Epsom and Ewell Times

20th November 2025 Weekly

ISSN 2753-2771

9th November 2023

Surrey Borough flushed with pride

8 November 2023

Toilets in Waverley have reclaimed their thrones as some of the country’s best bogs after inspectors released their results from unannounced lavatory visits. Two watering closets in Waverley Borough Council’s parks … READ MORE

BUSINESS EDUCATION

AI training hub coming to Surrey

8 November 2023

Surrey is set to become home to a high-quality training hub in Artificial Intelligence (AI), a move which could have transformative impacts in the way vulnerable residents engage and access … READ MORE

COUNCIL EDUCATION

Surrey boosts specialist school places

7 November 2023

Surrey County Council is pleased to announce the creation of 230 new specialist school places for September 2023 for Surrey’s children with additional needs and disabilities. The creation of additional … READ MORE

COUNCIL PLANNING

Epsom care home plans

6 November 2023

Plans for a care home on the site of a former police station could finally be decided next week.An application for an 86-bed care home for people with dementia in … READ MORE

RUGBY SPORTS

Sutton and Epsom sink Sidcup

6 November 2023

Sutton & Epsom RFC 30 – Sidcup 20. Saturday 4th November. Regional 2 South East is a most competitive league where any side can overturn its opponent so giving hope to … READ MORE

FOOTBALL SPORTS

Epsom and Ewell FC caught Knapping?

5 November 2023

Epsom & Ewell 0-4 Knaphill. Combined Counties League – Premier Division. Saturday 4th November 2023. We have been unfortunate to come up against arguably the best two teams in the … READ MORE

BUSINESS COMMUNITY PLANNING

Famous 16th Century Surrey pub saved, for now?

5 November 2023

A 16th century pub in the heart of the Surrey Hills has been saved from developers after plans to convert one of the last remaining Abinger watering holes into houses, … READ MORE

NEWS POLICING

Surrey police station futures

5 November 2023

No decisions have been made on the long-term future of Caterham or Reigate Police Stations as proposals put forward “are not fit for purpose” and “cost-prohibitive”. Front-desk services returned to Caterham, … READ MORE

CRIME NEWS POLICING

Anti-Yob Cat protection petition

3 November 2023

“Heartbroken” pet owners claim a group of teenagers are “trapping cats” for their dogs to “rip apart”.A petition signed by 3,675 people is calling for more action from the RSPCA … READ MORE

ARTS CULTURE

New Conductor – New Sounds

3 November 2023

Epsom Chamber Choir, directed by their new conductor Jack Apperley, provided a feast of contemplative music in their Evening Meditations concert on Saturday night (28th October). The harmonious sounds of … READ MORE

OBITUARY

Advocate for Epsom’s underdog remembered

3 November 2023

Roger Bristow was by a long stretch one of Epsom and Surrey’s most successful criminal court defence advocates, dedicated to ensuring that all his clients received fair justice regardless of … READ MORE

ARTS CULTURE

Expect miracles from Epsom Choral Society

2 November 2023

Epsom Choral Society, renowned for its diverse and engaging programming, will be performing Mendelssohn’s masterwork “Elijah” on Saturday, 18 November 2023 at 7:30pm at St Martin’s Church in Epsom. Under … READ MORE

COMMUNITY HEALTH

Bourne Hall Ewell celebrates LGBTQ+

2 November 2023

Mental health is still quite a taboo subject and breaking down those barriers to talking openly remains quite a challenge but one group in Surrey is hoping to get those … READ MORE

New Conductor – New Sounds

Epsom Chamber Choir, directed by their new conductor Jack Apperley, provided a feast of contemplative music in their Evening Meditations concert on Saturday night (28th October). The harmonious sounds of the well-blended voices pleased the ear in the excellent acoustics of St. Martin’s Church, Epsom.

In the opening piece, In splendoribus sanctorum by James Macmillan, we were soothed by a velvety start before a heart stopping moment when the saxophone began to interweave its seemingly improvisatory melodies into the texture. The piece ended with echoing instrumental phrases from the back of the church. The scene was set for an evening of saxophone music blending effectively with the human voice.

The soprano and alto saxophones, beautifully played by Naomi Sullivan, featured in many of the works, bringing new and interesting harmonies to some 16th and 17th century pieces by Orlando Gibbons and Thomas Tallis, and adding atmosphere and colour to contemporary works such as O Wisdom by Will Todd. Paul Mealor’s piece for male voices I saw eternity had the saxophone blending in effectively with the voices, while wind chimes added an ethereal sound. Naomi also played arrangements of two flute pieces by J. S. Bach and C. P. E. Bach.

Many of the works with saxophone were arranged by the Yorkshire born saxophonist Christian Forshaw. They brought back memories of the now disbanded Hilliard Ensemble with their recordings of a cappella singing and improvised saxophone accompaniment.

Much of the programme involved quiet tones, but just before the interval we were treated to a sax solo entitled ….so this is what happened by Christoph Enzel – a loud, rousing, multiphonic piece, sounding like a whole band rather than just one instrument.

The concert also included soaring close harmonies in Cecilia McDowall’s The Lord is good and Gail Randall’s simpler setting of George Herbert’s The Call. Herbert Howells Requiem, a relatively short reflective work, was performed with great attention to the speech rhythms and dynamics. The solo lines in this and other pieces in the programme were sung beautifully by different members of the choir and the saxophone blended well with the voices.

Susan Morris

Expect miracles from Epsom Choral Society

Epsom Choral Society, renowned for its diverse and engaging programming, will be performing Mendelssohn’s masterwork “Elijah” on Saturday, 18 November 2023 at 7:30pm at St Martin’s Church in Epsom.

_{Prophet Elijah detailed in the Madonna and Child with Saints by Andrea di Bonaiuto}

Under the baton of their music director Julian Collings, the performance will bring together a stellar cast of soloists, including soprano Elizabeth Findon, mezzo-soprano Judy Brown, tenor John Findon, and bass James Geidt. These outstanding vocalists will join forces with the Epsom Choral Society to transport audiences through the dramatic and uplifting narrative of Mendelssohn’s powerful oratorio. There will be a special solo appearance by 14-year-old treble, Brandon McGuinness, a pupil at Epsom College.

A landmark in the choral-orchestral repertoire, “Elijah” is acclaimed for its vivid storytelling and emotional intensity, featuring grand choruses, captivating arias and thrilling ensembles.

Elijah was a prophet and a miracle worker who lived in the northern kingdom of Israel during the reign of King Ahab (9th century BC). God performed many miracles through Elijah, including resurrection, bringing fire down from the sky, and entering heaven alive “by fire.”

This performance promises to deliver a night of wonderful music, underlining Mendelssohn’s genius for expressing profound spirituality and human emotion through music.

“We are delighted to present this enduring classic of the choral repertoire, conducted by Julian Collings and featuring an exceptional quartet of soloists. In Mendelssohn’s dramatic setting of the story we will be evoking earthquake, wind and fire in what promises to be an unforgettable evening of music at St Martin’s in the heart of Epsom.” commented Isobel Squire, chair of Epsom Choral Society.

Entry is £18, or just £9 for students and under-18s.

Tickets are available via the Epsom Choral Society website www.epsomchoral.org.uk or on the door on the night.

Epsom Choral Society is a community-based choral group with a rich history dating back to its formation in 1922. The society brings together music lovers from Epsom and the surrounding area, providing a platform for local talents to perform major choral works. The group is committed to fostering a love of music in the community and regularly collaborates with nationally and internationally acclaimed artists.

ECS puts on at least four concerts each year which attract a loyal following. Epsom Choral Society is a friendly choir – they do not require auditions but do aim for high performance standards. Rehearsals are on Wednesday evenings under the baton of their Musical Director, Julian Collings.

Flyer

2nd November 2023

BUSINESS EDUCATION

Surrey College fraud probe leads to housing plan

2 November 2023

Warnings a failed subcontracted apprenticeship scheme was a “major risk” were ignored leaving a Surrey college with a £25million financial time bomb that it now hopes to solve by selling … READ MORE

LOCAL HISTORY NEWS

Latest news from Surrey History Centre

2 November 2023

UK Disability History Month runs from 16 November to 16 December and aims to promote disabled people’s rights and their struggle for equality now and in the past. This year’s … READ MORE

LOCAL HISTORY OBITUARY

Local historian Peter Reed will be missed

1 November 2023

In Loving Memory of Peter Reed (23/08/52 – 19/10/23). Peter Reed passed away on October 19, 2023, leaving a void in the hearts of many. Born and raised in Epsom … READ MORE

ARTS COMMUNITY

New home needed for disability theatre group

1 November 2023

A performing arts charity that won the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service has been made homeless after crumbly concrete was found in the hall it had called home for the … READ MORE

BUSINESS TRANSPORT AND ENVIRONMENT

Thames Water left human waste to fester

31 October 2023

Thames Water has been accused of backtracking on a goodwill gesture after subjecting Camberley residents to a “disgusting” summer of stench caused by raw, untreated, human waste left to fester … READ MORE

FOOTBALL SPORTS

Scoreline does not reflect performance

29 October 2023

Farnham Town 5-1 Epsom & Ewell. Combined Counties League – Premier Division. Saturday 28th October 2023. Our trip to the Memorial Ground, home to Farnham Town, was always going to … READ MORE

Local historian Peter Reed will be missed

In Loving Memory of Peter Reed (23/08/52 – 19/10/23). Peter Reed passed away on October 19, 2023, leaving a void in the hearts of many. Born and raised in Epsom and Ewell to James and Evelyn Reed, Peter’s journey was defined by his unwavering dedication to his family and his profound impact on the community.

A man of generous spirit and unwavering kindness, Peter’s life reflected a passion for understanding the inner workings of the world around him. From an early age, his curiosity led him to disassemble toys, cultivating an interest in creation, particularly in woodworking and exploring historical contexts. His inquisitiveness matured into a fascination with the evolution of technology, particularly in the realm of computers and their historical significance. His career path led him to utilize his technical acumen at the Inland Revenue, Lambeth Council, and a London medical center, where he not only honed his skills but also used his expertise to benefit various charitable causes.

Peter’s profound love for history propelled him to join the Epsom and Ewell History Centre at Bourne Hall in 2005. There, he spearheaded the creation of the website and served as the dedicated webmaster for the Epsom and Ewell History Explorer. His commitment extended beyond mere content creation; he tirelessly assisted countless individuals, locally and internationally, with historical inquiries, demonstrating his wealth of knowledge and willingness to help others.

Recognized as the driving force behind the History Explorer website, Peter’s collaborative efforts with local experts and his encyclopedic knowledge of the area facilitated an invaluable resource for researchers and history enthusiasts. His significant contributions were felt and appreciated by numerous individuals and organizations, symbolizing his profound impact on the preservation and promotion of local history.

While Peter leaves behind no immediate family of his own, he leaves a lasting legacy in the hearts of his sister, nieces, and a community that deeply appreciated his dedication and expertise. His loss is deeply felt, but his remarkable contributions to the Epsom and Ewell community will forever be remembered and cherished.

Peter Reed’s passion, dedication, and selfless commitment to preserving local history have left an indelible mark. His legacy lives on in the continued work of those he inspired, ensuring that the Epsom and Ewell History Explorer remains a testament to his invaluable contributions to local heritage. He will be greatly missed, but his impact will resonate through the cherished memories and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.

Image: Peter Reed with his local history “angels”.

26th October 2023

COUNCIL NEWS PLANNING

Local Plan to move forward after passionate debate

26 October 2023

Epsom and Ewell Borough Councillors voted to “un-pause” work on a new Local Plan for the district at an extraordinary meeting held in the Town Hall chamber on Tuesday 24th October. … READ MORE

NEWS TRANSPORT AND ENVIRONMENT

Ewell “no new oil” pensioner punished

25 October 2023

Judit Murray, a 69 year old resident of Ewell, was today sentenced to a 12 month community order with 60 hours of community service at Westminster Magistrates Court. Ms Murray … READ MORE

LOCAL HISTORY

Epsom’s Erotica By Candlelight

25 October 2023

A pale and slender man, suffering from ill health, began drawing an image by candlelight inside a room in Epsom’s Spread Eagle Hotel in June 1896 probably knowing he was … READ MORE

ARTS COMMUNITY

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang in Epsom

A satellite company called Eutelsat OneWeb recently made a big advancement. They successfully connected their low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to a 5G mobile network for the first time. This … READ MORE

NEWS POLICING

Reigate Police Station closes with a concrete problem

20 October 2023

Officers and staff are being moved out of Reigate Police Station following the discovery of dangerous crumbly concrete inside the building. The move leaves CCTV of public spaces in Mole … READ MORE

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang in Epsom

Following a successful run of Little Shop of Horrors last November, Leatherhead Opera Society have been busy preparing for their next musical production, and it’s a big one!

The title character in this show holds the record for the most expensive stage prop ever, and with “Chitty Hire” on board, this production certainly won’t disappoint. This November, LOS proudly present a dazzling production of the beloved musical “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” at the Epsom Playhouse. This amateur production is set to captivate the hearts of audiences young and old with its enchanting story, memorable tunes, and the sheer excitement of live theatre.

The musical, with a book by Jeremy Sans and music by Richard and Robert Sherman, is based on the classic 1968 film, which follows the adventures of the eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts (played in this production by Joe Black) as he rebuilds a magical car and sets off on a whirlwind journey with his children Jeremy and Jemima. They are joined along the way by Truly Scrumptious (played by Charlotte Fisher) and together they must outwit the villainous Baron & Baroness, as well as the evil Child-catcher – prepare to experience heart warming moments, daring escapades, and the power of imagination throughout!

The Leatherhead Operatic Society’s cast and crew have been hard at work for the last few months under the watchful eye of director John Harries-Rees, and are perfecting this production with their talent, dedication and passion, which is sure to shine through in every performance. With musical direction from Sam Fisher, and choreography by Louise E. Wilson, this production features a talented ensemble of local actors, singers and dancers, all coming together to create a show that promises to be a ‘fantasmagorical’ treat for the whole family.

“Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” boasts a memorable score, with songs including “Truly Scrumptious,” “Hushabye Mountain,” and of course, the hugely popular “Me Ol’ Bamboo”. Audiences can expect top-notch musical performances that will have them humming the tunes long ager the show has finished!

This production is a must-see for all ages, and the Epsom Playhouse is the perfect venue to bring this timeless tale to life. Don’t miss this chance to experience the magic of “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” with your friends and family. Tickets are on sale now and selling fast, so make sure to secure your seats early!

Performance Details:

Dates: November 21st – 25th, 2023

Venue: Epsom Playhouse, Ashley Avenue, Epsom, Surrey, KT18 5AL

Tickets can be purchased from www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk or by calling the Box Office on 01372 742555.

The Leatherhead Operatic Society started way back in 1904, and since then have staged hundreds of musicals old and new, including Beauty and the Beast, Hairspray, South Pacific, Oklahoma, My Fair Lady, Camelot, Guys and Dolls, Oliver, Fiddler on the Roof etc.

_{Image – Chitty Chitty Bang Bang in the Epsom Market Square}

Warm Wednesdays return to Epsom

Last winter Epsom Methodist Church, in the heart of Epsom, opened up its premises every Wednesday as a place where people could come to keep warm, enjoy hot drinks and a lunchtime bowl of soup and have a friendly chat with others. In the afternoons Warm Wednesdays hosted an after-school club that included children’s entertainment and an evening meal for all the family. Everything was free of charge and the initiative proved very popular, with an army of volunteers making and serving over 1,000 meals during the course of the winter.

From 1st November through to 13th March 2024 Warm Wednesdays is back and from 10am to 6pm will be making the same offer available as last year. On the first Wednesday (November 1st ) students from the nationally acclaimed Laine Theatre Arts will be coming to the after-school club to lead a Disney-themed entertainment session.

In an exciting new development Warm Wednesdays will this winter also include a weekly one-stop advice cafe. The church has partnered with a range of local organisations including Citizens Advice, The Mary Frances Trust, Epsom & Ewell Employment Hub, The Good Company, Surrey Community Action and Surrey County Council, to offer advice and support on:

 Mental health and wellbeing
 Benefits, welfare rights, housing and rents
 Energy saving in the home and dealing with energy suppliers
 Finding a job and accessing training
 Budgeting and managing your money
 Getting help in a crisis

Robert Hill, one of the organisers of Warm Wednesdays explained: “No appointments are required – just drop in, grab a free hot drink and have a chat to one of the friendly advisers. One week the advice café will operate in the morning from 11.30am until 1pm and the next week in the afternoon from 3.30pm to 5.15pm.

“We know life is tough for many people at the moment. Some people just want to be part of a friendly community where they can stay warm and make new friends. Others have particular worries and pressing concerns. And some will simply welcome somewhere where they and their children are entertained and catered for in a relaxed environment.

“We look forward to welcoming back many of those who joined us last year as well as making lots of new friends this winter.”

Further details and a map of Epsom Methodist Church’s location can be found at

https://www.epsommethodistchurch.org.uk/Groups/409512/Warm_Wednesdays.aspx

Over the Moon for World BMX result for Glyn boy

A teenager from Ewell has been celebrating after his first time representing Great Britain in this year’s BMX World Championships.

Hugo Moon, 15, competed against 200 riders in his age category at the event, which took place in Glasgow.

The annual competition saw 3,000 riders from some 50 countries take part, with each competing in three races, or Motos, to secure a coveted top-four place in the final.

Despite having only taken up the sport in 2020, Hugo, a student at Glyn School, a member of GLF Schools Multi Academy Trust, achieved fourth, third and fourth places in his qualifiers. He finished sixth in the Eighth Final to attain an overall ranking of 48th in the world.

“Hugo had an amazing time and enjoyed being part of the GB team, although it was a little overwhelming, as it was his first experience of an event of this magnitude, and the sheer scale of the event was impressive,” said Hugo’s mother, Sheryl Moon, who was there with his father and older sister to support him at the event.

“It was a rollercoaster of emotions from nervousness to excitement and enjoyment. Participating was not just about winning but also about personal growth. He learnt the value of perseverance, resilience, and the importance of setting goals and striving for them.”

“He loved being in the GB tent with all the camaraderie, nervous energy and banter,” she continued. “The spirit of the GB riders and supporters was so strong; the support and encouragement were heart-warming.

“He was a little disappointed as he really wanted to be in the top 32, but, if he did it again, I’m sure he could achieve that now that he’s experienced his first World Championships. With some more regional and national races under his belt, he will only get better and faster.”

Currently attached to Runnymeade Rockets, with whom he trains twice a week, Hugo first took up Park BMX when he was 12, before progressing to competitive racing aged 13. His selection for Team GB was based on his high national ranking the previous year.

As well as his family, the Year 11 student has been supported by friends and staff members at Glyn School, part of the GLF Schools Multi-Academies Trust – although GCSEs mean he will be unable to compete in next year’s event.

“Watching Hugo compete was nerve-wracking but also very exciting for us – I’m sure competing is far easier!” added Mrs Moon. “The crowd atmosphere was electric and so supportive towards all our GB riders. The event was not without drama, with some riders falling and being injured in practice or in races. We were just praying he stayed on his bike and got through each race. But, honestly, we are so proud of him.

12 October 2023

A total of 38 brand new gritting vehicles are now available to help keep Surrey moving during the colder months. The new vehicles operate more efficiently, have state-of-the art technology … READ MORE

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Registered office: Upper Chambers, 7 Waterloo Road, Epsom KT19 8AY