The Refugee Flag was flown at Witney Town Hall to mark World Refugee Day.

Mayor Councillor Jane Doughty and Deputy Mayor Councillor Sandra Simpson raised the flag in support of refugees living in Witney and around the world.

World Refugee Day is observed annually on June 20 and celebrates the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home country to escape conflict or persecution.

In an online post, Witney Town Council said: “This morning, the Mayor, Cllr Jane Doughty, and the Deputy Mayor, Cllr Sandra Simpson, raised the Refugee Flag at the Town Hall, marking World Refugee Day.

“The flag is raised every year on the flagpole as a gesture of solidarity with the refugee community here in Witney and across the world.”

Najeebullah Arab, of Mayfield Avenue, Grove, was today (Friday, June 19) sentenced at Oxford Crown Court to 10 years and 11 months’ imprisonment, an extended licence period of six years, a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for 20 years and a lifetime restraining order for his victims.

The 40-year-old Afghan national pleaded guilty to sexually communicating with the 14-year-old child in May 2024.

READ MORE: Afghan man jailed for violent sexual offences in Wantage

He was on court bail for that offence when he sexually assaulted a woman in her 20s in January this year and, less than a week after that, sexually assaulted, kidnapped and raped a 19-year-old woman in Wantage.

Najeebullah Arab, jailed for committing violent sexual offences against women in Wantage (Image: Madeleine Evans)

Senior investigating officer detective chief inspector Stuart May of the Thames Valley Police said: “Firstly, I want to pay tribute to the victims in this case, whose courage in coming forward has been vital in securing justice.

“They were rightly described as heroes by HHJ Nott during today’s sentencing.

“Arab is a dangerous sexual predator who targeted women and subjected them to traumatic and violent offences.

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“His actions have had a lasting impact on his victims, and it is right that he will now spend a significant period of time behind bars.

“This sentence reflects the seriousness of his crimes and ensures he can no longer pose a risk to the public.

“I hope this outcome provides some reassurance to the victims and the wider community that offenders like Arab will be brought to justice.”

Home-Start Oxford is marking Small Charity Week, running from June 22 to 29, by highlighting the vital role small organisations play in supporting communities.

Based in the centre and west of Oxfordshire, the charity offers free, confidential support to parents and carers with young children who are experiencing challenges such as postnatal depression, isolation, bereavement, health issues or disability.

Katharine Barber, CEO of Home‑Start Oxford, said: “Small charities are often closest to the people who need them most.

“We may be small in structure, but the difference we make is huge.

“Every week, our volunteers and staff walk alongside families who are facing incredibly tough circumstances, offering practical help, emotional support and a listening ear.

“Small Charity Week is a chance to shine a light on the essential role organisations like ours play in strengthening communities and to recognise the people who make it all possible.”

Despite rising demand, higher costs and a challenging funding environment, Home‑Start Oxford has supported more than 600 families so far this year.

This impact has been made possible thanks to the dedication of its volunteers, staff and supporters.

The charity is encouraging people to mark Small Charity Week by turning short-term awareness into lasting action.

Ms Barber said: “There are so many ways to support a small charity – from volunteering a few hours, to holding a fundraiser, becoming a regular giver, or simply sharing our work with others.”