Category: News

19 arrests made ahead of Epsom Derby Festival

19 people have been arrested in connection with planned criminal disruption at the Epsom Derby Festival this morning (3 June).

Eleven people were arrested at addresses in Mitcham and Byfleet in the early hours, following warrants based on intelligence received ahead of the Epsom Derby Festival.

A further eight people were arrested after their vehicle was stopped on Canons Lane in Burgh Heath at around 10.20am this morning. All were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit public nuisance and remain in police custody.

T/Superintendent Michael Hodder said: “We have been clear in our approach that criminal activity will not be tolerated at the Epsom Derby Festival. As a result of intelligence, we have arrested 19 people who we believe were intent on illegally disrupting today’s events.

“Our officers will be at the event throughout the day to continue in keeping the public safe and preventing criminality.”

A total of 12 people have been arrested within the Epsom Downs racecourse since the event began this morning, also in connection with planned criminal activity.

One man was arrested after he ran onto the racetrack after a race had started. He was quickly removed by event security and police officers, meaning the race was not disrupted.

Chief Superintendent Clive Davies said: “Our officers and event security responded quickly and decisively after a man ran onto the racetrack after a race had begun.

“We will not tolerate criminal behaviour which puts lives in danger, including those of the animals, jockeys, security staff and our officers.”

Animal Rising have been given space outside the entrance to the racecourse to protest. Security on cause  has been greatly upgraded ahead of the big race.

Other News

Epsom Hospital Radio Launching Online

Epsom Hospital Radio Launching Online

2023 marks the 45th anniversary of Epsom Hospital Radio  station and is a landmark year. Surrey’s finest and fastest growing hospital radio station will now be broadcasting on the internet. Thanks to generous donations from local businesses and the ongoing support of Epsom Rotary Club, from Wednesday 31st May you will be able to listen to Epsom Hospital Radio wherever you are in the UK.

Back in 1978 two patients in Epsom District Hospital were having a discussion about music. It turned out that they were both DJs and between them they decided to launch Epsom District Hospital Radio. It took a couple of years to acquire funding, equipment and support but in 1981 the station broadcast its first programmes.

Over the ensuing years the station has grown in both size and reputation, continuing to entertain and amuse the patients as well as hosting events such as school fetes, the Dorking Big Weekend, the Epsom Common Day and the Epsom and Ewell Community Fayre.

Epsom Hospital Radio’s President Trevor Leonard, who recently celebrated 40 years as a member, is thrilled by the latest development. “This is a pivotal moment in the 45 year history of Epsom Hospital Radio as we will now able to more actively engage with our wider local community, while still ensuring the patients of Epsom Hospital remain absolutely at the heart of everything we do.

As well as the superb efforts of our current Station Manager, Chief Engineer, Management Team and members who have made internet broadcasting possible, this major development is also accredited to all those who have volunteered at Epsom Hospital Radio throughout the years and in doing so, helped to lay the foundations for us to take this major step forward today”.

Epsom Hospital Radio Station Manager Ian DaggettCurrent Station Manager Ian Daggett said it reflected the station’s desire to progress over the last couple of years. “It’s a small step in the world of broadcasting, but for Epsom Hospital Radio it’s a giant leap. Being on the internet is something we’ve wanted to do for quite a while and we’re really looking forward to reaching out to the people of Epsom and Ewell and the surrounding areas”.

If you want to tune in to Epsom Hospital Radio, a click to listen link is now available on the homepage, which is www.epsomhospitalradio.org.uk

You will be able to enjoy Epsom Hospital Radio playing your favourite hits from across the decades, alongside an eclectic mix of themed programs from classical to comedy, country to rock, specialist music genres, interviews with local people and the occasional celebrity as well.

You can also request a song for a patient in the hospital or a listener anywhere via the request line which is 01372 735999 or via email [email protected]

Other Local News:

Councillor Rob Geleit appointed Mayor of Epsom & Ewell

Witness appeal following affray in Epsom

Aston Martin High-Performance Partner of The Derby Festival

Councillor Rob Geleit appointed Mayor of Epsom & Ewell

Councillor Rob Geleit has been officially recognised as the new Mayor of Epsom and Ewell at the council’s annual Mayor Making ceremony at the Town Hall on Tuesday 23 May.

The Mayor is the first citizen of the Borough of Epsom & Ewell and has several specific roles during their one-year term of office. These include representing the council and the local community at formal and ceremonial occasions, both within the borough and elsewhere, andchairing full meetings of the Council. During the mayoral year the Mayor is strictly politically neutral and the work representing those in their ward is undertaken by the other ward councillors.

As Mayor for 2023/2024, Rob will have a full diary of civic events planned throughout the year,including visits to residents, community and sports groups.

On becoming Mayor, Rob said, “It is a great privilege to be appointed Mayor of Epsom and Ewell. It is a wonderful opportunity to give back to and highlight the community I love and the place I’ve called home for many years.

“I look forward to meeting as many residents and organisations as possible throughout my tenure as Mayor and showcase their work in our community.”

Rob first moved to Epsom in 1977 when he was 5 years old and has lived here, on and off, since then. He attended Pound Lane School, Bishopsmead Church of England School and finally Epsom High School, where he was Head Boy.

After he left school, Rob suffered an episode of mental ill health, a challenging time for him. He recovered well and was first elected as a Labour Councillor in Court Ward in 2011.

Rob has served on several committees during his time as a Councillor at Epsom & Ewell, most recently serving as Deputy Mayor.

In his professional life, Rob works as a computer programmer in Leatherhead. During his career, he has written code for the European Space Agency, as well as working on SmartMetering and at the Crown Prosecution Service.

Rob is passionate about the environment. He has had a zero-carbon footprint for over seven years. He doesn’t own a car, instead choosing to cycle and use public transport. At home, he uses sustainably sourced electricity and offsets his gas usage.

During his Mayoral year, Rob will raise awareness of and funds for three charities. These are:

• Age Concern Epsom & Ewell

A local community charity focusing on empowering older people in the Borough ofEpsom & Ewell by providing information, advice, medical transport, social support and befriending services.

• Citizen Advice Epsom & Ewell
A free advice service to people that live, work or study within the Epsom and Ewell area.
• Love Me, Love My Mind

A small registered charity based in Epsom, which aims to promote better understanding of mental health and to support the wellbeing of everyone in the community.

Witness appeal following affray in Epsom

Surrey Police  are appealing for witnesses following an affray in Epsom.

Officers were called to Pound Lane in Epsom at 3.30pm on Thursday, 18 May, after reports of people fighting in the road with weapons including knives and a metal bar.

All parties made off prior to police arrival, but no one is thought to have been injured in this incident, and we do not believe the wider public to be at risk.

A 19-year-old man has since been arrested for affray, and we would still like to speak to the five people in the images below, who made off in a grey transit van from the scene.

The woman is described as White, in her 20s, with a large build and brown hair in a ponytail. She was wearing a green t-shirt and green shorts.

The first man is described as White, with a large build and a shaved head, wearing a green t-shirt, and dark trousers.

The second man is described as White, with a medium build and a shaved head, wearing a white t-shirt, white socks, black shorts, and black trainers.

The third man is described as White, with a slim build and brown hair, wearing a black coat, black leggings, white trainers, and white socks.

The fourth man is described as White, with a medium build, wearing all black.

If you know any of the people in these images, or have any information that might assist their investigation, please contact them quoting PR/45230054422 via:

If you don’t wish to speak to police, you can call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Brooklands Museum marks the 80th anniversary of the Dambuster’s Raid

Brooklands Museum marks the 80th anniversary of the Dambuster’s Raid with a new exhibition recognising inventor and engineer Sir Barnes Wallis

Tuesday, 16th, and Wednesday, 17th May 2023, mark the 80th anniversary of the Dambuster’s Raid on the primary targets in the Ruhr Valley, Germany. Brooklands Museum, Weybridge is commemorating the milestone with the opening of a brand-new permanent exhibition, Inventing the Future: The Innovations of Sir Barnes Wallis, which explores the broader story of Sir Barnes Wallis and his inventions, including geodetic aircraft and the revolutionary Stratosphere Chamber.
Barnes Wallis is famous for his involvement in Operation Chastise and inventing the ‘bouncing bomb,’ but his achievements were so much more remarkable than this. In a career that lasted over 60 years, Barnes contributed significantly to the development of British aviation, from airships to aerospace, predominantly from his base at Brooklands, Weybridge. The exhibition delves into the world of engineering, looks at what it takes to be an innovator, and focuses on the most important people in Barnes’ life.
Barnes Wallis began his career at Brooklands with Vickers in 1913 as an aircraft designer, developing a geodetic airframe structure adopted by the Vickers Wellington. With the outbreak of World War II, Barnes saw a need for strategic bombing. He developed the concept of making a ‘bouncing bomb’ to collapse three of Germany’s major dams, which would cause significant damage to their infrastructure. Barnes tested his concept using golf balls and a catapult on nearby Silvermere Lake.
Following the end of World War II, Wallis was encouraged to apply for an Inventors’ Award for his victory, with the bouncing bomb. He refused, as he saw the prize fund as blood money. However, he was finally persuaded and used the money to set up a scholarship at Christ’s Hospital, the school he attended, for children of RAF personnel who were orphaned during the war. He then turned his attention to finding more ways to give back to the world, starting with the creation of the Stratosphere Chamber.
Beatrice Meecham, Interpretation and Programmes Officer at Brooklands Museum, said: “Although we are launching the exhibition to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the Dambuster’s Raid, the interpretation concentrates on Barnes’ incredible innovations and how he built the Stratosphere Chamber. There’s also a real focus on the people who surrounded Barnes and supported him.
The new exhibition will help young engineers to understand the process of being an engineer, how a small idea can turn into something enormous – and that’s the power of what an engineer can do. Barnes Wallis had different challenges in the 1940s, but he solved problems with the technology available to him at the time. Through the exhibition, we explore how people can solve the problems of our time using inventiveness and the technology today.”
The new permanent exhibition, Inventing the Future: The Innovations of Sir Barnes Wallis, opens to the public on Wednesday 17th May, at Brooklands Museum, Weybridge. For more information about the exhibition and visiting the Museum, visit brooklandsmuseum.com

Aston Martin High-Performance Partner of The Derby Festival

Aston Martin announced as Official High-Performance Partner of The Derby Festival

Aston Martin will become a partner in British racing for the first time as the Official High-Performance Partner of The Derby Festival, it is announced today.

The iconic British brand will become the title race partner of The Aston Martin Dash, the fastest horserace in the world, with the event at Epsom Downs Racecourse forming part of the ultra-luxury manufacturer’s 110thanniversary celebrations in the UK.

Putting thrilling horsepower at the centre of the partnership, Aston Martin’s high-performance DBX707 will be showcased throughout The Derby Festival, with guests arriving at Epsom Downs Racecourse by helicopter experiencing a ride in the world’s most powerful luxury SUV.

A new entrant to Aston Martin’s century-long bloodline of iconic models, DBX707 will bring blistering performance, unmistakable style, and absolute luxury to one of the most prestigious dates in the British sporting and social calendar.

Aston Martin models will also be showcased to guests throughout the two-day festival, with a special display to celebrate the marque’s historic 110th anniversary.

Oliver Turner, Regional President of Aston Martin in the UK and South Africa, said: “Aston Martin is thrilled to become High-Performance Partner of The Derby Festival and title partner of The Aston Martin Dash, bringing our unique brand to an event steeped in history and prestige.

“Joining our other flagship events this summer like the Goodwood Festival of Speed and British Grand Prix, The Derby Festival provides another opportunity to celebrate Aston Martin’s 110th anniversary in the UK and creates an appropriate high-performance platform to showcase DBX707 to luxury audiences.”

James Crespi, General Manager at Epsom Downs Racecourse, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with the iconic luxury British sports car manufacturer in Aston Martin for The Dash, the world’s fastest horserace, as well as across the two days of The Derby Festival.

“The Derby Festival’s status as an iconic British event is well known and this partnership provides a really exciting platform to look to the future and innovate at racing’s most spectacular carnival.”

Further partnerships for The Derby Festival will be announced in the coming weeks.

© The Jockey Club/Aston Martin

For Details and Ticket information regarding The Derby Festival featuring The Betfred Oaks & The Betfred Derby and The Aston Martin Dash CLICK HERE

Congratulations to Lerryn Reynoldson

Ewell resident Lerryn Reynoldson received a big surprise on Coronation Day morning when she was presented with an Appreciation Award from the Lord Lieutenant of Surrey by the Deputy Lieutenant, Michael Hayman MBE, in the presence of the Mayor of Epsom and Ewell, Cllr Clive Woodbridge, family, friends and fellow volunteers.

The Appreciation Award, which  recognises those  who provide  excellent service to their local community and go above and beyond in their volunteering, was presented by the Surrey Lieutenancy as part of its efforts to celebrate this important moment in our nation’s history.

Deputy Lieutenant Michael Hayman, said “Lerryn exemplifies the spirit of service, effort and community contribution that these awards recognise. She is an inspiring role model and has encouraged so many people around her to also volunteer their own time.”

Lerryn was recognised primarily for her litter picking endeavours over the past few years.  Having started as something of  a one woman crusade against litter, Lerryn set up her own volunteer group  Keep Epsom and Ewell Tidy,  which has steadily gained followers and now a team of like minded residents has joined forces with Lerryn to improve the environment for all residents in the Borough.

Mayor of Epsom & Ewell Cllr Woodbridge said, “Lerryn has never faltered in her passion and dedication to keeping the Borough clean, whether it’s campaigning for improved litter picking and grass cutting schedules, identifying locations for new litter bins or rallying the troops for litter picking events. Above all else Lerryn cares about her community and the environment and is driven by a strong desire to make a difference. The Council is extremely grateful for all Lerryn’s efforts and  delighted that  her hard work and determination are being formally recognised by this award.”

Lerryn  has also been a volunteer for Rhyme Time at Bourne Hall  library  since  2018 and is secretary of the Friends of Ewell Grove school, helping raise invaluable funds for the school. And she does this all the  while running her own face painting business and looking after her family.

Cllr Woodbridge adds, “She truly does deserve appreciation as a community minded citizen who has gone above and beyond with her volunteering.”

Festival of Ewell 19th-20th May

Bourne Hall’s Festival of Ewell ‘New Beginnings’ and Café Relaunch

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council are pleased to announce Bourne Hall’s Festival of Ewell ‘New Beginnings’ which will run from Friday 19 – Saturday 20 May.

The design of Bourne Hall’s building has long had connotations of space and sci-fi, with its circular design, reminiscent of a flying saucer. Through the Festival of Ewell, the community-led venue aims to celebrate this very space-inspired theme. Fans of Dan Dare, the quintessential, alien-fighting spaceman, may also notice links throughout the event to the Eagle comic, which has origins in Epsom and Ewell.

Running from 10am-6pm on both days, the event promises fun for all the family, with a wide variety of activities and performances. Attendees can expect the following from the venue:

On Friday, join the team for the grand opening of the rebranded Flying Saucer Café, which will be serving delicious food and drinks throughout the event. There will also be children’s entertainment from Rhyme Time (baby sing-along classes) and Baby Cinema, where children will be able to watch Space Chimps. There is also the opportunity to meet Bob Ballan, the creator of the moving model in the café.

On Saturday, the Cash in the Wardrobe market will be on as usual, followed by a line-up of dancers and performers presenting memorable showcases and you will also be able to listen to a history talk on the mysteries of Roman Ewell.

Across both days, visit the museum for an immersive maze experience set to the theme with life-size aliens, whilst in the library you will find space and superhero themed activities for children.

Speaking of the upcoming event, Ian Dyer, Head of Operational Services said,
“Our remarkable modern building has had lots of architectural interest since opening in 1970 and we’re excited to celebrate its uniqueness in this special community event. There is something for everyone to enjoy at the Festival of Ewell and we look forward to welcoming the community to this great event!”

Bourne Hall’s Festival of Ewell, ‘New Beginnings’ is free to attend, and the team look forward to welcoming you. 

 

Timetable

Time slot

Friday 19 May

10:30-11:00

Grand opening

11:00-11:30

Mega Rhyme time

Intermission

Tea break

13:30-15:30

Baby Cinema

15:50-16:10

Bob Ballan

16:30-17:30

Bourne Hall- Takes off

Time slot

Saturday 20 May

10:20-10:40

Terri Jayne School of Dance

11:00-11:20

Morris Dancers

11:40-12:00

Ambition School of Dance

12:00-12:20

Extend Dance

12:20-13:20

Intermission

13:20-13:40

Lucie Benson School of Dance

14:00-14:20

Protegem Dance Company

14:40-15:20

David- Things that go bump in the night

15:40-16:00

Tea Break

16:20-16:40

Surrey Dance Addicts

17:00-17:40

David Brooks- Roman Ewell

Local Coronation Champion Hero

   

Congratulations to the amazing Mary Zoeller, Division Commissioner for Girlguiding Epsom division who has been awarded the Coronation Champion Award by King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

The award is to celebrate extraordinary volunteers across the country who have been contributing to their communities. Only 500 people across the United Kingdom received the award and Mary’s is well deserved.

Not only does she volunteer for the Girl Guides she also volunteers for, Epsom and Ewell Community Fund, South East Rivers Trust, Epsom and Ewell Borough Council Countryside Management Team and KEET (Keep Epsom and Ewell Tidy)

Epsom won the 2015 National Campaign for Courtesy all thanks to Mary’s hard work and she was honoured at the 2016 Epsom & Ewell Business Awards for her Commitment to the Community.

She has been presented with a medal and certificate signed by the King and Queen and given seats near the Royal box at the Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle on Sunday. 

On a personal note Mary has helped What’s On so much over the years to the extent I wouldn’t still be in business without her advice and knowledge. It was mary who suggested I had selfies with celebrities, so blame her, Mary has also helped me with my spellings and writing. I have mild dyslexia so being a journalist and writing has not been easy. But thanks to Mary she gave me the confidence to continue, I know I still make mistakes but not as many. 

Mary is a wonderful kind person which we need more of in this world.  

Congratulations Mary