Dear friends,
July has been a month rich in meaning – full of vibrant festivals, powerful performances, quiet conversations, and deeply moving moments across Oxfordshire. Whether in a school hall, a prison corridor, a park, or a concert stage, I’ve seen time and again how much this county gives – and how important it is that we continue to listen, especially to those whose voices too often go unheard.
Below, you’ll find a round-up of this month’s events. Each is a snapshot of a wider story – of community, creativity, justice, and care. Full write-ups and photos are on the website.
? Save the Date: High Sheriff’s Law Lecture 2026
The 2026 Law Lecture will be held in the afternoon of Thursday 5 February 2026, and we are honoured to welcome The Rt Hon. the Lord Boateng CVO PC DL as our speaker.
A trailblazing civil rights lawyer, MP, Cabinet Minister, diplomat, and peer, Paul Boateng will offer reflections on Hearing the Young Unheard drawn from decades of public service. The event will be held in the Gulbenkian Lecture Theatre at Oxford’s Law Faculty, St Cross Road – a building familiar to fans of Inspector Morse as the series’ fictional police HQ.
? Save the date – further details to follow.
? Heritage, Ritual and Civic Life
Wittenham Rose CeremonyA quiet and beautiful midsummer tradition held by Oxfordshire County Council at The Earth Trust near Wittenham Clumps, symbolising civic duty and public access to the land. The peppercorn rent? Just one rose. But it speaks volumes about continuity, stewardship, and partnership.
? Festivals with Heart
The Leys Festival
An explosion of music, food, art, and community spirit in Blackbird Leys – where residents co-produced a day full of joy and meaning. From spoken word to Windrush remembrance, every moment told a story of belonging.
World Yoga FestivalIn Henley, I had the honour of lighting the ceremonial lamp – a profound reminder of how tradition, stillness, and shared values can bring people together in our often-fractured world.
?? Justice and Redemption
Oxford Legal Walk
Around a hundred of us walked through Oxford to raise funds for legal advice charities, including many of our own Shrieval team. A joyful route, a serious cause – supporting access to justice for those who need it most.
Visit to HMP BullingdonConversations with officers and inmates alike offered a humbling reminder of the importance of rehabilitation and hope. A powerful and moving visit.
Social Entitlement Chamber
A fascinating glimpse into one of the most people-centred parts of the justice system – handling appeals around benefits, asylum, and disability. Quietly essential work, delivered with compassion.
? Arts and Advocacy
CODE by Justice in Motion
A thrilling piece of outdoor theatre combining parkour, music, and raw storytelling to highlight the impact of County Lines exploitation. Featuring young people from Didcot TRAIN – a moving and urgent performance.
? Young Talent in Harmony
Oxfordshire County Youth OrchestraFrom Strauss to Shostakovich, this bold, emotional concert showed the technical brilliance and depth of our county’s young musicians. A privilege to witness.
Music Service Summer Gala
A vibrant, joyful celebration of the County Music Service at St Edward’s School – choirs, orchestras, solos, and saxophones, all showcasing the extraordinary talent being nurtured through music education in Oxfordshire.
? Children and Change
Visit to Mulberry Bush SchoolA return to this superb school in Standlake after 40 years, seeing therapeutic care and education at their best. I left reminded of the power of nurture, structure, and belief in every child.
Cambrian Trust Awards
Presenting Platinum Awards to Year 6 pupils across Wantage was a joyful occasion – recognising courage, responsibility and character. These young people gave me great hope for the future.
ARCh Volunteer Gathering
Celebrating those who quietly change lives through reading – some for 10 or even 15 years. A joyful gathering of quiet heroes, and a reminder of how small, regular acts can shape futures.
AT The Bus at Cherwell School
A promising pilot project to support vulnerable pupils as they move from primary to secondary school. Creative, trauma-informed, and potentially life-changing – I’ll be championing it wherever I can.
??? Youth Voice and Participation
Witney Youth Council & French ExchangeYoung people from Oxfordshire and Le Touquet came together in an exchange full of laughter, connection and shared purpose – proving that civic pride and teenage curiosity cross all borders.
Bicester Ambassadors for Change
A brilliant morning with articulate, passionate students determined to make their school and town greener, fairer and more inclusive. Their commitment and care left a real impression.
In-spire Sounds
Kingsley and his team are using music to offer purpose, belonging and self-expression to some of our county’s most marginalised young people. A shining example of youth voice and grassroots leadership.
? A Royal Visit to Oxford
His Majesty The King at the Oxford Centre for Islamic StudiesCelebrating 40 years of scholarship, interfaith dialogue and cultural connection – and formally opening the new King Charles III Wing. An inspiring afternoon with global resonance.
As ever, thank you for walking this journey with me. Your support and encouragement are what make this role meaningful – and your ongoing commitment to Oxfordshire’s people and places continues to inspire me every day.
Warmest wishes,
John May CVO OBE DL
High Sheriff of Oxfordshire 2025–2026
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