Clarkson's Farm death threats put politician on edge

West Oxfordshire district councillor Dean Temple said he "personally has not had any contact" with former Top Gear star-turned farmer Jeremy Clarkson since season two came out and is not aware of any councillor that has.

Mr Temple, 46, is the only representative for the Chadlington and Churchill ward pre-elections, making him Mr Clarkson's local councillor.

The district council he stands on previously opposed several of the former Top Gear star's plans including a new restaurant and car park at Diddly Squat Farm in Chadlington.

Mr Temple is now standing as the Conservative councillor for Witney North in the local elections. 

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Speaking ahead of the new series of Clarkson's Farm, Mr Temple told the Oxford Mail: "We're at the mercy of Mr Clarkson's editing team.

Dean Temple. (Image: Other.)

"I think fingers crossed we might be Ok this time.

"Obviously when we were filming series two we anticipated something but I personally haven't had any contact with him for season three."

Mr Temple had previously told the Daily Star "he had received death threats from all over the world" on the back of Clarkson's Farm.

The television series that follows the ventures of Top Gear presenter turned farmer.

Supporters of the celebrity-run farm believe it has shed a positive light on the work of Oxfordshire farmers but some who live in the area have taken issue with its "expansion" and associated traffic issues.

There have been large queues of people at the farm shop during the filming of Clarkson's Farm with many cars parked on the grass verges near the site.

Brize Norton and Shilton district Green councillor Rosie Pearson said: "West Oxfordshire District Council is committed to supporting farmers and food-growers and to enabling the local food economy to thrive.

Jeremy Clarkson. (Image: PA)

"This includes appropriate re-use of buildings in a way that is mindful of the wider neighbourhood. 

 "I don't think there is a need for confrontation of any kind.

"I'm looking forward to watching the new series."

A West Oxfordshire District Council spokesman added: "The intimidation and abuse of councillors, in person or otherwise, undermines democracy.

"It can prevent elected members from representing the communities they serve, deter individuals from standing for election, and undermine public trust in democratic processes.

“Debating and disagreeing with one another has always been, and will continue to be, a healthy part of democracy.

"However, the right engagement matters and abuse and intimidation crosses the line into dangerous territory and has no place in politics.”

Some councillors appear keen on the farm with Labour representative Duncan Enright saying he "quite enjoys" the show and that Mr Clarkson has done "an important job of highlighting the issues farmers in the rural economy face".

Duncan Enright. (Image: WODC)

The Witney North and East councillor added: "What I'd like to see is better links between Chipping Norton and the farm.

"Abuse is a problem in life generally these days."

Liam Walker, Conservative councillor for Hailey, Minster Lovell and Leafield, added: "Like many I’m looking forward to watching the next part of Clarkson’s journey on his farm.

Liam Walker at the farm. (Image: Liam Walker.)

"I think the series is great and I’m pleased to see the farm shop being such a success which is a huge boost to local tourism for West Oxfordshire with people flocking from across the country.”