacked – Comedian Brian Conley has upset Wycombe theatregoers, saying that the town’s Swan Theatre lacks warmth. The comic, who lives in Denham, starred in Cinderella at the theatre last Christmas. He’s repeating the show in Nottingham’s Theatre Royal this year, where he told the local paper yesterday: “ I was at High Wycombe last year and while the show was a huge success, it just didn't have the warmth. This place is a proper theatre, it's got little boxes where the Queen would sit.”

Rose-tinted specs - New Portsmouth manager Tony Adams surprised Wycombe football fans yesterday saying that his spell as Wycombe Wanderers manager was a success. The ex-Arsenal star took his first managerial role here and succeeded in winning 12 of 53 matches and oversaw a relegation. He said his main job at Wycombe was “to save the club” and added: “Ask anybody there. I think they all thought I was a success.” Most fans on the club’s main supporters discussion board yesterday didn’t agree. A number thought he was the club’s second worst manager since the Blues won league status.

Wednesday 29th October

Weather chaos – Snow in October – the first in living memory – brought chaos to the Wycombe area last night as the authorities were caught on the hop. Cars skidded uncontrollably on ungritted hillside roads and minor floods brought jams to the evening rush hour traffic. Wycombe Wanderers League 2 match against Macclesfield was abandoned after 20 minutes when pitch markings became invisible under a layer of snow and the slippery conditions were too dangerous for the game to continue. There was some criticism of the club for not switching on the underground heating.

Tragic suicide – A post mortem is due to be held today on a 16 year old pregnant schoolgirl found dying under a pedestrian footbridge in Aylesbury. It’s thought that Linzi Hallam committed suicide by jumping from the Friars Way footbridge to the concrete road below. She was discovered at 6.30am and died later in Stoke Mandeville Hospital.

Battling recession – House prices in the Wycombe area fell just three and a half per cent in the 12 months to September according to new figures yesterday. The drop is one of the lowest in the country – the Land Registry figures show that nationally the average fall in house price was eight per cent – and is a further indication that so far the Wycombe area is faring better in the recession that virtually anywhere else in Britain.

Tuesday 28th October

Dodgy fireworks - Potentially dangerous and illegal fireworks, imported from Africa and South Asia, are likely to be offered for sale in the Wycombe area, trading standards officers warned yesterday. They issued the warning after a raid on a van in Chalfont St Peter in which a large number for fireworks were found. Although these weren’t illegal fireworks, the van owner may be prosecuted for storing them illegally.

New appeal – A man in his 80s who died three days after a confrontation with burglars, died from natural causes a post mortem revealed. Police are not linking his death with the burglary in Cookham Dean, but yesterday issued a fresh appeal for information. Meanwhile, in High Wycombe, Keiran Avery, aged 20, whose address was given as the YMCA hostel in Crest Road was remanded in custody for two weeks yesterday charged with murdering Colin Butler, aged 49, whose body was found in his front garden in Marlow Road last week.

McGleish out – Wycombe Wanderers’ leading striker last season, Scott McGleish, was put on the transfer list yesterday in the hope that a club will take him on loan until the transfer window opens again in January. McGleish is unhappy that manager Peter Taylor is not automatically choosing him in the starting line-up.

Monday 27th October

Death after burglary – A post mortem is to be carried out today to try and discover if the death of a man in his eighties three days after his house was broken into was linked to the burglary. The man, who hasn’t been named, was treated for cuts and bruises after clashing with two burglars at his home in Cookham Dean. If police decide the his death is linked with the clash, they could launch a murder inquiry.

Casual cops – Police based Aylesbury are to wear baseball caps, combat-style trousers and black shirts in a radical change of uniform next month. It’s a pilot scheme to see how it affects the public’s perception and attitude to cops.

Dons again – Wycombe Wanderers will visit AFC Wimbledon in the first round of the FA Cup next month. It will bring back memories of a remarkable sixth round match against the original Wimbledon FC seven years ago, which the Blues won on penalty shoot-outs and eventually going on to meeting Liverpool in the semi-final.

Sunday 26th October

Murder charge – A 20 year old man will appear in court tomorrow charged with a murder in High Wycombe. Kieran Avery, from Booker, was charged yesterday with the murder of Colin Butler, aged 49, of Marlow Road, whose body was found in the garden of a house in central High Wycombe early on Friday morning. Mr Butler had suffered head injuries.

TV fame - Local tourism is expected to be boosted after the BBC’s biggest drama offering of the season – an adaptation of Dickens’ Little Dorrit – begins the first of a series tonight. Both West Wycombe and Chenies Manor House feature as major locations in the production.

Still unbeaten – Wycombe Wanderers remain the only unbeaten club this season in the entire Football League after a 1-0 win at Accrington Stanley yesterday, thanks to another injury time goal – their third in four games. Chris Zebroski’s 91st minute goal ensured the Blues opened up a three point gap at the top of League 2.

Saturday 25th October

Murder inquiry – Police launched a murder inquiry after the body of a man in his forties was found in a garden near High Wycombe railway station early yesterday. The body was discovered at three o’clock in the morning in the front garden of a house in Amersham Hill. Half an hour later a 20 year old man in the house was arrested on suspicion of assault. He is still being questioned by police today. The victim’s identity, or the cause of his death, has not been revealed.

Friday 24th October

Famous tree axed – Over £6,000 in fines have been dished out after a yew tree, which has stood in the garden of Wycombe’s Wendover Arms for over 200 years ,was chopped down illegally. Magistrates fined the owners of the pub in Dashwood Avenue £2,750 plus over £1,000 costs and the company that axed the tree – Acacia Tree Services - £3,500 for not checking that the tree was covered by a protection order. They were also fined £500 for lopping a branch off a protected beech tree.

Firms helped – Bucks County Council yesterday promised to pay all its bills within ten days instead of 30 days in an attempt to help small businesses cope with the credit crunch. In a further attempt to help out companies the council is to set up a one stop shop to answer all business-linked inquiries at one go rather than callers having to go through layers of bureaucracy.

Blues row – A battle of wills between Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor and star striker Scott McGleish came to a head last night when the player was dropped from the squad to visit Accrington tomorrow after saying that he was considering a transfer request. McGleish made his comments after coming on as a sub against Barnet on Tuesday. He later retracted them saying he had spoken in the heat of the moment. But Taylor, while denying he had a problem with McGleish, said if McGleish was upset “then perhaps it’s best if he doesn’t travel up on Saturday”.

Thursday 23rd October

Motorway cameras – Speed cameras are to be introduced on the M40 between High Wycombe and the M25 in an attempt to reduce accidents. The stretch is one of the worst for accidents in Britain – so far nine people have died this year. Police say most of the accidents are due to speeding.
RFrogmoor improvements – Councillors are to have another go at improving Frogmoor, the spacious area in High Wycombe town centre. They plan to scrap the ridiculed water fountains from the pavement, which have never really worked properly. Instead they’ll begin a public consultation to find out what people would like to see. An idea to pedestrianise the whole area, including adjoining Church Street, have been scrapped because there would be nowhere to divert buses.

Wednesday 22nd October

Vet kicked – A local vet is recovering following facial reconstruction surgery after he was kicked full in the face by a horse. Bob Baskerville, one of the country’s top equine vets, was about to begin an operation on a two year old thoroughbred’s rear leg at the Hampden Veterinary Hospital near Aylesbury when the sedated animal hit out. Mr Baskerville, who lives near Wycombe, endured a four hour operation but is expected to make a full recovery.

Council cock-up – A controversial mobile phone mast has been erected despite many protests after the council posted a wrong letter. Wycombe Council meant to send a letter refusing permission for the mast in Marlow but instead sent one that merely asked for further details. By the time it realised its mistake the statutory period for objecting to the phone mast had passed enabling Orange to position the mast at the junction of Foxes Piece and Little Marlow Road, to the fury of nearby residents. The council last night didn’t apologise for its error, but did say it was reviewing its procedures.
RStriker celebrates – Wycombe Wanderers striker Chris Zebroski had cause for double celebration yesterday. First he learned that the red card he was given on Saturday was rescinded on appeal by the Football Association. That left him free to play for the Blues at Barnet last night where he scored the equalising goal to give his team a point that keeps them at the top of League 2.

Tuesday 21st October

Night safety – A big campaign gets underway today to clamp down on drunks and yobs in the centre of High Wycombe. Pubs, clubs and restaurants are to be given a single phone number to ring if they are having bother with rowdy customers after dark. Police will then swoop quickly to evict or arrest the troublemaker. It’s part of a joint campaign to make Wycombe, with its many new eating and drinking outlets, a safe place to celebrate in the run-up to Christmas.

Magical mystery tour – A businessman who left a wax head of Paul McCartney on a train at Maidenhead railway station offered a £2,000 reward for its return last night. Joby Carter was taking the head to be auctioned.

Zeb appeal – Bradford City fluffed their chance to topple Wycombe Wanderers from the top of League 2 last night when they lost of Darlington. The Blues meanwhile attempt to extend that lead tonight, hopeful that striker Chris Zebroski will be able to play. They appealed yesterday against his sending off on Saturday and should hear if they are successful in the appeal before tonight’s match at Barnet.

Monday 20th October

Councils cut back – Top finance bosses are meeting today to consider the cuts that will need to be made if councils in Bucks and in Wycombe are to balance their books next year. Both councils are reporting financial “black holes” worth millions.

Lucky escape – Wycombe Wanderers boss Peter Taylor looks set to make changes has his side travel to Barnet tomorrow to attempt to maintain their unbeaten start to the season. After Saturday’s escape against Darlington – a Scott McGleish penalty in the 96th minute save the Blues a point and was the last kick of the match – Taylor criticised his team for the first time this season.

Saturday 18th October

Shopping boost – High Wycombe entered the top 50 of Britain’s best performing retail centres for the first time yesterday thanks to the new Eden shopping centre. The town moved up a whopping 28 places in the league table contained in the annual report by the independent information group Experian. Wycombe is expected to do even better next year because Eden’s impact has only been felt for half the year surveyed.

Cash buyers – More people in the Wycombe area are buying houses with cash according to local estate agents. Some buyers are taking all their money out of banks because they don’t trust them anymore and putting investments into bricks and mortar instead. One agent told the Bucks Free Press yesterday that one in five of his recent sales were now cash. Buyers that can afford cash are also often able to persuade sellers to reduce their asking price.

News jobs go – Meanwhile journalists on the Bucks Free Press – Wycombe’s biggest selling local paper – were reeling from the news yesterday that more editorial jobs are to go. Five editorial jobs were sliced from the paper two years ago and yesterday it was learned that another five are to go. The paper’s owners, Newsquest – part of an American conglomerate – has been reducing journalist jobs throughout the country because of “challenging economic conditions”.

Friday 17th October

Hospital praised – Stoke Mandeville Hospital won special praise from Health Secretary Alan Johnson yesterday for the way it tackled the hospital superbug C difficile. For three years the bug ran riot in the hospital, and was thought to be responsible for up to 80 deaths, but in yesterday’s annual assessment by the Healthcare Commission the Bucks Hospitals Trust - which includes Stoke Mandeville, Wycombe and Amersham hospitals - now has the best record in controlling C difficile in the whole of the south and midlands.

Dan’s the man – London Wasps said yesterday that the popularity of its star player Danny Cipriani was the reason why they were moving their Heineken Cup game against Leinster to Twickenham from Wycombe’s Adams Park, their usual home base. They reckon up to 33,000 people will want to watch the game because of Cipriani’s celebrity. Adams Park holds 10,000 but it was far from full when Wasps played their last Heineken Cup game there, even with the talents of the Cipriani on show. Meanwhile Wycombe Wanderers signed 19 year old Belgian international Franck Maisia on a month’s loan from Southend United yesterday as cover for suspended midfielder Tommy Doherty.

Wanna be with you – High Wycombe singer Katy Setterfield, who won the TV nationwide talent show The One and Only as a Dusty Springfield tribute act, enjoyed her first gig in her home town last night. Wycombe Swan was packed as Katy, from Geralds Road, thanked locals for their support.

Thursday 16th October

Holding out – More evidence yesterday that the Wycombe area economy is proving resilient in the current economic downturn. Although unemployment rates have increased it’s nothing like the rest of the country. In Wycombe 1,300 people were claiming jobless benefits last month – 1.3 per cent of the working population. Amersham and Becaonsfield have the lowest unemployment rates in the country – just 0.8 per cent, while in Aylesbury, Windsor and Maidenhead the rate is 0.9 per cent. However it’s believed a number of jobs have gone in the last few weeks in the area, which will be reflected in next month’s figures.

Wasps buzz off – London Wasps yesterday moved their Heineken Cup match in January to Twickenham because they said their Wycombe base at Adams Park was too small. It increased the suspicion that the rugby club is looking to leave Wycombe, pulling the rug on a joint bid with Wycombe Wanderers to build a new sports stadium.

Rape remand – The man accused of a rape in High Wycombe 28 years ago did not enter a plea when he appeared before magistrates yesterday. Geoffrey Stoneham, 62, from Swanscombe in Kent was remanded in custody to appear again at Aylesbury Crown Court in two weeks.

Wednesday 15th October

Rape charge – A 45 year old woman raped by two men in Wycombe 28 years ago was told last night that a man has been charged with the attack. Geoffrey Stoneham, aged 62, of Swanscombe in Kent will appear at High Wycombe Magistrates Court today. He is charged with raping a 17 year old woman in Micklefield Road in 1980. Thames Valley Police’s “New Tricks” team had been re-examining the case.

Stowaways held – Thirteen men who are thought to have illegally boarded a lorry on the Continent are being questioned by immigration officials today after they were discovered yesterday in Wycombe’s Cressex industrial estate. Eyewitnesses said the stowaways were banging on the side of the lorry to be let out.

Windsor congestion – A scheme to relieve Windsor’s chronic traffic congestion by creating a park and ride facility on Windsor Racecourse opens for consultation tomorrow.

Tuesday 14th October

Dad’s desperation – The husband of a Marlow police officer who died a month before she was due to give birth to twins has spoken bravely about his determination to bring up the children as she would have wanted. Sarah Underhill, aged 37, was rushed into hospital with complications but died three days later. Her twins Hannah and James were delivered by Caesarean section without Sarah seeing them and are still in hospital. Her husband Richard, also a policeman, said “I want Sarah to be proud of the way I bring up our children.”

Biker killed – A 35 year old motor cyclist from High Wycombe has died after an accident with a car on the A40 near Oxford. He is expected to be named today.

Pubs pricey – Pubs in Bucks and Berks charge more for food than most other pubs in the country, according to the news 2009 Good Pub Guide, published yesterday. But the guide says the prices are fair if the quality of the food is good.

Sunday 12th October

Card fraud - Some customers who have used credit cards at Asda supermarket in Cressex may have become the victims of fraud it has emerged. Police are currently investigating claims that a sophisticated card cloner had been placed in 'chip and pin' readers in stores across Britain that maybe linked to extremists in Pakistan. According to a report in the Sunday Times, shoppers at Asda's High Wycombe store have been particulary hit with one customer claiming there had been 25 illicit withdrawals from his account totalling £1400 after visiting the store. All the withdrawals had been made in Pakistan and the US.

Still standing - Wycombe Wanderers remain unbeaten in League 2 following a draw at Grimsby yesterday. Wycombe trailed for 89 minutes after conceding after just 41 seconds but a 1st minute injury time header from Leon Johnson saved the unbeaten record and kept the Chairboys top of the league. A few minutes earlier Tommy Doherty had been sent off, reducing Wycombe to ten men but few could argue against the point as Wanderers had dominated the match.

Friday 10th October

Councils hit – Local council tax payers could take a £20m hit because their councils have invested in failing Icelandic banks, it emerged yesterday. Throughout the country councils have nearly £800m trapped in Icelandic banks and Prime Minister Gordon Brown last night threatened legal action against Iceland while saying Government aid would be given to the most cash strapped councils. But that’s unlikely to apply to councils and public bodies in this area because their Icelandic investments are small percentage-wise. Thames Valley Police, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire County Councils have £5m apiece at risk, while Wycombe District Council and South Oxfordshire District Council – which covers Henley and Thame – have £2.5m invested each.

Hero to zero – Former Wycombe Wanderers boss Paul Lambert was hailed when he managed the team during its Carling Cup run which ended with a semi-final defeat by Chelsea. Last night he became a hate figure amongst many Blues fans when he took over managership of arch-rivals Colchester United (a strong rivalry that dates back to bitter matches in the Conference).

Thursday 9th October

Terror suspects freed – Two men arrested earlier this week under the Terrorism Act were released by police yesterday and told they were no longer under arrest. Police have refused to release details of why the two 22 year old men were suspected in the first place.

Papers suffer – Local papers are suffering some of their lowest ever circulation figures at a time when revenue from their main funders – local estate agents – is being hit. Latest figures show the biggest selling paper in Buckinghamshire – the Bucks Free Press – dropped to fewer than 23,000 copies a week in June, while all the other local papers recorded similar percentage drops. Around 16,000 people tune into Mix 107 - a Wycombe-based commercial radio station - for at least 15 minutes a week, according to latest figures. The BBC hardly bothers with any Wycombe area coverage.

Library plan – A scheme to transform Wycombe’s old library devised by a 22 year old student has been given the nod by the council and conservation groups. Joanne Marchant-Mills, who lives in High Wycombe, drew up detailed plans to convert the town centre building into a modern art centre which will stage performance art and literary events. The 1920s building will have a major refit with a new glass roof. The council says it will now investigate buying the building and progress the scheme.

Wednesday 8th October

Teenager remanded - A 17 year old youth appeared in court yesterday charged with six sex assaults in eight days. The youth, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was remanded in custody by magistrates at Maidenhead Youth Court. All the assaults took place in the streets of Maidenhead between 26 September and 3 October. He was also charged with assault causing bodily harm. Earlier this week police had warned women not to walk alone in the town after dark.

Gang broken up – Police have broken up a teenage gang who had overrun a middle aged couple’s home in the Wycombe suburb of Downley. They first realised the gang’s presence when they were called to a fire at the house in Cumbria Way last week. Last night they revealed that earlier this week they raided the home in force and dispersed the gang. The couple have been rehoused by the council to a “safe” location.

Stuffed – Wycombe Wanderers were subjected to their worst ever home defeat last night -an embarrassing 7-0 by Shrewsbury in the Johnson’s Paint Trophy. Although without four first team players the Blues were, frankly, rubbish while the Shrews were blistering.

Tuesday 7th October

Terrorism arrests – Two 22 year old men are being questioned by police today following their arrest under the Terrorism Act. Police were conducting inquiries into a separate matter at properties in Desborough Avenue and Mill End Road, High Wycombe when they made discoveries which led to the arrest the two men.

Jobs threat – Local councils may have to cut jobs to make ends meet. Most are spending more than they budgeted for this year, mainly because of the big jumps in energy and petrol costs. But rather than cut council services, councillors will be looking to reduce posts. In Buckinghamshire a plan to cut some costs by sharing services has been dented by Amersham based Chiltern District Council decision to back out of the scheme because they didn’t think it would work. Bucks County Council has a £7m black hole in its accounts, while Wycombe District Council has a shortfall of nearly £2m.

Good deal – Last week Matt Styles celebrated his 21st birthday. The very next day he won £196,633 on an on-line version of the game show Deal or No Deal. The High Wycombe admin worker intends to buy himself a decent car, visit Canada and invest the rest.

Monday 6th October

Women warned – Women in Maidenhead are being advised not to walk alone in the town after dark until a man thought to be responsible for two random attacks within an hour is caught. He’s described as white, aged about 18 with brown hair and wearing a white hooded top. Both women were grabbed and punched and suffered bruises. Police have stepped up patrols in the town.

Fairtrade town – Councillors are set to try and gain “Fairtrade Town” status for High Wycombe when they meet tonight. They will form a group that will work on plans to extend fairtrade products throughout the town and use fairtrade goods in council offices and other public buildings.

Free football – Wycombe Wanderers are letting in season ticket holders and club members free to tomorrow’s Johnson’s Paint Trophy match against Shrewsbury in an attempt to get a decent crowd. They are hoping they’ll cover their costs from profits in the bar and food stalls.

Sunday 5th October

Top of the league – Wycombe Wanderers best ever start to a league season continued yesterday with an impressive 3-1 win against Bournemouth, with goals from Matt Harrold, Chris Zebroski and Scott McGleish. The victory put the Blues two points clear at the top of League 2.

Friday 3rd October

Driving madness - A lorry driver who died in a smash on the M40 had been driving 230 times more than permitted in the previous 34 days, his inquest heard yesterday. On one day a week before the smash, German driver Michael Pokriefke had driven for 21 hours and 18 minutes in a single 24 hour period according to the lorry’s tachograph. He died when his lorry collided with a broken down lorry on the hard shoulder near Stokenchurch in February. Coroner Nicholas Gardiner said it was almost certain the 41 year old driver had fallen asleep at the wheel because he was in a state of extreme fatigue.

Hero dad – A brave Amersham father will be in line for a posthumous bravery award after he left his partner and two young children on a riverbank to dive into a river to save a teenager girl in difficulties. But Leonard Woodman, 37, was dragged under the water by the current from a nearby weir while the girl scrambled to safety. The tragedy happened in the River Colne near Denham in the summer. Mr Woodman acted with selfless courage, said coroner Richard Hulett. The inquest heard that safety equipment by the river had been removed because of constant vandalism.

Most expensive – More evidence yesterday that the Wycombe area is faring better than most in the economic downturn. The highest average price for houses in the country is in Windsor and Maidenhead after dramatic falls in prices in the previous highest, Greater London. The average price in the Royal Borough is £341,191 according to yesterday’s figures from the Land Registry.

Thursday 2nd October

Sister praised – An 18 year old woman probably saved her 16 year old brother’s life in a devastating fire which caused the death of their mother. The full drama of the blaze at the Hall’s home in Wayside Mews, Maidenhead early on Sunday was revealed by family and police yesterday. Even though the house was full of smoke Hannah Hall called the emergency services before jumping to safety from a bedroom window and breaking her back. “Her quick thinking saved valuable time and may well have saved her brother Ben’s life,” said police. He is still in intensive care in hospital in a stable condition while Hannah is also recovering in hospital. Their mother Debbie however was overcome by smoke before she could jump to safety and died in the house. Their father Martin is also recovering in hospital.

Tory revolt – Beaconsfield MP and Shadow Home Secretary Dominic Grieve faces a tricky constituency meeting when he returns from the Tory Party Conference today. Many local Tories are unhappy that the Conservatives have agreed to ban a third runway at Heathrow and that Mayor of London Boris Johnson wants to eventually close down Heathrow altogether and replace it with an airport in the Thames Estuary.

Best defence – Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor is one of two managers shortlisted for the League 2 Manager of the Month award today after giving the Blues the best start in their time in the league. Currently Wycombe have the best defensive record of any side in the top five English leagues.

Wednesday 1st October

New store – Primark opens its new department store in High Wycombe today, bringing a ray of light amid the economic gloom. The store has been one of the few to real growth in sales and profits nationally in the last three months and expects to do well in the former M&S store in the town centre. Indeed evidence continues to show that High Wycombe stores are thriving more than virtually anywhere else in the country, mainly because the new Eden Centre, opened in the spring, is attracting shoppers that formerly went elsewhere. However, local estate agents confirmed yesterday that September was one of the quietest trading months in memory with buyers either unable or unwilling to buy and sellers, by and large, refusing to drop asking prices significantly. “Something’s got to go pop sooner or later,” said one.

Pub ban – A 33 year old yob was banned from every pub in Buckinghamshire yesterday. Christian Clarke, from High Wycombe, admitted assaulting door staff at the town’s King George pub just ten days ago and then attacking police officers when they came to arrest him. He was also jailed for six months.

Danny’s buoyant – Wycombe’s Adams Park is guaranteed a sell out today when rugby’s golden boy Danny Cipriani is set to make a remarkable return for London Wasps against Bath, just four months and 13 days after he broke his ankle and dislocated it horribly. The 20 year old, who has been praised for his dedication in returning to full fitness six weeks early, is expected to be on the bench for the start of the game.

Tuesday 30th September

Bigamist sentenced – Chesham bigamist Cheal Sweetman was given a suspended jail sentence yesterday after a judge told him: “People like you threaten the building blocks of our society.” The court heard that the 39 year old had married Juliet Bond on New Year’s Eve four years ago even though his third marriage to Amanda Madden had not been dissolved. His fourth “wife” had only learned of his bigamy when she opened a letter from his third wife beginning divorce proceedings. Sweetman, of High Street, Chesham was ordered to do 100 hours of unpaid community work in addition to receiving the 11 week suspended sentence. He attended Aylesbury Crown Court with his new girlfriend.

Tory split – One of Buckinghamshire’s top Tories has been sacked by her own local party members in a bitter row which is threatening to split Beaconsfield Conservatives. Margaret Dewar, who is in charge of community services in the county, has been deselected as candidate for next year’s elections. A party member for 40 years, she told the Bucks Free Press yesterday: “This is not what you do with people who are so loyal.” She is being replaced by Adrian Busby, a “Cameronite” who is 20 years her junior. But the move has unsettled Mrs Dewar’s allies, one of whom said last night her demise “was as brutal as that dished out to Mrs Thatcher”.

Inquest opens – An inquest is due to open today on Debra Hall, a 47 year old office manager, who died in a blaze at her home in Wayside Mews, Maidenhead, in the early hours of Sunday morning. Her 16 year old son Ben, who jumped 15ft from a balcony onto a concrete drive to escape the fire, was improving in hospital where last night he was said to be in a stable condition. Mrs Hall’s husband Martin and 18 year old daughter are also recovering in hospital from smoke inhalation and shock. Police confirmed yesterday they were not treating the cause of the fire as suspicious, but fire brigade investigators are set to spend a second day at the home today to determine what happened.

Monday 29th September

Data theft - Personal details of 50,000 RAF staff were en route to High Wycombe when they were stolen, it was revealed last night. The information was on three computer hard drives taken from RAF Innsworth in Gloucestershire. They were bound for the Strike Command HQ at Naphill. The Ministry of Defence has set up a hotline for concerned RAF personnel.

Fire death – A 16 year old boy saved his own life by jumping from a bedroom window to escape a blaze in which his mother died yesterday. The blaze happened in the early hours in Wayside Mews, Maidenhead. His 47 year old mother could not bring herself to jump from the window despite pleas from neighbours. The boy is in a serious condition in hospital. His 18 year old sister and his father are in a stable condition.

City tragedy – A top City executive who jumped in front of a high speed train and died in Taplow on Thursday was named yesterday as Kirk Stephenson, 47, the chief operating officer of the private equity firm Olivant. Although he lived in London and the west country, Mr Stephenson, a father of one, knew this area well. He was a former group finance director at the pharmaceutical company, Amersham International. An inquest will held to discover how Mr Stephenson had been affected by the current financial crisis.

Sunday 28th September

Disputed goal – Wycombe Wanderers were unlucky not to come away with all three points at their top of the League Two table clash with Bury yesterday, when video evidence appeared to show that David McCracken’s header went over the Bury goal-line. But the referee ruled the ball didn’t cross the line and the teams had to be content with a point each at 0-0, a point manager Peter Taylor said he would be happy to take. The Blues have now gone eight games unbeaten.

Friday 26th September

Bike rage – Police are hunting a road rage motorcyclist who overtook a car in Amersham Road, Beaconsfield; jammed on his brakes; laid down his bike in front of the vehicle; opened the car driver’s door and punched the driver several times in the face. He then rode off without saying a word.

Rush hour chaos – Thousands of motorists were caught in a monster snarl-up in yesterday morning’s rush-hour after four separate accidents in two hours in and around the M4 brought everything to a halt. Maidenhead was gridlocked and at one stage traffic backed up five miles from the M4 to Marlow. Main line trains in the area were also disrupted yesterday after a man died after being hit by an express train at Taplow station in what was thought to be a suicide.

Hotel takeover – The National Trust yesterday took control of one of the area’s most prestigious hotels. The owners of the Hartwell House near Aylesbury – a Jacobean and Georgian Grade 1 listed house in 90 acres of garden – was gifted to the Trust by its owners. It will continue to run as a 50 bedroom hotel. Hartwell House was the home of the exiled King of France, Louis XVIII between 1809 and 1814.

Thursday 25th September

More rail links – Rail services from High Wycombe received a further boost yesterday when a consortium said it planned a direct link from Oxford to Cambridge via Aylesbury and Milton Keynes. Coupled with the previously announced Chiltern Railways plan to restore the Oxford to Wycombe line it will mean quick and direct services from Wycombe to Aylesbury and Milton Keynes. Plans are also being considered to link Wycombe with Maidenhead by rail, once the Crossrail project from Maidenhead to East London is complete. The town is also due to get a new railway station in the next few years.

Lucky 13? – Wycombe boxing hope Gareth “The Gladiator” Couch is to fight for the English super featherweight title in a bout next month. The 26 year old will take on Femi Fehintola. It will be his 13th fight as a professional.

Wednesday 24th September

Phones chaos – Thousands of phones and computers were disrupted throughout the Wycombe and Aylesbury area yesterday following a fault at the main Wycombe exchange. Engineers thought they had cracked the problem last night but the cost of business could run into thousands.

Soldier’s inquest – The inquest on Wycombe soldier Anthony Hernandez was opened and adjourned yesterday. The 29 year old, who was thought to live alone in the town, was found hanged at an army barracks in Pirbright, Surrey at the weekend just days after arriving at the centre for training. He was found a mile from Deepcut barracks where four recruits died amid allegations of bullying.

Olympians parade – Local Olympic stars Zac Purchase, Katherine Grainger, Sarah Winckles and Ian Rose will be among those travelling on an open top bus from Marlow to Wycombe tomorrow. They’ll be meeting the public and signing autographs in Marlow’s Higginson Park from 5pm and set off on the bus at 6pm, arriving at Adams Park an hour later. There, they will be the main guests at Wycombe’s annual sports award ceremony.

Monday 22nd September

End for Heathrow? – Boris Johnson’s idea to build a new airport in the Thames Estuary that will eventually replace Heathrow brought a mixed reaction last night. The Mayor of London and former Henley MP said yesterday that Heathrow should instead be developed as Britain’s silicon valley. The airport and its associated companies combine to employ more people in the Wycombe area than any other industry, although IT technology is now thought to be the second biggest industry in the region as well as the fastest growing.

Plans dropped – Virgin Healthcare this weekend dropped its plans to launch a private GP clinic in the High Wycombe area because of the economic downturn. The company says it will look again the idea later.

Property offers – Local estate agents and developers begin making special offer deals on property today in an attempt to get some movement into a stagnant housing market. New one bedroom flats in one part of Wycombe are being offered at £120,00 compared to £135,000 last week.

Sunday 21st September

Back on top – Ten man Wycombe Wanderers beat Dagenham and Redbridge 2-1 at Adams Park yesterday and are back sharing the top of League 2. Mike Williamson scored both goals in a dramatic tie, which included a missed penalty in the third minute of injury time from the visitors.

Saturday 20th September

Humour by-pass – Local police chiefs refrained from disciplining a sergeant for sending flippant emails about the terror search in woods near High Wycombe because of the strong support he had among rank and file coppers, it emerged last night. Sgt David Bald tried to recruit police volunteers for overnight digs in Kings Wood and Fennels Wood at the time of the terror search two years ago by saying that the overtime payments were good and that three nights in the woods could buy them a holiday in Florida – an action that Chief Constable Sara Thornton said last night has brought “discredit” to Thames Valley Police. However, Sgt Bald has only been “spoken to” about the inappropriateness of the messages after The Times revealed the emails in a po-faced report yesterday. One copper said last night: “The problem with some people in the press is that they’ve had a humour by-pass”.

What’s on – Wycombe Wanderers entertain Dagenham and Redbridge at Adams Park in League 2 today, while on the river at Cookham, the Thames Traditional Boat Society holds its annual parade with classic wooden boats.

Friday 19th September

Fingers crossed – Staff at Wycombe’s Lloyds TSB and HBOS were keeping their fingers crossed yesterday that the town is big enough to maintain both branches following the banks’ merger. But with the former Halifax Building Society office in the High Street now on the fringe compared to the location of the town’s other financial centres, there were plenty who felt it could be vulnerable to closure.

More hope – At the end of a turbulent week there was better news yesterday for staff at Capstone, the High Wycombe based subsidiary of the collapsed bank Lehman Brothers . A company that works with Capstone, Homeloan Management, said they would take on some of the Wycombe staff in the event of Capstone ceasing trading.

Jobless double – Meanwhile, analysis of yesterday’s jobless figures shows that the number of unemployed in the High Wycombe area has doubled in the last 12 months. However, with the figure at just over two per cent, it is still one of the lowest in the country and well below the national average.

Thursday 18th September

Edging to safety – It looked as though the jobs of 500 people working for Capstone, the Wycombe based subsidiary of the collapsed Lehman Brothers bank, could be saved after the administrators, PriceWaterhouseCoopers said yesterday it would be the first asset to be sold. The mortgage business is the only Lehman Brothers subsidiary in the world to be still operating. Mortgage expert KatieTucker said: “Capstone is a wholly-owned subsidiary and is an asset. It is strong and there is no reason why it cannot continue with another owner.”

Pinewood plans – Pinewood Studio’s plans to turn itself into an even bigger movie centre go on show to the public today. In a £200m scheme the studio wants to build a number of massive permanent street sets – some so big they’ll be seen from the M25. However the studio’s neighbours in Iver Heath and Fulmer are likely to fight the plans. They don’t want to see the 1,500 homes Pinewood wants to build in its woodland surroundings to help pay for the scheme.

Paralympic celebrations – Stoke Mandeville Hospital – which hosted the first international disability games 60 years ago today – held its own celebrations yesterday to coincide with the grand finale of the Paralympic Games in Beijing. Plans are in place to involve Stoke Mandeville in some way when the Paralympics come to London in four years.

Wednesday 17th September

Forgotten workers – Staff at the High Wycombe subsidiary of the collapsed Lehman Brothers bank were feeling fed up and forgotten last night. One said: “We have been told not to say anything, but frankly there’s nothing to say. We haven’t been told anything. I supposed we ought to be grateful because we are still working, but no-one has told us whether we are going to be paid.” Around 500 people work at the Capstone Mortgage Services building in Easton Street – and it’s thought several hundred others are contracted - but the administrators are said to think they can sell the business separately as a thriving enterprise.

Computers vetted – People convicted of downloading child porn are to have their internet activity filtered by the police in a pilot scheme being tested in the Buckinghamshire area. Special software has been developed by the charity Kidscape which enables police to check instantly what those convicted are viewing. If the scheme is a success it will be extended nationally, but some campaigners are said to be worried that the software could be abused, enabling police to snoop into general internet usage. Local police denied earlier this week they were snooping in schoolbooks in an attempt to find clues to catch graffiti scrawlers.

Narrow escape – A car thought to have been parked by a parent taking a child to school yesterday, rolled down a busy road in the morning rush hour before smashing into a brick wall, injuring a passer-by. Police were amazed there wasn’t a more serious accident as the Nissan gathered pace down Amersham Hill in High Wycombe, mounted the pavement and hit the wall, scattering bricks far and wide. A woman hit by a brick was taken to hospital with back injuries

Tuesday 16th September

Glimmer of hope – There was a glimmer of hope last night that 500 jobs in High Wycombe – hanging by a thread following yesterday’s Lehman Brothers banking collapse – may be saved. The UK administrators for the bank, PriceWaterhouseCoopers, indicated it will be the end of the week before they can make any announcement about Capstone Mortgage Services, the Lehman Brothers subsidiary in Easton Street. But they did say that a number of the UK subsidiaries of Lehman Brothers were financially sound. The news raised hopes – albeit slim ones – that a buyer may be found.

Anxious time – Several hundred other jobs in the Wycombe area are thought to be in the balance while decisions are made over Capstone. The company deals with a number of suppliers and contractors – many freelance or “one-man-bands” – who rely on work provided by the multi-million pound mortgage subsidiary.

New night club – Despite the current problems, developers are still confident that Wycombe and the surrounding area is a place to invest. Plans were announced yesterday to build a new night club with a 130 bed hotel attached in the town centre, near the Eden shopping development. Details are to be revealed later.

Monday 15th September

Circus return – Circuses are expected to return to High Wycombe after a 16 year gap if, as expected, councillors agree tonight to lift a ban on performing animals. Zippo’s Circus, which includes dog acts and pony parades, has asked the council to reconsider its blanket ban on circuses with animals because it wants to set up its big top on the Rye.

Sorry Rudolph – Animals however, are not going to be made welcome in Wycombe’s spanking new shopping centre the Eden. Ponies and reindeer are to be featured in this year’s Christmas parade in November as part of the big lights switch on, but at the end of the High Street the animals will follow the old route to the Christmas tree in Frogmoor while most of the rest of the parade, including a Scottish pipe and drum band, will divert through Eden. For some reason, retailers thought shoppers might be put off by any deposits the animals might leave on Eden’s shiny polished floor.


Cliveden boost – The National Trust said yesterday that visitor numbers to Cliveden, its magnificent property overlooking the Thames at Taplow, rose 15 per cent in August to 197,000 for the month. They put it down to more foreign tourists in the area because of the weak pound and the fact that the damp weather made the gardens look lush.

Sunday 14th September

Unbeaten record –Wycombe Wanderers maintained their impressive start to the season – and their unbeaten record – with a 0-0 draw against a lively Brentford side at Adams Park yesterday. After six games the Blues have only conceded one goal – evidence of how new boss Peter Taylor has tightened up the defence.

Scouting For Girls – Top indie group Scouting for Girls visit O’Neill’s pub in Wycombe town centre today where they headline the Tuborg Hometown Festival.

Saturday 13th September

Pervert guilty – A trichologist who groped patients and made sexual comments while massaging their scalps was found guilty of indecent and sexual assault yesterday. Praminder Mankoo, aged 47, had denied the assaults against female clients, which took place at his hair clinic in Thame. But a jury at Oxford found him guilty in four cases and cleared him in six others. He’ll be sentenced next month.

Jobs fear – Staff at the High Wycombe office of Lehman Brothers, the independent American bank, were fearing for their jobs yesterday after shares in the company plummeted 42 per cent amid talk of a takeover. The bank operates its mortgage subsidiary from its Easton Street offices.

Nostalgic return – Margaret Thatcher makes what many feel will be her last visit to Chequers today. The ailing former Prime Minister has been invited to lunch by Gordon Brown. Mrs Thatcher loved the PM’s country house retreat near Princes Risborough and oversaw its internal redecoration.

Friday 12th September

Chalfont soaking – Chalfont St Peter suffered one of the heaviest thunderstorms ever recorded in this country according to detailed statistics issued yesterday. A staggering 6.3cm (two and a half inches) of rain fell in just 1hour 50 minutes on one day last month.

Schoolbooks searched – Some teachers have described as unnecessarily intrusive action by police trying to catch graffiti artists in Wycombe. Police officers have taken to looking at schoolbooks hoping they will find a doodle that the same as a graffiti “tag” . Councillors say it’s worth it if it stops graffiti on buildings and public spaces, but some educationalists say it breaches children’s privacy in schools.

Wrong castle – Prince Harry’s must have whooped for joy when 12 barrels of lager turned up at the front door of Windsor Castle in time for England’s match in Croatia – but after some ringing round the embarrassed delivery driver realised he should have gone to the Windsor Castle pub in Maidenhead.

Thursday 11th September

Police row – Wycombe’s local police force wanted Scotland Yard to stop looking for potential terrorist explosives in local woodland because the search was proving too expensive, a top Metropolitan Police officer revealed yesterday. Former assistant commissioner Andy Hayman said bottles of explosive mixtures were found in Kings Wood three months after the search began. But Thames Valley Police, who were having to meet part of the enormous cost of the search, wanted it called off before then, he said. Mr Hayman said a national anti-terrorist force should be formed to prevent such rows in the future.

The discovery of the hydrogen peroxide led to two Wycombe men and six others being charged with terrorist linked offences, although charges that they had planned to use the explosive to blow up airliners were not fully accepted by a jury earlier this week. Yesterday the Crown Prosecution Service confirmed it would be seeking a retrial.

Uni honours – Author Terry Pritchard and sportsmen Sir Trevor Brooking and Lawrence Dallagio will receive honorary degrees from Bucks New University at a ceremony in Wycombe Swan today.

Wednesday 10th September

Wednesday 10 September

Legal battle – A complex legal battle surrounding the Wycombe terror trial seems likely after prosecution lawyers let it be known yesterday that they will be seeking a retrial. They are unhappy that the jury were unable to decide whether the eight accused men, including two from High Wycombe, were plotting to blow up airliners, as alleged, even though three were found guilty of conspiracy to murder. However defence lawyers, supported by friends of the Wycombe accused, argue that the prosecution can’t have a retrial because it didn’t like the result. Prosecutors feel however that the jury – who took an extremely long time to reach any decision – did not fully grasp the case. A decision on a retrial has to be made before the end of the month.

Silver theft – Thousands of pounds worth of rare Georgian silver has been stolen from a house in the appropriately named Moneyrow Lane near Maidenhead.

Trunk road – Police described as “ barmy” motorists who drove under the trunk of a tree that collapsed across a road. The upper branches of the tree ensured that the top end of the main trunk of the alder was around seven foot off the ground when it crashed across Hammersley Lane in High Wycombe during a heavy rain storm. But rather than be held up or divert, some motorists decided to risk driving under the tree...until they were stopped by arriving police.

Tuesday 9th September

Under surveillance - High Wycombe was at the centre of MI5’s biggest ever surveillance operation it emerged last night after Wycombe man Assad Ali Sarwar was found guilty of conspiracy to murder. Sarwar, 28, from Walton Drive, Totteridge was the “quartermaster” for a group of would- be terrorists. But the former Asda shelf-stacker was watched every step of the way by security officers as he bought chemicals to make explosives from local chemists, buried explosives in local woods and got rid of empty chemical bottles in recycling bins outside local supermarkets. The surveillance operation involved hundreds of officers over several weeks and the cost millions. Sarwar and two others were found guilty of conspiracy to murder.

Retrial wait – Meanwhile another Wycombe accused, Umar Islam, will have to wait some weeks before hearing whether he will be retried. The former postman, aged 30, denied conspiracy to murder and the jury failed to reach a verdict on him and three others. He has admitted a much lesser offence of causing a public nuisance. Islam, formerly named Brian Young, made a “suicide” video but said in his defence he never intended to kill anyone. An eighth defendant was cleared of all charges.

Promoting moderation – A Government and council backed campaign to promote the moderate nature of the Islamic faith will now get under full swing in High Wycombe in an attempt to ensure that race relations in the town are not damaged. Sarwar and Islam were said to have met at the Wycombe Islamic Centre and were said to have obtained extremist literature at a local Muslim bookshop. Wycombe MP Paul Goodman said last night that Sarwar’s extremist views in no way represented the moderate views held by the overwhelming majority of Muslims in the area.

Monday 8th September

Air park battle – Private pilots and gliding groups are set to battle to stop being evicted from Booker Air Park to make way for a new stadium for Wycombe Wanderers and London Wasps. Top councillors have told the football and rugby clubs that they’ll do all they can to enable them to build a joint stadium after Wasps officials said they wanted to leave Wycombe and move back to a central London location. But the expanding private plane and glider lobby say they’ll fight to stay at Booker because other private airfields in the area couldn’t cope if Booker was lost.

Blairs move in – Tony Blair and his family held a housewarming party at their new Chilterns home at the weekend. They’ve moved into actor Sir John Geilgud’s former manor house at Wooten Underwood and top politicians and their partners joined them at the party. Missing however was prime minister Gordon Brown and his wife Sarah, even though they were just a few miles away at Chequers.

Heads down – Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor won’t bend over backwards to congratulate his players when they resume training tomorrow as League Two’s table-toppers. Instead Taylor, who has given the Blues their best-ever start to a Football League campaign, will tell his players to beware of complacency.

Sunday 7th September

Top of the league - Wycombe Wanderers fine start to the season continued yesterday as they put in another solid display to win away 1-0 to Rochdale. The victory means that after five games the Blues have 13 out of 15 available points, remain unbeaten and have only conceded one goal. Wanderers now find themselves top of League 2 for the first time in nearly 3 years but will be aware it is still very early days.

Champions - If the football team need any inspiration to continue their winning form, then they need look no further than across the town to the cricket team, who were crowned Home Counties Champions yesterday. The Warriors had to settle for a draw in the last match of the season with Welleyn Garden City in a rain interrupted match. However it proved to be enough as a combination of other results and bad weather gave the title to Wycombe.

Saturday 6th September

Celebrations on hold - The rain looks set to scupper Wycombe Warriors chance to become the best cricket team in the Home Counties today. The club are top of division one in the Home Counties Premier League but need a win at Welwyn in the last game of the season to secure the title. Nearly an inch of rain – 20mm – fell over the area last night causing flooding and parts of the Thames were put on flood watch. More heavy rain showers are predicted today.

Lost boy – A 13 year old Afghan boy found wandering by a main road starving, thirsty and “stinking of oil” is thought to have arrived in this country clinging to the underside of a juggernaut. The boy, called Mokhtar, was discovered on the A404 near Marlow by a telephone engineer repairing a junction box. He was in the care of social services last night.

Headline Hedsor – The superb Georgian mansion Hedsor House, overlooking the Thames near Taplow, is fast becoming the last in-venue for the super-rich. Yesterday staff were mopping up after the sumptuous 33rd birthday party of record producer Mark Ronson finished as dawn was breaking. However the famous guest list did not include two of the producer’s biggest stars, Amy Winehouse and Lily Allen, both of whom are reported to be leaving his stable after bust-ups. The house is popular with celebs wanting to celebrate privately because it’s virtually impossible for photographers to get anywhere near.

Friday 5th September

Rugby tragedy – A promising young rugby player who died on the pitch during a game for High Wycombe Rugby Club in April died from natural causes, his inquest decided. Aaron Chesney, aged 17, may have had undiagnosed epilepsy, the inquest heard.

Sales stall – Local estate agents agreed with national figures yesterday that houses are staying on the market longer before being sold. It’s estimated that the number of homes on the market for more than three months has doubled in the past year.

Tight lipped – Wycombe Wanderers are remaining tight lipped over London Wasps statement this week that they see their future back in central London, clearly undermining plans to build a new joint stadium in Wycombe. Most Wasps fans discussing the prospect on the club’s website don’t appear to care whether they stay in Wycombe or not.

Thursday 4th September

Lollipop shortage – More than a quarter of schools in Buckinghamshire began a new term yesterday without a school crossing patrol warden in place. The council are to launch a recruitment drive.

Free meals – Children starting school in Windsor and Maidenhead today are being offered free school dinners for a week in the hope that once they have sampled them they’ll want to carry on.

Wednesday 3rd September

Wasps move – Rugby club London Wasps has said it wants to move closer to London to maximise its commercial potential. Chief executive Tony Copsey told journalists :“Our future will not be secure if we do not find a new stadium.” Some see the comment as an attempt to bounce Wycombe Council into accepting a joint plan by Wasps and Wycombe Wanderers for a new stadium at Booker near High Wycombe, but Copsey’s additional comment “our long-term vision is to play at our own stadium, and we'd like it to be in the capital," has left many wondering if Wasps’ heart really is in the Wycombe area.

More teachers – Bucks County Council is to begin a recruitment drive today – the first day back at school for most pupils - to attract more male teachers into its schools. It follows a report that one in 12 boys in the area go through their entire school career without being taught by a man, and some from one parent families never experience a male role figure.

Fern son attacked – TV star Fern Britton, who lives in Great Kingshill near Wycombe, has revealed that one of her 13 year old twin sons was mugged in an attack which left him badly shaken. The attack is not thought to be linked to another in Gerrards Cross in which a boy of the same age was also robbed of his money and possessions by two youths.

Tuesday 2nd September

Parent’s nightmare – The parents of a man murdered in their home by a mentally deranged killer said yesterday they had not been able to step foot in the house since the tragedy a year ago. Ernest and Barbara Quelch, of Littlewick Green were speaking after paranoid schizophrenic Benjamin Frankrum was found guilty of Richard Quelch’s murder and detained indeterminately at Broadmoor. They said the case have effectively rendered them homeless because they could not bear to return to the scene where Richard was stabbed 82 times as he slept with his two year old son.

New striker – Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor secured a new 6ft 1in striker from Southend United with just three hours to spare before football’s transfer deadline last night. The club has paid “a five figure” sum for 24 year old Matt Harrold.

M25 widening – Councillors will be told tonight that work on widening the M25 to four lanes on the section between the M40 (junction 16) and the Rickmansworth turn-off (junction 18) will begin next spring and be finished before the London Olympics. There’ll be a 50mph speed limit throughout the works.

Monday 1st September

Eden success – New figures show that Wycombe’s new shopping centre, the Eden, has been a resounding success despite the credit crunch. Around 350,000 people a week have been visiting the centre in its first three months, more than anyone expected. And what’s really pleasing the council and environmentalists is that more and more people are using public transport to get there – the number of passengers on buses to the town centre has gone up by more than 10 per cent in the same period.

Memorial tilting – Emergency work is to be taken to stop High Wycombe’s war memorial from falling over. The memorial, in the grounds of the parish church, All Saints, has taken on a distinct tilt and a scheme to underpin and straighten it is to start soon.

Late deal – Wycombe Wanderers boss Peter Taylor is hopeful of pulling off a last minute deal to secure a new striker before the football transfer deadline closes later today.

Sunday 31st August

Sunday 31 August

Another win – Wycombe Wanderers share 10 points with three other clubs at the top of League Two today after a 1-0 win at Chesterfield, thanks to a Mike Williamson goal. Despite the best efforts of former Chairboy Darren Currie, now a Chesterfield regular, the Blues held their nerve and temper and are looking good for the season ahead.

Saturday 30th August

Thumbs up – London Wasps fans last night gave their approval to plan to create a joint Wasps/Wycombe Wanderers new stadium on the site of Booker Air Park. They were speaking at a fans forum before the team’s first match at Wycombe’s Adams Park of the new season – a friendly against Llanelli.

Friday 29th August

Lean machine – There was good health news for Buckinghamshire yesterday when results from GP surgeries revealed that the area has one of the lowest numbers of obese people in the country. Just six in 100 people are medically obese according to the figure - still too high according to medics, but better than elsewhere. It’s thought the relative affluence of the area means people have more time for exercise and more money for a good diet.

Jury split – The jury involved in the Wycombe terror trial were told by a judge yesterday they could return a majority verdict after it became apparent after nearly three weeks in the jury room they could not be unanimous. Eight men – including two with High Wycombe connections – deny terror charges which centre around alleged activity in the town.

Sent wheeling – When Steve Hill decided to move his family to a new life in France he didn’t fancy lugging crates and packing cases. So he packed all the family’s belongings from their High Wycombe home into 46 green wheelie bins instead. It certainly pleased the removal company, who were able to complete the removal in under two hours, far less than it would normally take them.

Thursday 28th August

Paramedics shortage - Some ambulances are being sent out on emergencies without paramedics on board, the local ambulance service admitted yesterday. South Central Ambulance has launched an urgent recruitment drive to make up for a shortage of trained personnel. The service denied lives were being put at risk, insisting that paramedics are being made available even if they are not in ambulances, but unions and the Patients Association said risks to patients were increased.

Court nightmare – Odd job man Gary Lewis, 38, wept uncontrollably in the dock yesterday as a jury at Reading Crown Court cleared him of any involvement with his boss, Grant Wilkinson, who faces jail today after being found guilty of being one of the country’s biggest gunrunners. Mr Lewis, from Bourne End, had an emotional reunion with his mother outside the court who said “we prayed and prayed and prayed for this.” The court heard that Wilkinson, 34, of High Wycombe converted replica sub-machine guns into lethal weapons that were used in a number of major crimes. He buried them in a field at Wooburn Green until they were needed. Last night police announced a £10,000 reward for information that will enable them to retrieve some of the guns still unaccounted for.

Violent stabbing - Father of three Daniel Quelch, 34 was stabbed 82 times as he lay sleeping with his two year old son at his parents home in Littlewick Green, a court heard yesterday. Paranoid schizophrenic Benjamin Frankum, 26, whose address was given as Broadmoor Hospital, broke into the house a year ago. He is charged with murder but the court was told was deemed unfit to plead..

Wednesday 27th August

Holiday tragedy – An eleven year old boy has died at a water sports activity centre in Marlow after apparently suffering an asthma attack. Helpers tried in vain to help Joe Cronin after his inhaler failed to help him. Young Joe had been enjoying a water sports day at Longridge Activity Centre with friends. An inquest will be held.

Polyclinic delay – Wycombe area health bosses have asked for more time to provide all-in-one polyclinics in the area because they say they can’t make the Government’s deadline of the end of the year. South Bucks Primary Care Trust only recently decided to go along with the polyclinic idea after spending most of the year deciding whether to launch a legal appeal against them. Now they say it will be next year before they can be set up because they need to undergo public consultation.

Cinema fight – Wycombe’s new cinema complex Cineworld is set to go digital as the battle with the out of town cinema complex, Empire, hots up. Empire has been keeping its audiences against the new town centre complex because it can offer free parking and can offer digital presentation. Now Cineworld says it is not only planning digital presentations but more 3D screenings as well. Both cinemas have done better than expected this summer thanks to blockbusters like Mama Mia and the latest Batman movie.

Tuesday 26th August

Still flush – People in Buckinghamshire have more spare cash than anywhere else in the country according to new figures today. Price comparison site Uswitch say people in Bucks spend 35 per cent of their income on basic bills like energy and food. Throughout the country people are spending 72 per cent of their income on bills. The figures help explain why local shops are holding up as the national economy dives and house prices are not falling as they are in other areas,

Blazing boat – Police are investigating how a boat came to be drifting down the River Thames while it was engulfed in flames. Firefighters watched helplessly on the riverbank as the fire-ravaged 12ft pleasure craft floated dangerously near Cookham Bridge in the early hours yesterday. It seems the boat had drifted from its mooring nearby. Firemen in a fireboat called from Reading eventually put out the blaze. No one was injured.

Festival successes- Hundreds of angry fans threw bottles and shoes at a stage at Reading Festival because they had heard top American band Foo Fighters were due to play, but instead got an obscure punk bank called the FF’ers. But despite the “misunderstanding”, the 200 odd arrests for mainly drug and theft offences and a dozen cars being set alight by yobs, the Festival was a great success according to those returning last night. Elsewhere the small Oxfordshire village of Towersey was overwhelmed yesterday when 10,000 plus people turned up for its annual folk festival.

Monday 25th August

Welcome home– Most of the Wycombe area's successful athletes return from the Beijing Olympics today, but celebrations at their local rowing and athletics clubs have been put on hold why they recover from the flight. Yesterday two silver medallists Katherine Grainger and Sarah Winckless sent a message thanking people in Wycombe and Marlow for their support. It was read out at ceremony in Wycombe where a Handover flag was raised to signify the handing over of the Games from Beijing to London. It was one of 500 similar ceremonies across the country.

Catch up – Local farmers are foresaking their bank holiday day off today to catch up on harvesting. A rare rainless day means they have to make hay while the sun shines, and most have fallen behind with this year’s harvest because of the sodden ground.

New striker – A promising striker who was enticed from Wycombe Wanderers school of excellence five years ago by Reading FC, returns to the club today on a month’s loan. Simon Church, 19, gives manager Peter Taylor some breathing space while he looks for a new permanent goalscorer.

Sunday 24th August

Top comic – Aylesbury marketing manager Ed Aczel is set for the big time after scooping a top prize at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe yesterday. The 40 year old, who only took up stand up comedy three years ago, won the coveted prize for the stand-up act with most comedy originality. He has already been building up a big following on the stand-up circuit.

Looking good – Peter Taylor’s new look Wycombe Wanderers side is shaping up nicely, maintaining its unbeaten start to the season with a 1-0 win against Lincoln City at Adams Park yesterday. It should have been more, but a cracking debut goal from Craig Woodman was enough to bag all three points.

Saturday 23rd August

Cricketers strike – A village cricket team will refuse to turn up for its match today in protest at punishments it received after a previous match was abandoned because of a bad tempered brawl. Chalfont St Peter players will forfeit their game against Windsor in the Thames Valley League and run the risk of further punishment from league officials who docked them 50 points and banned two players. The league, who accused the Chalfont side and their opponents, British Airways, of the worst behaviour they had had ever experienced, also dished out the same punishment to the airline’s players.

Petrol thefts – Police in the Wycombe area yesterday began giving away security screws to motorists in an attempt to stop a spate of number plate thefts. Eight vehicles have had their number plates stolen this week. The thieves screw the plates onto their own vehicles, fill up with petrol at local garages and then drive off without paying, knowing that CCTV cameras only pick up the numbers on the stolen plates.

What’s on - Wycombe Wanderers entertain Lincoln City at Adams Park this afternoon in their League Two clash.

Friday 22nd August

New rail link – Chiltern Railways announced plans yesterday to reintroduce a direct rail link between Wycombe and Oxford after a 44 year gap. They plan to build a new track from Bicester to Oxford. The direct link was cut in 1964 when it was deemed uneconomic, but with more people in the Wycombe area now working in Oxford, the new link makes sense.

Long wait – The jury in the Wycombe terror trial begin their tenth day of deliberations today, amid growing speculation that they may be split on some of the issues. It’s thought the judge may recall them today to see how they are getting on. Seven men, including two from High Wycombe, deny conspiracy to murder and linked charges accusing them of being terrorists.

Brain boxes – Eight year old Aran Mohan became the youngest person in the country to have a GCSE in Information and Communication Technology when he got his results yesterday. Aran, from Gerrards Cross, says he wants to be “a scientist like Albert Einstein” when he grows up. Meanwhile 16 year old Wycombe twins Robbie and Alex Kittler got 10 A grades each when they went to pick up their results at the Royal Grammar School.

Thursday 21st August

Shop success – Credit crunch or not, Wycombe’s new department store, House of Fraser, has done far better in its first three months than anyone expected. The group said yesterday that sales in the Wycombe store – a cornerstone of the Eden Shopping Centre – were 15 per cent higher than they predicted.

Pilot killed – A Wycombe based pilot was one of five killed when a light aircraft collided with a microlite near Coventry earlier this week, it was revealed yesterday. Ariel surveyor Jim Beagley, aged 34, was a passenger in the aircraft.

Wednesday 20th August

Road pricing – Local motorists are to be given a chance to take part in road pricing trials in a couple of years. The Buckinghamshire area is being earmarked by the Government to test out a scheme where a satellite box is attached to cars and motorists pay by the mile instead of paying road tax. But human rights groups are opposed to the Big Brother technology saying it will enable the Government to track your every move.

House price surprise – House prices have bucked the trend in the Maidenhead area and risen in price by a staggering 14 per cent during the last three months, according to latest figures. Experts put it down to the town being at one end of the now approved Crossrail scheme which, in a few years, will put the rural town less than an hour away from the City. Prices in the neighbouring Wycombe area are still eight per cent higher than this time last year, but the number of houses being sold are few and far between.

Strikers go – Wycombe Wanderers strikers John Sutton and Leon Knight left the club yesterday – Sutton going to Motherwell on a freebie, and Knight, who cost club £50,000 from Milton Keynes Dons just eight months ago, being released by mutual consent. Knight was thought to have clashed with new manager Peter Taylor, who has hardly disguised his concerns about the players’ commitment. The arrangement will save the club money as both were on wage deals at the top end of the Blues scale

Tuesday 19th August

Rowers celebrated – Local councils and rowing clubs are to meet with the area’s victorious Olympic rowers as they return from Beijing in the next few days to decide how best to celebrate their achievements. Victory parades through Marlow and Henley are on the cards.

Wycombe rape – Police launched a rape inquiry yesterday after a 22 year old woman was attacked in the centre of High Wycombe in the early hours. The woman was in Frogmoor when she was attacked a week last Sunday. As yet police have no description of the attacker and have declined to say why more than a week has passed before an appeal for witnesses.

Sutton exit – Wycombe Wanderers boss Peter Taylor admitted yesterday he is likely to offload striker John Sutton – brother of former England player Chris Sutton – after interest has been shown in the 24 year old from Scottish clubs.

Monday 18th August

Celebrations - There were celebrations at Marlow Rowing club and in High Wycombe yesterday as rowing club member Zac Johnson and Wycombe resident Mark Hunter won Olympic gold in the lightweight double sculls in Beijing. The pair who have been unbeaten all year, won again when it counted as they added to Britain’s impressive medal haul. Hunter, 30 now plans to take a year off before deciding on his future plans while Johnson, 22 is planning on repeating the feat in four years time at nearby Dorney Lake where the rowing will be held as part of the 2012 London Olympics.

There was also glory yesterday for former Marlow Rowing Club member, now turned cyclist Rebecca Romero, who won the Women’s individual pursuit against fellow Britain Wendy Houvenaghel.

Commiserations – Elsewhere there was less fortune for Romero’s former rowing crew, including Marlow’s Katherine Grainger. The Women’s Quads crew, the current world champions, were highly favoured to claim gold but were beaten by a Chinese crew buoyed by the home crowd. However Grainger and her crew still have a silver medal to show for their efforts. Elsewhere there was disappointment for Amersham’s world silver medallist athlete Nicola Saunders who failed to make the 400m final after she could only finish 4th in her semi-final. However there is still a chance for Saunders to salvage something from her injury plagued year when she goes in the 4x400m relay later in the week.

What’s on – Daisy Pulls It Off, described as a parody of English boarding school, opens for a week’s run at Windsor Theatre Royal tonight

Sunday 17th August

First win - Wycombe Wanderers recorded their first competitive victory in the Peter Taylor era yesterday with victory over Chester in league 2. The goalscorers were John Moshinho and Scott McGleish either side of half time.

Olympic hopes - After a great day for Great Britain in the Olympics yesterday and another one on the cards today, Marlow will be looking for their share of the glory as three members of Marlow Rowing club all go for gold in their respective events. The crews of both Katherine Grainger and Zac Purchase go into their finals as gold medal favourites in the women’s quad skulls and men's lightweight skulls respectively. In the latter Zac Purchase is partnered by Mark Hunter who lives in High Wycombe. Meanwhile Sarah Winckless will be looking to sneak a medal in the women’s eight. Meanwhile former member Rebecca Romero, a silver medallist from four years ago before becoming a professional cyclist is guaranteed either a silver or gold when she goes in the final of the women's 3000m pursuit against fellow Britain Wendy Houvenaghel. Elsewhere Amersham's Nicola Saunders safely made it through to the semi finals of the athletics 400m after comfortably getting through her heat.

What’s on – A look at how life was at the time of the First World War is featured at the Chilterns Open Air Museum in Chalfont today.

Saturday 16th August

Best restaurant – The Good Food Guide yesterday named Heston Blumenthal’s The Fat Duck at Bray the best restaurant in Britain, and gave it a rare ten out of ten mark. Now its average four month waiting list for a table is likely to bet even longer.

What’s on – It’s Hurley Regatta Day with races on the river and fun and games on the banks.

Friday 15th August

Second robbery – Police are investigating whether two violent robberies in 24 hours are linked. Thieves used a sledgehammer to smash a window at Nationwide in Beaconsfield yesterday and escape with cash. The raid came just a day after a security guard was attacked at HSBC in nearby Chalfont St Peter by two men, who made off with a large amount of cash.

Thursday 14th August

Uni TV – Wycombe based Bucks New Uni yesterday became the first university in the country to introduce its own tv channel. Bucks TV, a web based channel, was designed and devised by students and will give 5,000 student and staff uni news, entertainment and research information.

Hotel plan - Plans to build a new luxury hotel by the Thames at Maidenhead are revealed in today’s local paper. Developers want to build on the site of Skindles, the famous dirty-weekend hotel of the rich and famous in the middle of the last century. The hotel has been boarded up for some years.

Work to do – Wycombe Wanderers fans and new manager Peter Taylor realised last night there’s still much to do if the Blues are to be promotion contenders this season. The young team were stuffed 0-4 by Birmingham City in the first round of the Carling Cup at Adams Park.

Wednesday 13th August

Hospital slip – A computer glitch meant that some patients may have had the hospital bug MRSA 17 days before being detected, a report has revealed. The Bucks Hospitals Trust – which covers Wycombe, Amersham and Stoke Mandeville Hospitals – was told a new computer system last year failed to work properly, thereby failing to alert staff to isolate potentially infectious patients. Medical notes were only brought up to date by staff filling in forms manually.

Guns buried – Guns used in murders by drugs gangs were buried in a field near High Wycombe, a court heard yesterday. Grant Wilkinson, 34, from High Wycombe and Gary Lewis, 38, from Bourne End deny possessing and supplying firearms. But police told Reading Crown Court yesterday that they buried guns and ammunition in a field in Juniper Lane, Wooburn Green and in nearby Hertfordshire. They said the guns were used in a number of gangland murders in London in 2005 and 2006.

What’s on – Wycombe Wanderers captain Steve McCracken should be fit to play for the Blues tonight when they entertain Birmingham City at Adams Park in the first round of the Carling Cup. The captain unable to play in Saturday’s first game of the season through injury. The game kicks off at 7.45.

Tuesday 12th August

Foodie’s delight – The Marlow area is about to take the title of Britain’s top provincial eating place according to in-the-know gourmets following a decision by top notch eatery Aubergine – where Gordon Ramsay launched his career – to open a restaurant in the town. There are already a number of highly rated restaurants in Marlow, while a few miles away in Bray, Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck and Michael Roux’s Waterside Inn are two of Britain’s very top eating venues. Food critics say Marlow is already on the map of places to visit by touring foodies: now it will become a must.

Incinerator appeal – Waste company Veolia are refusing to confirm reports that they may issue a legal appeal against a council’s decision not to allow them to bid to build an incinerator at Gerrard’s Cross. Bucks County Council ruled them of their thinking to build an incinerator last week but gave no reason for the decision. Now, lawyers for the company are said to be working on evidence to lodge a judicial review.

What’s on – Roald Dahl’s George’s Marvellous Medicine takes to the stage tonight when it begins a five night run at Windsor’s Theatre Royal.

Monday 11th August

Gold celebrations – Wycombe Cycling Club members had special reason to celebrate Britain’s first gold at the Olympics yesterday – 110km women’s road race medallist Nicole Cooke is coached by the club president Gordon Wright. Nicole gave him her special thanks after her victory. Elsewhere in Beijing, Marlow rower Zac Purchase and his partner Mark Hunter were the fastest qualifiers in the men’s lightweight doubles semi-final, while another Marlow rower, Katherine Grainger is also in an Olympic final. Her quadruple scull will be in contention next Sunday after an impressive qualification.

Post delays – Delays in local post deliveries are caused because postmen and women are having to start an hour later – at 6am and not 5am – they say. It’s thought the move has been brought in as a cost saving measure.

What’s on – Jimmy Carr, the former Wycombe grammar school boy who gave up a promising job with Shell to risk it all on stage and develop into who many people believe is the finest stand-up comic in the country, appears at Hayes Beck Theatre tonight.

Sunday 10th August
Score draw – Considering that half the team have only got to know each other in the past few weeks – and that injuries also hit the side – Wycombe Wanderers did ok drawing 1-1 against Morcambe in their League 2 fixture at Adams Park yesterday. Goalscorer Lewwis Spence – the only man in football to spell Lewis with two w’s - was also named man of the match.

What’s on – It poured with rain all day yesterday, but we are promised dry weather today, thus providing a chance to see shiny classic vehicles at a big display at Chiltern Open Air Museum.

Saturday 9th August

Redgrave snub – Villagers wanting to pay tribute to Britain’s greatest Olympian, Sir Steve Redgrave, have been snubbed in a row over the Olympic copyright, according to yesterday’s local paper. Residents in Little Marlow, where the rower has lived all his life, clubbed together and commissioned a statue of Sir Steve to be placed in the centre of the village. But because the design incorporates the famous Olympic symbol of five rings – the most fiercely protected logo in the world – the British Olympic Association refused to allow it to be constructed, said the paper.

What’s on – Wycombe Wanderers, with a new manager – Peter Taylor – and seven new players, get their season underway at Adams Park today with a visit by League Two seasiders Morecambe.

Friday 8th August

Housing offer – In an attempt to boost Wycombe’s stalling housing market, builders Wimpey said yesterday they’ll guarantee mortgage rates of just 4.9 per cent on new flats they are building in the town centre. The rate will be fixed for three years and the cheapest flats have had their prices revised downwards – now starting at £170,000.

Olympics honour – Around a dozen athletes from the Wycombe and south Bucks area will be taking part in the opening ceremony when the Olympic Games get underway in Beijing today.

What’s on – There’s a family fun day at Wycombe’s Hughenden Manor National Trust home and gardens today

Thursday 7th August

Over the top – A leading Muslim has hit out at a £400,000 scheme to combat extremism in High Wycombe as way over the top. Wycombe Islamic Society spokesman Zahid Jawed said highlighting Wycombe implies there is a widespread problem of extremism in the town “when in fact very few people have ever been involved in such things.” With the Government money, Wycombe Council and other groups aim to promote moderate Islamic teachings among young people.

Bowled over – High Wycombe’s Isa Guhu established herself as the best performing women’s cricketer in the country yesterday taking two for 18 off just seven overs for England against South Africa. It followed her five for 14 against West Indies in a women’s international last week.

What’s on – They have been rehearsing intensively since the start of the school holidays, and tonight hundreds of youngsters involved in the Wycombe Swan Youth Project enjoy the opening night of My Fair Lady. It runs at the theatre until Saturday.

Wednesday 6th August

Right to Stand– Wycombe Wanderers supporter Peter Jones is leading a campaign to make the return of standing terraces to all of England’s football grounds part of official Liberal Democrat Party policy. The Chiltern councillor yesterday had his motion accepted for debate at the party’s conference next month. Wycombe Wanderers supports the return of safe standing at football grounds and says that even if it moves to a new stadium an area will be kept for supporters who prefer to stand.

Burnt out – In a dramatic move, Bucks County Council yesterday unexpectedly dropped all plans to consider a site near Gerrards Cross for an incinerator to burn waste. Instead they said it would be built at one of two sites – one near Aylesbury and the other further north. The move was welcomed by campaigners who have been fighting for a year to stop the plan. No reason was given for the sudden change of heart, but locals think it followed talks between Tory leaders of the council and local MP Dominic Grieve, the shadow home secretary.

What’s on – Chance to ride behind a steam engine today as Buckinghamshire Railway Centre holds one of its Steaming Days at its Quainton site near Aylesbury

Tuesday 5th August

Jury’s holiday – The jury in the Wycombe terror trial were sent on a fortnight’s holiday yesterday. They have been deliberating at Woolwich Crown Court for nearly two weeks deciding whether seven men, including two with High Wycombe connections, are guilty of conspiracy to murder. Observers believe they are having difficulty reaching a unanimous decision. They will return on August 18.

Service station – Details of the companies at one of Britain’s biggest motorway service stations – the 50 acre site at Burtley Wood, off the M40’s junction 2 at Beaconsfield – were announced yesterday. In addition to the usual McDonalds, Pizza Hut, KFC, Starbucks and WH Smith there will also be an Accor hotel and a Travelodge. Biggest surprise was that supermarket group Somerfields beat M&S as the supermarket supplier. The site is run by Extra, which is also developing an even bigger service station off the M25 in Cobham, Surrey. But motorists were warned last night that they’ll have to watch petrol prices – at an Extra station in Derbyshire yesterday Shell petrol was on sale at 120.9p a litre, whereas local Shell stations here were selling at 112.9p.

What’s on – Prunella Scales, Angela Lonsdale and Natalie Cassidy take a break from TV comedy and soaps to star in Gertrude’s Secret – described as 10 darkly funny stories – which open’s at Oxford’s Playhouse tonight for a short run.

Monday 4th August

Case collapses – Three men from Chesham who were due to stand trial today accused of killing 29 swans have had the case against them dropped at the last minute because the police lost a vital piece of evidence. A major plank of the prosecution case was that bullets extracted from the swans had been shot from one of the defendents’ guns. But the bullets were lost at a police station in Bedfordshire. Stephen Barrett, 38, Marcus Walker, 51 and Darren Walker, 47, all from Chesham denied killing the swans at a lake in Radwell.

Chase death – An independent investigation is underway after a motorist died in a police chase at the weekend. The 23 year old man was being pursued by police on the Maidenhead to Windsor road late on Saturday night when he collided with two other vehicles and died in the smash. A woman passenger is in a serious condition in hospital. The Independent Police Complaints Commission are holding an investigation.

What’s on – Frazier Hines and Guy Shiner – former stars of Emmerdale and Ello Ello – star in the farce See How They Run, which begins a week’s performances at Windsor Theatre Royal tonight.

Sunday 3rd August

Manager’s return – Former Wycombe Wanderers manager John Gorman, whose sudden departure from the club shortly after the death of his wife Myra left a bitter taste among many fans, has shown he has no hard feelings. He is launching his autobiography next month by hosting a special event at the club. “So many fans wished supported me at the time and I never got chance to thank them face to face,” he told Wanderers’ website.

What’s on - Jools Holland, Jazz Orient, Nikita and the Magic of Motown are at a big open air concert in Slough’s Upton Park today. It begins at 1pm and finishes at 9pm. Tickets are £12.

Saturday 2nd August

Househunting – Model Sophie Dahl and jazz singer boyfriend Jamie Cullum are looking for a house near Great Missenden, where Sophie’s granddad, children’s writer Roald Dahl, lived for many years. The Roald Dahl museum is also situated in the village.

What’s on – The gardens in Cliveden host a Sixties party night tonight, with veteran rockers The Searchers and a Queen tribute band topping the bill

Friday 1st August

River power – Plans for a hydro electricity power plant by the banks of the Thames at Marlow are being drawn up. Software company SAS, which has offices by the banks of the river in the town, has commissioned a feasibility study. They think the plant could supply all their electricity and save thousands in the long run. However planners and river authorities that it could set a precedent for the whole of the riverside.

Shooting probe – A 45 year old man arrested yesterday on suspicion of attempted murder will continue to be questioned by police today. His 48 year old victim was shot in the stomach on Wednesday evening and discovered in Everest Close, Totteridge, High Wycombe. Police said the attacker and the victim – neither of whom has been named – knew each other. The shot man is recovering in hospital.

Thursday 31st July

Taking time – The jury in the Wycombe terror trial begin a fourth day of deliberations today, with indications that there are disagreements in the jury room. Jury members reconvened in the courtroom yesterday to look again at videos made by some of the eight defendants, including two High Wycombe men, which the prosecution allege were suicide bomber videos. Before they adjourned on Monday the jury were told by prosecution lawyers that the men, who deny conspiracy to murder, were a “ruthless gang”, whereas the defence described them as “a group of misguided lads”.

Backing off – Buckinghamshire’s primary care trust yesterday backed off a confrontation with the Government over the Health Secretary Alan Johnson's scheme to introduce polyclinics throughout the country. Bucks medics had indicated they may challenge the Government and press ahead with their own plans for out of hours services at existing GP surgeries and look at an “urgent care service.” But after behind the scenes pressure the PCT decided to go along with the polyclinic idea.

What’s on – The Rioch Women’s British Open Golf championship gets underway at Sunningdale golf course today.

Wednesday 30th July

Madmen in Porsche – Three thugs in a stolen Porsche who deliberately drove at two motorcyclists and then threatened a woman motorist with an axe are the subject of a major manhunt today. One of the motorcyclists suffered serious leg injuries and the other, a police motorbike instructor, was lucky to escape with his life after being upended in front of oncoming traffic on the busy A40 roundabout at Denham. The three white men in the stolen Porsche then threatened a passing woman motorist in a BMW with an axe, forced her out of the vehicle, and drove off at high speed along the A40 towards Beaconsfield. A senior policeman leading the hunt said last night: “This was a serious and malicious attack of the type you only expect to see in the movies.”

Named and shamed – Buckinghamshire County Council yesterday published on its website the names and addresses of 59 people who have been convicted of flytipping in the county. It’s part of a name and shame policy. Fines and costs in the convictions have amounted to nearly £60,000.

What’s on – There’s a day of fun and games for parents and children at Henley’s River and Rowing Museum today.

Tuesday 29th July

Massive fire – Residents were told to keep windows and doors shut on the hottest day of the year so far yesterday after a warehouse full of plastics went up in flames. Around 80 firefighters from throughout the Wycombe district fought the fire at the Empstead Industrial Estate in Henley. Firefighters were on alert again overnight, but this time for flooding after forecasters warned of potential flash floods from thunderstorms.

Personal touch – Wycombe Wanderers players and staff are spending their spare time this week hand delivering season tickets to fans. It’s part of a charm offensive that’s being well received. This year the old style tickets have been replaced by a plastic swipe card, enabling the club to cut back on turnstile operators.

What’s on – More chances to see performers honing up their acts for next month’s Edinburgh Fringe festival at Maidenhead’s Norden Farm Arts Centre tonight and tomorrow. Stand up comic Mark Watson tests out his new material tonight.

Monday 28th July

Fans fears – Wycombe Wanderers and Wycombe Council are being pressed to reassure football fans that the club will not be downgraded after minutes revealed that the council is treating London Wasps as the main party in the deal to establish a new sports stadium in the town. Minutes of a private council meeting last week say the council is entering into an “exclusivity agreement with London Wasps and other involved parties.” The report makes a point of saying the current Adams Park – owned by Wanderers with Wasps as tenants – “has inadequate capacity…for the future playing of rugby by London Wasps.” Millionaire Blues managing director Steve Hayes has recently become a major shareholder in Wasps and is on the club’s board.

Dom’s dosh – Beaconsfield MP Dominic Grieve, the new shadow home secretary, is worth over £3m, the News of the World reported yesterday. According to the paper, he owns a £1.2m home in west London; property that he rents in the City and is part owner of land in France. They said he also holds nearly a £1m worth of shares.

What’s on – Cannon and Ball bring the renowned farce Big Bad Mouse to Windsor Theatre Royal tonight for a week’s run…and with the two veterans in fine form the boast that two nights are never the same will certainly be appreciated by the theatre staff.

Sunday 27th July

B<>River death – A man whose body was found in the Thames on Friday had only married 10 days before he disappeared, it emerged yesterday. Peter Jones, aged 41, was attending a party on a boat sailing on the river at Windsor on Wednesday evening when he was reported missing. Yesterday his devastated wife Caroline described him as a loving husband and father. An inquest will determine how Mr Jones, from Slough, met his death.

What’s on – Over at Ascot Racecourse they’re having a Hong Kong Day today, with Chinese acrobats, ku fung displays, and traditional Chinese dancing to accompany a day’s racing. Nearby, on Smith’s Lawn in Windsor Great Park, it’s the big polo event of the year – the Cartier International, with plenty of Royalty and celebs to gawp at if you’re not interested in the sport. Take plenty of loose change though – entry by vehicle starts at £40 a car.

Saturday 26th July

New canal – Plans to extend an arm of the Grand Union Canal at Slough to join up with the Thames at Windsor are being finalised. It follows British Waterways annual report this week which said more people were using canals for pleasure boating, walking alongside and fishing than at any time in living memory. The Wendover Arm of the Grand Union Canal, refurbished for reuse five years ago, is proving so popular than an extension to that is currently being prepared.

Another signing – Wycombe Wanderers manager Peter Taylor made his seventh signing of the close season yesterday, taking on former England youth players Nathan Ashton from Fulham. The 21 year old is a left sided defender. The Blues beat Stevenage 2-1 in a pre-season game last night, but there was concern after star striker Scott McGleish hobbled off the pitch with a foot injury.

What’s on – History action replay with noise, fighting and plenty of fake gore as the Saxons take on the Vikings at Chiltern Open Air Museum.

Friday 25th July

Stadium site/B> – Top council officials and bosses from Wycombe Wanderers and London Wasps Rugby Club have been visiting woodland next to Booker Air Park amid growing speculation that it is being chosen as the site for a new sports stadium. It is less than a mile from Wanderers’ current home, Adams Park, but has the advantage of being near the M40. Advisors for the two clubs also think its proximity to the air park – one of Britain’s busiest private aerodromes – make it ideal site for a conference centre as well as a sporting complex.

Royal yawn – Only around 200 people bothered to turn to turn out to greet Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall when they visited Chalfont St Giles yesterday to mark the 400th anniversary of poet John Milton’s birth by looking around Milton’s Cottage. There was a similar Royal apathy last month when, aside from invited guests, only a few dozen shoppers hung around to watch Prince Edward open High Wycombe’s Eden shopping centre.

What’s on – The prospect of a new stadium won’t be on the mind of Wycombe Wanderers players tonight when they continue their shaky pre-season run-in with a visit to Stevenage Town. Kick off 7pm

Thursday 24th July

Rail hopes – Campaigners will raise their game to secure the revival of a direct rail link between High Wycombe and Maidenhead following yesterday’s final approval for the Crossrail project which will create a fast train link through central London between Maidenhead and Liverpool Street. Much of the track bed of the old line, which runs through Wooburn Green and Bourne End, is still intact, and campaigners say a direct link to Crossrail would be a great boon to the whole Wycombe area.

New signing – Wycombe Wanderers new boss Peter Taylor last night completed his sixth new signing of the close season, taking on Southend United’s 25 year old right back Lewis Hunt.

What’s On – Treat for children in the grounds of Cliveden today – there’s an outdoor theatre production of Pinocchio at 2.30 and 6pm

Wednesday 23rd July

Judge sums up – The judge in the Wycombe terror trial begins his summing up today.

Eight defendants, including two with High Wycombe connections, deny conspiracy to murder but have admitted lesser charges. In final defence pleas yesterday former Wycombe postman Umar Islam, formerly known as Brian Young, was said not to fit the profile of a suicide bomber – “detached from life, emotion and feeling.” The jury was told he had planned to go to Pakistan to give a fresh start to his wife and children.

Police cleared – A man who began choking minutes after being stopped by police and later died in hospital, had not been subject to any police ill-treatment the Police Complaints Commission said yesterday. The Commission said doctors carrying out a post mortem discovered a package lodged in Habib Ullah’s windpipe and another package “about his person.” Drugs equipment was also found in the car Mr Ullah was in when it was stopped in Sharrow Vale, High Wycombe on July 3. An inquest is yet to be heard.

What’s On – If you’re a fan of Antiques Roadshow you’ll want to travel to Oxford to hear funny behind the scenes stories and unshown TV clips presented by presenters Hilary Kay and Paul Atterbury. They appear at the Oxford Playhouse.

Tuesday 22nd July

Schools anger – About a third of children involved in SATS tests in Bucks will break up for the summer holiday tomorrow without knowing their results. The county’s education boss Marian Clayton revealed yesterday than more than 30 per cent of schools in the county have been affected by the fiasco involving SATS tests nationally. She has written to the Government calling for this year’s tests to be scrapped altogether.

Final fling – A last ditch attempt to stop the closure of 11 post offices in the Wycombe area will be made in the House of Commons today. Amersham and Chesham MP Cheryl Gillan succeeded in obtaining an adjournment debate just one day before the Commons rises for 11 weeks. She’s hoping the debate will at least postpone any closures until the Post Office carries out a full survey on the impact any closures would have on local communities.

What’s on – More Edinburgh Fringe Festival previews in the area today. Comic Mark Watson’s new comedy The Island of Aars plays Maidenhead’s Norden Farm tonight. Tomorrow at the same venue there’s a double bill with Dan Antopolskis and a new comedy offering from Plested and Brown.

Monday 21st July

Stadium talks – Key Wycombe councillors meet in private tonight to decide whether to give Wycombe Wanderers and London Wasps the nod to build a new 25,000 seater stadium in the town. The Blues and their rugby tenants want to develop a complex like Reading’s Majeski Stadium, with a hotel, shopping and office units attached. No site in the town has yet been earmarked and tonight’s discussions are to decide the principle of whether to go further. But if it was to go ahead it would be just off the M40.

Lightening the load – Beaconsfield MP Dominic Grieve is set to lose some of the responsibilities he has as new Shadow Home Secretary in a reshuffle tomorrow because he has too much to do. Tory leader David Cameron will relieve Mr Grieve of his duties as Shadow Attorney General so that he can concentrate purely on home affairs issues like tackling crime and dealing with immigration.

What’s on – The Henley Fringe Festival begins a week long series of off the wall shows tonight. The Amazing Singing Dentists, with such evergreen numbers as “He Had Skunk Breath”, seem interesting, while every night this week stand up comics who’ll be appearing at the Edinburgh Fringe next month get into the swing of things in the King’s Road car park. Take a look at henleyfringefestival.com for the full lowdown.

Sunday 20th July

Top whack – Beaconsfield is Britain’s most expensive market town according to figures released by the Halifax yesterday. Despite the economic downturn, the average cost of properties there is £704,724 – a staggering 144 per cent more than the average in the smarter parts of neighbouring Wycombe and Slough. It’s not the most expensive place in the country for property however – that remains the smaller Gerrards Cross, four miles down the road.

Pre-season defeat – Wycombe Wanderers lost 2-0 to Forest Green Rovers yesterday with a performance that didn’t do much to boost confidence. But new boss Peter Taylor, who virtually fielded two different sides for each half, said much had been learned from the game. He is hoping to announce the signing of a new left winger tomorrow.

What’s on – The annual Wycombe Half Marathon gets underway this morning with over 900 runners signed up to cover one of the hilliest half marathons in the county. This year, for the first time, there’s a simultaneous 10k run. It all starts and finishes on the Rye.

Saturday 19th July

Slow road – The Wycombe to Maidenhead road is the second worst in the country for traffic delays, the Highways Agency said yesterday. The A404, which includes the Marlow by-pass, has an average 12 minute delay every day for its 10 mile stretch, said the Agency’s annual report. Only a road in Cheshire has more delays. It’s now likely Government road planners will look at long term plans to cut down the delays, possibly by building a fly-over of the Bisham roundabout near Marlow.

What’s on – Two shows this weekend showing the best of the region. The Chilterns Show at Town End Farm in Great Missenden features everything from local food to chainsaw sculptures and ferret racing. While on the river at Henley there’s the Thames Traditional Boat Rally featuring a whole range of river craft, old and new, powered and unpowered. The Battle of Britain flight is due to overfly the rally this afternoon, weather permitting.

Friday 18th July

Drugs bust – Police think they have broken one of the biggest drugs rings in the area after they raided 41 homes in the biggest operation of its kind yesterday. Last night 21 men from the Maidenhead and Slough area faced charges of possessing Class A drugs. Others are being questioned. The raid came on the day figures showed drugs offences rose four per cent in the Thames Valley Police area of Bucks, Berks and Oxfordshire in the past year. But this rise was less than the national increase of nine per cent.

Fares rise – Taxi drivers in the Wycombe area were yesterday given the nod to increase their fares because of the 21 per cent rise in fuel prices since the beginning of the year. Bus fares in the area are also likely to rise soon. Last night the Stagecoach bus company, which runs services through the region, increased its fares by six per cent.

What’s on – Cricket’s equivalent of the Harlem Globe Trotters – the aptly named Lashings World XI – take on High Wycombe cricket club at their London Road ground this afternoon to raise money for the Wycombe Hospital Scannappeal. Former England star Phil DeFreitas and Sri Lankan star Aravinda De Silva are among the visitors. Gates open at noon; game starts at 2.30pm.

Thursday 17th July

Fearsome at four – Shadow Home Secretary Dominic Grieve astounded his audience yesterday saying that even in his well-off constituency of Beaconsfield there were four year olds destined for a life of youth crime. “I know that when I go into a primary school in my constituency, a head teacher is able to show me children in reception class that they know in 12 to 14 years time are going to be in a young offenders’ institution,” he told a conference on knife crime in Bristol. “If we want to reduce violent crime, the long term view is that we need to put in the input with young children.”

Bosses meet – Wycombe Wanderers played host to top football managers from across London and the south yesterday for an annual pre-season get together of the League Managers’ Association. The head of referees, Keith Hackett, spent some time at the Adams Park gathering explaining how referees will interpret the off-side rule this year, and warning refs will be much tougher in their interpretation of dangerous tackles.

What’s on – At the age of 84 Sir Donald Sinden, a true veteran of both stage and screen, makes a rare appearance tonight talking about his life and times in a conversation with the audience at Hayes’ Beck Theatre.

Wednesday 16th July

Jury’s choice – The jury at the Wycombe-linked terror trial face a stark choice when they decide if the eight defendants, including two Wycombe men, are guilty of conspiracy to murder. As summing up concluded yesterday, defence lawyer Malcolm Bishop, described the men as “a group of misguided lads hoping to make a point by making a small bang in a prominent position.” Earlier, prosecution lawyer Peter Wright said they were a ruthless gang “prepared to commit wholesale murder – each ready, willing and able to launch a deadly attack…to a bloody conclusion.” The jury is due to retire next week. The men deny the conspiracy charges.

Unlevel playing field – There’s growing anger among Wycombe Wanderers supporters that the football authorities are making League Two less attractive for the forthcoming season by docking points from teams before any games are played. Yesterday’s confirmation of a decision by the Football League and the Football Association to dock a total of 30 points from Luton Town makes relegation for them a foregone conclusion. Points are also likely to be deducted from Rotherham and Bournemouth, which will keep them near the relegation places. Many Blues fans think the deductions will make the league less exciting and are unlikely to entice fans to buy season tickets, the sales of which are already thought to be below the level they were at this time last year.

What’s on – There’s a world premiere at Maidenhead’s Norden Art Centre tonight when the National Arts Center of Canada launches its production of Falstaff. And with top priced tickets at £11, you’re unlikely to see a world premiere for less.

Tuesday 15th July

Cover-up charge – The decision by two Wycombe men accused of terrorist-linked offences to admit to lesser charges was an attempt to cover up their true role in a terrorist plot, a jury was told yesterday. In a sensational start to proceedings at the long-running trial in Woolwich, three of the seven accused, including Assad Sarwar, of High Wycombe, changed their plea and admitted attempting to cause explosions in London, and two others, including former Wycombe postman Umar Islam, admitted to conspiring to cause a public nuisance. But they all still deny the most serious charge of conspiring to murder by placing bombs in airliners. Peter Wright QC began his summing up for the prosecution saying that the admissions were an attempt to cover-up their true motive. The jury is expected to retire to consider its verdict next week.

Swans concern – The heavy rains of last summer and this appear to have reduced considerably the number of swans on the River Thames. The people who count the swans on the river began their traditional “swan-upping” yesterday but after the first of five days they said there’s evidence aplenty that nests have been washed away and the number of expected cygnets is less than normal.

What’s on – Archaeologists and volunteers are spending this week digging around Boarstall Tower near Aylesbury to try and find out more about the role the 14th century tower played in the English Civil War. You’re invited to have a look and ask questions anytime this week or this weekend between 11am and 5.30pm.

Monday 14th July

On the up – While business elsewhere is under the cosh, Wycombe furniture manufacturers Ercol says it expects a 10 per cent growth in business this year and is confident it will return to making a profit after sales last year fell by half. The company puts its good fortune down to the fact it’s “lean and mean” – it had to shed a number of jobs last year – and that increased transport costs has made furniture from the Far East less attractive to British retailers. Meanwhile, Wycombe’s John Lewis department store – which saw sales drop by 13 per cent last week compared to the same time last year – says it remains confident it can weather the economic storm.

Not so good on the motoring front however. Local BMW dealer Bill Warren admitted at the weekend he’s currently dealing with only four customers a week while other big car dealers admit privately that the usual summer motoring rush is not materialising.

Crash arrests - A young couple have both been arrested with suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving after a smash on the M40 which left one man dead and two others fighting for their lives. A Ford Fiesta and a transit van both careered off the motorway near the Thame exit on Saturday night. A 29 year old man in the Ford died and two other people in the car are in a serious condition in hospital. A 24 year old man and a 25 year old woman in the transit were both arrested. In addition the man has been arrested on suspicion of driving while disqualified, drink driving and possessing a Class A drug. He was in police custody last night.

What’s on – The popular emotional musical Blood Brothers opens at Windsor’s Theatre Royal tonight until a week on Saturday. Elsewhere in the town the Windsor Wheel – the Royal Borough’s equivalent of the London Eye – returns today for a summer stay.

Sunday 13th July

Luke’s out – Wycombe golfing superstar Luke Donald yesterday withdrew from next week’s Open at Royal Birkdale because of his persistent wrist injury, and said he expects not to play again for at least four weeks. He withdrew in mid-game in the US Open a month ago when he “felt something go ping in my wrist”. Since then one of the world’s top hand specialists has diagnosed the problem as “a subluxation of the extensor carpi ulnaris tendon”…in other words a really badly strained tendon. Sadly, it’s looking increasingly unlikely the 30 year old will make the Ryder Cup.

Nicola’s absence – Meanwhile, Amersham based Olympic hopeful Nicola Sanders pulled out of a British Olympic trials event before the 400 metre heats yesterday, but insisted it was purely a precautionary measure. She said she felt a slight strain in her left thigh and didn’t want to risk a more serious injury.

What’s on – There are sheep dog demonstrations at the Chiltern Open Air Museum in Chalfont today. Hopefully, there’ll be some sheep too.

Saturday 12th July

Floods chaos – Flash floods brought chaos to the Friday evening rush hour last night, as torrential rain led to a rash of road accidents, disruption to some electricity supplies and left some shopkeepers and homeowners mopping up. It made it a challenging start to the weekend for hundreds of scouts and guides setting up their summer camps on various sites in the Chilterns. A flood watch remains in force for the River Thame area. The weekend will give everyone a chance to dry out though.

Still ahead – New figures yesterday showed that local house sellers that can hang on are winning out. Bucks remains one of only three areas in the country where house sales are fetching more than 10 per cent than they were this time last year. In most of the rest of the country, prices have fallen. The survey, by the FT, only looks at completed transactions.

What’s on – Windsor holds its annual Golden Egg Festival today, while at Bray Lake there’s an open weekend to try various water sports, including the latest craze, stand-up paddle boarding.

Friday 11th July

Adios Amigo – Wycombe Wanderers fans were stunned last night after their favourite player, the charismatic Argentinean Sergio Torres, left the club to join Peterborough. But for the club it seemed good business – the word is they got more than a quarter of a million in a deal involving the midfielder, who celebrated his 27th birthday yesterday, and defender Russell Martin. Former manager John Gorman bought Sergio three years ago from Basingstoke for £5,000.

Crash appeal – Police are desperate for witnesses to a crash near Wycombe’s Handy Cross roundabout. The 23 year old driver of a BMW died yesterday three days after the accident on Monday evening. His car hit a tree on the sliproad leading from the roundabout to the London-bound M40, but police want to know if anyone saw the car on the roundabout to see if he had been confused by new road markings.

What’s on – Believe it or not, the new football season gets underway today. Wycombe Wanderers – minus fans favourite Sergio, but with a couple of new faces on show – kick off their pre-season friendlies at village club Flackwell Heath. Next Wednesday they play Maidenhead.

Thursday 10th July

Business struggles – It wasn’t only the rain that put a dampener on things when Prince Edward officially opened Wycombe’s new shopping centre Eden yesterday. Most retailers admitted that business has tailed off considerably in the last few weeks as the novelty of the centre wore off and the economic malaise that’s hit the rest of the country arrived here late. Meanwhile, local estate agents – who have been shortening hours of their own staff – reported a stalemate in the housing market with most sellers refusing to drop their prices and potential buyers refusing to buy until they do so. One agent described the housing market as “dire”.

Luke worry – Wycombe’s super golfer Luke Donald yesterday pulled out of the Scottish Open which begins at Loch Lomond today, still troubled by a wrist injury which forced him to withdraw from the American Open a month ago. Although his withdrawal was described by his management team as “a precautionary measure”, there’s doubt over whether he will participate in next week’s Open at Royal Birkdale.

What’s on – The Henley Festival is underway with tonight’s performances featuring the Gipsy Kings on the floating stage; Ronnie Scott’s Allstars in the Dome, and a firework display accompanied by the Korean master drummers Dulsori on the Riverside Lawn.

Wednesday 9th July


Terrorist “idiot” – The interrogation accused Wycombe terrorist Umar Islam underwent from police seems to have been mild compared to the ear-bashing he got from his wife, a court heard yesterday. Rizwana Khan told the Woolwich terror trial that her husband was “a complete idiot” for making what he and she say was a martyrdom video where he “pretended” to be a suicide bomber. “It was unbelievable to see him like that. I was so angry because we had all these plans,” she told jurors. She denied that her 29 year old husband was a radicalised Muslim and said that extremist publications found in their home had probably been left there by her brother who was “off his head on drugs most of the time.” Umar Islam, who changed his name from Brian Young, denies terrorist linked charges along with seven other defendants.

Driving swoop – Police begin a four day clamp down on people driving without seat belts today after latest figures show that in South Bucks one in 12 front seat occupants in cars don’t wear them, and more than one in six back seat passengers don’t either. Culprits could pick up a £30 instant fine.

What’s on – Prince Edward hits High Wycombe today to officially open the town’s Eden shopping centre and its new library. The unveilings take place from noon and are followed by music and dancing by local groups and schools. Take a brolly though – it looks like being the wettest day of the year today.

Tuesday 8th July

Pretend bomber – One of the High Wycombe defendants accused to plotting to blow up airliners told the long running terror trial yesterday that he only pretended to be a suicide bomber when he made a martyrdom video. Former Wycombe postman Umar Islam, 29, who changed his name from Brian Young, said he agreed to “act like a suicide bomber” as part of a protest against British foreign policy. The former Chairborough Road resident said that after making the video he intended to leave Britain with his pregnant wife and 16 month old son for a new life in Pakistan. He and seven others deny terrorist linked charges.

Early start – An Aylesbury GP surgery today becomes one of the first in the country to extend its opening hours following a call from the Government, but unhappy docs say they are being bullied into doing so. The Mandeville Surgery opens at 7.30am today and closes at 8pm. One of its GPs, Gill Beck, said: “We are being bullied by the Government. We would have lost money if we had not agreed and that may have led to us lay off staff.”

What’s on – In difficult economic times, theatres need the odd “banker” to keep the cash coming in. Thus, the evergreen musical favourite South Pacific opens at Wycombe Swan tonight and runs to the end of the week. It stars veteran West End star Dave Willetts and Helena Blackman, runner-up in the BBC's "How do you solve a problem like Maria?" show.

Monday 7th July

Death probe – The Independent Police Complaints Commission begins an investigation today following the death of a man who was taken ill during a police interview. The 39 year old man was in a car stopped by police in Lee Court, High Wycombe. As police searched the car it’s believed the man began gasping for breath. He was taken to Wycombe Hospital but pronounced dead on arrival. The contents of a package found in the car are being analysed by scientists. The Commission said last night that an investigation was routine in the event of an unexplained death in police presence.

Protest grows – The National Trust yesterday threw its considerable weight against expansion of Heathrow and plans to change flight paths over the Chilterns area. The Trust is concerned that peace will be shattered above some of its properties in the area, as well as the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Trust’s intervention came on the day the Government’s top advisor on air quality said pollution in the Heathrow area would be worst than being officially forecast by airport owners BAA if a third runway was built.

What’s on – Magic of the Dance – a show that’s half way through a world tour – arrives at Windsor’s Theatre Royal tonight for the rest of the week. The smash hit non-stop show, featuring dance from Irish to tap, is narrated by Christopher Lee.

The Wycombe.Info team are taking a break for a week, so here’s some events we’ll miss, but you can enjoy…

Saturday 28 June – See what it was like when granny and granddad were little – the Chiltern Open Air Museum puts on exhibitions and shows about life in the 1920s this weekend.

Sunday 29 June – It might be the sport of toffs, but actually polo can be pretty rough and tumble. Big day at Windsor’s Smith’s Lawn today at the Archie David cup final.

Monday 30 June – Colin Fry may not be a big name, but he packs theatres out wherever he appears. He’s a medium, and he’ll be using his communication skills at Wycombe’s Swan Theatre.

Tuesday 1 July – You can blow out on Abba this week at Windsor’s Theatre Royal. Dancing Queen opens tonight and runs to Saturday, featuring every rollicking hit the group ever had.

Wednesday 2 July - Now that bothersome by-election is out of the way, the good people of Henley can get down to the real business of the year – the Henley Royal Regatta. Actually it’s an event everyone ought to experience once in their life, even if you’re not interested in the rowing (and let’s face it, not that many visitors are). It starts today and builds up to a glittering climax by Saturday.

Thursday 3 July – Katherine Jenkins opens the Waddesdon Music Festival tonight with a grand open air concert in a grand setting. Tomorrow the festival concentrates on soul music with a Blues Brothers tribute, and on Saturday the Counterfeit Stones top the bill.

Friday 4 July – While clubs celebrate American Independence Day with themed gigs, something much more British for toddlers at Wycombe Museum. An outdoor Teddy Bear’s picnic for two to five year olds and their grown-ups, and you can guarantee that Winnie the Pooh will not have an American accent.

Saturday 5 July – Aylesbury Festival gets underway today, and a treat for the young (and young at heart). There’s a Roald Dahl Parade through the High Street from 11am featuring all the characters from his mind-boggling books.

Friday 27th June

No story in Henley – Hardly, perhaps, the biggest news to come out of Henley but, surprise, surprise, the Tories romped home when votes were counted early today in the by-election caused by the resignation of Boris Johnson. Local councillor John Howell - often described as the charismatic opposite of Boris – won by 10,116 from the Lib Dems. But even among triumphant Conservatives and Lib Dems, who took more than 84 per cent of the vote between them, there was some concern that the far right British National Party took nearly four per cent, ahead of fifth placed Labour. The Greens came third.

Sad ending – A post mortem will be held today on 10 month old Monica Parsons, the little girl who came back from the dead after falling in the Thames, but was unable to pull through. Monica was declared dead after falling into the river at Goring but then doctors heard her faint heartbeat. She was placed in intensive care at John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford but after battling for a few more hours, she died.

What’s on – For many canine lovers, it is second in importance after Crufts. The Windsor Championship Dog show gets underway today in Home Park and continues through the weekend.

Thursday 26th June

Baby battles – A baby was fighting for her life last night after officially being declared dead. The 10 month old girl was pulled from the Thames at Goring yesterday and rushed to Oxford’s John Radcliffe Hospital with paramedics desperately trying to revive her. At the hospital a statement was given saying she’d died, but doctors detected a very faint heartbeat and resumed attempts to resuscitate her. Last night she was in a critical condition in intensive care. It’s believed her mother and another child were also rescued from the river and are also being treated in hospital.

Shift protest – Firefighters and their families will lobby members of the Bucks Fire Authority today in protest at a change in shifts which they say will result in them working a 12 hour shift instead of a nine hour one. They say it will play havoc with family life and make child care arrangements virtually impossible.

What’s on – The story of Stan Laurel – half of what is still the world’s most memorable comedy double – is told in a new play at Maidenhead tonight. The much mimicked Englishman, who was married five times and once said “if you cry at my funeral I’ll never speak to you again”, had a tempestuous life off-stage – a story told with the participation of his daughter Lois at Norden Farm Arts Centre.

Wednesday 25th June

Private GP surgeries – High Wycombe was named yesterday as one of the handful of areas in the country where private GP surgeries may be trialled. The doctors’ magazine Pulse said Virgin Healthcare had earmarked the town as rich enough to provide GP services to people willing to pay. Ironically, the news came on the day official figures showed Wycombe to be one of the healthiest places in the country, with children in Wycombe and Aylesbury less obese than anywhere else.

Jobs go – More than half the workforce at GlaxoSmithKline in Maidenhead are to lose their jobs, the company announced yesterday. Two hundred and eight four staff out of 480 will be made redundant over the next year as medical production moves to eastern Europe.

What’s on – Another lovely evening in prospect, which is just as well if you are joining a guided walk around the grounds at Cliveden, followed by wine and a posh supper. All for £23 in aid of the National Trust

Tuesday 24th June

Back off – The Environment Agency last night backed off its plan to close a third of its lock-keepers cottages on the Thames after Environment Minister Phil Woolas told them to think again. The “review” of the plan came after lock-keepers and their families, who were threatened with eviction, invited Mr Woolas to hear them out at Cookham Lock and he came to visit. The Agency wanted to sell off the homes to make money but lock-keepers and river users said it would put safety at risk.

Luke worry – Doctors are still no nearer discovering what’s wrong with Wycombe super golfer Luke Donald’s wrist, despite an MRI scan. Yesterday Donald pulled out of the French Open and his chances of making the Ryder Cup team are thinner by the day. He has been ordered to completely rest his left wrist after what seems to be a very severe strain.

What’s on – A stage version of Treasure Island sets sail at Wycombe Swan today, with the voyage ending on Saturday. The praised Birmingham Stage Company version of the classic is a summer term treat for hundreds of local schoolchildren, who will be attending matinee performances.

Monday 23rd June

Tory challenge – Beaconsfield MP Dominic Grieve encountered his first opposition from within the party yesterday just a week after being appointed the new Shadow Home Secretary. Right wingers say they don’t support Mr Grieve because of his “passionate support for the European Human Rights legislation.”

Rail protest – Residents groups living near the main Chiltern rail lines are ready to protest at attempts to run bullet trains on the line. Network Rail will today say they are launching a review which includes not only adding high speed trains on the Marylebone to Birmingham line, but seeing if it feasible to build another line alongside the existing one in order to double capacity.

What’s on – The forecast says it’s going to be warm and sunny this evening, and the Pimms will be flowing on the lawn. Sounds perfect for a visit to Windsor Racecourse. First race begins at 6.40.

Sunday 22nd June

Big rail review – Network Rail will tomorrow announce a review that will look at doubling the capacity of the Chiltern Line which runs through the Wycombe area. They will look at the possibility of adding extra tracks alongside the entire Marylebone to Birmingham line. It follows predictions that the number of passengers on the line are expected to rise at least 30 per cent in the next ten years.

Nicola’s on course – Amersham super-hurdler Nicola Sanders laid down a clear Olympic marker yesterday when she stormed to victory in the 400 metres European Cup meeting at Annecy, dispelling any doubts about an earlier knee injury.

What’s on - The world’s top rowers are in action at Dorney Lake today as the Marlow International Regatta reaches its climax.

Saturday 21st June

You rotters – People who thought the Henley by-election would be a jolly refined affair have to think again. It got ugly last night with the Tories threatening to sue the Lib Dems over the publication of a by-election leaflet that says the Conservative candidate to replace Boris Johnson – local councillor John Howell – didn’t get involved in a campaign to save the town’s Townlands community hospital. The Tories said that unless the leaflet was withdrawn they would see the Libs in court.

Big signing – Wycombe Wanderers scored a big coup last night in signing 21 year old Millwall striker Chris Zebroski, a prolific goalscorer who was also being courted by clubs in higher divisions. Meanwhile Blues “legend” Terry Evans, a former captain and the club fitness coach, took a fitness job with rugby club London Wasps, who share the Blues’ Adams Park ground. He has been replaced by Damien Doyle whose position is being called Medical and Sports Scientist. Doyle, who two years ago saved the life of a Nottingham Forest player on the pitch at Leicester, is highly regarded and prepares players both physically and mentally for games.

What’s on – Yet again Wycombe’s cricket team is proving one of the finest club sides in the country. They are top of the Home Counties League Division One, and today host big hitters Banbury at their London Road ground

Friday 20th June

School help – Schools secretary Ed Balls said last night he was considering giving up to £1m in extra money to every secondary school in Bucks to help them compete with grammar schools. In his harshest attack on grammars yet, he said that overall grammar schools damaged educational standards in communities like Bucks because they made non-grammar school pupils feel like failures. Last week the Government named five secondary schools in South Bucks as under-achievers, but Mr Balls said he mainly blamed grammars for creaming off the brightest pupils.

Air protest – The number of people in the area who have protested against plans to change the air traffic control system over the Chilterns and Wycombe has been much higher than anticipated. When the consultation over the changes closed last night, more than 5,000 people from the Wycombe area are said to have protested. They say they changes to flight paths in and out of Luton and Heathrow airports will increase noise over countryside where people currently go to enjoy the peace.

What’s on – There’s no script; no rehearsal and no set. Just five comics, led by one of Britain’s top comics, Paul Merton, in a couple of hours worth of improvised humour and banter with a likely sell-out audience. It’s all at Wycombe Swan tonight.

Thursday 19th June

Woolies deal? – Woolworth and Waitrose were saying nothing yesterday as rumours persist that Woolies are about to leave their Wycombe High Street store. The two retail groups reached agreement yesterday for Waitrose to take over four Woolworth stores in London and it’s known the popular supermarket group would like a presence in central Wycombe. Woolworth’s lease on their High Street store, which they have occupied for over 70 years, is due for renewal later this summer.

Young Blues –Old hand manager Peter Taylor is set to rely on promising young players to boost Wycombe Wanderers next season. Yesterday he bought 24 year old Millwall striker Gavin Grant for an undisclosed fee on top of two earlier midfield signings – 20 year old Lewis Spence from Crystal Palace and 22 year old John Mousinho from Brentford. He’s also had a bid accepted for 21 year old striker Chris Zebroski from Brentford – who scored 19 goals on loan to Torquay last season – but the player has yet to decide whether to accept. Zebroski has a fiery past – two years ago he was sacked from Plymouth Argyle after allegedly smashing a glass in the face of his captain in a restaurant, claiming he’d been bullied.

What’s on – Dancing on Ice judge Nicky Slater twirls, chats and skates his way through his own show – Ice Times - at Wycombe Swan tonight.

Wednesday 18th June

Stamped out – Nearly a quarter of post offices around Wycombe are to be closed, the Post Office announced yesterday. Eleven of the area’s 47 post offices are earmarked for the chop because they are losing money. Officially the closures won’t happen until after a consultation period that opened yesterday, but as no post offices elsewhere in the country have been saved by protests in the “consultation” period, no-one is holding their breath.

Donald withdraws – Injured Wycombe golfing superstar Luke Donald pulled out of the BMW International tournament in Munich yesterday as he tries to recover from his injured wrist in time for the Open next month. However his chances of being in the European Ryder Cup team now look slim.

What’s on – Sorry to say today is the last chance to get to Royal Ascot if you haven’t already got a ticket. The rest of the week is sold out. Tickets are £54.

Tuesday 17th June

Donald worry – Wycombe’s superstar golfer Luke Donald will learn today how long he will be out of the game after he walked out of the final round of the American Open with a badly sprained wrist. His brother and coach, Christian, said : “He just felt something go; something go ‘pop’ in his left wrist. It had been playing him up all week.” The 30 year old star – who learnt his golf in Hazlemere and Beaconsfield - was playing well in the tournament and on even par when the accident happened. It’s the latest blow in an average run for him – he’s now dropped to 18th in the world rankings.

Fire probe – Fire and police experts will continue their investigation today into the cause of a fire which badly damaged 200 year old listed building shops in Old Amersham High Street early yesterday. Two restaurants, a country living shop and an empty store were all badly damaged in the blaze which 40 firefighters took five hours to control. Initial investigations in the cause were inconclusive yesterday.

What’s on – Andy Murray joins other tennis stars in the Boodles Challenge at Stoke Park in Stoke Poges today in order to get some much needed practice on grass before Wimbledon.

Monday 16th June

Eden shoots Wycombe to number one - High Wycombe has been the best performing shopping centre in Britain in the last year, according to an influential report out today. But it says shop rents are likely to fall in the town as landlords attempt to fill empty stores. Wycombe has twice as much empty shop space available than this time last year, say Collier’s, the retail property industry’s bible. That’s because the new Eden shopping centre – which has proved an enormous boost to trade - has attracted many retailers from existing premises and those properties are yet to be filled by new shops. The report comes amid increasing rumours that Woolworths is thinking of leaving its High Street location.

Dom recommended – Resigned Shadow Home Secretary David Davis said yesterday that he recommended to Tory leader David Cameron that Beaconsfield MP Dominic Grieve should take his job “because he can do it better than me.” Mr Grieve spent his Sunday working yesterday, grasping new briefs and holding press interviews. His constituents meantime hope his new power base will enable him to stop a dreaded incinerator scheme planned for near one of Beaconsfield’s posh hotels, the Bellhouse.

What’s on – If pomp is your thing, then you can’t get more traditional or pompous (in its literal sense) than today’s Garter Ceremony in Windsor. The 660 year old ceremony – started by Edward III – sees the entire Royal Family, accompanied by the 24 Knights Garter – such luminaries as Lady Thatcher, John Major and various Field Marshalls and Rear Admirals – parading through the grounds of Windsor Castle to St George’s Chapel, escorted by soldiers in all their splendour.

Sunday 15th June

Bill’s award – When, at the age of 23, a young fireman found himself elected a local councillor he was given one piece of advice from a crusty old veteran sitting next to him… “you have two ears and one mouth; use them in that order.” He did, and yesterday, 30 years later, Bill Chapple was awarded an OBE for his services to the community. The deputy leader of Bucks County Council, and a fervent environmentalist, he has won many battles to preserve the Chilterns Area of Natural Outstanding Beauty and is one of the leading figures in the campaign to stop a third runway at Heathrow.

What’s on – Racing driver Jenson Button is one of the competitors in Windsor’s Triathlon today. Elsewhere more than 80 veteran cars will send their way from Henley to Quainton, via Marlow, in the annual Ridgeway Veteran Car run.

Saturday 14th June

Disabled swoop – Police swooped on cars parked in spaces reserved for the disabled throughout the High Wycombe area yesterday to check if the drivers were the people entitled to the disabled pass. They also issued instant fines to drivers of cars without disabled passed who parked cars in disabled bays.

Tough draw – Wycombe Wanderers will entertain Premiership relegated club Birmingham City in the first round of the Carling Cup, drawn yesterday. The game, to be played in mid August, will provide a tough early test for new manager Peter Taylor.

What’s on – Sir Steve Redgrave opens Marlow Regatta and Town Festival in Higginson Park today.

Friday 13th June

Dom’s day – Beaconsfield Tories were cock-a-hoop last night after the town’s MP Dominic Grieve was promoted to Shadow Home Secretary, almost certainly guaranteeing him a senior Cabinet post in a future Conservative government. However, Mr Grieve’s opposition to the 42 day detention proposal for suspected terrorists – which was narrowly approved in the House and Commons and which prompted the resignation on principle of his predecessor David Davis – may cause some embarrassment. When Tory Party members in the constituency discussed the issue a few weeks ago many – some say a majority – argued in favour of the 42 day detention limit.

Lee’s proposal – A new job, and now a new wife. The Apprentice winner Lee McQueen told journalists yesterday that having now secured a new well paid job he was going to propose to his live-in girlfriend for the past nine years, Nicola Jellyman. His victory wasn’t universally greeted yesterday: many told newspapers and websites that he shouldn’t have got the job because he was caught out exaggerating his CV; while others said he shouldn’t have got it because he can’t spell!

What’s on - More open air Shakespeare tonight, this time in a very authentic setting. The courtyard of the Elizabethan manor house Grey’s Court near Henley hosts a performance of the Merry Wives of Windsor by the theatre group Illyria.

Thursday 12th June

Top apprentice – Lee McQueen, the Princes Risborough based £25,000 a year recruitment manager, begins a new £100,000 job heading a digital screen project for Sir Alan Sugar today after winning The Apprentice on TV last night. His victory in one of Britain’s most watched programmes caused big celebrations in some Princes Risborough pubs where the 30 year old has become a local hero.

Fur Play – Jovial Boris Johnson may have gone but the by-election to replace him as Henley MP on June 26 looks as though its going to be a fun affair. When nominations closed last night, 12 candidates had put their names forward, including Bananarama Owen representing the Monster Raving Loony Party; two candidates from the Miss Great Britain Party; one from The Common Good Party; and Mr Harry Bear representing The Fur Play Party.

What’s on – It’s nearly Midsummer’s Day so, appropriately, A Midsummer Night’s Dream is playing outdoors at Beaconsfield’s Hall Barn tonight, tomorrow night and Saturday night. The Chiltern Shakespeare Company is also performing the play next Wednesday to Saturday. And just to prove it really is nearly midsummer, tonight’s weather forecast for Beaconsfield is…showers!

>Wednesday 11th June

I’m no terrorist – The High Wycombe man accused to plotting to blow up airliners in a terror attack portrayed himself as a bit of a loser when he took the stand for the first time yesterday. Supermarket shelf-stacker Assad Sarwar, 25, from Walton Drive, said he didn’t support Osama Bin Laden and that al-Qaeda was “deviant”. He admitted he was easily led and a “weak character” but said that suicide bombers would end up in “hell fire”.

He admitted burying explosives in Kings Wood near his home but said that when he went to find them again he couldn’t remember where they were. He said any explosion would have been a publicity stunt against British foreign policy, but the explosives were needed “to give the stunt authenticity”. He and seven others deny plotting terror attacks at their trial in Woolwich Crown Court.

River rescue – Hundreds of onlookers witnessed a dramatic river rescue after a woman fell into the Thames by Marlow’s parish church and was saved just feet from the gushing Marlow weir. Six police, four paramedics and a dozen firefighters managed to pull the middle aged woman to safety with the aid of a rescue boat, which itself was seemingly in peril. The woman was recovering at home last night.

What’s On – Twenty seven year old actor Gareth Warren plays a 10 year old boy in a stage adaptation of Roald Dahl’s Danny The Champion of the World. You’ll need some imagination, but with Roald Dahl you always do. It runs at Oxford Playhouse until Saturday.

Tuesday 10th June

Market “stagnant” – Signs that the economic slowdown is having its effect in the Wycombe area were around yesterday with reports that a number of estate agents have reduced the hours worked by some staff. One agent said the housing market in the area was “virtually stagnant”.

Oaksey leaves – Wycombe Wanderers popular midfielder Stefan Oakes left the club yesterday and is likely to join Lincoln City. The 29 year old was out of contract and found himself surplus to requirements in new manager Peter Taylor’s thinking. His dad Trevor is guitarist with 1970s showband Showaddywaddy and his brother Scott a fellow professional footballer with Sheffield Wednesday.

What’s on – Actor Joe McGann takes the “Topol” role as the touring version of Fiddler on the Roof opens at Wycombe Swan tonight. It runs until Saturday.

Monday 9th June

Ambulance crisis – Bosses of the local ambulance service meet today to plan cuts in staffing and equipment to cope with what they describe as a “serious funding crisis”. South Central Ambulance say emergency cover will not be affected. One of the problems is the soaring cost of fuel – a year ago it cost £87 to fill up an ambulance; today it costs £117.

Blues windfall – Wycombe Wanderers are set for a windfall after their former skipper Roger Johnson has been made available by his current club Cardiff City for an asking price of £3m. Premiership clubs said to be interested in Johnson will have to pay Wycombe a slice under a “moving on” agreement.

What’s on – It’s 40 years since Dad’s Army first appeared on our screens and its enduring appeal goes on. The popular stage version, starring Leslie Grantham as Private Walker, opens for a week’s run at Windsor’s Theatre Royal.

Saturday 7th June

What’s on – It’s Maidenhead Carnival today with the procession through the town tomorrow. In Windsor a prestigious sculpture exhibition opens at Savill Gardens, while Wycombe Swan hosts a Pink Floyd tribute gig tonight.

Friday 6th June

Drugs bust Police recovered over £4000 worth of drugs from a house in Desborough Road yesterday following a number of raids this week. A 27 year old man was charged with possession of a class A drug with intent to supply and is awaiting trial.

What’s on – David Essex is still packing ‘em in. His national tour stops off at Wycombe Swan tonight.

Thursday 5th June

What’s on – “Grumpy old woman” comic Jenny Éclair presents her one woman show at Wycombe Swan.

Wednesday 4th June

Rain havoc - Heavy rain caused flash flooding and traffic chaos across Wycombe yesterday following sustained rainfall which included half an inch falling in just one hour - what would normally fall in the whole of June. The rainfall was recorded as the heaviest in the country and caused flash floods to occur in dips and valleys leading to traffic congestion throughout the area. Fortunately the forecast is better for the next few days - although there is still little sign of any summer weather.

What’s on – A rare chance to see Frogmore in Windsor Great Park today – a place steeped in Royal history and drama – when the gardens are opened for charity.

Tuesday 3rd June

New library – Wycombe’s new state of the art library – one of the most technically advanced in the country – opens today. The £5.6m complex, in Wycombe’s Eden shopping centre, will open on Sundays, but will close all day Mondays.

What’s on – Wycombe Museum hosts a one-off today – a guided tour to show the fascinating history of Castle Hill House and Garden.

Monday 2nd June

Dallaglio new role After guiding Wasps to Premiership play-off glory at the weekend in his farewell match, Lawrence Dallaglio now turns his attention to a new role as an ambassader to the club. Wasps primarily plan to use him to raise £6 million in sponsorship to fund a move away from Adams Park to a more spacious stadium. Although the rugby club would like to stay in High Wycombe, they are in desperate need of a stadium twice the size of Adams Park to match the income of their rivals. Any new stadium in the town would house both Wasps and Wanderers with Wasps contributing the most money.

Cemetery guard – Councillors looks set to agree to spend nearly £50,000 tonight on providing security cameras at High Wycombe cemetery in an attempt to cut back on vandalism and grave desecration.

What’s on – TV coppers Stephen Beckett (The Bill) and Richard Harris (The Last Detective) open for a week’s run in the thriller The Business of Murder at Windsor’s Theatre Royal

Sunday 1st June

What’s on – The final event of this year’s Wycombe Arts Festival is a guided tour of the gardens of Bradenham Manor, the 16th century home of the father of Benjamin Disraeli. Tickets need to be bought in advance. Elsewhere Marlow Regatta continues and there’s a Donkey Derby at Twyford.

Saturday 31st May

Dog rescue – A specialist team of firefighters spent over two hours rescuing a dog which fell 20ft down a silo pit on a farm in Radnage yesterday.

What’s on – Marlow Regatta gets underway today while at the Chiltern Open Air Museum in Chalfont St Giles there are special presentations focussing on World War Two and D-Day. The popular Horrible Histories stage version wraps at the Wycombe Swan , while at Oxford Playhouse Anita Dobson stars in Hello Dolly.

Friday 30th May

New strikers – Wycombe Wanderers new boss Peter Taylor is going to make his priority bringing in new players, including additional strikers, he said yesterday. The ex-England under 21 coach, who described Wycombe as a “well run club with great potential”, said promotion was certainly on the cards next season but the team would have to improve on the 62 goals it managed last season. Although the club says it now wants stablility after appointing four managers in four years, Taylor has only been appointed on a one-year rolling contract basis.

Post Boris – Tories in Henley will meet tonight to select one of three local councillors to stand as MP in the town. Current MP Boris Johnson is due to resign when he returns from holiday next week to concentrate on his new job as Mayor of London, so a by-election can be held late next month. Local councillors Anne Ducker, John Cotton and John Howell have all been shortlisted following the intervention of Conservative leader David Cameron.

What’s on – Anita Harris, Derren Nesbitt and Victor Spinetti star in Come On Jeeves, based on P.G.Wodehouse’s infamous character at Windsor’s Theatre royal tonight and tomorrow

Thursday 29th May

Manager announcement – Wycombe Wanderers are expected to announce former England under-21 coach Peter Taylor as their new manager at a press conference today. The 55 year old has managed Southend, Gillingham, Leicester, Brighton, Hull and Crystal Palace and resigned at the end of last season as manager of non-league Stevenage. He has recently rejected an offer from Kevin Keegan to take charge of the youth academy at Newcastle saying he wanted another stab at management.

Underground theft – Over a 2,000 computers and phones were rendered useless in parts of Maidenhead yesterday after thieves sneaked into a telephone duct and stole 200 metres of cabling.

What’s on – The professional theatre company Elsewhere stage As You Like It in the ground of Wycombe Museum tonight, tomorrow night and Saturday night, as part of Wycombe Arts Festival.

Wednesday 28th May

Village grieves – The picturesque village of Great Haseley near Thame was in mourning last night after learning that one of its young residents had been killed on duty in Afghanistan. Twenty two year old Royal Marine Dale Gostick died after his armoured car was blown up in Helmand Province. In a tribute his family described him has a great character, while in the village pub locals remembered him as a man of fun and laughter. A special service is likely to be held in the village church.

Power cut – Parts of High Wycombe, including the new Eden shopping centre, lost their electricity supply yesterday after two power stations feeding the town and surrounding area failed. Wycombe Hospital was also affected and operations had to be cancelled when one of the back-up generators caught fire.

Bookies favourite – The man whose football career was dealt a major blow by Wycombe Wanderers has emerged as bookies favourite to be the club’s new manager. Peter Taylor was manager of Leicester City – at the time riding high in the premier league – when the Blues beat them in the quarter final of the FA Cup seven years ago. After that Leicester’s form continued to deteriorate and Taylor was sacked. However he revived his career, laying the foundations for Hull City’s eventual rise to the premiership.

Tuesday 27th May

Book sensation – A High Wycombe authoress is set for international stardom after her first controversial novel is smashing records. Charolotte Roche’s “Wetlands” – described by fans as an “erotic literary classic” and by critics as “crude pornography” – has so far been published only in Germany where it has sold half a million copies in a few weeks. Amazon has reported record pre-bookings now that publishers are fighting to print the book in English. It will transform the mother of two, who now lives in Germany, into a multi-millionaire.

Henley by-election – It looks as though Boris Johnson will resign as Henley MP this week following his victory in the mayoral elections in London, enabling a by-election to be held in the rock solid Tory constituency early in July. However, according to the Daily Mail, Boris’s father Stanley has been told by party leader David Cameron that he will not be a candidate and that instead a local candidate – probably an existing Henley councillor – will be put forward.

New manager – It’s thought Wycombe Wanderers has received at least 20 applications for the manager’s job following the resignation of boss Paul Lambert, and club officials will start shortlisting at the end of this week. One man who has already said he’s applied for the job is Alan Curbishley’s number two at West Ham, Kevin Keen. Meanwhile Paul Lambert was last night linked with taking over at Scottish club Motherwell, while one of the players he brought to Wycombe, Gary Holt, was being linked with a move to Dundee.

Saturday 24th May

What’s on -Events taking place this bank holiday weekend include vintage steam cruises on the Thames from Bourne End, while on Sunday and Monday there are Medieval pageants at Chiltern Open Air Museum; shire horse rides as part of a craft fair at the Old Shire Horse Centre in Littlewick Green; the Tring canal festival; sheep racing at Odds Farm Park in Wooburn Common; and a veteran transport gala at Bucks Rail Centre in Quainton. The Henley Arts Trail gets underway all weekend and there’s a flower festival at St Laurence’s atop West Wycombe Hill.

Other one-off events include Marlow May Fayre, Burnham Donkey Derby and the opening on Enid Blyton’s cottage garden at her old home in Well End, Marlow (all on Saturday); Holmer Green’s beer festival and hog roast; a gymkana at Sallery’s Field Tring, and seven gardens open for charity in Wendover (all on Sunday). Monday sees the opening of Chenies Manor House and Pitstone Green Museum.

Meanwhile, one of the country’s biggest model railway exhibitions – Railex 08 – takes place Saturday and Sunday at Stoke Mandeville Stadium. Wycombe Arts Festival begins to wind down with Mozart’s Requiem at Wycombe’s All Saints Church and African music night at the Royal Grammar School (both Saturday)

Friday 23rd May

Restaurateur jailed – A man described in court as the owner of Wycombe’s Golden Palace Chinese restaurant in the town centre has been jailed for six years. Yit Ho, aged 31, of Mentmore Road, High Wycombe, was said to have slashed two men with a knife in Essex over an unpaid debt.

Party games – The Henley by-election is likely to take place in mid-summer so the Conservatives can keep up the publicity momentum generated by their strong showing in yesterday’s Crewe and Nantwich by-election, according to Westminster pundits yesterday. It was expected that Henley MP Boris Johnson would resign within days of winning the Mayor of London election earlier this month, but instead Conservative Central Office are said to want him to resign next month so a by-election can be held in the summer.

No money – Scot Paul Lambert left as manager of Wycombe Wanderers because he didn’t think he would have enough funds to buy players to strengthen the squad as he wanted, sources in Scotland said last night. Meanwhile wishful thinking fans were winding up the rumour machine on various websites yesterday about a successor – naming Glenn Hoddle and Stuart Pearce as two names on the wishlist.

Thursday 22nd May

Players leave – Seven players yesterday followed manager Paul Lambert out of the door at Wycombe Wanderers, having been released by the club. Only one, Sam Stockley, was a first team regular, but in addition the club confirmed that popular on-loan goalie Frank Fielding won’t be back next season. Meanwhile, fans still wanting to know the real reason for Mr Lambert’s departure, were only getting platitudes yesterday, while the former manager was linked with a new job at Leicester City.

Pub watch – Police were visibly present in a number of town centre pubs last night as large crowds of opposing Man U and Chelsea fans gathered round large screens to watch the Champions League final. There were no reports of any trouble.

Wednesday 21st May

Manager puzzle – As Wycombe Wanderers begin to search for a new manager today, there’s still mystery over yesterday’s departure of their old one, Paul Lambert. The club insisted Mr Lambert only made up his mind to go after Saturday’s play-off defeat at Stockport, but Mr Lambert himself told Sky Sport he had decided to go two months ago and that “one or two things didn’t sit with me.” Now there’s concern that some of the talented Scottish players who came to the club because the ex-Scottish international and Celtic star was in charge will also be wanting out. Bookies are yet to open odds on a replacement, but many fans last night wanted youth coach Ian Culverhouse to be given a chance.

Million compensation – A woman left in a deep coma following a road accident won over a million pounds in compensation yesterday from the estate of the uninsured driver who was killed in the crash. Tizzy Ellattaoui, aged 32, was left “in a minimal consciousness state needing 24/7 care,” after the crash in Thame nine years ago, the High Court heard. Her mother sued the estate of her boyfriend Neil Sullivan and the Motor Insurers Bureau, a body that compensates victims of uninsured drivers. Her daughter was awarded three quarters of a million in a lump sum and £73,000 a year for life.

Strangely silent - Residents in wealthy Gerrards Cross, many of whom have been objecting strongly to a new Tesco in the town on the basis that it will put smaller shops out of business, have so far raised no objection to plans by Waitrose to also open a supermarket in the High Street. Indeed, according to the more upmarket Waitrose, many locals have positively welcomed their impending arrival.

Tuesday 20th May

2.30pm - Lambert resigns - Paul Lambert has resigned as manager of Wycombe Wanderers saying in an official statement that he felt it was time to move on after failing to gain the club promotion to league 1. However in a tv interview with Sky Sports News he said he had made the decision 2 months ago and was disappointed with the way things had ended and is looking for a new job asap. The club have now begun their search to appoint what will be their fourth manager in four years.

Designer baby row – Beaconsfield MP Dominic Grieve caused uproar in the House of Commons last night when he said aspects of the controversial Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill would enable the creation of “designer babies”. Mr Grieve, a devout Christian, was opposed to saviour siblings – a proposition that a baby is born so its tissue can help cure a sick older brother or sister. “We are talking of the creation of human beings specifically for the genetic benefit of others,” he told MPs. “The intention is to design child who would fulfil a purpose.” But Health Minister Dawn Primarolo strongly denied that the legislation would lead to designer babies in the accepted meaning of the term.

Road deaths – Police appealed for witnesses last night after the body of a 22 year old man was discovered in a car in the field two days after the vehicle had been involved in an accident. A walker discovered the car in the field at Lower Wingbury near Aylesbury. The victim comes from Wingrave. Meanwhile a 71 year old van driver, who died in a collision with a coach at Gerrards Cross yesterday, was named last night as David Lawson, who lived in the town. The six passengers on the bus were uninjured. And a 39 year old motorcyclist, killed in a crash with a car on the Henley to Watlington road, was named last night as Elizabeth Buckett, from Henley.

Lambert plea – Fans, players and directors at Wycombe Wanderers will urge manager Paul Lambert to stay at the club when he returns from his home in Scotland today. The former Scottish international has indicated he may leave the club but needed a couple of days to think things over after Saturday’s exit from the League 2 play-offs.

Monday 19th May

Fans thwarted -Police and TV executives combined to prevent hundreds of Wycombe Wanderers supporters seeing half of the team’s vital playoff game at the weekend, even though the teams and the referee were willing to delay the start of the game, it emerged last night. Up to 700 fans were stuck in coaches and cars on the M6 for over two hours because of a fatal accident and didn’t arrive at the Stockport game until half time. Officials at the game knew of the problem and referee Andy D’Urso and the managers were happy to wait for them to arrive. But the police said delaying the game could mean supporters already there who had travelled by rail could miss the last train back, while Sky TV bosses were said to be unwilling to disrupt TV schedules.

Meanwhile, disappointed Blues manager Paul Lambert will meet club officials and his players tomorrow to indicate whether he is prepared to stay at the club after two years in charge.

Boris hangs on – There’s surprise in Henley that Mayor of London Boris Johnson has not yet resigned as the area’s MP, despite his pledge to do so if he won the mayoral election. Tory officials in the town said last night Boris will resign but refused to name a date. In the meantime they insist he is able to act as full time MP and Mayor of London at the same time. Insiders believe Conservative Central Office want to pick a candidate for the rock solid Tory seat after discussions with party leader David Cameron…and he is too busy concentrating on this week’s by-election in Crewe and Nantwich.

Dancing Dan – Pupils at Wycombe’s Sir William Ramsay School will give 13 year old Daniel Pirie a rousing reception today after his dancing display earned him the title of “Britain’s new Billy Elliot” in the ITV show Britain’s Got Talent at the weekend. Daniel, who also acts as a carer for his wheelchair bound mum, has his ballet classes paid for by a charity. He’s now preparing for the next stage of the competition.

Sunday 18th May

Coaches blocked – Hundreds of Wycombe Wanderers supporters missed half of yesterday’s League Two second leg play off after seven coaches were stuck in a mega motorway snarl up. The fans waited two and a half hours on the M6 in their official supporters’ coaches, just a few hundred feet from an accident involving two pedestrians trying to cross the motorway. Both female pedestrians, believed to be women, were killed. The fans arrived at Stockport’s Edgerly Park ground at half time to find their team already 1-0 down – a scoreline that didn’t change despite strong Wycombe pressure in the second half. It mean the Wanderers lost the two ties on aggregate by 2-1, and they’ll remain in League 2 next season.

Manger’s future – Emotional Wycombe Wanderers manager Paul Lambert indicated he may leave the club after last night’s play-off defeat. The former Scottish international, who’s been in charge for two years, said he needed a few days to “think things over before talking to the right people,” adding: “It’s not just this game. There are lots of things going through my mind at the moment.”

Friday 16th May

Weir hero – The man who died earlier this week in a weir had jumped into the try and save a girl struggling in the water, it emerged yesterday. Len Woodman, aged 37, of Hillngdon was walking with his family in Denham Country Park when he saw a 15 year old girl in difficulties. But while the girl managed to scramble to safety, father of one Mr Woodman was dragged under the swirling water.

Quake survivor – A Chesham man missing in the Chinese earthquake zone managed to contact his family yesterday to say that he’s safe. John Arnold, 67, called his daughter in Woodley Hill four days after the quake – it had taken him that long to get out of the area to find a spot where he could get a phone signal.

Ticket only – Stockport County yesterday made tomorrow’s League 2 second leg play off against Wycombe Wanderers a ticket-only game, meaning that Blues fans hoping to buy a ticket at the gate will be disappointed. There are around 500 tickets for Wycombe fans left which need to be bought at Adams Park today. So far around 1,500 Blues supporters are making the trip for the vital game. The first leg resulted in a 1-1 draw.

Thursday 15th May

Water warning – As the first significant rain of the month falls today, Thames Water yesterday warned that major new reservoirs are needed. The company said the Wycombe area, which also includes Slough and Aylesbury, is anticipated to have 20 per cent more water in storage than will be used for the next two years. After that the reserve is expected to drop to just seven per cent. Yesterday Thames Water unveiled plans for the country’s biggest reservoir in Oxfordshire and said they may also need to build giant reservoirs at Marsh Gibbon or Quainton near Aylesbury.

Another attack – A 18 year old man is in a serious condition in hospital after he was found by a dog walker yesterday with severe head injuries. It’s thought he could have lain in a nature reserve off Eastfield Road, Aylesbury all night. Meanwhile, police went out of their way to reassure residents that “Thame is safe” after the weekend rape of a 16 year old and the sexual assault of her friend, also in a nature reserve. They issued a fresh appeal for witnesses after they discovered that the two girls and another friend were with the two men in their twenties who committed the offences for an hour before the attack took place.

Merger go-ahead – The two commercial local radio stations covering Wycombe and Aylesbury have been given permission to broadcast “merged” shows for part of the time so they can save money. Mix 107 in Wycombe and Mix 96 in Aylesbury are both owned by the Local Radio Company. Permission has also been given for the company to base Mix 96 in Wycombe, but the company says it doesn’t intend doing so in the immediate future. They say local radio advertising is holding up despite the economic slowdown.

Wednesday 14th May

On the brink – The Wycombe area’s economy, which has so far shown a remarkable resilience to the national slowdown, was showing signs of tottering yesterday. Surveyors reported that 77 per cent of property prices fell in April, compared to one per cent showing a rise. This compared with five per cent showing an increase in March. The number of people making inquiries about buying property is also falling dramatically. Meanwhile, some traders in Wycombe’s new shopping centre said business at the Eden over the past week has been the quietest since the complex opened – although the hot weather may be as much to blame as the economy.

Flutterby butterfly – A very rare butterfly which was only known to breed in a small and secret location north west of High Wycombe has started spreading its wings. Species of the Brown Hairstreak have been spotted by butterfly enthusiasts in areas several miles from their known location.

Barmy army – So far over 1,000 Wycombe Wanderers fans have bought tickets for Saturday’s second leg of the League Two play off at Stockport, even though bookies are making Stockport overwhelming favourites to go through.

Tuesday 13th May

Girls attacked – A major hunt is underway to find two men who attacked three 16 year old girls near a recreation ground, raping one and sexually assaulting another. Details of Saturday evening’s attack in Cuttlebrook Nature Reserve in Thame were only revealed by police last night because it has taken time to piece together details from the traumatised girls. People enjoying the facilities in the adjoining Southern Road recreation ground may have seen the attackers described as white men in their early twenties, with spiked jelled hair.

Weir death – An inquiry is underway to discover how a man died in a weir after apparently losing control of his small boat. The man, who has yet to be identified, was declared dead at the scene of the accident in Denham’s country park.

Midsomer tours – Fans of TV’s Midsomer Murders are to descend on the Wycombe area from all over the world next month in an organised tour. They’ll stay in Thame and visit the Chiltern villages around Wycombe that act as locations for the series, which is gaining in popularity in countries across the globe.

Monday 12th May

All square – Wycombe Wanderers go to the second leg of their League 2 playoff at Stockport next weekend all square. They drew 1-1 at a lively Adams Park last night, the Blues goal coming from Delroy Facey.

Art show – High Wycombe’s biggest art exhibition of the year – at the town hall - gets underway today as part of the Wycombe Arts Festival.

Saturday 10th May/Sunday 11th May

What’s on this weekend –Saturday is a time to celebrate traditions stretching back to the Middle Ages. High Wycombe’s traditional weighing in the new mayor takes place in Frogmoor from11.45. The retiring mayor, Val Razzaq, is publicly weighed and if she has put weight on in her year of office she’s roundly booed. The new mayor, Paul Lambourne, will to wait for his boos or cheers next year. Lots of pomp and fun and games.

Meanwhile the centre of old Beaconsfield receives its annual travelling fair today, clogging up traffic for irate 21st century motorists, but hey, it’s OK because they’ve been doing it hundreds of years. Meanwhile the more recent, but equally famous, Carter’s Steam Fair sets up at Pinkneys Green this weekend.

There’s plenty for culture vultures on Saturday, including a Handl concert at St John’s Church, High Wycombe as part of the Wycombe Arts Festival ; while Handl also features along with works from Purcell and Torelli at Maidenhead’s Norden Farm Arts Centre. The Wycombe Orpheus Male Voice Choir play Wycombe Swan tonight, while over at the Henley River and Rowing Museum the summer art exhibition featuring works from British artist Chris Gollen gets underway.

Sunday has its share of history too with two ancient mills holding open days – the Pann Mill on Wycombe Rye and the Lacey Green Windmill. Wycombe Arts Festival sees quirky duo Simon Mayor and Hilary James ripping through a repertoire ranging from hoe down to hornpipes at St Lawrence’s Church.

In an attempt to reintroduce people to the attractions of the River Thames, Sunday sees the start of half-price week on all boat hirings and pleasure cruises on the river; while the Upper Thames Sailing Club at Bourne End is holding an open day. Meanwhile all eyes will be on Adams Park on Sunday evening when Wycombe Wanderers play Stockport County in the first leg of the League Two play-off. Kick off is at 6pm.

Friday 9th May

Data centre – Britain’s biggest computer data centre – and the second largest in Europe – is to be built in High Wycombe, it was confirmed yesterday. The multi-million pound complex at the former Molins tobacco machinery factory at Saunderton, will make Wycombe a major centre in Britain’s booming IT industry. The 50 acre site will become super secure as it will hold the computer records of hundreds of major companies; and it will also be a massive energy user: it’s anticipated the building will use three times the amount of energy currently used by the whole of High Wycombe.

Bluebells boom – Experts say the show of bluebells in the Chiltern Hills this year is the best for a generation. The combination of a cold March and wet April followed by a sunny May has proved an ideal combination. But with temperatures set to hit the mid 20s centigrade this weekend, you better get out to see them now because by next week they will be beginning to fade.

Play off – Tickets are selling well for Sunday’s first League Two play-off at Adams Park between Wycombe Wanderers and Stockport County. Manager Paul Lambert is confident he’ll be able to play his best available side.

Thursday 8th May

Servers nicked – Hundreds of people who have bought tickets for the Womad music festival in July were assured yesterday that their financial details have not been stolen after thieves nicked servers from a High Wycombe computer data centre. The thieves took servers and routers after breaking into the Opal Telecom base on Wycombe’s Cressex estate. The theft resulted in the collapse of the Womad site and a number of others, including that of Womad organiser, musician Peter Gabriel. The sites are expected to be back online today with the organisers stressing that security details have not been taken.

House gutted – A specially trained dog that can sniff out bodies was used yesterday to sniff through rubble after a house was destroyed by fire within minutes in Brandon Road, High Wycombe. Fortunately, the house was empty but the entire contents were destroyed. Investigators will be at the site today trying to establish the fire’s cause.

No charges – Two High Wycombe men arrested in connection with the murder of a 17 year old in Reading town centre over the bank holiday weekend, were released without charge last night. Robert Spence from Burghfield Common near Reading was stabbed to death in the early hours of Saturday. The two Wycombe men in their twenties were arrested on Monday and questioned for 48 hours

Wednesday 7th May

Rugby tragedy – High Wycombe rugby players are mourning the death of a 17 year old youth player who collapsed and died during a training session. Aaron Chesney, of Farnham Common, had been a member of High Wycombe Rugby Club since he was a young boy. An inquest will be held.

Nimrod probe – Meanwhile, the inquest gets underway today of Wycombe Royal Marine Joe Windall who was one of 14 servicemen killed when their Nimrod aircraft exploded in flames on a mission in Afghanistan in 2006. Yesterday members of 22 year old Joe’s family joined other bereaved families to look at an identical Nimrod to the one that crashed. The inquest will examine whether the aged planes were in any way to blame for the accident.

Talked down – A Windsor policeman is in line for an award after he talked to safety a man threatening to jump off a footbridge onto the M4. Acting sergeant Tristan Newsome spent an hour calming the man who was standing on the bridge ledge at Langley. The motorway was closed while Sgt Newsome coaxed the man, in his twenties, from the ledge. The man is now receiving psychiatric help.

Tuesday 6th May

Boris resigns – Boris Johnson is set to officially resign as Henley’s MP today following his success in the London mayoral elections. Senior members of the constituency, which covers Henley, Thame and part of Princes Risborough, will meet tonight to discuss the procedures for finding a successor in the rock-solid Tory seat. Boris’s father Stanley, a former Conservative Euro MP, has already said he will be putting his name forward.

Alley reopens –Wycombe’s new bowling alley is likely to reopen today after a fire in an electrical room at the Eden shopping centre caused it to be evacuated on Saturday. The neighbouring cinema also had to be evacuated for a few hours while safety checks were carried out, plus a Sushi bar which had only opened the day before.

Political neighbour – Tony Blair’s new Chilterns home – confirmed yesterday as the late actor Sir John Geilgud’s mansion at Wooten Underwood – has someone with a family political history living next door. David Gladstone is a great, great, great nephew of Liberal prime minister William Ewart Gladstone.

May Day Bank Holiday Weekend

Friday 2nd May

What’s on today – The May Day bank holiday weekend gets underway today, with some half decent weather predicted for most of it. Amersham Country Market takes place this morning, while at lunchtime there’s an organ recital at Marlow’s All Saint’s. On stage Cats plays tonight and finishes with two performances tomorrow at Wycombe Swan; Richard Digence plays Henley’s Kenton Theatre; Steeleye Span at Reading Concert Hall tonight and psychic Shaun Ellis appears at Wycombe Town Hall. If reptiles are your thing the local herpetological group meets at Amersham Community Centre tonight with talk and exhibition.

Saturday 3rd May -

What’s on today - Wycombe Wanderers play Bradford in the final game of the season at Adams Park this afternoon. Hughenden Manor has a family day from noon, while at Marlow’s Rebellion Brewery there’s a wine tasting day. Whiteleaf Golf Club at Princes Risborough has an open day while at Ashridge there’s an introduction to birdwatching, open to both adults and children (you’ll need to book on 01442 851227). There’s a toy and train fair at Beaconsfield School, a funfair on Wycombe’s Rye, while Longwick village holds its traditional May Fair with morris dancing, maypole dancing and the usual traditional celebrations. On stage there’s Macbeth in French at Marlow’s Shelley Theatre, a Led Zeppelin tribute gig at Wycombe Town Hall and Billy Bragg at Reading’s Hexagon.

Sunday 4th May

What’s on today - Crucial game at Adams Park today when London Wasps take on Premiership league leaders Gloucester. Wycombe’s ranger guides will be leading spring walks through three woods starting at Cock Lane cemetery car park at 10am, while Munday Dean nature reserve at Marlow has an open day from 2pm. The Manor House at Bledlow is also opening its gardens for public viewing this afternoon and tomorrow afternoon . On stage there’s a Chorcal Eucharist as part of Wycombe Arts Festival at Marlow’s All Saint’s Church this morning (9.30am), a Queen tribute gig at Windsor’s Theatre Royal and the Chuckle Brothers at Hayes Beck Theatre.

Monday 5th May

What’s on today - Traditional May Fairs at St Augustine’s in High Wycombe and Cox Green in Maidenhead. The Chiltern Open Air Museum at Chalfont St Giles is holding displays of traditional light cavalry throughout the day, while the Bucks Rail Centre in Quainton has a rail festival, with visiting locos in steam. The Longridge adventure park in Quarrywood Road, Marlow is holding a free open day this afternoon, accompanied by a craft show. Chenies is holding its annual spring walk at 11am – a five mile walk in aid of charity.

Thursday 1st May

Barbed wire nutter – Police are organising extra patrols in an attempt to catch a maniac who is placing strands of barbed wire at neck height on footbridges and footpaths around Dorney. They say cyclists and joggers could suffer serious injuries if they fail to see the traps and have warned everyone in the area to take extra care.

School’s fame – A local school using sixth formers in preference to supply teachers found itself at the centre of national and international attention yesterday. Chalfonts Community College pays sixth formers a fiver to give a 50 minute lesson to younger pupils – an experiment that’s received the thumbs up from pupils, parents and teachers. However, education authorities are biting their lips over the scheme. The National Union of Teachers is opposed, the Bucks education authority is saying nothing and the Government says that although it’s not illegal, it is not something they would like to see encouraged.

Democracy in action – Derek Canziani was fed up when the council failed to fill the potholes in the roads near his home. So in today’s local election he is hoping to become a councillor in Slough so he can agitate from within the town hall. He has even formed his own party –the Slough Party – with a pledge to fill in every pothole in the town.

Wednesday 30th April

House prices rise – More evidence that the Wycombe area is mysteriously bucking economic trends came yesterday when the Land Registry reported that house prices rose last month. Throughout Bucks house prices rose by a third of a percent, but the figures were more pronounced in the Wycombe area. In neighbouring Oxfordshire house prices rose half a per cent. Virtually everywhere else in the country, prices fell.

Motocross tragedy – A motocross venue in Flackwell Heath is under investigation after a 17 year old rider died in hospital yesterday two days after he injured himself in the chest at the Heath End Road course. Health and Safety officials, aided by police bike experts, are expected to conclude a report today. Local motocross enthusiasts defended the course and said the tragedy was a pure accident. The rider has not been officially named.

Boris future – Friends of London mayoral candidate Boris Johnson insisted yesterday that he will return to the “day job” as MP for Henley if he loses to Ken Livingstone in tomorrow’s election. They rubbished talk he may take a London based political role if he loses so he’ll be in a better position to win next time, and denounced as a gimmick Ken Livingston offer to give Boris a role in his administration so he can get more London experience. Should Mr Johnson become Mayor of London however, he will resign as Henley MP

Tuesday 29th April

Racist banned – A Wycombe man banned from attending any football matches for the next three years after admitting shouting racist abuse at Milton Keynes players earlier this month, may be banned for life from Adams Park, the home of Wycombe Wanderers. Alan Liddiard, aged 38, of Abercrombie Avenue was banned and fined by magistrates following his behaviour at the MK Dons v Wycombe Wanderers match earlier this month. Last night the Blues were trying to discover if he was a regular Wanderers supporter. If he is, the club’s board will consider imposing a longer and possibly life-time ban.

Resilient shoppers – The research firm CACI yesterday named High Wycombe as one of three “resilient” shopping areas where High Street shops are not suffering a downturn, despite the ever tightening credit card squeeze. It remains a mystery why Wycombe shoppers – together with those in Epsom and Guildford – remain spending while virtually everywhere else in the country is cutting back. Last month John Lewis’ Wycombe store performed better than any other in the group, increasing sales by 17 per cent compared to the previous year.

Black spot – Police think that two bad accidents within a few hours of each other at virtually the same spot on the M40 yesterday were purely coincidence. In the first at just after nine o’clock a 50 year old van driver died when his car careered into an embankment and overturned between the Beaconsfield and Loudwater junctions. Four hours later a woman and a child were injured, but not seriously, when their car also left the road between the same junctions.

Monday 28th April

Blairs arrive – Tony Blair and his family look set to move to High Wycombe. They have put in a bid for a 16th century farmhouse called Pophleys at Stokenchurch which used to belong to former Jethro Tull lead singer Ian Anderson. The former prime minister fell in love with the Chilterns countryside with his frequent visits to Chequers, just five miles away from his proposed new home. He is waiting to see if the £5.25m bid he’s put in for the eight bedroom red-bricked property – a former convent – will be accepted.

James departs – Meanwhile Wycombe’s BAFTA winner actor James Corden announced at the weekend he’s leaving his flat in the town to base himself in London. He intends to share a luxury bachelor pad with friend and fellow actor Dominic Cooper, a co-star in the movie The History Boys.

Contestant row –Aylesbury supermarket manager Dennis Powell was at the centre of a TV fixing row last night following his appearance on the National Lottery quiz show. Protestors claimed that viewers thought the 41 year old was chosen at random from the audience, but the programme makers admitted he had been chosen beforehand. In the last six years Mr Powell has appeared as a contestant in the Weakest Link; National Lottery Jet Set; Beg Borrow or Steal; Deal or No Deal and Are You Smarter than a Ten Year Old?, winning more than £20,000 in prizes. There’s no suggestion that Mr Powell has been involved in any fix – he just enjoys entering quiz shows.

Saturday 26th April

Welcome home – Soldiers from the 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards will be marching through Windsor today at a specially organised welcome home parade following a tour of duty in Afghanistan. The troops, based at the town’s Victoria Barracks, will march through the town from 11.15, with the mayor taking the salute at the Guildhall at 11.30.

Friday 25th April

Stadium hope –Wycombe Wanderers and London Wasps rugby club were celebrating last night after a major obstacle preventing them from expanding their Adams Park stadium was removed. The Government, backed by the council, has agreed to remove the land surrounding the stadium from Green Belt status, which means that getting planning permission for commercial development around an expanded stadium, coupled with a link road to and from the M40, will be easier to obtain. In the meantime the clubs will continue looking for a possible site to build a new stadium/hotel complex elsewhere in the Wycombe area.

“Happy” farewell – Mourners at today’s funeral of 18 year old Indira Swann – the gap year student killed in a coach crash in Ecuador last week – are being asked to wear “happy clothes” as her family want it to be a celebration of her life. After a thanksgiving service at a church near her home in Maidenhead, family and friends will drink to Indira’s memory at her favourite pub in Hurley.

Paraglider hurt – A paraglider is being treated in hospital today after he crash-landed into the ground at around 20mph. The man, who has not been named, managed to untangle himself and crawl 20 metres before collapsing. Paramedics, who had to secure him to a board so he could be helicoptered to hospital, said he was lucky the ground in the field behind Vincent Road, Aylesbury were he landed was relatively soft because of heavy rain. Firemen had to scale the nearby River Thame on ladders to be the first to reach him.

Thursday 24th April

Big Mac education – A leading academic has slammed a deal between Wycombe based Buckinghamshire New University and Dreams, one of the town’s most successful companies. Under the deal staff at Dreams can take a foundation degree in retail management, but sociologist Professor Frank Furedi said yesterday the arrangement amounted to “no more than rebranding a company training scheme and promoting it as a university course.” Professor Furedi said it represented the “McDonaldisation of Britain’s universities”.

Lock-keepers evicted – A dozen lock-keepers and their families will have to find new homes after the Environment Agency announced yesterday it was selling lock-keepers’ cottages on the Thames and other local rivers to save money. Those affected include lock-keepers at Marlow and Cookham.

Ain’t bovvered – Councillors who expected a major battle against plans to site incinerators in Bucks have been surprised that opposition has not been so widespread. When consultation ends tomorrow it’s thought that just over 1,000 protests will have been registered. The council is considering placing an incinerator to burn waste near the A40 between Beaconsfield and Gerrards Cross and another one in the north of the county.

Wednesday 23rd April

Prices falling, unless… - House prices in the Wycombe area at last appear to be falling in line with the rest of the country, local estate agents said yesterday. However, not for the super-rich. A report by elite estate agents Knight Frank yesterday said the prices of multi-million pound properties are actually rising, and Buckinghamshire, it said, is now one of the most expensive property buying areas in the world.

Schools closed – Around 25 schools in Buckinghamshire and 30 in Oxfordshire will be closed or partially closed tomorrow because of a strike by members of the National Union of Teachers in support of a pay claim.

Loo rescue – Toddler Connie Harris was all smiles yesterday when firefighters – and photographers – arrived to rescue her after she put her toilet trainer seat on her head…and it got stuck. Wearing the loo seat as a necklace Connie giggled as firemen sawed the seat free at her home in Wooburn Green. Connie is 22 months – whether she’ll still be smiling at the pictures when she’s 22 years is another matter!

Tuesday 22nd April

Student village – Plans for a controversial “student village” in the centre of High Wycombe look set to get the nod tomorrow provided certain conditions are met. Buckinghamshire New University wants to build accommodation for 672 students on an old furniture factory site in Hughenden Avenue, next to Morrison’s supermarket. The plan has been scaled down from the original 936 student flats proposed following objections from conservation groups and some local residents.

Hospital plans – Meanwhile health bosses are set to unveil plans soon for a new look hospital at Wycombe. The scheme will involve demolishing the current concrete tower block and replacing it with a smaller building that will enable patients to enjoy more privacy. The Buckinghamshire Hospitals Trust will fund the new building by selling off some of the existing hospital land, probably for housing development.

Where are you? – Reporters are on the hunt for the real Gavin and Stacey, who are thought to be in the Wycombe area, after Wycombe actor James Corden said that he based the award-winning BBC comedy series on a real couple who were friends of his..

Monday 21st April

Actor’s triumph – High Wycombe actor and writer James Corden became the hottest property in show business last night when he collected two academy awards. Gavin and Stacey, the show he co-wrote with Ruth Jones, won the most popular TV show award voted for by the public and the 29 year old actor won an individual award for best comedy performance as Smithy in the series. In an emotional speech he said his main thanks were to his mum and dad and two sisters who “would be in tears and watching on TV” at their home in Hazlemere.

Road to success - Throughout his climb to fame, James Corden has always said he owes much to his family and his background. The son of a musician, he always wanted to be an actor and recalls his parents driving him to scores of auditions, all of which ended in failure. A popular pupil at Holmer Green Upper School – and in no way academic – he attended Wycombe’s Jackie Palmer Stage School. His big break came with a National Theatre role in The History Boys, followed by the TV series Fat Friends.

Store’s success – Fears that John Lewis, the department store on the outskirts of High Wycombe, would suffer with the opening of the town’s new shopping centre, the Eden, are unfounded according to figures out today. During the first month of Eden’s opening, John Lewis increased sales by nearly 17 per cent compared to the same period last year. Not only that, the Wycombe store was the best performing in the whole John Lewis group.

Sunday 20th April

Blues in play-offs – Wycombe Wanderers succeeded in reaching the League 2 play-offs yesterday with a 1-0 victory over Chester, but there’s still a slim chance they could be automatically promoted by securing third position. The Blues’ goal came from Scott McGleish, his 26th of the season. He is already Wycombe’s highest scorer since the Blues entered the league.

Saturday 19th April

Terrorist “quartermaster” - The High Wycombe man accused of plotting to blow up passenger aircraft was the terrorist gang’s quartermaster, the prosecution alleged at his trial yesterday. Assad Ali Sarwar, 27, from Walton Drive, Totteridge bought acid to help make his bombs from three local chemists, the court heard. He bought a suitcase from Woolworth’s in the High Street to hold the bomb materials and a spade from Cressex Asda to bury the suitcase, the jury was told. Sarwar and seven others deny terrorist-linked charges.

Oldest barmaid – There’ll be celebrations at Wendover’s Red Lion tonight as Britain’s oldest barmaid celebrates her 94th birthday. Dolly Saville, who works six days a week, has been pouring drinks at the same pub for 64 years.

Joan’s appearance – A 1950s megastar who has appeared in top concert halls around the world makes a more modest but rare appearance tonight at Holyport Memorial Hall. Eighty year old Joan Regan, with big band backing, will be singing her hits, and more besides.

Friday 18th April

Fireball tragedy – Motorists fought to rescue an Amersham student from his blazing car, unaware that his girlfriend was in the passenger seat, an inquest heard yesterday. Steve Jones, 18, of Cedar Grove, Amersham, and Lindsay Kelly, 19, of Chalfont St Peter died when their car overturned and burst into flames on their way back from a Manchester United match last year. Yesterday, their inquest at Leicester heard that several passing motorists, armed with car fire extinguishers, tried to rescue Steve but were beaten back by the flames. They were unaware that Lindsay was by his side in the Corsa. Coroner Trevor Kirkman said the former Dr Challoner’s School pupils – who at the time of the crash were students at Loughborough University - died from the accident injuries and not from the fire. He recorded verdicts of accidental death.

Holding out – While the rest of the country battens down the economic hatches, local businesses and politicians are baffled by the Wycombe area, which is gamely holding its own. House prices are generally remaining stable while jobless figures, announced this week, are among lowest in the country. And yesterday the town’s Eden shopping centre announced that ten new shops, including two restaurants, would be opening their doors in the next few weeks.

Olympic recruitment – A Wycombe based sports scientist has been appointed by the British Olympic Association’s Director of Elite Performance, Sir Clive Woodward, to help British athletes win medals in Beijing and London. Dr Sherylle Calder, who is based at Bisham Abbey, is one of the world’s leading visual performance skills consultants. She uses various exercises to help athletes improve their anticipation and the hand to eye co-ordination.

Thursday 17th April

Desperate rescue bid – Paramedics and firefighters were in tears yesterday after they fought desperately but in vain to save a young builder trapped in a trench. The builder, in his 20s, was digging at the bottom of a five foot trench in Langdon Avenue, Aylesbury when the walls of the trench seemingly collapsed on top of him. Through superhuman efforts his rescuers managed to extricate him unconscious from the trench – being dug to house footings for a house extension – but were unable to resuscitate him. His identity is being withheld until relatives are informed. The Health and Safety Executive began an investigation into the circumstances last night.

Hospital cheer – In a remarkable turnaround, patients at Wycombe, Amersham and Stoke Mandeville Hospitals now have to wait less time for treatment than virtually anywhere else in the country, the Buckinghamshire Hospitals Trust announced yesterday. Just three years ago patients for some required treatments were having to wait over two years. Now it is down to 18 weeks from the time they are referred by their GP. Medical director Dr Graz Lazzi said it was due to various reorganisations and was confident the waiting time could drop even lower.

Smithy tipped – Roly poly High Wycombe actor James Corden is strongly tipped to receive the Best Comedy Award at this weekend’s BAFTAs for his role as Smithy in Gavin and Stacey, the BBC TV series he co-writes. Last year James, 29, won Best Newcomer award. On top of that he’s also an unlikely sex symbol, according to yesterday’s Daily Mirror, which reported on several blogs from girls drooling over him. The former Holmer Green School pupil told the paper: “I was quite popular with girls when I was at school, even though I wasn’t the best looking guy. I think it was because I’m confident and always tried to make them laugh.”

Wednesday 16th April

Wycombe surveillance – Undercover cops secretly watching Wycombe terrorist suspects knew something had been buried in surrounding woodland, it emerged yesterday. That’s why police went to King’s Wood, half a mile from one of the suspects’ home, within hours of a big security raid in the town in August 2006. What they found in the wood, said the prosecution at the Woolwich Crown Court terror trial, was bomb-making equipment in a suitcase buried under leaves. The jury was told that one of the accused – Assad Sarwar of Walton Drive, Totteridge – was seen by undercover police days earlier walking into the wood with a suitcase and a spade. Assad Sarwar and seven others deny terrorist-related charges.

English Virginia – American tourists are set to converge on Bucks in ever greater numbers this summer thanks to the soaring popularity of Midsomer Murders on US television. Actor John Nettles, who plays Chief Inspector Barnaby in the series, told his American audience yesterday that Buckinghamshire, where it is filmed, “resembles Virginia”. And he added, tongue in cheek “And in real life the villagers there really are as batty as they appear in the series.”

Viva Sergio – Wycombe Wanderers' own Argentinean superstar, Sergio Torres, scored a vital goal for the Blues last night to put them in firm contention for a play-off place in the League Two promotion race. His left footed shot after 19 minutes gave Wycombe all three points at Grimsby Town, leaving them needing four points from their remaining three games to be in the play-offs. Meanwhile, at Adams Park, rugby’s man of the moment, Danny Cipriani, scored five penalties and two conversions to give London Wasps a 29-19 victory over Sale.

Tuesday 15th April

Legal battle – A tug of war over the care of 11 donkeys and 18 ponies is costing tens of thousands of pounds in legal fees. Last week a judge ordered that the animals – confiscated after an RSPCA and police raid - be returned to horse trader Jamie Gray, of Spindles Farm, Hyde Heath even though he and his family are facing animal cruelty charges. The RSPCA then applied to the High Court to challenge the order but the High Court sent the case back to the original judge. Yesterday, that judge – Sandeep Kainth – suspended his original order but sent the case back to the High Court again so that a judicial review against his original decision can be heard. It’s estimated that by the time the review is heard the RSPCA and the Gray family will have spent up to £50,000 on legal costs.

Homes ruling – The Government has given the nod that Wycombe need not release more land for house building in the immediate future. A Government planning inspector yesterday ruled that 238 houses can be built on the site of Bucks New Uni’s Wellesbourne campus because that’s a site earmarked for housing anyway. But he ruled against an appeal to build 400 houses on green fields opposite the Wellesbourne site at Terriers Farm. The council wanted to keep Terriers Farm land in reserve if more housing land were needed in a few years time.

Crucial games – Both Wycombe Wanderers and London Wasps, who play at Adams Park, have crucial games tonight. The Blues travel to Grimsby knowing that victory will give them a five point gap over rivals Chesterfield for the final League 2 play-off place with three games to go. Wasps play Sale Sharks at home knowing that good win will put them in a strong position for a place in the Guinness Premiership play-offs.

Monday 14th April

Bus tragedy – The grief stricken parents of an 18 year old Maidenhead student Indira Swann, killed at the weekend with four others in a bus crash in Ecuador, flew home from a holiday in Italy last night to prepare for their daughter’s funeral. Greg and Lousie Swann met up with Indira’s older sister Lizzie. Indira, a former Henley College pupil, was on a gap year engaging in voluntary work in central and South America country and was due to return home in July.

Missionary murdered – Prayers were said throughout local Catholic churches yesterday for a Maidenhead missionary beaten to death by thieves in Kenya. Father Brian Thorp, a member of the Mill Hill Missionary based in the town, was beaten with a wooden stick near his church in Lama. The 77 year old priest will be buried there tomorrow.

Bad week - Ian Stringer, the man who reports Wycombe Wanderers matches for the BBC’s Three Counties Radio, rounded off a lousy week yesterday by saying he was virtually bankrupt. The 26 year old former Dixon’s sales assistant was sacked from the BBC show The Apprenctice when Sir Alan Sugar called him a “disaster”. Then his wife called him a “rat” for walking out on her and their two children just three weeks after their second child was born. And yesterday Sunday papers called him “obnoxious” and a “flop” as they revealed his contract with the local radio station may not be renewed when it ends in three weeks. Still, Wycombe Wanderers still love him. He told the club’s website he’ll do what he can to promote the club because “there are some good honest footballers out there who don’t earn huge salaries.”

Saturday 12th April

What’s on this weekend- There’s an 18th century re-enactment weekend at Chalfont’s Chiltern Open Air Museum with mock battles, various displays and a look at domestic life in the 1700s.

Meanwhile Saturday sees London Wasps take on Worcester in the Guinness Premiership at Adams Park. High Wycombe library selling off much of its stock of DVDs and books in preparation for its move into a new library in the Eden centre in a few weeks while, elsewhere, a talent show – Wycombe’s Got Talent – takes place in Frogmoor. In Wycombe High Street, stilt walkers will be among the shoppers.

Sunday sees a number of gardens open to show off their Spring displays – they include some in Little Chalfont, Amersham and Long Crendon. In the evening top local musical talent takes part in the annual High Wycombe Piano Festival at the town hall.

Friday 11th April

Video find – One of the first things police found when they raided Assad Sawar’s home in Walton Drive, High Wycombe was a martyrdom video by another High Wycombe man, Umar Islam, a jury was told yesterday. On the tape, found in a car in the garage, the man formerly known as Brian Young, says he was inspired by terrorist leader Osama Bin Laden. Both men, and six others, deny terror charges at Woolwich Crown Court.

Starring role – Alex Aldren, the 18 year old cellist from High Wycombe who is being tipped to be the next Julian Lloyd-Webber, has a starring solo role in the opening concert of the Wycombe Arts Festival at the end of this month.

Match boycott – A number of Wycombe Wanderers fans are purposely not going to tomorrow’s game at Milton Keynes because they can’t bring themselves to visit a club that gained entry into the football league without going through the qualifying route that every other team has had to do. The match is a crucial one – if Milton Keynes Dons win they automatically get promotion to League 1, but Wycombe need to get something from the game if they are to maintain their push in the play-off places.

Thursday 10th April

Base for sale – The ‘for sale’ signs go up today at the former RAF Daws Hill base in High Wycombe. The Ministry of Defence’s selling arm, Defence Estates, is expected to make millions on the site, which is ripe for residential development. But it could be several years before a plan is agreed – councillors next week are set to launch a £100,000 feasibility study on how they want that whole area of High Wycombe developed in the future. It’s thought that Abbey Barn Road, just down the road from the former RAF base, is being eyed as a possible location for a sports stadium/hotel complex to house Wycombe Wanderers and London Wasps, with a direct link to and from the M40.

First month – Wycombe’s new town centre, the Eden, celebrates its first month in operation today with retailers insisting they’ve had a better opening period than they expected – especially in a period of economic gloom. The centre has had a boost with news that Apple are to open a state of the art store in the centre with a wide range of ipods and Macs.

Top pair – Wycombe’s superstar golfer Luke Donald has been paired with current US Masters champion Zach Johnson for today’s opening round of the competition at Augusta

Wednesday 9th April

Fraudster jailed – A Wycombe man who launched a website offering sperm to lesbians wanting to give birth was jailed for fraud yesterday. John Gonzalez, aged 45, of Studley Green, launched mennotincluded.com six years ago but when it ran into financial trouble he fiddled his accounts to avoid meeting his debts. He was jailed for 16 months after admitting five fraud-related charges.

Horse appeal – The Wycombe based Horse Trust and the RSPCA are set to legally challenge a judge’s decision to return donkeys and ponies to a family facing animal cruelty charges. Judge Sandeep Kainth said last week he could think of no reason not to return 11 donkeys and 18 ponies to Jamie Gray of Spindles Farm, Hyde Heath near Amersham. Mr Gray and his family face animal cruelty charges after a number of animals were found dead at the farm earlier this year.

Hanging on – House prices in the Wycombe area are remaining stable according to estate agents despite falling prices in much of the rest of the country. The Halifax Bank said yesterday house prices dropped by an average two and a half per cent in March throughout Britain. However, there is evidence locally that many buyers are hanging on in the expectation that prices will go down.

Tuesday 8th April

New hospital sell-off – Buckinghamshire Hospitals Trust, which last week said it was looking to sell off more than half the site at Wycombe Hospital, now has plans to sell off land at Amersham Hospital as well. However, the Trust admitted yesterday there may be problems selling as much as it wants to because one of the hospital blocks on the sell-off land was built by private money under a private finance initiative.

Community watch – Police in Wycombe yesterday appointed a Community Cohesion Inspector, Bhupinder Rai, who will join existing community and diversity officer Mohammed Azad. Police and community organisations are trying to work closer than before in case there’s any backlash from the long running terrorist trial involving High Wycombe defendants. Yesterday the court it was alleged that some of the accused, including former Wycombe man Umar Islam, were inspired by the terrorists taking part in the 9/11 American terror attacks.

Mobile kitten – A seven month old kitten hopped aboard a delivery van dropping off goods at its Aylesbury owner’s house – and then slipped unnoticed out of the van again at its next stop…a Norfolk leisure centre 120 miles away. Staff at the centre found Jester, the kitten, and were able to return her yesterday because she had been microchipped

Monday 7th April

Hospital downgraded – A number of medical services will be unavailable to patients at Wycombe Hospital from today. People with bad head injuries, heavy bleeding, broken bones, severe burns and stomach pains will now all be treated at Stoke Mandeville Hospital nearly 20 miles away. Wycombe’s Accident and Emergency department is being renamed an Emergency Medical Centre and will deal mainly with minor complaints. Many councillors and campaigners are convinced this latest change is simply a move by the Buckinghamshire Hospitals Trust to close down the hospital by stealth. The Trust denies this, but last week admitted it was looking at plans to sell more than half of the land Wycombe Hospital currently occupies.

Superdog – A girl who learned to walk because of the encouragement of her pet dog is to have an operation to help her walk independently. Harriet Ringsell, a cerebral palsy sufferer from Cholesbury near Chesham, was in a wheelchair until she was eight. Then her parents bought her a puppy, Yeppa, a wire-haired Vizsla – and for the past three years the dog has helped Harriett walk with a frame by taking her hand, helping her when she falls and gently pulling her from her bed each morning. Now doctors believe she has advanced enough for her to undergo the operation.

Sporting dreams – Wycombe boxer Gareth Couch looks set for stardom after he won his eleventh fight since turning professional in a points win over Tom Glover at the weekend. Today he leaves High Wycombe and begins training at the high profile Brendan Ingle boxing gym in Sheffield. Meanwhile, former Wycombe Wanderers captain Roger Johnson booked himself a place in the FA Cup Final yesterday with his new team Cardiff City.

Sunday 6th Aoril

Tesco raid – Shoppers stood by in amazement yesterday as two hoodies held up a Tesco Express supermarket in Wooburn Green. They grabbed a cash box, which was later found smashed and abandoned, before racing off in a car before most Saturday morning shoppers realised what was happening.

Late point – A last minute penalty, rammed home by Scott McGleish, gave Wycombe Wanderers a point against Peterborough at Adams Park yesterday. The Blues were first to take the lead in the 2-2 draw from a driving free kick by Stefan Oakes.

Saturday 5th April

Terror search – The results of the massive police search in High Wycombe made after arrests in 2006 were made known yesterday. Prosecutors told a terror trial that bottles containing ingredients to make explosives were found buried in Kings Wood and Fennels Wood in the town. In the home of one of the defendants – Assad Sarwar of Walton Drive, High Wycombe – police found computer memory sticks containing lists of what were alleged to be potential terrorist targets, including power stations, internet service provider exchanges, oil refineries and the National Grid.

The jury, at Woolwich Crown Court, was also told that another former Wycombe man, Umar Islam, had made a martyrdom video. He was alleged to have said that British citizens were legitimate targets – “most of you are too busy watching Home and Away and Eastenders, complaining about the World Cup and drinking alcohol, too busy to care,” he is alleged to have said on the tape. The Wycombe pair and six other men deny conspiring to murder and to blow up planes.

Animals returned – The RSPCA said last night it was devastated following a judge’s decision to return 29 animals to the care of a family facing animal cruelty charges. Judge Sandeep Kainth said he could see no reason why 11 donkeys and 18 ponies should not be returned to the Gray family of Spindles Farm, Hyde Heath near Amersham. But he rejected an application from Jamie Gray for the return of 82 other animals taken from the farm in January during a police and RSPCA raid. The Grays, who face 12 charges of animal cruelty later this month, said the donkeys and ponies were family pets.

Driver jailed – A 19 year old driver who admitted killing five year old Charlie Harris by dangerous driving was jailed for 14 months yesterday. The family of David Mear, of Freemantle Road, High Wycombe, expressed their sympathy to the Harris family and said it was “a tragedy all round”. Charlie died when he ran out in front of David Mear’s car in Great Kingshill. But Mear hit him because he was travelling at 47mph in a 30mph zone. The court heard that if he had been travelling at 30mph it’s unlikely he would have hit the boy at all. Charlie’s parents, Neil and Tracy, said they hoped all drivers, and particularly young drivers, would learn the lesson and keep within speed limits.

Friday 4th April

Wycombe stake-out – Undercover police spent months in High Wycombe and other places watching terrorist suspects before arrests were made in August 2006, it emerged at the first day of a terror trial yesterday. Eight men deny plotting to blow up aircraft and conspiracy to murder. Prosecutor Peter Wright alleged that defendant Assad Sarwar, of Walton Drive in Totteridge, High Wycombe, was one of the three ringleaders of the plot.

Pinewood concerns – Villagers meet tonight to express concerns about the multi-million pound plan to massively expand Pinewood Studios. The Government has yet to decide if it will allow Pinewood to construct giant permanent film sets that would be seen from the M25 and M40 and allow the construction of around 2,000 homes to pay for it. But many residents in nearby Fulmer, a settlement with hundreds of years of history, fear the village will be swamped if the plans go ahead.

Tour de Brit – The second stage of this year’s Tour of Britain cycle race, which is expected to attract the world’s top riders when it gets underway in September, will comprise a 90 mile stretch running through the Chilterns, it was announced yesterday.

Thursday 3rd April

Terror trial – Britain’s biggest terrorist trial, which includes two High Wycombe defendants, gets underway today. Eight men are accused of conspiring to murder and conspiring to blow up transatlantic airliners in flight. The eight – including Umar Islam, formerly Brian Young, aged 29, and Assad Ali Sarwar, aged 27, both from High Wycombe - deny the charges. The charges result from a major police raid in Wycombe in August 2006 followed by police spending months digging in local woodland.

Judge’s warning – Judge Justice Calvert-Smith warned jurors yesterday that the terror trial will be long and high profile. It took all day to select a jury from 100 potential jurors and the process will be completed today. It’s expected the trial will last up to six months, after taking 18 months to prepare. It is being held in London’s “secure” court at Woolwich.

Bookies hit – Bookmakers in Aylesbury are on high alert after a fourth armed robbery at a bookies in the town in just 12 weeks.

Wendesday 2nd April

Hospital fears – Health bosses were last night struggling to convince people that there is a future for High Wycombe’s hospital after it emerged they were considering plans to sell off more than half of the land where the hospital is situated. It coincided with a meeting called by East Berkshire health authority last night which talked about more services in Wexham Park Hospital in Slough being made available to people in the Wycombe area. Already most accident and emergency cases in Wycombe are diverted to Stoke Mandeville Hospital near Aylesbury.

Tasteless comments – A local newspaper is coming under pressure to curb some of the more excessive comments on its website after some readers found it hilarious that a sat nav was stolen from an ambulance while the crew were attending to a patient in Wycombe’s Chairborough Road – a crime described as “despicable” by the ambulance service. Comments from readers on the Bucks Free Press site are often cruel and tasteless – last week an innocent driver, distraught after an accident in which a ten year old boy was seriously injured, was described as “scum”.

Arrows flypast – Thousands of people in the area were treated to a display by the Red Arrows yesterday as the famous formation flew over RAF Halton and then RAF High Wycombe en route to a central London display commemorating the 90th anniversary of the Royal Air Force.

Tuesday 1st April

Runner dies - A well know local runner who collapsed 100 metres from the finishing line at a 10 kilometre race has died in hospital. Father of three Phil Tottle, 41, from Wendover never regained consciousness after collapsing at the Easter 10 on Good Friday at Maidenhead. He died after his family gave permission for his life support machine to be switched off.

Ford warning – Motorists are being warned not to risk driving through fords they are not familiar with during periods of heavy rain after it emerged yesterday that a family nearly drowned driving through a ford at Charvil. The ford, carrying a tributary to the Thames, was three foot higher than normal after heavy rain at the weekend, but the family weren’t aware of its depth. They abandoned their car and waited on the roof for rescue – which came when firefighters launched a boat to retrieve them. Two children were taken to hospital suffering from hypothermia.

Resting up – Super athlete Rebecca Romero returned to her Wycombe home yesterday to rest up for a few days before beginning serious training to be only the second woman in history to win medals for two different sports at a summer Olympics. The 28 year old, from Lane End, won a gold medal in the world cycling championships at the weekend. At the last Olympics she won a silver in rowing.

Monday 31st March

Hanging on – Estate agents are confident that the weekend survey declaring Buckinghamshire residents enjoy the best quality of life in the country will prevent house prices here falling through the floor. Although prices of property have dipped in the area, agents are already surprised they haven’t fallen as far as those in other areas.

Monorail plan – Local businessmen have told the Government that a scheme to build a mono-rail above the central reservation of the M4 should be drawn up to prevent congestion on the area’s motorways. The Thames Valley Economic Partnership says that there should also be direct rail links to Heathrow from towns like Maidenhead and Slough.

Leg-up – A frog called Nicholas is being treated for a broken leg at St Tiggywinkles wildlife sanctuary at Haddenham. He was brought in after getting caught in a net over a local fish pond and is thought to be the first frog to receive such treatment.

Saturday 29th March/Sunday 30th March

Saturday 29 March

Talented comic/impressionist Jon Culshaw plays Wycombe Swan tonight; the Bollywood Brass Band plays Slough’s West Wing; Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray is at Aylesbury’s Limelight Theatre; the Chicago Blues Brothers at Windsor’s Theatre Royal and there’s a Choral Spectacular at Eton College’s School Hall.

If you’re really in the mood for theatre, Tolstoy’s War and Peace is playing Oxford Playhouse this weekend – it’s in two parts with a 90 minute interval inbetween. Today it starts at 3.30; tomorrow at noon.

Sunday 30 March

Former Arsenal players plus a sprinkling of celebs take on Berkshire Fire Brigade in a charity football match at Beaconsfield FC this afternoon (kick-off 2pm). There’s a crocus walk and treasure hunt in West Wycombe Park from 2pm. Folk singer Kate Rusby plays Wycombe Swan tonight, while there’s a tribute to late comic Frankie Howerd at Thame’s Players Theatre.

What's on this weekend

Friday 28th March

Million visitors – Bosses at Wycombe’s new shopping centre, the Eden, said yesterday that a million people had visited the complex in its first two weeks “far exceeding expectations”. Retailers in the complex confirmed they had been busy, but a number say the visitors haven’t necessarily been spending. Meanwhile, there’ll be more crowds today when children’s author Jacqueline Wilson signs books in Waterstones.

Accident victim – A ten year old boy is still in a serious condition in a specialist hospital six days after a road accident in Oakridge Road,High Wycombe. The boy, who hasn’t been named, suffered head injuries.

New striker – Wycombe Wanderers failed to tempt veteran striker Paul Furlong to the club on loan yesterday, but instead landed former Bolton and Gillingham striker Delroy Facey on loan until the end of the season.

Thursday 27th March

Amy’s interest – Wycombe’s famous Wheeler End music studios could be bought by Amy Winehouse. The star has asked agents to report on the £3m property in Bolter End Lane which became vacant in January when Noel Gallagher relinquished his tenancy. She is expected to visit the converted farmhouse in the next two weeks. The studios have been the setting for hundreds of tracks from artists such as George Harrison, Bill Wyman and Robbie Williams. Amy Winehouse has reportedly said she wants to move to Bucks to get away from London and be near her friend Sharon Osborne at nearby Chalfont.

Motorway improves – A simple change of road markings has brought a dramatic improvement in the number of road accidents on the M40. Shunts and minor accidents, as well as serious collisions, were virtually a daily occurrence during congested periods in the south-bound section approaching the M25 junction. But unofficial figures show that since new road markings enabled two lanes to filter off to the M25 a month ago the number of incidents has reduced considerably.

Striker sought – Wycombe Wanderers manager Paul Lambert will today try to sign 39 year old veteran striker Paul Furlong in an attempt to boost the Blues’ League 2 promotion push. Today is deadline day for football clubs wanting to acquire new players on loan before the end of the season.

Wednesday 26th March

No win – They exercise, eat five portions of fruit and veg a day, and watch their weight. Yet adults in Chalfont St Peter were singled out yesterday as putting their lives at risk. The analysis group CACI said Chalfont St Peterites drink too much wine and blow out too often at restaurants, thinking that because they do everything else right, overindulging the rest of the time doesn’t matter. The researchers said people in Chalfont St Peter visited restaurants twice as much as the average and scoffed high calorie food. They are called the New Indulgents – and most other adults in affluent south Bucks run the same risks, says the research.

Farmers worry – Farmers in the Wycombe area are concerned after it was confirmed yesterday that a weed which affects cereal crops has become resistant to the chemical that normally controls it. An outbreak of resistant blackgrass – often known as rat-tailed grass – has been confirmed in Buckinghamshire fields. Scientists are trying to find a new deterrent.

Dealer fined – A Wendover scrap dealer was ordered to pay a whopping £26,800 in fines and costs yesterday because he didn’t have a licence to handle waste. Environment Agency officers told magistrates that on one visit to Michael Komaroni’s yard in Halton they found a skip full of car batteries near the Grand Union Canal, and that without a licence he was failing to protect the environment.

Tuesday 25th March

Counting the cost – Tourist attractions in the Wycombe area are licking theirwounds after one of the poorest Easter holidays on record. Four days of snow, hail, rain, sleet and strong cold winds ensured that most people stayed at home over Easter and attractions that rely on tourists are relieved that most schools have delayed their two week break until mid April. Three people are recovering from injuries after Billy Smart’s Circus Big Top partially collapsed during high winds during a performance at Windsor on Good Friday. The 500 people in the audience had to be led to safety when side flaps began lifting.

Home evacuated – Residents at an old people’s home have returned to the home following an evacuation. They were led to safety after a van crashed into a neighbouring shop in Watermead, Chesham, severing a gas main. Police and fire fighters sealed off a large area near the town centre while engineers repaired the damage.

On course – Wycombe Wanderers took four out of a possible six points from two fellow League Two promotion hopefuls over Easter and are on course for a place in the play-offs. A cracking goal from Stefan Oakes gave the Blues victory at Morecambe on Friday and yesterday it was honours even – 0-0 – when a strong Stockport County side came to Adams Park.

What's on this Easter – Here are some of the events in the Wycombe area this Easter:

All four days:

Beaconscot model village open this Easter, includes a Bunny hunt for children
Lambing days every day this weekend at Ham Farm, Piddington. Plus treasure hunt.
Chiltern Open Air Museum at Chalfont St Giles has Hands on History events throughout the weekend.
Chiltern Country Food Fair at Memorial Hall, Great Missenden
Opening of Go Ape, new ariel adventure park in Wendover Woods
Special Easter events at the Roald Dahl Museum in Great Missenden
Roy Dotrice in Brief Lives at Windsor Theatre Royal
Thomas the Tank Engine at Bucks Rail Centre, Quainton
Specialist collectors’ fair, Aylesbury Civic Centre

Good Friday 21 March

Wycombe town centre – Chinese dragon dance and, this afternoon, stilt walkers.
Big boot sales at Bledlow Ridge from 1pm and Taplow
Silent disco at Beaconsfield’s Revolution club. £10 entry includes headphones
Cinderella – ballet at Wycombe Swan
Roy Dotrice in Brief Lives at Windsor Theatre Royal
Easter Egg trail at Cliveden House
New adventure maze opens at Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common

Easter Saturday 22 March

Eden shopping centre, Wycombe – Bhangra dance, Dhol drummers, Bollywood band
Wycombe Museum Easter Egg hunt between 10.30 and 11.30
Party night at Beaconsfield’s Revolution Club
Thame Country Show
Cinderella – ballet at Wycombe Swan
Easter Bonnet competition, Kingston, Aylesbury


Easter Sunday 23 March
Lockwood Donkey Centre, Uxbridge open day
Thame Country Show
Brill Windmill reopens – 2-5pm
Artistic chalk garden at Overstroud Cottage, Great Missenden open 2-6pm

Easter Monday 24 March

Easter Egg festival at Chenies Manor
Easter Egg treasure hunt ,quiz and games, Braywick Sports Field. 10am
Eden shopping centre,Wycombe – French mime, Flemenco band and French accordion music
Thame Country Show
The Pitstone Green Museum in Pitstone – gas engine, model railways and a Lancaster bomber among attractions.
Wycombe Wanderers v Stockport County at Adams Park, 3pm


Thursday 20th March

White Easter – Snow is expected to fall over the Wycombe area over Easter forecasters said last night. Winter returns with a vengeance tomorrow – the first day of Spring – and if the snow settles it will be the first white Easter in the area for over 30 years.

Rave watch – Police were not commenting on reports they are on special lookout for illegal raves this Easter, a favourite time for such gatherings.

Stadium wobble – Wycombe Wanderers chairman Ivor Beeks appeared to dampen down expectation of a new football and rugby stadium for High Wycombe last night. He told a fans forum that both Wanderers and London Wasps financial position would need to be stronger before any new stadium could be considered. And he said that if Adams Park was to remain the venue for both teams in the longer term, then a new access road would have to be built.

Wednesday 19th March

Revival plans - Wycombe Council is to relax planning laws at the eastern end of the town centre so it area doesn't fall into a downward spiral now that the new Eden shopping centre has opened at the western end. In the past strict planning laws have ensured that only shops and offices are allowed - and small ones at that - but the council now says its prepared to look at larger and more comprehensive developments.

Promotion boost Wycombe Wanderers chances of gaining promotion from league 2 received a boost yesterday when rivals Rotherham United were docked 10 points for going into administration. The news now means the blues have a six point cushion over the next side outside the play-offs.

Tuesday 18th March

Police watch – Police are said to be keeping a special eye on the farm where four people charged with animal cruelty live. James Gray, 44, Julie Gray, 40, Jodie Gray, 25 and Cordelia Gray, 19 were all charged yesterday with causing unnecessary suffering to 125 horses, ponies and donkeys at Spindles Farm, Hyde Heath. A 15 year old boy who can’t be named has also been charged. It’s thought that Mr Gray has already received threats after a number of animals were found dead at the farm in January. The five accused are due to face 12 charges brought by the RSPCA next week.

PR blunder – Wycombe Council has angered many residents by announcing that all council staff are to be given two hours off to go shopping in the town’s new Eden Centre. The council’s announcement came on the same day that increased council tax bills landed on the doorstep.

Netball champs – Girls at Beaconsfield High School are celebrating after they won the national under-16 netball championships.

Monday 17th March

Eden success – Thousands of shoppers descended on High Wycombe’s new shopping centre, the Eden, at the weekend. Last night it was estimated around two thirds of population living in the area had visited the centre in its first four days. Centre bosses are expected to work on plans this week to improve signage and traffic flow in the main car park after traffic congestion . On several occasions over the weekend exit barriers were lifted to ease congestion in the car park without checks being made on whether parking tickets had been paid for.

Text success – A Marlow company is set to make millions with its system that converts answer-phone messages into texts sent to mobiles. SpinVox has concluded deals with 12 major telecom companies.

TV success – And Wycombe born comedy actor and writer James Corden is also set to make a fortune after American network NBC announced it had bought the US rights to Gavin and Stacey, the TV comedy written by Corden and co-artist Ruth Jones. A new series of the award-winning show launched on BBC 3 last night was widely expected to create a record audience for the channel

Sunday 16th March

Unlucky Blues – Promotion hopefuls Hereford United and Wycombe Wanderers were involved in a classic top of the table League 2 match yesterday which the Blues were unlucky to lose 1-0 to an own goal from defender Russell Martin.

Saturday 15th March

School’s blow – Students at a Wycombe school who raised £19,000 to go on a charity trip to Zambia have been told they’ll have to find nearly £2,000 extra to pay for visa charges suddenly imposed by the African country. The sixth formers and three teachers from Wye Valley School borrowed the extra cash from the school funds so they could go on the trip this week. They took with them 40 computers as a gift to schools in Zambia and are spending their time there helping local students to use them. When they return they’ll have to do further fund raising to repay the £1,875 – an additional fee they only learned about days before the trip. Zambia says it rushed through visa charges on British tourists because Zambians have to pay charges when travelling to Britain, albeit smaller fees.

Teething troubles – Extra staff will be on standby at Wycombe’s new shopping centre, the Eden, today to try and prevent car parking problems that clogged up the centre’s main car park yesterday. Many motorists couldn’t find the pay-on-foot parking machines and felt they had to pay at the exit. Consequently the barriers wouldn’t raise to let them leave – causing tailbacks in the car park. There are also complaints about poor car parking signage and lack of road markings at the exit, meaning some motorists found themselves in the wrong lane.

Martin’s help – Former Wycombe Wanderers manager Martin O’Neill stepped in to help out his former club in its hour of need last night. The Aston Villa manager has loaned one of his brightest young stars, Chris Herd, to the Blues for a month while key Wanderers midfielders recover from injury. Last year he did the same, loaning talented Stephen O’Halloran for a similar period. Hurd will play in today’s key away game against fellow promotion rivals Hereford.

Friday 14th March

Enterprise first – The site of Britain’s first National Enterprise Academy will be near High Wycombe its been announced. The academy, funded by Marlow multi-millionaire Peter Jones and by the Government, will take entrepreneurial teenagers from around the country and set them on the road to starting their own businesses. The exact location is being kept under wraps until contracts are signed in a few weeks, but the academy will open its doors next January.

Pool investigation – Three schools closed after a swimming pool scare on Wednesday night will remain shut today. Twelve people, including four children, were treated in hospital after being overcome by fumes in the pool at the John Colet School in Wendover. It transpired large amounts of undiluted chlorine entered the water. The school, and two other junior schools on the same campus, were closed for safety reasons yesterday. They won’t reopen until investigators are sure they know how the accident happened.

Bowled over – Wycombe’s new Eden shopping centre proved popular with shoppers and leisure-seekers on its first day yesterday. By last night it was estimated that over 5,000 people had visited the complex, with the new bowling alley doing a roaring trade throughout the day.

Thursday 13th March

Paradise or bust Economically it’s the worst possible time to open a new shopping centre. The day after the Chancellor in his Budget announced a slow down in growth and gloomy times ahead, High Wycombe’s new multi-million pound shopping centre, the Eden, opens its doors today under the slogan “Welcome to Paradise.” But Chancellor Alistair Darling’s increased taxes and dire predictions are not expected to have any effect as thousands of shoppers descend on Eden in the coming days. Retailers have their fingers crossed that they are coming to spend and not simply window-shop.

Biggest development - The Eden is High Wycombe’s biggest single development in its history. It comprises a £130m new block, built on the site of an old sweet factory, linked with a refurbished existing centre, formally known as the Octagon. In total, £300m has been spent on a complex that comprises 114 shops, eight restaurants and a new cinema and bowling alley. The most advanced library in the country will open on the site next month and one of Britain’s biggest Sainsbury’s will open opposite the site next year.

Anxious looks - While the Eden celebrates, other areas will look on with concern. In other parts of Wycombe, shop premises are ominously empty today – Marks and Spencer and Next have both left the Chilterns shopping centre for the new complex, although Primark will fill the M&S store later this year. Superdrug and Boots are also vacating their High Street stores. But the biggest worry is in smaller neighbouring centres like Maidenhead, Amersham and Princes Risborough, and in bigger centres in Reading, Uxbridge, Slough and Watford where many of the half a million people now in easy reach of Eden currently do their shopping.

Wednesday 12th March

Not ready – Twenty seven of the new shops in Wycombe’s Eden shopping centre won’t be able to open in time for tomorrow’s opening day, it was reported last night. It will be Easter before all the units that have been let will be up and running. Meanwhile workers toiled through the night today to put finishing touches to the £130m complex. All the big names in the centre will be ready in time.

Killer snake – A Buckinghamshire student has been killed by a deadly snake in South Africa. Nathan Layton, from Wing, was in his sixth week training to be a safari guide when he was bitten by a Black Mamba. One report said he had been waving his arms at the snake in an attempt to encourage it to move. His body was flown home last night. Today would have been his 29th birthday.

Hanging on – Ten man Wycombe Wanderers found themselves hanging on against bottom of the league Wrexham in their League 2 clash at Adams Park last night, but they retained their 2-1 lead. The goals, both from defensive errors, came from Leon Knight and Scott McGleish.

Tuesday 11th March

Appeal lodged – Lawyers acting for Iver Heath childminder Keran Henderson yesterday lodged an appeal against her conviction for shaking a baby to death. She was jailed for three years last November accused of killing 11 month old Maeve Sheppard, but a campaign by family and friends and even former jurors at the trial says she was the victim of a miscarriage of justice. Last night the BBC’s Panorama programme questioned the medical evidence in the case and cited research in America which casts doubt on medical evidence in some “baby shaking”cases. Lawyers said the basis of the appeal was on what they claim to be unsafe medical evidence at the original trial. Meanwhile yellow ribbons continue to adorn trees throughout Iver Heath.

Storm damage – Heavy winds and rain caused minor accidents on the M40 yesterday and fallen trees slowed traffic on the Marlow by-pass, the A40 at Gerrards Cross and in Beaconsfield town centre. In Chesham a junior school closed because of power failure and hundreds of homes and businesses in south Oxfordshire were without power after electricity lines fell.

Movie battle – Rival cinema chains are lining up in a battle for bums on seats in Wycombe. On Thursday a new 12 screen Cineworld will open as part of the Eden shopping complex and is offering cut-price ticket deals, private “boxes” with their own bar, and rarely seen independent movies. Meanwhile the six-screen Empire in Cressex hopes to cash in on its high quality digital-only screens and aims to present more 3D movies. Less than 20 years ago there wasn’t a single cinema screen in the town – it remains to be seen whether it is now capable of supporting 18.

Monday 10th March

Bussing in – Scores of shopworkers will be bussed into High Wycombe to ensure that stores have sufficient staff when the new Eden shopping centre opens this week. It’s believed at least 100 jobs are still unfilled at the centre, so stores with other branches in various parts of the country are to ferry extra workers in.

Windy test – Meanwhile developers will be keeping a close eye on the Eden centre today as gusts of up to 60mph are due to hit the town. Some critics have claimed the centre’s design will create a “wind tunnel” effect, but designers deny it. Today’s gales will discover who’s right.

Runway protest – Local environmental campaigners are joining some local councils in calling for a suspension of background work on Heathrow’s proposed third runway after revelations yesterday that airport owners BAA and officials from the Department of Transport colluded to show biased evidence in favour of the proposed runway during the consultation period, which ended last week. Most local councils and environment groups like the Chiltern Society are opposed to a new runway because of the increased pollution and air noise the additional flights will bring to the Wycombe area. Local MPs though have kept their heads down.

Sunday 9th March

Blues win Wycombe Wanderers maintained their promotion push yesterday following a comfortable 2-0 win over fellow promotion chasers Darlington at Adams Park. Leon knight and Scott McGleish scored the goals. Wycombe will be hoping to stengthen their position on Tuesday if they can overcome their poor record against low-league sides when they face bottom club Wrexham at Adams Park.

Saturday 8th March

Suitcase killer – A cleaner who murdered her 94 year employer and stuffed the body in a suitcase which she set fire to in a field near Thame was jailed for life yesterday. Jolanta Kalinowsica, aged 41, from Ealing was “utterly callous” in killing Thea Zandy, who had fled Nazi Germany for the safety of Britain, said the judge. Kalinowsica’s son, Adrian Lis, 23, was jailed for four years for helping his mother. Another man who drover the couple to the field at Milton Common last July and Lis’s girlfriend were cleared of any involvement.

Still gridlock – Traffic in Wycombe town centre was snarled up for the seventh day running yesterday as engineers desperately tried to synchronise a new series of traffic lights. They’ve promised to have it sorted out by the time the town’s new Eden shopping centre opens next Thursday.

New deal – Sergio Torres, Wycombe Wanderers’ talented Argentinian midfielder, agreed a new two year deal with the club yesterday and will sign his new contract on the pitch at Adams Park before today’s League 2 game with Darlington. There were fears that other clubs would swoop for the 24 year old when his current deal ran out at the end of the season.

Friday 7th March

Natural play – Wycombe is to spend a quarter of a million pounds of lottery money on the country’s first natural town centre playground. It will be built in the Rye and consist solely of trees, rocks and utilise part of the river, without a see-saw or roundabout in sight. It’s part of a trend to “natural” playgrounds. Later this month a tree-top adventure playground is set to open in Wendover Woods.

Girl grabbed – A passer-by who leapt to the aid of a girl who was being dragged into a car was praised by police last night. The pedestrian – thought to be a woman – wasted no time when she witnessed the struggling 14 year old grappling with a man in Newton Road, Marlow. They fought the man off – described as a 40 year old Asian with a beard – who drove off in his small red car. Meanwhile there was mounting concern last night for a 17 year old girl described as “vulnerable and in need of regular medication”, who hasn’t been seen since Tuesday afternoon. Christine Pullhofer was last seen in Taplow.

Bellhouse hellhouse – A posh hotel says its existence is threatened because it is less than half a mile away from a site that’s favourite to become the home of an incinerator. The four star Bellhouse Hotel in Beaconsfield says it is prepared to go to court to try and stop the incinerator in nearby Waspey’s Wood if that’s the site finally chosen by Bucks County Council.

Thursday 6th March

Spending spree – Wycombe Council is set to spend £100,000 on events to promote other parts of the town when the new Eden shopping centre opens a week today. Promotion events, ranging from dancing and music to a big wheel, will be held in Frogmoor, the High Street, St John’s Churchyard and Desborough Road as well as in the nearby Chilterns Centre. The idea is to ensure people don’t just visit the Eden Centre and then leave. The developers of the Eden are also planning special events in the centre every day for six weeks.

Trainspotter blinded – Police are hunting thugs who beat a Marlow trainspotter senseless and blinded him in one eye as he took photos of trains. Two men – part of a group of six – attacked the 61 year old man on the footbridge at Reading West station and stole his camera. British Transport Police yesterday stepped up their hunt for the attackers who are described as in their forties and of East European appearance.

Ambulance probe – Local MPs last night called for details of how many ambulances in the area have been sent to the wrong location. It follows criticism of the merger of Buckinghamshire ambulance service with the ambulance services of Berkshire, Oxfordshire, Hampshire and Bedfordshire which are now all directed from one central control at Milton Keynes. It’s been prompted after a teenager collapsed in Grove near Wantage, Berkshire, but paramedics were sent to Grove near Leighton Buzzard, 50 miles away.

Wednesday 5th March

Parking retreat – Miles of double yellow lines are to be removed from streets in Windsor and Maidenhead in a reverse of policy. Parking policy is now in the hands of councils and not the police and in Windsor a spokesman said: “It’s about time councils woke up and thought about the needs of motorists. Cars are the main form of transport for most families and we have to look after them.” The move is being watched closely in neighbouring Wycombe, particularly as retailers say privately there will not be enough parking in the town when its new shopping complex, Eden, opens next week. Council leaders insist there will be no parking problems.

Food campaign – Local schoolchildren are to be encouraged to try exotic fruits and vegetables in a pilot scheme originated by the Government. It’s being called The Mange Tout Project.

Top of the league – Wycombe Wanderers is celebrating after being named Division Two’s Family Club of the Year by the Football League because of the way it treats and welcomes young supporters. It has also being highly commended in the category Community Club of the Year for the way it helps promote football in local schools.

Tuesday 4th March

Olympic hotbed – Some of the world's top Olympians will be training in the Wycombe area when the 2012 London Olympics are held, organiser Lord Coe said yesterday. Training facilities in the area are expected to be snapped up by major countries because of their proximity to the Games. They include facilities for 11 sports at Wycombe’s Handy Cross ranging from rhythmic gymnastics to table tennis; football at Adams Park, judo and wrestling at Wycombe Judo Centre; badminton at Wycombe Badminton Club and equestrian events at three equestrian centres in the town. In addition there’ll be a vast number of athletes at Stoke Mandeville Stadium; four types of water sports at Dorney Lake and hundreds of athletes training at Bisham Abbey sports centre.

Head’s disgrace – The teaching career of the former head of one of the area’s top schools ended in disgrace yesterday. Tim Dingle, who was sacked as head of Wycombe’s Royal Grammar School, was suspended from teaching for two years by the General Teaching Council for “unacceptable professional conduct.” He used the school’s IT system to “further his personal relationships” said the council, describing some of the messages as “apparently intimate”.

Luke’s return – Wycombe supergolfer Luke Donald leapt six places to sixth on the European Ryder Cup world points list yesterday following his second place finish at the Honda Classic in Florida.

Monday 3rd March

Dream on – A Wycombe husband and wife are on a verge of a deal that will make them one of the wealthiest couples in the country. Mike and Carol Clare started their Dreams bed store 20 years ago and were said last night to be near a deal with a private equity company which will pocket them an amazing £200 million. Today the Loudwater based company has 170 stores throughout the country and is opening 50 new stores a year. It employs 1,400 people and saw sales leap 29 per cent last year, virtually doubling its profit. However Mr Clare told business reporters yesterday that he may yet change his mind and decide not to sell.

Stocking up – Hundreds of lorries will begin piling into High Wycombe today as over 100 stores in the town’s Eden shopping complex have just ten days to fill their shelves and prepare for Eden’s opening. Staff at the biggest shops – the department House of Fraser and the supersized Marks and Spencer – expect to be working non-stop to get everything ready on time.

Cabbies checked – Cabbies in the Wycombe area will have to undergo regular medical checks under new rules expected to be approved tonight. The council is rushing through the changes after it discovered a loophole where it was possible for cabbies to go for years without anyone knowing if they were medically fit to drive. Under the new rules the increasing number of foreign cab drivers in the area will in future have to provide a Certificate of Good Conduct from their country of origin. They already undergo a criminal records check.

Sunday 2nd March

Royal intervention – Princess Anne is calling together 16 charities linked with the welfare of horses to see what lessons can be learned after the horrific find at a farm near Amersham last month. Over 100 malnourished horses, ponies and donkeys had to be rescued and 30 were found dead on the farm at Hyde Heath. A spokesman for one of the charities involved, the Horses Trust, said yesterday: “It seems our welfare system isn’t working. We can speculate but no-one can quantify the problems or find out how they occur.”

Star tribute – Some of the biggest names in rock and pop are expected at the Aylesbury funeral of Mike Smith, former lead singer of the sixties supergroup the Dave Clark Five, who died in Stoke Mandeville Hospital on Thursday aged 63. He was close to many in the business and was due to fly to America next week to be enrolled in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. One of his closest friends, Bruce Springsteen, is expected to be among the mourners.

Blues blip – Wycombe Wanderers maintain their play-off place in League two despite a 1-0 defeat at Lincoln yesterday in a gritty game on a blustery afternoon. The Blues were without their creative Argentinian midfielder Sergio Torres who has badly bruised an ankle bone.

Saturday 1st March

Windsor awaits – Prince Harry is expected to return to Windsor’s Combermere Barracks today from his front line service in Afghanistan. It’s expected that tomorrow he will meet the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh who are staying at Windsor Castle at the moment. Large crowds cheered the Queen and Duke as they opened Windsor’s new shopping extension to King Edward Court yesterday.

New outbreak – The whole of Buckinghamshire became part of a Bluetongue Protection Zone last night after the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said that a new case of the animal disease had been confirmed in the county and another in neighbouring Hertfordshire. DEFRA said they expected other cases to come to light in the next fortnight.

Bad start - A set of new “ intelligent” traffic lights, designed to keep traffic flowing around Wycombe town centre, proved a bit thick when they were switched on for the first time yesterday. Within minutes there was gridlock on roads around the new Eden shopping centre which took most of the afternoon to sort out. Engineers said it will take time to get the series of six computer-controlled lights configured properly. Meanwhile the Eden centre officially ceased being a building site yesterday when the constructors handed over the keys to the centre management. The retail complex opens on March 13.

Friday 29th February

Government probe – The Government is to look into the circumstances surrounding the death of Lady Darcy de Knayth, who wasn’t treated by two local hospitals. Leader of the Commons Harriet Harman told MPs yesterday that the issue was being referred to health secretary Alan Johnson after local MP Teresa May said Wexham Park Hospital “hadn’t even the right sort of bed” for Lady de Knayth, who was disabled, and that Stoke Mandeville Hospital, to where she was referred, did not admit her. Lady de Knayth, of Pinkneys Green, died last Sunday after being taken ill.

Newspapers falter – Fewer people are buying local newspapers, according to figures released yesterday. All the main locals in the Wycombe area – the Bucks Free Press, the Maidenhead Advertiser, the Bucks Advertiser/Examiner; and the Bucks Herald saw their circulations fall between five and eight per cent in the second half of last year. However more people are viewing their websites as the papers put more resources into e-news.

Luke’s flyer – Wycombe’s superstar golfer Luke Donald played his best round of golf for a year yesterday to take the early lead in the Honda Classic in Palm Beach. He hit a six-under par at the Florida PGA course.

Thursday 28th February

Snow bonanza – High Wycombe will have the longest real snow slope in the country under new plans announced yesterday. The Wycombe Snowdome group said that during the winter it will put “real” snow on the 300 metre existing dry ski slope when the former Wycombe Summit reopens as Wycombe Snowdome next September. This is in addition to a 120 metre real snow slope indoors, an ice rink, a snow academy slope, a children’s snow play area, a specialist winter sports shop, a restaurant and a Starbucks. The company said the new plan would enable skiers and snowboarders to do their thing through beautiful woodland.

Aftershock warning – For the first time in living memory the Wycombe area suffered earthquake tremors yesterday following the 1am quake centred on Market Rasen in Lincolnshire. Hundreds across the area were woken up, although there was no damage. Experts warned last night there are likely to be after-shocks.

Artics crash – A German lorry driver died early yesterday when his articulated lorry collided with a Polish articulated lorry that was stationary on the hard shoulder near the Thame turn-off on the M40. The motorway was closed for four hours.

Wednesday 27th February

Hospital probe – An inquiry is underway after one of the country’s top disability campaigners died after being refused admittance to a hospital she supported. Wheelchair bound Baroness Darcy de Knayth, was transferred to the country’s leading spinal injuries unit at Stoke Mandeville Hospital from Wexham Park Hospital at Slough but turned away.

Her friend Lady Masham of Ilton, who is president of the Spinal Injuries Association, told the House of Lords that Wexham was not equipped to deal with a seriously ill person with spinal injuries and the Stoke Mandeville unit “tragically would not admit her.” She called on the Government to review “very inadequate facilities” for people with spinal injuries.

Lady Darcy de Knayth – Davina to her friends – was knighted for services to the disabled after she herself was disabled in a car crash 45 years ago. She lived in Stubbings Manor near Pinkneys Green and was part of a family whose aristocratic line began in the 13th century. She was 69.

No little help – Tesco bosses were said to be “staggered” last night after councillors refused to let them use trains to bring in building material for their controversial rail-side superstore at Gerrards Cross. Now the company reckons there will be thousands of lorry journeys to bring in gravel, soil, concrete and bricks. Councillors said Tesco didn’t have necessary safety approvals to use trains, but store supporters said the real reason was that protesting locals who have tried to stop the store from day one pressurised the council even if it meant “cutting off their nose to spite their face”.

Locked up – Nineteen year old David Mear, from Freemantle Road, High Wycombe, was behind bars last night after he admitted causing the death of a five year old boy by driving dangerously. He was remanded in custody for a month for sentencing after previously being free on bail. He admitted driving at 47mph on a 30mph road with no pavement in Great Kingshill, hitting and killing little Charlie Harris who was walking home from school.

Tuesday 26th February

Sex allegations – A man was yesterday charged with three more sex assaults said to have taken place in a private medical clinic in Thame. Praminder Mankoo, aged 46, from Oakley already faces seven sex assault charges alleged to have taken place over a five year period. The latest assaults are said to have taken place in December last year. All of the charges relate to alleged assaults against women.

Stamping down – Local MPs are being urged to lead a campaign to reduce the burden of stamp duty when buying a house after a survey found people living in the Beaconsfield area paid more stamp duty than anywhere else in the country. People in the Amersham area paid the third highest. Mortgage lenders Halifax, who last night called on local MPs to act, said the average stamp duty paid in south Bucks last year was £21,242 – virtually half the average annual salary in the area.

Biffa biffed – On the day the shares in the Wycombe waste disposal company Biffa were expected to rise to record heights, they actually suffered their biggest single day’s drop since November yesterday. It came after the company’s board reiterated its support for a take over bid already on the table. Their statement was followed by two rival bidders announcing they were no longer interested in buying the firm.

Monday 25th February

Terror delay – Three HighWycombe men who today mark 18 months behind bars facing terror charges still do not know when they will face trial. The trial of Abdul Waheed, who changed his name from Don Stuart-Whyte; Umar Islam, formerly Brian Young, and Assad Sarwar was due to start “in the new year” following their arrest and charge following extensive police raids in the town in August 2006. But the Metropolitan Police and Crown Prosecution Service are still unable to give a date for the Old Bailey trial.

School closed – Arsonists who started two fires at Wycombe’s Cressex School early yesterday have forced the school to close today, the first day back after half term. Two teaching blocks were destroyed, but the school will reopen tomorrow.

Biffa battle – Shares in the Wycombe waste firm Biffa are expected to reach record highs today as rivals battle to take it over. The company has already accepted a £1.2billion offer but by the time the Stock Exchange closed on Friday Biffa’s share price had already exceeded that value. It’s now thought a take-over won’t be completed for several weeks.

Sunday 24th February

Shops concern – Shopkeepers are hoping that a downturn in trade in the last couple of weeks is because people are waiting for Wycombe’s new town centre to open in three weeks time. Many stores have reported poor turnover – Wycombe’s John Lewis store was 20 per cent down last week compared with the same week last year – and are not sure if it’s the credit squeeze that’s keeping shoppers away or that people are simply holding onto their money until dozens of new stores open in the Eden Shopping Centre on March 13.

BNP protest – Protestors staged a rally against the British National Party in Aylesbury yesterday after it was learned the BNP had held a meeting in a hall near the town, allegedly booking the venue under the title of the British Heritage Group.

Onward but not upward – A goal from Leon Knight was enough to secure Wycombe Wanderers a vital League 2 win at Rochdale yesterday. It was the seventh away game without a loss for the Blues, but they maintain sixth position as all top seven clubs in the league won yesterday.

Saturday 23rd February

War crimes – A Marlow businessman is to stand trial for alle