Oxford News
Oxford University retracts public health warning
On Wednesday, August 5, signs across University Parks warned that “recent dry weather” had caused an algal bloom, which it said, “may be harmful to humans and pets”.
This comes amid the identification of potential algal blooms across Oxfordshire.
These large growths of algae or bacteria in waterways can be dangerous to human health and fatal to dogs.
Signage near a historic bathing spot read: “Algae in the river.
“Please be aware that there is currently an algal bloom in the river caused by the recent dry weather conditions.
“This may be harmful to humans and pets so it is advisable NOT to enter the water or allow your dogs to do so until further notice.
“Thank you for your understanding.”
After Local Democracy Reporting Service enquiries about what kind of algae was suspected, potential impacts, whether this had been reported to the Environment Agency and if testing had been carried out, a spokesperson for the university said that the signs had been put up “as a precaution” and revealed the parks team “are now confident that this is not a potentially toxic algal bloom”.
They said: “In fact it is duckweed ( Lemna minor ), which has formed a thick mat resembling an algal bloom due to the low water levels, warm conditions, plentiful sunlight and slow river flow.
“Duckweed is native and completely harmless.
“There is therefore no risk to people or animals from poisonous algae – although the very low water levels and poor visibility means entering the water is still a bad idea.”
The signs have since been replaced, but had prompted criticism of water companies and fears about climate change impacts.
Oxfordshire councillors, MPs and campaign groups spoke out, calling for change.
While this algal bloom warning has been retracted, concerns remain about the impact of climate change and drought in Oxfordshire as well as the health of its waterways.
The UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology’s ‘Bloomin’ Algae maps’ show a “confirmed bloom” in the Farmoor Reservoir, and a “plausible” bloom at the Wolvercote Mill Stream.
The Environment Agency confirmed toxic blue-green algae at a lake in Hardwick Parks in Standlake between Witney and Abingdon.
The Environment Agency’s guidance says that toxin‑producing blooms “can kill wild animals, farm livestock and domestic pets,” and in humans “can cause rashes after skin contact and illnesses if swallowed.”
The NHS in Borders notes that human illness linked to blue‑green algae has included “skin rashes, eye irritation, vomiting, diarrhoea, and pains in muscles and joints” after people swallowed or swam through algal scum, with some cases “severe” but no confirmed deaths.
Veterinary experts are clear that the risk is much higher for dogs.
The Royal Kennel Club similarly says “blue‑green algae can produce toxins that may be deadly to dogs” and advises owners not to let dogs drink from or swim in contaminated water.
English actor and broadcaster Peter Duncan, 72, who has written and directed pantomimes for Oxford Playhouse, is urging health authorities to approve focal therapy more broadly across the UK.
Mr Duncan, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2019, called the treatment “life-changing” after it successfully targeted the cancerous part of his prostate with minimal side effects.
Other public figures who have received focal therapy include Jeremy Clarkson and former prime minister Lord David Cameron.
Mr Duncan said: “I was originally offered a radical prostatectomy which would have removed the whole prostate, but I was lucky enough to be treated with focal therapy which was better for me and a less invasive option.
“It was a complete success, and I’ve only experienced very minor after-effects, allowing me to continue with my life as before.”
The treatment is backed by Prostate Cancer UK, which is urging the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) to review and approve the treatment for wider use on the NHS.
Amy Rylance, director of health services, equity and improvement at Prostate Cancer UK, said: “Without a timeline from Nice, we simply don’t know how long men will have to wait for approval on the NHS.”
A recent report from Imperial College London found focal therapy is as effective as radiotherapy or surgery but carries a much lower risk of incontinence or erectile dysfunction.
One in eight men in the UK will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.
Richie Reeves broke into the home in Westminster Way on January 12 this year.
Oxford Crown Court heard how the 33-year-old, of Bristow Close, Bletchley, Milton Keynes, spent the night there and then stole some pants and socks before leaving.
As well as this, Reeves was sentenced, on August 6, for stealing bank cards in various locations and then using them to buy things for himself.
Reeves stole a bank card, wallet and cash belonging to John Keen in Oxford on January 17.
READ MORE: Oxford University student from China found dead at accommodation
He also stole bank cards belonging to Gordon Boland and Aya Zemzam in Milton Keynes in April.
Using the bank cards, the total he spent was £586.87.
Judge Maria Lamb said: “You broke into a young man’s home. You slept in his bed and helped yourself to his belongings.
“The feeling of intrusion to that young man must have been very significant. You were a rough sleeper and entrenched in substance misuse.
“You are now beginning to realise the impact of your offending on other people. It has had an enduring impact. You are now seeking to turn things around.”
Reeves was jailed for a total of 16 months.
The judge added: “I hope you build on the work you are doing already.”
It was reported earlier this week that Southampton’s officers had started using DeterTech’s SmartTag spray.
This can be fired from a handheld canister over distances of up to 10 metres, coating riders, clothing and bikes with an invisible marker.
READ MORE: Tips will no longer accept these items as new £15 charge introduced
The spray is only detectable under ultraviolet light and carries a unique forensic code linked to the specific canister used, allowing investigators to match a suspect to a particular incident weeks or even months later.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary says the technology gives officers a safer tactical option when dealing with motorcycles, e‑bikes and e‑scooters being used in crime or anti‑social behaviour, reducing the need for risky pursuits or close confrontation.
The move comes amid growing complaints about riders using powered two‑wheelers on pavements and in public spaces, and follows similar trials by Dorset Police and other forces to tag offenders rather than chasing them through busy streets.
READ MORE: Oxfordshire shop to permanently close with all products now £1
Thames Valley Police has told this newspaper this week that a second spray is being used in Oxfordshire and across the region.
The DNA tagging spray from SelectaDNA acts in a similar way and is also being used to combat e-bikes and e-scooters.
TVP, which covers Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Berkshire, has already seized more than 100 illegal machines in recent operations and warned that privately owned e‑scooters used on public roads risk fines, penalty points and confiscation.
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