It is with great sadness that Abingdon-on-Thames Town Council has learned of the passing of former Councillor and Mayor Nigel Trippett, who died peacefully at home on 14 July 2026, surrounded by his family.
Nigel served as Mayor of Abingdon in 1980/81 and made a lasting contribution to the civic life and traditions of the town. During his mayoral year, he presented the town with a model of the Abingdon Bunk railway engine as his civic gift. The model remains on display in the museum, where it continues to be enjoyed by visitors.
Nigel also played a memorable role in celebrating one of Abingdon’s most treasured traditions. To commemorate the 80th birthday of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, he led a special Bun Throwing celebration before travelling to Clarence House to present the Queen Mother with one of Abingdon’s famous buns.
Nigel understood the importance of Abingdon’s civic traditions and took particular comfort in knowing that former Mayors are honoured by the Abingdon flag being flown at half-mast from County Hall. It is fitting that the town recognises his years of dedicated public service in this way.
The Town Council extends its heartfelt condolences to Nigel’s family and friends at this difficult time. He will be remembered with affection and gratitude for his commitment to Abingdon, his enthusiasm for its unique heritage, and the legacy he leaves behind through his service to the community.
May he rest in peace.
From 21st July 2026, the popular and highly used short cut and passageway ( historically named The Slype) from Thames Street to Checker Walk by the Abbey Buildings is closed for health and safety reasons. This is whilst the refurbishment of the Abbey buildings is underway. Scaffolding will also appear next week. It is expected that it will be closed for at least a year.
It is with great sadness that I have to announce the death of Councillor Margaret Crick, who passed away on Friday 10th July 2026. Margaret had been in poor health in recent months but nevertheless her passing has come as a great shock to all her friends and colleagues at the Town Council and in the wider community of Abingdon.
Margaret was first elected to the Town Council in May 2007 for the Caldecott Ward, and since May 2011 has represented the Dunmore ward. During her time on the Town Council she served on many committees including the Environment, Amenities and Infrastructure committee, the Planning committee, and the Museum sub-committee. Margaret also served as Mayor of Abingdon in 2018-19.
She was also elected to the Vale of White District Council in a By-election in September 2014 and served as a District Councillor until she stood down in May 2023. It is a measure of the respect that she was held in by her fellow councillors that she was elected as Chair of the Vale for four successive years (2019-2023).
Margaret was a hardworking and dedicated councillor, building up a great deal of knowledge about Abingdon and in particular her Dunmore ward. She was very keen to see a cinema remain in Abingdon and was particularly pleased that the Council had recently ensured this would happen. Margeret was also a passionate defender of the green belt. She was generous with her time with residents, councillors and staff. She brought great warmth and personality to meetings. She had an incisive and enquiring mind, not afraid to ask difficult questions but always tempering this with her caring and generous spirit and her great sense of humour.
Margaret leaves two sons, David and Michael. Our thoughts go out to them and her wider family at this very difficult time.
Margaret will be greatly missed by everyone who knew here.
The Town flag is now flying at half-mast above the County Hall to honour her, and to recognise her commitment and dedication to Abingdon-on-Thames.
Cherie Carruthers, Town Clerk.
Please note that, due to operational adjustments, the Visitor Information Centre will close at 12 noon on Wednesday 24 June and Thursday 25 June.
Council services remain available during this time and enquiries can still be made by email at enquiries@abingdon.gov.uk or by telephone on 01235 522642.
Thank you for your understanding.
Please see information below regarding consultation for local charity Carousel.
Oxfordshire County Council has commissioned this new crossing in time for the return to school having coordinated the construction with the surface dressing of Faringdon Road.
The new crossing request was raised with the County by the local division Councillor Nathan Ley – Abingdon North, OCC following comments from local residents.
As part of the overall improvements during the white lining of the road County Highways have also repainted the Zebra Crossing at the top of Spring Road.
