Author: adminSURREY

Primark reveals official opening date for Epsom

Primark will open the doors of its new store at Epsom’s The Ashley Centre on Wednesday, 25 March at 10am, taking over the former House of Fraser unit.

To mark the moment, the first customers and loyal Primark fans will be welcomed by a live DJ. The new store will cover 31,400 sq. ft set over two floors and follows the retailer’s recent recruitment of 90 new team members ready for opening day.

Customers will be able to shop the bestselling Primark products they know and love across clothing, kidswear, beauty, lifestyle and home.

In further good news for local shoppers, its popular Click & Collect service will also be coming to Epsom to enable customers to browse and order on the Primark website before picking up their items in store, at a time that best suits them.

Ewa Klepczuk, PrimarkEwa Klepczuk, Primark Epsom’s store manager, said: “After working at Primark for many years, I’m excited to now be part of bringing our exciting new store to Epsom. We know there is a lot of anticipation for our arrival, and with 90 new retail colleagues now in place, we’re all working hard behind the scenes to ensure we’re ready for opening day. I’m really looking forward to seeing the reaction of local shoppers when our doors open, where they’ll find our famous Primark must-haves, all at unbeatable value for the entire family. Everyone is welcome to join in with our celebrations – we can’t wait to see everyone there!”

Louisa Butters, CBRE PrimarkLouisa Butters, Head of Urban Destinations (Retail & Offices) at CBRE Investment Management, owners of Ashley Centre, said: “The opening of Primark marks a significant milestone for the Ashley Centre and is a strong acknowledgement of the progress we’ve made through our recent refurbishment programme. As one of the UK’s leading retailers, Primark brings both scale and drawing power, playing a key role in strengthening the scheme’s anchor line-up and enhancing its overall proposition. Its arrival will further elevate the quality, accessibility and relevance of the destination, while reinforcing the confidence that major national brands have in our long-term vision for its continued transformation.”

The new Epsom store will be Primark’s 199th store on the UK high street and follows the retailer’s last store opening in December 2025

Epsom & Ewell Council Approves Final Budget

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council Approves Final Budget Ahead of Transition to East Surrey Council

On Tuesday 10th February evening, councillors agreed to approve Epsom & Ewell Borough Council’s budget for 2026/27.

This will be the final budget prior to Epsom & Ewell Borough Council dissolving and the new East Surrey unitary authority becoming responsible for the facilities and services currently provided by the borough and county councils. The council is required to set a balanced budget every year, having regard to the costs of service provision, estimates of income and agreeing the level of council tax for the coming year.

Like many other local authorities, Epsom and Ewell Borough Council has faced financial pressures in recent years due to rising inflation and the increasing demands of homelessness provisions. However, efforts to identify £700,000-worth of savings through careful review of capital and maintenance budgets and more favourable government funding, particularly for temporary accommodation costs, have helped significantly.

It was also agreed to increase council tax by 2.98%, which equates to an additional £6.93 per annum or 13.3 pence per week for a Band D equivalent property. With Consumer Prices Index inflation between 3.8% and 3.2% in the autumn, this still represents a below inflationary increase for residents and remains one of the lowest council tax levels in Surrey.

The impact of these changes has helped reduced the original three‑year budget gap from just over £5 million to £579,000 and enabled the 2026-27 budget to be balanced without the use of reserves.

Policy committees have ensured budgets reflect genuine local priorities, with specific investments for the coming year including £750,000 additional investment to meet rising demand for homelessness and temporary accommodation and £974,000 in Disabled Facilities Grant investment to support vulnerable residents.

cllr Neil Dallen Epsom & EwellCouncillor Neil Dallen, Chair of the Strategy & Resources Committee, said:

“I am pleased that we have been able to deliver a balanced budget without the use of reserves that still provides real value for money for our residents and local communities, while ensuring the borough’s finances are stable ahead of the formation of the East Surrey unitary authority in April 2027.

“Over the past year, services were asked to identify further efficiencies for 2026/27 where possible and seek new opportunities to reduce pressure on council budgets, which contributed to a saving of around £700,000.

“I also welcome the provisions allocated in the Local Government Financial Settlement from central government, in particular the increase in funding to help with temporary accommodation costs.

“Temporary accommodation costs have been one of the biggest expenditures for the council in recent years. Our housing team has worked tirelessly to prevent homelessness and reduce the need for temporary accommodation through schemes such as the Private Sector Leasing Scheme and Rent Deposit Scheme, however supply has often outstripped demand. So, I’m pleased that the government has recognised the challenge and accepted that they should be contributing to the cost.”

“I am also pleased that the government has finally got to grips with EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) and manufacturers of poor packaging are now contributing to the council’s cost of managing it.

“The Residents’ Association-run Council can be proud of its achievements over the last 90 years and are ready to contribute its knowledge and experience to the East Surrey Unitary Authority.”

Entries invited for Cyril Frazer Award 2026

The Epsom and Ewell Town-Twinning Association is delighted to invite applications for this year’s Cyril Frazer Award. The Cyril Frazer Award was set up as a memorial to Cyril Frazer, who died in 2016. He was the Mayor of Epsom and Ewell when it was first twinned with Chantilly in 1995 and was a founding member of the association. As well as Twinning, one of his other great passions was singing, and he was a keen member of the Epsom Male Voice Choir. Both are reflected in the requirements for the top award of £500.

The award aims to encourage young people in their studies and leisure pursuits by offering a cash award, in cases where funding is not readily available and/or where there is a special need. Such studies and pursuits could include French language and culture, performing arts such as music and dance, either within a school or club environment or by an individual or individuals. It is hoped this might provide an opportunity for them to develop existing links with Chantilly or open up the possibility of future contacts, joint activities and friendship, as well as engaging younger people in Twinning. 

The award is open to  individuals and groups within the Borough and will be awarded to qualified applicants who meet some or all of the following agreed criteria:

• Applicants live or study in the Borough
• The award meets a special need, such as mental or physical health
• It benefits young people
• It has cultural/educational value
• It is music or performing arts related
• It furthers friendships or links with Chantilly
• It supports a key twinning or community event 
 

 

Entries invited for Epsom and Ewell Town Twinning Association’s Cyril Frazer Award 2026 Last year’s winner was Sarah Carpenter of Southfield Primary School, with   runners up, Siobhan Cornell and Jo Johnstone from the French and Music departments at Wallace Fields Junior School, and Olivia Gioffredo from Epsom College.

The winner received a grant of £500 to help support French visits and learning activities planned by Southfield Park school, while the joint runners-up each received £250 to support their work in the fields of French education and musical study.

Association Secretary, Diana Deavin, said: “Last year we were very impressed by the quality of the receive submissions, which is why we awarded a total of £1000 in the end. We are looking forward to receiving ideas and suggestions and are hopeful that this year will exceed our expectations once again. Please do consider submitting an application as we are keen to receive entries from as wide as possible a range of potential beneficiaries and keep Cyril’s name alive in this very meaningful way.”

The prize will be awarded at the Twinning Association’s AGM in June and the deadline for applications is May 31st 2026. For further information and to apply please contact: [email protected].

Swap Screens for Adventure & Magic at Hobbledown

Swap Screens for Laughter, Adventure & Magic at Hobbledown This February Half-Term!

With February half-term around the corner, it’s time to swap screens for adventure, laughter, and a sprinkle of magic! Families are looking for ways to keep kids active, happy, and entertained – and Hobbledown has it all covered! From meeting animals to collaborative play, indoor play barns to thrilling outdoor activities, there’s fun for the whole family around every corner!

Play Is the Best Workout in Disguise

Recent UK research shows that screen use now far outweighs physical activity among children, with British children spending significantly more time in front of screens than engaging in exercise; more than 14 hours of screen time and less than four hours of physical activity per week which is well below national activity recommendations.

At Hobbledown, active play such as climbing, running, sliding, bouncing, and exploring gets children moving without them even realising they’re exercising, plus adults get to join in the fun too. Energetic play sessions burn calories, help meet recommended activity levels, and provide social, emotional, and cognitive benefits. Adventure has never been this good for your health!

Make February Half-Term Magical at Hobbledown

Running from 14th to 22nd February, Hobbledown is taking half-term fun to the next level with its Fairies, Dragons & Bubbles event—packed with adventure, imagination, and family fun! Alongside all your favourite daily activities, extra magical treats have been added to delight little imaginations.

Indoor Adventures

Step into Fairy & Dragon School, where children can learn magical moves, unleash their creativity, and earn their fairy or dragon status. Discover The Imaginarium – part reptile house, part water play, part insectarium, and part interactive jungle – full of caves, tunnels, pools, and hands-on animal encounters that spark curiosity. Explore the Indoor Play Barn, bursting with giant climbing frames and endless adventure, perfect for fun come rain or shine.

Outdoor Adventures

Step outside into a sparkling bubble-filled adventure, running, jumping, and twirling through gigantic clouds of dazzling bubbles. Explore Hobbledown’s enchanting Outdoor Adventure Play Villages, packed with climbing structures, tunnels, slides, and jumping pillows for energy-busting fun. Meet a huge collection of zoo and farm animals, from cheeky lemurs and curious meerkats to adorable capybaras and majestic camels, there’s plenty to discover. Wander through immersive walk-throughs, marvel at Birds of Prey shows, and enjoy engaging animal talks throughout the day. Perfect for families with children aged 2 to 12, whether they are climbing, sliding, bouncing, exploring, or chasing bubbles bigger than they are, Hobbledown packs fun, adventure, and movement into every magical moment.

Don’t miss the magic this February, Hobbledown is the place to be this half term! Click Here For More Details 

Stay for the night, Play for the year

STAY FOR A NIGHT, PLAY FOR A YEAR! SHORT BREAKS BOOKED IN FEBRUARY UNLOCK ENTRY TO 20 UK MERLIN ENTERTAINMENTS’ ATTRACTIONS

 Families can now unlock entry to some of the UK’s most exciting attractions this February with the ultimate short break deal.

Merlin Entertainments is offering guests an Essential Merlin Annual Pass with every short stay booking* from now until 1st March.

From  3rd February to 1st March 2026, guests who book overnight stays at Merlin’s incredible onsite accommodation** will unlock the Stay For A Night, Play For A Year offer – where each guest will score a year-long pass to more than 20 incredible UK attractions.

The fun begins from the moment you check-in to your short stay – whether that’s at the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Alton Towers Resort, Chessington World of Adventures, Thorpe Park, or Warwick Castle. Guests can expect themed accommodation, delicious complimentary breakfasts and two jam-packed days in the park of your choice.

If that is not enough, select attractions sweeten the stay with exclusive perks – such as a tee off with 9 holes of golf included at Alton Towers Resort or special events, such as LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort’s 30th birthday bash, kicking off with the ultimate Brick Days build party this February Half-Term (14–23 Feb 2026).

The Essential Merlin Annual Pass is your ticket to a year packed with adventure, offering access to UK Merlin attractions for 339 days and delivered digitally to your inbox. With an incredible variety of experiences, explore thrilling theme parks, cultural icons and London favourites such as the London Eye, Madame Tussauds, and The London Dungeon.

On top of unlimited fun, Essential Passholders enjoy 10% off Fastrack products and food and beverage. With so much to explore, it’s the easiest way to turn days out into unforgettable adventures all year long.

So why settle for just one day of fun when you can enjoy a whole year of adventures? Book now, pack your bags, and let the memories begin.

Please see Merlin Annual Pass for further information and Merlin Attractions for the full list of attractions included.

Dame Prue Leith meets future chefs and students at Nescot

Dame Prue Leith DBE visited students at Nescot College in Epsom today to share her experience, expertise and enthusiasm with students, including the next generation of culinary talent.

Prue, a chef, author and founder of Leiths Education, as well as a broadcaster and former judge on ‘The Great British Bake Off’, met students and staff and toured Nescot’s award-winning catering and cookery facilities. She also watched students in action, chatting to them as they prepared some of her own recipes in the college’s professional kitchens.

During the visit, Prue spoke about her incredible life, during an ‘in conversation’ session attended by around 250 students from business, catering, art and design, healthcare and media courses. The session, facilitated by Nescot’s CEO and Principal, Julie Kapsalis, included questions about setting up her cookery school, her writing career, including her new book due out in February, and how she moved into broadcasting. Prue also shared personal anecdotes from her time on TV and highlighted the importance of healthy eating and nutrition, an area she has previously advised the government on.

Julie Kapsalis, CEO and Principal at Nescot said “Although many of our students know her from the Bake Off, Prue is a powerhouse business leader, an amazing chef, an author and an educator. Her career is an incredible demonstration of how with determination, resilience and hard work, one person can achieve across several fields. Our Professional Cookery students loved showing her their skills and I know they appreciated her advice, which no doubt they’ll refer to when they’re running kitchens of their own. Prue has shown our students that the sky’s the limit – we’re so grateful for her time.”

Prue Leith said “Nescot is amazing! Truly professional, caring teachers and enthusiastic students.”

As well as Professional Cooking qualifications, Nescot offers a wide range of courses for school leavers and adults, including Animal Care, Hair & Beauty, Computing and IT, Construction, Performing Arts, Childcare and Health & Social Care. To find out more about studying at Nescot call 020 8394 3038, visit www.nescot.ac.uk or email [email protected]

Witness appeal following serious collision in Epsom

Surrey Police are appealing for witnesses following a serious collision in Epsom this morning (Wednesday, 21 January).

Officers were called to the High Street shortly before 7.30am following reports of a collision involving the driver of a silver Ford Fiesta and a pedestrian.

The pedestrian, a man in his 70s, was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

The driver of the car, a 24-year-old man from Redhill, has been arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

The High Street remains closed between the junctions with Church Street and Ashley Road whilst officers investigate. Ashley Road is also shut until the junction with The Parade.

They are asking anyone who may have witnessed the collision to get in touch. We are also seeking CCTV, dashcam, or helmet cam footage that may have captured all or part of this incident.

If you have any information that might assist our investigation, please get in touch quoting PR/45260007612 using one of the options below:

If you would rather not speak to police or to prefer to give information anonymously, you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or completing their online form at  https://crimestoppers-uk.org/

Festival of Friendship

Epsom and Ewell Borough Council Announces First-Ever Festival of Friendship – Ukraine

From 27 January to 1 February, Epsom and Ewell Borough Council is proud to partner with Epsom and Ewell Refugee Network, Epsom Library, and Epsom Picturehouse to host the borough’s first Festival of Friendship – Ukraine.

This week-long celebration will showcase traditional Ukrainian crafts, music, and cultural heritage, while highlighting the friendships formed between Ukrainian nationals who have settled in the borough and the local community that has welcomed them.

The festival offers a vibrant programme of exhibitions, workshops, films, and live performances, all designed to share Ukrainian culture and foster community connections.

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council has worked with partners to curate and run a week of workshops as part of the Festival of Friendship – Ukraine.

Key Highlights:

      • Free Workshops and Exhibitions at Epsom Library, including Ukrainian block printing, paper cutting art, wool crafts, and beading. Spaces are limited; please arrive early to secure your spot. All materials provided.
      • Film Screenings at Epsom Picturehouse, accompanied by live Ukrainian music performances. Tickets available via the Epsom Picturehouse website.
      • Children’s Activities, including a treasure hunt, face painting, and a special Paddington Bear appearance, at Epsom Library.

Ewell Epsom councillor Clive WoodbridgeSpeaking of the upcoming festival, Councillor Clive Woodbridge, Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Community said,

“The Festival of Friendship – Ukraine is a heartwarming celebration of culture and community spirit, it brings together Ukrainian nationals and local residents through shared traditions, crafts, music and friendship. Events like this remind us that kindness and mutual understanding are at the heart of a thriving borough—thank you to everyone helping to make this festival possible.”

The Festival of Friendship – Ukraine supports the three strategic pillars of the council’s Arts, Culture and Heritage Strategy by nurturing creative talents within our community, increasing access to creativity for all and championing economic growth via creative industries. The Festival of Friendship – Ukraine also delivers against the strategic aim of the council’s Health and Wellbeing Strategy which seeks to improve the mental and emotional wellbeing of residents.

Jo Sherring, Lead from Epsom & Ewell Refugee Network added,

“Epsom & Ewell Refugee Network are delighted to partner with Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, Epsom Library and Epsom Picturehouse to create this celebration of our friendship with Ukrainian nationals who live in our community.  Since the start of the war in Ukraine in 2022, we have been working with Ukrainian nationals who fled to the UK, helping them access work, housing, schools and community.  Their courage, resilience and determination have been an example to us. As we have helped them to navigate life in the UK, we have enjoyed building friendships and learning about their culture and traditions.

The Festival of Friendship is a chance for our Ukrainian friends to share their traditions and culture with the local community with activities happening during the week. We hope you will find time to join us during the week to be part of this celebration.”

Festival Timetable Highlights:

      • Tuesday 27 January: Opening Celebration at Epsom Library; Ukrainian craft workshops and exhibitions.
      • Thursday 29 January: Performance by Renaissance Choir and screening of Rocky Road to Berlin at Epsom Picturehouse.
      • Sunday 1 February: Music from Yuliia Komyshan (Ukrainian Bandura) followed by screenings of Sanatorium and Home for Ukraine at Epsom Picturehouse

Information correct at the time of release but please check the website for the most up-to-date information.

For full details and booking information, visit: Festival of friendship – Ukraine | Epsom and Ewell Borough Council.

Baby Capybara Born at Hobbledown

Hobbledown is delighted to announce the arrival of a brand-new baby capybara, born just nine days before Christmas.

The baby, affectionately named ‘Spud’ due to their striking resemblance to a potato, was born last Wednesday to first-time parents Puffin and Robin. Both mum and dad are doing a fantastic job caring for their youngster, who is healthy, confident, and developing well. The team does not yet know Spud’s gender.

From today, Tuesday 23rd Dec 2025,  onwards, visitors will be able to see Spud out and about in the capybara and mara enclosure, located opposite the meerkats.

Lucy White, the park’s Zoo Operations Manager, says: “Welcoming Spud into the world just days before Christmas has been incredibly special for the whole team, and we’re so excited to finally introduce our visitors to this wonderful new arrival.”

The birth marks a joyful end to the year at Hobbledown Epsom, and offers visitors a heartwarming reason to stop by this festive season.

Capybaras are the world’s largest rodents, and are well known for their calm, social nature and gentle temperament. At Hobbledown, the capybaras have quickly become firm visitor favourites, with the park’s ‘capybara experiences’ proving especially popular. These special encounters give visitors the chance to get up close with the capybaras, and discover what makes them such unique and charismatic animals.

For more information, or to plan your visit to meet this adorable new member of the Hobbledown family, head to www.hobbledown.com.

Baby Capybara Born at Hobbledown Epsom

Brooklands Museum’s 2026 Events

2026 marks the 100th anniversary of Britain’s 1st Grand Prix, held at Brooklands Race Circuit. It will be a year of celebrations, including a special event on 8 August 2026, to honour the speed, passion and heritage at the original home of British motorsport. Alongside the centenary celebrations the Museum’s events programme is set to be as busy as ever, offering many memorable days for motoring and aviation enthusiasts and families alike. Their ever-popular New Year’s Day Classic Gathering kick-starts the season on 1 January, the first of three Classic Gatherings in 2026. This will be followed by the Easter Classic Gathering on 4 April and later the Summer Classic Gathering and Autojumble on 26 July, where enthusiasts can peruse and grab a bargain amongst the large array of trade stands. Witness competitive action at several events throughout the year including the Vintage Sports Car Club’s annual Driving Tests on 8 February where drivers will tackle complicated courses around the historic site. Later, the Brooklands National Autotest returns for its second year on 2 August featuring Championship drivers take on challenging manoeuvres in timed tests. And not forgetting, the Brooklands Relived – Festival of Motorsport weekend on 13-14 June that steps back into Brooklands’ hey-day. Featuring Sprints on Mercedes-Benz World track, Autotests on the Finishing Straight, Pride of Brooklands Concours, race starts and Test Hill ascents – the site will come alive with the roar of engines. Alongside the motoring action, visitors of all ages can enjoy live vintage themed music, costume and food, dancing and traditional family games, to truly reignite the spirit of Brooklands! Another highlight for 2026 will be the highly anticipated Aviation Day, returning to Brooklands after a hiatus on 13 September, transforming the site to all things aeronautical with exciting displays in store. As ever, Brooklands Museum will celebrate marques from across the globe including firm favourites Italian Day on 2 May, American Day on 30 August and German Day on 27 September. Furthermore, following the successful introduction of Japanese Day in 2025, it will be returning earlier in 2026 on 21 June. Explore the full range of marque specific events on the website, which will be complimented with busy trade and food stands alongside entertainment, sure to make a fun day out for all generations. Special guests will be returning to delight our younger fans including Paddington Bear at Best of British on 25 May, which combines the best of British manufacturing alongside traditional British family entertainment. Popular children’s characters Bluey and Bingo will be joining for special guest appearances on 18 July at Working Vehicles Day, where the site will be filled with working machines such as tractors, mobile cranes, airfield vehicles and more. And the annual favourite Emergency Services Day on 19 September, gives everyone a chance to see the everyday heroes of our country as well as exciting demonstrations, together with PAW Patrol’s Skye, Chase and Marshall coming back to say hello. Don’t miss the usual favourites, including Mini Day on 22 March, Motorcycle Day on 5 July and Motorsport Day on 11 October, alongside London Bus Museum’s three popular events – Spring Gathering, 19 April, Summer Festival, 28 June and Transportfest, 18 October. Finishing the season will see the return of Off Road Day on 1 November where anyone with an off road vehicle can challenge themselves on the off road course at Mercedes-Benz World and ascend the famous Test Hill. Brooklands Museum's 2026 Events Calendar & Grand Prix Centenary Tickets for the whole year are available now and there is so much more to discover in the 2026 programme. See the full calendar on the website for the planned fly ins, evening talks, club and rally meets, and get involved in the Grand Prix themed activities throughout the school holidays to celebrate this special centenary year. With their amazing value membership you can enjoy unlimited admission all year round including a large list of events. Plus, there are a range of benefits including a members’ magazine and selected special discounts. As a registered charity and protected heritage site, a Brooklands membership goes a long way in helping preserve the original home of British motorsport and aviation, and to continue inspiring future generations. Make 2026 memorable – fantastic days out await at Brooklands. For More Events Details CLICK HERE