Oxford News
Bicester gin label wins top prize at global competition
‘Golden Hour’ London Dry Gin, developed in collaboration between Bicester-based Sky Wave and the Berkley Care Group, earned a Master medal at the Global Gin Masters.
It was one of just five winners in the Contemporary category.
Andrew Parsons, master distiller at Sky Wave, said: “We are thrilled with the success of Golden Hour in the Gin Masters.
“It was an absolute pleasure to work with the residents of Berkley Care Group.
“Their enthusiasm and insights were invaluable in creating ‘Golden Hour.’
“We’re very proud to have crafted a gin that truly resonates with their palates, brings them such enjoyment and which has now been recognised on the global stage.”
The gin was created after Berkley Care Group residents, who voted gin and tonic as their favourite drink, visited the Bicester distillery to help guide its development.
One resident called the resulting gin ‘exceptional’.
Golden Hour is described as a London Dry with a ‘floral, aromatic, and characterful expression, perfect for enjoying in a Gin and Tonic’.
The name comes from a weekly tradition at Fernhill House, one of the care group’s homes.
Residents gather every Thursday evening to share a drink during ‘Golden Hour,’ a ritual now embraced group-wide.
Oxford News
David Beckham hugs England team ahead of quarter final
The former England footballer, who co-owns Inter Miami CF, met the squad in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with sons Cruz and Romeo ahead of the match against Norway.
Beckham was seen warmly greeting players, including Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, and Harry Kane, with hugs and handshakes.
His visit came on the eve of the highly anticipated last-eight encounter in the Miami heat at Hard Rock Stadium.
The England squad arrived in Florida on Friday and began training at Inter Miami’s facilities.
Sir David Beckham (centre right) with Romeo Beckham and Cruz Beckham as they watch an England training session at Inter Miami Training Complex, Miami. (Image: Bradley Collyer)
Beckham, 51, showed his support by attending the training session and speaking to the players in the gym before they hit the field.
The former Manchester United and England great, who earned 115 caps for his country, has been seen at numerous World Cup matches this summer.
Since his move from Real Madrid to the LA Galaxy in 2007, Beckham has been a significant influence on Major League Soccer (MLS).
Sir David Beckham (centre right) with Romeo Beckham and Cruz Beckham as they watch an England training session at Inter Miami Training Complex, Miami. (Image: Bradley Collyer)
His unique deal allowed him to purchase an expansion club at a discounted price, which led to the creation of Inter Miami.
Despite some challenges since the team’s first season in 2020, the arrival of Lionel Messi has helped propel the club to new heights.
However, Beckham’s day was marked by the absence of his eldest son, Brooklyn, who was noticeably missing from the family gathering.
The match against Norway is set to take place today, with England fans eagerly anticipating the outcome.
Oxford News
Rare Ferrari making debut at Blenheim Palace’s Salon Privé
The Ferrari 365 GTC/4, finished in the rare Verde Blenheim colour, will be showcased at the luxury automotive event at Blenheim Palace this September in the Passione Ferrari Concours class.
One of just three models originally painted in Verde Blenheim – and believed to be the only one with a beige interior – the car was first registered in January 1972 and delivered to its original owner, Baron Giovanni Silvestri, the following month.
Andrew Bagley, chairman and co-founder of Salon Privé, said: “The Ferrari 365 GTC/4 is one of those cars that is often overshadowed by some of Ferrari’s more famous models, but those who know them appreciate just how special they are.
“To find an example as rare and original as this is remarkable enough, but the fact it is finished in Verde Blenheim makes the Salon Privé Concours field at Blenheim Palace, the ideal stage for the 365, where its owners can showcase its rarity, provenance, and fascinating history in equal measure.”
The car spent more than 40 years in Italy, passing through several owners before moving to Germany in 2013.
Salon Privé 2026 will mark its first public appearance at Blenheim Palace.
Built between 1971 and 1972, the Ferrari 365 GTC/4 features a 4.4-litre Colombo V12 engine producing 340bhp and was capable of reaching speeds up to 163mph.
Only 505 units were ever produced, making it even rarer than the iconic Ferrari Daytona.
Designed by Pininfarina, the car is equipped with pop-up headlights, power steering, air conditioning, and occasional rear seating, offering a blend of high performance and long-distance comfort.
The 365 GTC/4 joins a standout collection of entries at this year’s Salon Privé, including a 1952 Ferrari 212 Coupé Speciale by Ghia – originally owned by Argentinian president Juan Perón – a 1953 Bristol 404 Prototype, a 1963 Mercedes-Benz Roadster 300SL, and a 1982 Lamborghini Countach 5000S.
Salon Privé will return to Blenheim Palace from Wednesday, September 2 to Sunday, September 6.
The event will feature the Salon Privé Concours by Aviva Private Clients, which will showcase some of the rarest and most significant privately-owned vehicles from around the world, judged by an international panel of experts.
Other highlights include Ladies’ Day by Boodles, Concours de Vente, the Club Trophy presented by Lockton, Supercar Sunday, and Lifestyle Clubs Day.
For ticket bookings, visit https://www.salonpriveconcours.com/.
To enter a vehicle in this year’s Concours, visit https://www.salonpriveconcours.com/apply-to-enter/.
Oxford News
Dog seized by police after multiple attacks in Marston
North East Oxford Neighbourhood officers attended reports of a dangerous dog incident and subsequently made an arrest.
The dog had caused distress for residents and dog owners as it had been involved in several attacks on other dogs.
It remains in secure kennels while the matter proceeds through the courts.
The individual who was arrested has since been charged and has been released on strict court bail conditions until they attend court in connection with the incident.
The Thames Valley Police have acknowledged the upset caused by these events and have expressed hope that their recent actions will reassure the community.
The police also thanked the residents for their patience, support, and the information provided to officers throughout our enquiries.
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