Category: Charity

Epsom and Chantilly Celebrate 30th Anniversary

Epsom and Ewell Mayor leads delegation to Chantilly to celebrate 30th anniversary of twinning

Epsom and Ewell enjoys a robust, and mutually beneficial, twinning arrangement with Chantilly in France and this year marks the 30th anniversary of the close fraternal ties between the two historic horse racing towns. To commemorate the occasion a 14-strong delegation from Epsom and Ewell, led by the Mayor, Councillor Lucie McIntyre, made the journey to Chantilly for a packed programme of events.

The party from Epsom and Ewell also included representatives from Nescotand the Jockey Club, four current borough Councillors, three former Mayors and other members of the twinning association, all with varying abilities in speaking and understanding French. The participants met the cost of the trip individually from their own resources.

This was Mayor Lucie’s first visit to the historic twin town, and she was able to meet her opposite number, Benedicte De Cacqueray, and several Maires-Adjoint (Deputy Mayors), presenting the Chantilly Mayor with an engraved salver to celebrate 30 years of twinning. She received a striking equine-themed vase in return. The two mayors also joined forces to plant a tree in the grounds of the Marie (Town Hall).  There was a certain poignancy to the visit in that Lucie will be Epsom & Ewell Borough Council’s last-ever Mayor following local government reorganisation and the precise future of twinning arrangements between the two towns is still under review.

Of the programme of events provided by the French hosts over the weekend of September 11th-13th, four were horse–related, and some not without incident.  A morning visit to the training stables of Alessandro and Ilaria Botti was followed by a drive deep into the forest which is crisscrossed with world-class all-weather training runs.  Just as the delegation arrived, a jockey fell from a galloping horse, but thankfully neither was harmed.  Marin Lecour-Grandmaison, Director of France Galop, showed the delegation round the Chantilly racecourse which operates 11 months of the year with 55 race days.  Other equine-related highlights included a visit to the Living Horse Museum and the presentation by Mayor Lucie of prizes at the Polo Club de Chantilly, a facility big enough for seven playing pitches. 

The Epsom and Ewell delegation also visited the town’s Lace Museum, home to some exquisitely beautiful pieces, one of which for example took 20 people one year to produce, as well as the Tennis Club of Chantilly. The agenda also included a trip to the historic St Peters Church, which has strong ties with the anglophone community in Chantilly, and a chance to see a new film on the wartime life of De Gaulle, including his time in the UK.

No trip to Chantilly would be complete without a visit to the fabulously beautiful Chateau and a chance to make Chantilly creme – a task that the Mayor excelled at!

Epsom and Ewell Mayor leads delegation to Chantilly to celebrate 30th anniversary of twinningMayor of Epsom & Ewell Councillor Lucie McIntyre says, “I was delighted to join the Epsom and Town Twinning Association in celebrating this milestone and thoroughly enjoyed the hospitality provided by our French hosts as well as the chance to see so much of the wonderful town of Chantilly.”

While the 30-year anniversary celebrations are taking place in 2026, it was in fact on 30th September 1995 that the Mayor of Chantilly signed the Twinning Charter. However, a similar ceremony followed in Epsom in March 1996, signed by our then Mayor, Councillor Cyril Frazer, and this completed the formalities. The Epsom and Ewell Twinning Association was subsequently appointed by the Borough to develop and run twinning, which it has done ever since.

Association chair, Nigel Collin, adds,”Over the years we have been able to facilitate and support numerous visits to and from Chantilly by individuals, interest groups, schools and musicians. We hope that our partnership with Chantilly will endure, and the Association looks forward to being part of the next chapter in the story of twinning. It was lovely for the two mayors to exchange gifts, which will be treasured, and also for our delegation to distribute special commemorative  30th anniversary lapel pins to  our French counterparts to mark this auspicious  occasion.”

For more information on Epsom & Ewell Twinning CLICK HERE

Bus Passes for Disabled People Extended to 24/7 by April 2027

Helen Maguire MP celebrates disabled bus pass win on visit to new Sensory Services by Sight for Surrey centre in Ashtead.
 
Helen Maguire, MP for Epsom & Ewell and Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Primary Care & Cancer, has visited Sensory Services by Sight for Surrey at their new centre in Ashtead to find out more about the services and support available to her constituents living with sight and hearing loss.
 
They also celebrated the recent campaign win after the Government announced that from April 2027, bus passes for disabled people will be extended to 24/7, a change that will have a tangible impact on many of the clients at Sensory Services by Sight for Surrey.
The visit gave the MP an opportunity to meet the team, learn more about the charity’s work across Surrey and see its new centre following its recent move to Ashtead.
 
During her visit, Helen heard about the range of services on offer, including the practical and specialist support available to people who are blind, partially sighted, Deaf, hard of hearing and deaf-blind and the importance of residents knowing who they can ask for advice and support. She also discussed some of the challenges faced by local people with sensory loss, including challenges disabled people are experiencing to maintain employment, due to issues with the Access to Work scheme.
 
Helen Maguire MP Epsom & EwellHelen Maguire MP said:
“It was really valuable to visit Sensory Services by Sight for Surrey and find out more about the support available to my constituents. I was also delighted to see the charity’s new centre here in Ashtead and meet the people who provide such an important service to local residents.
“Sensory loss can have a significant impact on people’s independence and day-to-day lives, so it is important that people know what support is available to them. I’m grateful to the team for taking the time to show me around and explain more about their work.
 
“We’ve also seen some fantastic news for disabled people, after the Government has announced their decision to scrap restrictions on disabled bus passes in England. This is something I’ve long called for, and I’m delighted to see the hard work of campaigners, including my Liberal Democrat colleague Tom Gordon MP, has paid off.”
 
Clare Burgess, CEO from Sensory Services by Sight for Surrey. BusClare Burgess, CEO of Sensory Services by Sight for Surrey, said:
“It was a pleasure to welcome Helen Maguire MP to our new centre in Ashtead and show her around and talk to her about the support we provide to people living with sensory loss and the Deaf community across Surrey. I was so pleased Helen showed such an interest in the issues residents with sensory loss, and other disabled people, face to secure and maintain employment due to the problems with the Access to Work scheme.  
 
“We were also delighted to celebrate with Helen the recently announced changes to free bus travel for disabled people which removes the time restrictions.  Accessible and affordable transport can make such a difference to people’s independence, helping them get out and about, stay connected and access work, volunteering, healthcare, and community activities. We were pleased to share this positive development with Helen and celebrate what it will mean for the people we support.”
 
The new Ashtead centre provides Sensory Services by Sight for Surrey with a new base from which to engage with people locally and deliver its services to communities across Surrey.
 
The charity supports children and adults who are blind, partially sighted, Deaf and hard of hearing, providing information, advice and practical assistance to help people maintain their independence, well-being and connection with their communities.

The Great Get Together

THE GREAT GET TOGETHER is a free community event to celebrate all that unites us. It’s happening on Sunday 22nd June 2025 at St Joseph’s Church Hall, St Margaret Drive, Epsom KT18 7JQ from 1pm – 4pm

Good Company (Surrey) is hosting a FREE community event for all the family. This is part of a network of events around the country called The Great Get Together, inspired by Jo Cox’s belief that we have more in common than that which divides us.

“Hosting a community event like The Great Get Together allows us to bring people from all walks of life together in a spirit of unity, friendship and shared humanity. It’s an opportunity to celebrate our diversity, forge new connections, and show that Epsom is a place where everyone belongs” explains Jo Sherring, Epsom and Ewell Refugee Network Lead.

The event is completely free, with music, food, activities and entertainment for all the family. It will be opened by The Worshipful The Mayor of Epsom & Ewell, Councillor Robert Leach and the Mayoress.

The free entertainment includes songs from the Ukrainian choir, a Disney Sing-along, the Freedom Pulse Brass Band as well as children’s entertainment and crafts, treasure hunt, henna hand-paintng, artisan displays, and an assortment of games and sports including Crazy Golf.

Good Company incorporates Epsom & Ewell Food Bank, Epsom & Banstead Pantries and Epsom & Ewell Refugee Network.

Even though the event is free, entry tickets need to be booked using the QR code on the flyer below. This also shows the timetable of the afternoon.

The Great Get Together

King’s Award For Surrey Hills Radio

Surrey Hills Community Radio, based in Leatherhead, was presented with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service at a celebration evening on Monday (28th April) —the highest honour a voluntary group can receive in the UK and the equivalent to an MBE for a group of volunteers. The Award presentation was held at ‘The Stockroom Society’ in Leatherhead’s Swan Shopping Centre, bringing together current presenters, supporters, and community partners from over a decade of broadcasting.

His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey, Michael More-Molyneux, presented the Award to the station co-founder and station manager – Dave Smith. The citation was read by Deputy Lieutenant Neelam Devesher, one of the Award assessors. Among the distinguished guests were Peter Cluff, the High Sheriff of Surrey, Helen Maguire MP, and Vice-Chairman of Mole Valley District Council, Cllr Roger Adams.

The evening was a vibrant reflection of the community spirit SHCR has championed since its inception. Guests included representatives from Freewheelers Theatre and Media Company, The Theatre Academy, The Sunnybank Trust, The Orpheus Centre, The Paul Alan Project, Leatherhead Cricket Club, and Mole Valley Runners, Mole Valley Arts Alive Festival, the Mole Valley Employment & Skills Hub, plus their newest partners the organisers of ShyneFest. Also attending were local businesses who sponsor shows that have supported the station’s growth, including local caterer Nibble & Feast and The Golden Scissors hair salon.

A standout moment came from Claygate Primary School, who delighted the audience with two radio-themed songs, complete with dance moves. Adding to the emotional resonance of the evening, Millie Jane Franks gave a heartfelt speech before performing live, sharing her gratitude for SHCR’s continued support of her career through their new music programme. Her performance was a moving reminder of the station’s impact on local talent and creativity.

King's Award For Surrey Hills RadioStation Manager Dave Smith shared,
“This Award is not just for the radio station—it’s for every single person who has given their time, their talent, and their voice to make SHCR what it is today. We are so grateful to all who have been part of our journey.”

The announcement for the award in 2024 – the tenth year anniversary of the station, followed a memorable visit by HRH The Duke of Edinburgh who visited the studio in North Street and recorded a special radio show during which he interviewed key members of the team and presenters, which was aired a few days later on his 60th birthday.

Monday’s celebration marked not only a milestone for SHCR, but a reaffirmation of its mission: to bring people together through the power of local radio, community collaboration, and shared stories.

You can find out more about Surrey Hills Community Radio, including how to listen in to its exclusively online shows at www.surreyhillsradio.co.uk

King's Award For Surrey Hills Radio

Photography by Andy Newbold & Kayleigh Arunasalon.

Bishop of Guildford to join thrill seekers in Leap of Faith

Bishop of Guildford to join thrill seekers in a Leap of Faith to raise funds for Guildford Cathedral’s vital work

Guildford Cathedral is calling on adventurers to take part in its thrilling Daring Descent on Saturday 14 June 2025, an exciting fundraising event aimed at supporting the Cathedral’s vital upkeep and work.

Participants will climb the Cathedral’s spiral staircase, consisting of 249 steps, to a height of 160 feet, roughly the height of ten double-decker buses, where they will enjoy stunning panoramic views of Guildford before experiencing the thrill of abseiling back to the ground.

This unique event will feature 20 brave individuals, including Right Reverend Andrew Watson, the Bishop of Guildford, who will be raising funds for both Guildford Cathedral and the Bishop’s Communities Fund. The remaining participants will focus their fundraising efforts on the essential £3,500 it costs every day to keep the Cathedral’s doors open, supporting its operations, services, and community outreach.

“We are incredibly grateful to all who are participating in the Daring Descent to raise funds for the ongoing maintenance and mission of Guildford Cathedral,” said Nicola Pratt, Head of Development at Guildford Cathedral. “It costs £3,500 every day to keep our doors open, and these funds will ensure we can continue to serve our community, preserve our historic building, and offer a beautiful space of welcome, worship and culture.”

The Bishop of Guildford’s Communities Fund, for which Bishop Andrew is also raising money, gives grants to a variety of local which provide much needed support and outreach to some of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable people in our Diocese.

While 20 participants have already signed up, including Cathedral Staff and their families, Choristers, Congregation members and Diocese of Guildford Staff, Guildford Cathedral is encouraging even more thrill-seekers to join in and help raise much-needed funds for this beloved local landmark. Experience is not essential as instructions and full safety equipment will be provided by experts.

Get your camera at the ready as this experience will be worthy of posting on your social media! This is an experience to tick off the bucket list, all whilst raising vital funds for a good cause.

Whether a seasoned abseiler or a first timer, the Daring Descent promises an unforgettable experience for those taking part.

To sign up for the event or for more information, please contact Nicola Pratt, Head of Development at Guildford Cathedral on 01483 547884 [email protected]

For more information about our exhibitions, tours, and events, visit www.guildford-cathedral.org.

Guildford Cathedral is the newest Church of England Cathedral consecrated on a new site and the only Cathedral dedicated to the Holy Spirit. Known for its stunning architecture and vibrant community, it serves as a spiritual home and cultural landmark in Surrey.

When WWII halted the building process, leaving the Cathedral partially completed, fears arose that it might never be finished, and there were even talks of demolishing what had been built. In an incredible display of support, thousands of individual bricks were purchased by members of the public and community groups. Even Queen Elizabeth II participated, buying and signing a brick. These contributions marked the beginning of the journey of the “People’s Cathedral.

Today, Guildford Cathedral stands strong on Stag Hill, an instantly recognisable symbol of Guildford visible for miles around—a beacon of hope and a sign of homecoming. Inside, the Cathedral’s natural light highlights its open space, creating an atmosphere of stillness and peace. It serves not only as a place of worship but also as a vibrant venue for community events.

This remarkable building is a testament to what can be achieved when people pull together. From the passion and dedication that made its construction possible in the 20th century to the present day, Guildford Cathedral remains “Open to God, Open to All.”

 

3rd Anniversary of Ukraine War in Epsom Market Place Event

Epsom & Ewell Refugee Network (EERN) and Surrey Stands with Ukraine (SSWU) invite the community to a commemorative event marking the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine. The gathering will take place on Saturday 22nd February 2025, at 11am in Epsom Market Place in the presence of The Worshipful The Mayor of Epsom & Ewell:  Councillor Steve Bridger and the Mayoress: Carol Bridger.

The ceremony will feature a rendition of the Ukrainian National Anthem, led by Ukrainian singer Helin Konyar and members of the Ukrainian choir, Renaissance. Helen Maguire MP has asked us to read out some words on her behalf as she is unable to attend. Ukrainian Constantin Ryzhikov, will share personal reflections, followed by a collective prayer for peace in Ukraine.

Ukraine

Helin Konyar, who was studying at the Kiev Municipal Academy of Circus and Variety Arts before relocating to the UK, has continued her musical journey by securing a three-year scholarship at Laine Theatre Arts College in Epsom.

EERN has been steadfast in supporting refugees and asylum seekers in the Epsom and Ewell area since 2015. In response to the Ukrainian crisis, the organization has intensified its efforts, offering assistance with housing, education, and integration into the local community.

SSWU has been instrumental in providing aid, raising awareness, and supporting Ukrainians both in Ukraine and within the local community. Their partnership with EERN in hosting this event highlights their ongoing commitment to standing in solidarity with those affected by the conflict and ensuring that the voices of Ukrainian refugees are heard and supported.

This event aims to honour those affected by the ongoing war and to foster solidarity within the local community. All are welcome to attend and show their support.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday 22nd February 2025
• Time: 11:00 AM
• Location: Epsom Market Place, Epsom (opposite Weatherspoons)
 

For more information about the event or to learn how to support EERN’s initiatives, please visit www.epsomrefugeenetwork.org or contact them at [email protected].