Council Council constitution News

Public of Epsom and Ewell to be asked if they want two new Councils

10 December 2025

Epsom and Ewell Borough Council has voted to continue exploring the creation of two new community councils—one for Epsom and one for Ewell—following an often heated debate at the Full … Read More

Rugby Sports

Epsom’s Five Tries Not Enough to Halt Brighton Charge

8 December 2025

Sutton & Epsom RFC 33 Brighton 43. Saturday 6th December. Brighton is one of Sutton & Epsom’s oldest fixtures dating back to 1897. The arrival of Brighton also marked the … Read More

Council Housing Planning

Blockbuster cinema and 480 homes plan for Leatherhead town centre

6 December 2025

Hundreds of new homes in blocks of up to 12 storeys high, as well as a three-screen cinema, could be coming to Leatherhead town centre if newly submitted plans are … Read More

Council Council constitution Editorial

Do Epsom and Ewell Borough’s allotments need their own elected Councils?

5 December 2025

Epsom and Ewell Borough Councillors will meet on Tuesday 9 December to decide whether to progress the next stage of creating two new parish councils for the borough before the … Read More

Council Council constitution

Neighbour Area Committees in Surrey

5 December 2025

As Surrey prepares for major local government reorganisation, the County Council has been trialling a new model of community involvement known as Neighbourhood Area Committees (NACs). These committees, currently operating … Read More

Culture Football Sports

Surrey author’s unexpected journey to global football goodwill

5 December 2025

If you had asked Surrey-based accidental author Stephen Johnson twenty years ago whether he would one day write a ten-book children’s series, sponsor a grassroots football kit in East London, … Read More

Community Local History News

“Us and Them” visualises connections with former Epsom patients

5 December 2025

A ground-breaking heritage project exploring the lives of disabled people detained in Surrey’s former mental hospitals is turning fresh attention on Horton Cemetery in Epsom – the burial ground of … Read More

News Westminster

MP warns as 3,600 Epsom homes face fuel poverty

4 December 2025

More than 3,600 households in Epsom and Ewell are estimated to be living in fuel poverty this winter, according to new figures that have reignited debate over the Government’s decision … Read More

News Policing

Woking up to Surrey face recognition cameras

4 December 2025

Formal protests have been lodged against Surrey Police’s use of facial recognition technology that scans the faces of every adult and child in a bid to identify known suspects. Surrey … Read More

Council Transport Volunteers

Young Surrey volunteers help shape new neuroinclusive travel app

4 December 2025

Young people in Surrey have helped test a new travel-planning app designed to make public transport less stressful for neurodivergent passengers. Members of ATLAS, Surrey Youth Voice’s participation group for … Read More

Council Transport

Surrey fast to introduce slow speed limits?

4 December 2025

20mph speed limits could soon be introduced across three Surrey neighbourhoods, with residents now invited to give their views. Surrey County Council is consulting on new slower-speed zones in Barnsbury …

Community Environment Volunteers

The Mayor of Epsom and Ewell meets local climate volunteers

4 December 2025

The Mayor of Epsom & Ewell, Cllr Robert Leach, met with members of the Epsom and Ewell Climate Action Network (EECAN) to hear about the community projects they are mobilising … Read More

Football Sports

Epsom and Ewell FC’s narrow defeat

4 December 2025

Tooting & Mitcham 2 – 1 Epsom and Ewell FC. Saturday 29th November. Imperial Fields, Morden. Combined Counties Premier South League The Salts slipped to a narrow 2-1 defeat at … Read More

Epsom and Ewell Borough Councillors will meet on Tuesday 9 December to decide whether to progress the next stage of creating two new parish councils for the borough before the authority itself is abolished in 2027. The proposal comes amid the Government’s reorganisation of Surrey, which will see all boroughs, districts and Surrey County Council replaced by two large unitary authorities.

Parliament’s direction of travel is clear: to simplify local government by replacing the current two-tier structure with single, consolidated authorities. East Surrey Council, which will take over responsibility for all local services from 1 April 2027, is intended to achieve economies of scale and reduce duplication between bodies. The question now before councillors is whether introducing new parish councils beneath the new unitary structure would support or undermine that objective.

Earlier this year the Borough Council launched a Community Governance Review seeking resident views on the creation of parish councils. Of a borough population of around 80,000, the consultation received 352 responses. The most favoured option was the creation of two parishes—one for Epsom and one for Ewell—each with its own parish council and councillors. Whether this level of public engagement constitutes a sufficient mandate for a constitutional change that introduces a new local taxation and governance layer is one of the issues councillors must now weigh.

The proposal is also set against the backdrop of Surrey County Council’s own recent approach to local engagement. In other parts of Surrey the County Council has piloted “Neighbourhood Area Committees” aimed at bringing councillors, residents and partners together to shape local priorities without creating new bodies with precept-raising powers. These committees are designed to provide an alternative route for local consultation and influence that stops short of formal parish governance. Whether such models should be adopted more widely under a single-tier system—and whether they might re-emerge under the new East Surrey Council—adds a further dimension to the discussion about the need for, and value of, parish councils.

Supporters of parishing argue that the disappearance of the borough council leaves a significant democratic gap. Once abolished, the entire former borough area will be represented by just ten East Surrey councillors instead of the 40 elected representatives residents currently have across county and borough levels. Parish councils would help preserve local identity, provide a community voice on issues close to home, and maintain civic traditions, including the mayoralty, which would otherwise require Charter Trustees.

However, the financial implications remain uncertain. Initially, the proposed parish councils would take on only the minimum legal duty of managing allotments, with no parks, community buildings or other assets transferred. On that basis, it is estimated by Epsom Council officers, a Band D property would pay a parish precept of about £43–£46 per year. But if parish councils later seek wider responsibilities—whether by local choice or because East Surrey Council wishes to devolve services—the cost to residents could increase. In time, this could reintroduce something resembling a two-tier model from below, even as the new unitary seeks to simplify structures from above.

Proponents of the unitary approach argue that genuine savings depend on consolidating services, not recreating local administration. Advocates of parish governance counter that representation and community influence have a value that cannot be measured solely in financial terms. Councillors, meanwhile, must judge whether the balance of risks and benefits favours moving to the next stage of consultation or pausing the process entirely.

If the Borough Council votes to proceed on Tuesday, a second consultation will run from mid-December to early February, with a final decision required before March 2026, when powers transfer to the East Surrey Shadow Authority. If the proposal is halted, decisions about any future local governance arrangements—whether parish councils, neighbourhood committees or other models—will fall to the new unitary authority.

The choice before councillors therefore becomes one of the last major decisions the Borough Council will make about the shape of local democracy in Epsom and Ewell. Residents can follow the meeting live via the council’s YouTube channel.

See

Neighbour Area Committees in Surrey

The Mayor of Epsom & Ewell, Cllr Robert Leach, met with members of the Epsom and Ewell Climate Action Network (EECAN) to hear about the community projects they are mobilising over the next six months, including the borough’s first Library of Things. EECAN, which was marking its first anniversary, was founded by residents concerned about the environmental and social impacts of climate change and has grown steadily into an active network of volunteers leading initiatives that encourage climate-friendly actions, build resilience and support sustainable choices across the borough.

The volunteers explained that the Library of Things will allow residents to borrow items such as DIY tools, gardening equipment, sewing machines, pressure washers and even party or camping gear. For many households, the cost of purchasing these items outright can be prohibitive, and for others it simply isn’t necessary when the item might only be used once or twice a year. EECAN believes the scheme could help cut waste, save families money and encourage the communal sharing of resources.

The project is currently in the planning stage, with the group sourcing donated items and recruiting volunteers ahead of a planned launch in April 2026. During the meeting, Cllr Leach expressed strong support for EECAN’s work, welcomed its potential benefits for local residents, and even signed up as an early supporter while taking an interest in how the project might expand once established.

Past and ongoing EECAN initiatives include November’s successful Bike Amnesty event, which collected around 70 bikes for the Surrey Bike Bank to refurbish and redistribute, and regular Climate Conversations held on the second and fourth Monday of each month. Both projects have attracted increasing interest from residents wanting to learn more about sustainable living and community-driven solutions.

EECAN founder and chair William Ward spoke about the group’s longer-term ambitions, which include expanding outreach, increasing visibility across the borough and eventually achieving official charity registration. Becoming a registered charity would help them access currently unavailable funding streams and deliver larger, more stable projects. In just 12 months the group has grown from seven to 50 volunteers and from two to eight trustees, who are now preparing their application to the Charity Commission.

The meeting concluded with cake-cutting and a discussion about strengthening links between EECAN and the council. The Mayor encouraged the group to continue raising awareness of their activities and said he would share their projects with fellow councillors when appropriate. Volunteers said they hoped the meeting would lead to deeper collaboration and stronger recognition of grassroots environmental initiatives within local decision-making.

As EECAN prepares for a busy six months, the group says it remains committed to promoting practical, affordable and community-led climate action. Residents interested in getting involved or joining the paid Heat Champion team can visit https://www.eecan.org/home or email eeClimateActionNetwork@gmail.com. Sign up for the free Home Energy Advice service here: https://www.zerocarbonguildford.org/energy-surveys

Written by:
Jen Din, from The Epsom Edit (www.theepsomedit.co.uk)

Related report:

Epsom and Ewell Climate Action Network launches with community events and initiatives

Business News

Toyota prevention of future death report

30 November 2025

A senior coroner has warned that more drivers could die because a Toyota braking system failed to stop a woman’s car before a deadly M25 crash. Lisa Bowen, 48, died … Read More

Council Environment

Surrey to get new recycling centre

30 November 2025

Bin lorries rumbling through Wentworth, Virginia Water and Chertsey could become a much more common occurrence after plans for a massive recycling plant on former green belt land just south … Read More

Rugby Sports

A Canterbury tale of woe for Epsom’s Rugby team

30 November 2025

Canterbury II 30 Sutton & Epsom RFC 26. Saturday 29th November. The Pilgrims had belatedly progressed to Level 6 when their glass ceiling was removed by the RFU. After an … Read More

News

Surrey MP intervenes in local prison transgender issue

30 November 2025

The Member of Parliament for Reigate has called for biologically male inmates to be excluded from the women’s estate at HMP Downview in Banstead. Rebecca Paul MP argued that the … Read More

Council Nature

Here’s some Spring cheer as Winter approaches Epsom and Ewell

29 November 2025

Nonsuch Park has been awarded two top honours at the 2025 South & South East in Bloom Awards, taking Gold for both Heritage Park of the Year and Large Conservation … Read More

News Policing

Surrey Police Commissioner responds to morale report

29 November 2025

Surrey’s Police and Crime Commissioner has defended a reported drop in police officer morale, pointing to public and media criticism of the force. Only 57 per cent of officers believe … Read More

Community Environment Transport

Leatherhead ruined recycling road repair

29 November 2025

A crumbling, pothole-ridden road that has been the source of countless insurance claims could be given a new lease of life. The North Leatherhead Access Road leading into the Surrey … Read More

Business Community Health

Nirvana comes to Epsom care home

29 November 2025

Sponsored article: Linden House Care Home in Epsom is proud to announce a new era under its new owners, Nirvana Care Group. Established in the 1980s, the home has long … Read More

Community Education News

Epsom celebrity visits his old college

29 November 2025

Joe Wicks MBE, widely known as The Body Coach, recently visited his former college, Nescot (North East Surrey College of Technology), the place where his journey into fitness and education … Read More

News Transport

Surrey University balloon study of solar flares informs current air safety concerns

29 November 2025

New balloon-mounted radiation probes developed by the Surrey Space Centre at the University of Surrey have captured their first readings of a major solar storm, confirming that levels of cosmic … Read More

Environment Nature News

Surrey Hills expansion

28 November 2025

The Surrey Hills could be expanded for the first time since it was first designated as an area of outstanding natural beauty almost 70 years ago. The Surrey Hills National … Read More

Education Health News

Surrey Uni study may show way to reverse vision loss

28 November 2025

New computer modelling could help scientists better understand how the retina regenerates, opening the door to new treatments for vision loss, according to a study from the University of Surrey.  … Read More

Council Finances

Surrey to sell off property in Epsom and elsewhere to fill budget gaps

28 November 2025

Surrey County Council is looking to bank a major cash boost by selling off a string of properties sitting idle across the county. The money is earmarked to help plug … Read More

News Transport

Tunnel vision for Heathrow’s 3rd runway?

28 November 2025

Heathrow Airport’s plan for a third runway – requiring a major re-routing and tunnelling of the M25 – has received Government backing as the preferred option for expansion. A competing … Read More

Council Planning

Epsom and Ewell’s first neighbourhood plan

27 November 2025

A leafy Surrey suburb is about to make its mark for the local community. Stoneleigh and Auriol are poised to be able to say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to planning developments … Read More

Council Finances

Surrey consults on next year’s budget

27 November 2025

Surrey County Council has opened a public consultation on its draft budget for 2026/27, asking residents across the county

Sponsored article: Linden House Care Home in Epsom is proud to announce a new era under its new owners, Nirvana Care Group. Established in the 1980s, the home has long served the local community, and the new leadership has already made significant investments to further elevate care standards across Surrey.

Phase 1 of a resident-led refurbishment is now complete, shaped by meaningful input from those who live at the home. Linden House has also invested in modern technologies and strengthened service partnerships to enhance safety, comfort, and wellbeing.

The transition has been warmly received by staff, with six former team members returning to support the refreshed vision. The home is also delighted to welcome back former manager Reshma Tupsy, reflecting Linden House’s strong sense of community and continuity. With a dedicated multicultural team and an in-house chef, residents enjoy personalised menus tailored to cultural and faith requirements, along with fully customised activity programmes.

Following the renewed leadership, upgraded facilities, and a focus on truly personalised care a small number of vacancies remain for families seeking warm, modern, and compassionate care.

For enquiries or to arrange a visit, contact Reshma on 01372 721 447

Council Housing News

Epsom and Ewell homeless costs set to overshoot by £900k

25 November 2025

Epsom and Ewell Borough Council is forecasting a substantial overspend on its homelessness budget this year, as reported to the BBC, with demand for help remaining “consistently high”. According to … Read More

Local History News Transport

British Railways’ 200 year celebration train coming to Epsom

24 November 2025

Free exhibition train to steam into Tattenham Corner A free exhibition train celebrating 200 years of the modern railway will arrive at Tattenham Corner station next March as part of … Read More

Rugby Sports

Horsham hound Epsom’s huddle

24 November 2025

Sutton & Epsom were beaten 36–29 by Horsham Saturday 22nd November in a hard-fought and entertaining afternoon at Rugby Lane. The fixture brought together two clubs whose paths diverged at … Read More

Arts Community Culture

Epsom’s Young Performers Light Up Picturehouse Showcase

24 November 2025

It was an unusually busy Sunday morning at Epsom’s Picturehouse, with the main cinema hall filled to the very last seat. It is rare to see it so full at … Read More

Business Education

Is Epsom and Ewell ideal for remote working?

23 November 2025

When remote work is supported well, it can raise job satisfaction, reduce commuting stress and give people meaningful control over their work life balance. However, the recent drive by some … Read More

Arts Culture

Epsom Choral Society maintains its good standing

23 November 2025

Epsom Choral Society’s performance of Dvořák’s Stabat Mater on 22 November 2025 at St Martin’s Church was an evening defined by emotional depth, musical discipline, and an unwavering sense of communal purpose. … Read More

Arts Culture

Epsom gets a bit of French polish

23 November 2025

Those who were fortunate enough to be in the audience for Epsom Chamber Choir’s concert at St Martin’s Church, Epsom, on Saturday 15 November were treated to a superb recital … Read More

Community Health

Sixty years of tea, chat and companionship in Epsom

22 November 2025

A charity supporting lonely and isolated older residents in Epsom and Ewell is marking its 60th anniversary. Re-engage volunteers run monthly free tea parties for people aged 75 and over, … Read More

Council Finances

Need to sell Council property spelt out for Spelthorne

21 November 2025

Spelthorne Borough Council has been warned it must sell off its commercial property empire fast or risk losing tens of millions of pounds and plunging even deeper into financial crisis. … Read More

Arts Education Transport

Nescot students’ artwork brightens Ewell East Station

20 November 2025

Artwork by Nescot’s Level 3 Art and Digital Design students is now on display at Ewell East Station as part of Art@theStation, a national initiative bringing young artists’ work into … Read More

Community Health

QEF to Close After 90 Years as Epsom MP Seeks Answers

20 November 2025

The Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation for Disabled People (QEF), the long-established disability charity based in Leatherhead, has announced it will enter administration after a 28-day wind-down period, bringing an end to … Read More

Environment News Volunteers

Epsom and Ewell Climate Action Network launches with community events and initiatives

20 November 2025

A new community movement is taking shape in the borough with the launch of the Epsom and Ewell Climate Action Network (eeCAN) – a local volunteer group working to empower … Read More

Epsom Choral Society’s performance of Dvořák’s Stabat Mater on 22 November 2025 at St Martin’s Church was an evening defined by emotional depth, musical discipline, and an unwavering sense of communal purpose. Under the assured direction of conductor Julian Collings, the choir and English Sinfonietta delivered a moving and meticulously shaped reading of one of the choral repertoire’s most profound sacred works.

The church’s warm acoustic proved especially well suited to Dvořák’s expansive, reverent writing; the opening lament, “Stabat mater dolorosa,” unfolded with a gentle solemnity that felt both intimate and monumental. The lower voices of the choir set a somber foundation, their tone grounded and resonant, while the sopranos floated above with clarity. Collings shaped the movement with confidence, never allowing the pacing to sag despite the movement’s extended emotional breadth.

The quartet of soloists—Lisa Swayne (soprano), Judy Louie Brown (mezzo-soprano), John Findon  (tenor), and Niall Anderson (bass)—brought a balanced and expressive presence to the performance. Swayne’s soprano was notable for its bright, ringing top notes, which soared effortlessly. Brown’s mezzo offered a warm, velvety counterpoint, particularly effective in the more introspective sections, where her phrasing carried a natural, speech-like flow.

Tenor John Findon delivered a compelling and lyrical performance, bringing both tenderness and urgency to his solos. His projection was clear, even in the church’s generous acoustic. Bass Niall Anderson provided a strong anchor, his tone rich and reassuring—especially striking in moments where Dvořák’s writing descends into darker, more meditative territory. Together, the four voices blended with admirable cohesion, never overshadowing the chorus but instead weaving in and out of the larger texture with sensitivity.

The English Sinfonietta supported the vocal forces with refinement and expressive nuance. The string section, in particular, brought a glowing warmth to the score, highlighting Dvořák’s gift for intertwining grief with deep spiritual hope. The woodwind solos were elegantly shaped. 

Collings maintained clear and communicative direction throughout, guiding transitions with fluid movement and drawing out the work’s emotional arc with thoughtful pacing. By the time the triumphant closing movement, “Quando corpus morietur,” arrived, the ensemble had built a compelling narrative of suffering transformed into hope, making the final “Amen” genuinely uplifting.

What stood out most across the performance, however, was the sense of collective commitment. Epsom Choral Society attracted a sizeable audience despite, the inclement weather, and there was a real sense of community between the choir and the audience. 

Jane Wilkinson

Those who were fortunate enough to be in the audience for Epsom Chamber Choir’s concert at St Martin’s Church, Epsom, on Saturday 15 November were treated to a superb recital of French choral music. The first half comprised mainly unaccompanied short pieces by 20th-century French composers, with one work by American composer Eric Whitacre. From the outset the choir’s exceptional quality was evident as their exhilarating sound reverberated around the superb acoustic of St Martin’s. Maurice Duruflé’s Quatre motets, based on plainsong melodies, were beautifully sung, conveying every nuance of this intimate music. Whitacre’s Sainte-Chapelle, inspired by a visit to the medieval Parisian chapel, mirrored in vivid choral writing the stunning stained-glass windows for which the building is famous, its dissonant cluster-chords and wide dynamic range skilfully negotiated under the clear direction of conductor Jack Apperley.

The sopranos and altos were then given a chance to shine with three pieces for upper voices only. The ethereal purity of the sopranos’ tone was especially apparent in Lili Boulanger’s Pie Jesu, accompanied by string quartet, harp and organ. The first half concluded with Pierre Villette’s Attende Domine, composed in 1983 for Worcester Cathedral Choir. Villette’s highly chromatic writing, with hints of Poulenc, Messiaen, Gregorian chant and jazz, presents real challenges even for accomplished choirs, but the confident voices of Epsom Chamber Choir proved more than equal to the task, bringing the opening half to a thrilling close.

After the interval the choir gave a moving account of Fauré’s ever-popular Requiem, accompanied by an excellent ensemble of violin, cello, harp and organ. This reduced instrumentation lent a special intimacy to the performance, well suited to the reflective character of much of the work, though perhaps less so for its more dynamic sections. Jack Apperley directed sensitively throughout, and soloists Caroline Burgess, Roger Miller and Nic Ash all sang with assurance and musicality. It is impossible to be unmoved by the ethereal beauty of Fauré’s masterpiece, nowhere more so than in the transcendent In Paradisum, its soaring melody and murmuring harp bringing the evening to a sublime conclusion.

John Bawden

A charity supporting lonely and isolated older residents in Epsom and Ewell is marking its 60th anniversary.

Re-engage volunteers run monthly free tea parties for people aged 75 and over, alongside a call-befriending service for those who live alone.

“Almost part of my family”

Lesley Renwick, who has led the local group since 2005, said they had supported “hundreds of lonely older people who often don’t see or speak to anyone for long periods”. She added: “Our group is very friendly and they’ve almost become part of my family. It’s lovely seeing the older people enjoy themselves, simply having a chat and a cup of tea.”

Re-engage began in London in 1965 when a young lawyer, Trevor Lyttleton, and friends set out to support isolated older people. Epsom and Ewell was one of the earliest groups to follow. Today the charity has thousands of volunteers running hundreds of tea parties, activity groups and call-befriending sessions for around 6,500 older people nationwide.

‘It was worth the wait’

Phyllis, 91, has been attending the local tea parties since 2011. “I love them,” she said. “The volunteers make you so welcome. We all get to know each other and have a good old chat. I like the companionship. It’s nice to have someone to talk to. I had to wait two years to get into the group because it was so popular but it was well worth the wait.”

Pat, 86, whose husband died 14 years ago, said the gatherings helped lift the quiet moments at home. “There are times when I feel lonely but it helps going to the Re-engage tea parties. I’ve made some friends there and there’s always a lovely spread from the volunteers who are so kind. I get to hear everybody’s news and have a lovely time.”

Calls that make a difference

Jo Kearns, 48, lives in Epsom and volunteers as a Call Companion, making weekly calls to Irene, 79, who lives alone. “She gets very anxious about things. Her friends are dying so she can be a bit isolated but the phone calls seem to help. She’s happier by the time we’ve ended our chat,” she said. “I enjoy the volunteering because I like to help vulnerable people. It must be horrible to be alone and worried so I want to do whatever I can. In fact I’m thinking of taking on another older person after Christmas.”

‘Marvellous job’

Jenny Willott, CEO of Re-engage, said: “Our volunteers in Epsom and Ewell do a marvellous job, making sure some of our most vulnerable older people can find new friends and socialise. The fact they have been doing this for 60 years is astonishing.”

Interested in helping?

Volunteer opportunities supporting older people locally and remotely can be found on the Re-engage website.

Football Sports

Late flash of composure seals Epsom & Ewell’s away win

17 November 2025

Sheerwater 3 – 4 Epsom and Ewell FC. Sunday 16th November – Combined Counties Premier League. Epsom & Ewell finally claimed their first league away win of the season with … Read More

Council Finances News

Epsom and Ewell Borough Council to stay put awaiting its demise

15 November 2025

Epsom and Ewell Borough Council’s Strategy and Resources Committee has formally abandoned the plan to relocate the Town Hall to East Street, voting on 11 November to remain in the … Read More

Council Council constitution

Epsom and Ewell Council transparency disputes revisited

14 November 2025

The Audit and Scrutiny Committee of Epsom and Ewell Borough Council met on 13th November, with long-running disputes about transparency once again overshadowing its agenda. Questions from the public and … Read More

Council Housing Planning

Epsom and Ewell housing targets in the crosshairs

14 November 2025

The borough of Epsom and Ewell is currently engaged in a critical juncture of its planning future. The Council’s Regulation 19 draft Local Plan is under examination by the Planning … Read More

Crime News Policing

Live facial recognition policing comes to Surrey

14 November 2025

Surrey Police have begun using live facial recognition (LFR) technology after securing two mobile LFR vans in a joint bid with Sussex Police. The first deployment took place this week … Read More

Council Health

Surrey to get a higher level of heart care

14 November 2025

Heart patients and the tiniest and most vulnerable babies across Surrey are set to benefit from major investment in local specialist services, following confirmation of a £3.2 million upgrade at … Read More

Arts Community

From Ukraine to Epsom: How Music and Kindness Struck the Right Note

14 November 2025

When the Ukraine National Opera arrived in the UK on tour in early 2022, none of its musicians could have imagined how the world, and their lives, were about to … Read More

Council Environment

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council Green Guide

14 November 2025

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council is proud to launch its Green Your Home Guide to help residents take simple, everyday actions to contribute to a healthier environment and help combat … Read More

Council Crime Social care

Sara Sharif murder report on Surrey services

13 November 2025

Numerous safeguarding flaws over many years “cumulatively laid the foundations for the severe abuse” Sara Sharif experienced, a new independent report has revealed. The 10-year-old schoolgirl was found dead in … Read More

Education Nature News

Surrey’s Satellite bio-diversity project promoted at COP30 Brazil

13 November 2025

Surrey’s Space4Nature project, which uses satellite data and community science to protect biodiversity across the county, is currently being showcased by the UK Government at the COP30 UK Pavilion in … Read More

News Transport

Conditional nod to southern rail link to Heathrow

13 November 2025

Spelthorne Borough Council has agreed to support a new rail link between Staines-upon-Thames and Heathrow Airport, but only on strict environmental and local benefit conditions. The proposed Heathrow Southern Rail … Read More

Health News

Epsom Hospital braces for strikes amid winter pressures

13 November 2025

Further strike action by resident doctors – formerly known as junior doctors – is set to add strain to NHS services just as winter illnesses begin to rise. The British … Read More

Business News

Primark finally indicates a season to open in Epsom

12 November 2025

The Ashley Centre in Epsom has confirmed that Primark is set to open its doors in Spring 2026, occupying a two-floor, 44,000 square foot retail unit. The arrival of this … Read More

Community Council

Epsom and Ewell Borough Council gears up for – you know what

11 November 2025

It’s that time of year again – Christmas is coming to Epsom! Join us on Sunday 23 November for the Christmas lights switch-on in Epsom marketplace, led by the Mayor … Read More

Community Health

Epsom and Ewell 5th least obese 10 year olds in the UK

11 November 2025

Year six schoolchildren in Surrey have some of the lowest obesity rates in the country, with Mole Valley leading the way. The figures were published as part of the Government’s … Read More

Football Sports

Epsom and Ewell bow out of FA Vase

10 November 2025

Eastbourne v Epsom and Ewell FC Saturday 8th November. The Salts succumbed to a wonder strike from Eastbourne midfielder Brett Paton early in the second half to bow out of … Read More

Local History

Bit of Epsom history for sale

10 November 2025

A distinctive slice of Epsom’s high street history has surfaced for sale — the original “Ladies at Lester Bowden” shop sign, once proudly displayed beneath the old walkway of the … Read More

News Policing

Leatherhead to be home to 500 Surrey Police Officers

10 November 2025

Surrey Police will get its new East Surrey headquarters after huge plans including hundreds of homes was approved. The force has been on the lookout for a new hub after … Read More

Rugby Sports

Batteresea stun Sutton & Epsom rugby

9 November 2025

Battersea Ironsides 24 Sutton & Epsom 22. Saturday 8th November. This fixture has produced last-minute drama since the sides first met in league action two seasons ago. It is certainly … Read More

Council Transport

Vital Surrey bus reduced from hourly to three mornings a week

8 November 2025

People who wait for buses are often left disappointed and that only looks set to continue after the company behind an axed service said it was “not likely” to return. … Read More

Council Transport

Epsom Station joins app helping visually impaired bus users

8 November 2025

Epsom Station has become one of eight new locations added to a Surrey County Council (SCC) scheme that uses an innovative app to help blind and partially sighted people travel … Read More

Arts Culture

Blackhawk Quintet bring West Coast cool to Epsom

7 November 2025

For an increasing number of informed regulars, Epsom Jazz Club has become a nearby haven of quality music attracting national and international talent down to our own corner of Surrey. … Read More

Council Environment News

Free trees for Epsom and Ewell residents

7 November 2025

Surrey residents are being invited to collect free trees later this month, as part of Surrey County Council’s drive to plant 1.2 million trees by 2030 – one for every … Read More

Community Health News

Epsom Hospital braces for flu spike

7 November 2025

Hospitals serving Epsom, St Helier and St George’s are warning of a potentially severe flu season as national data reveals the number of deaths linked to the virus in England … Read More

Local History

Tracing the history of poor relief in Epsom and Ewell

6 November 2025

Residents and researchers in the borough now have enhanced access to a fascinating trove of historic records that shed light on how our local community dealt with poverty, welfare and … Read More

For an increasing number of informed regulars, Epsom Jazz Club has become a nearby haven of quality music attracting national and international talent down to our own corner of Surrey.

For those not yet in the know, it’s worth broaching the growing roster of world-class musicians and singers who’ve walked through the doors at the Comrades Club venue.

It includes Tony Kofi, who blew his sax at Glastonbury this year in the long-running jazz funk outfit Cymande’s latest incarnation, trumpeter Andy Davies who with local guitar star Nigel Price brought along the rest of the amazing Ronnie Scott’s house band (EJC also has jazz lamps on the tables), and Alan Barnes – for whom the cliché ‘luminary’ is, in his case, actually warranted.

Past line-ups of award-winning players also include Hannah Horton, Allison Neale, Emma Rawicz, Karen Sharp and, in a genre that may be said to err sometimes on the side of seniority, the club has carefully promoted some up-and-coming artists, with exciting young vocalists on the bill like Ineza and Annie Majin.

Backdrop set, it is celebrated drummer Matt Skelton breaking new ground in October bringing his Blackhawk Quintet to Epsom – it’s been strictly quartets on the Comrades’ small stage to date – for an evening exploring the work of fellow sticksman Shelly Manne. The show focused on an intense week in the life and career of this West Coast “cool” jazz innovator, band leader, club owner and movie music composer, who in the 1950s and 60s was often pictured nattily dressed at his drums, in jacket and tie, a big smile on his face.

This five-piece is named (deliberately portmanteau, it seems) after a short residency of concerts at San Francisco’s Black Hawk club in the autumn of 1959, recorded with a view to releasing a single live album that became a series of four scintillating records, such was the quantity of quality material, followed by a fifth album in the early 1990s when the whole lot was re-released on CD.

Skelton’s men for the evening were Leon Greening – perhaps my favourite jazz pianist working in the country right now – Mark Crooks, whose tenor sax croons, glides and purrs like Lester Young, Stan Getz or indeed Manne’s tenorman on the Black Hawk records Richie Kamuca; hard-swinging young horn player Jim Davison (once lead trumpet in the National Youth Jazz Orchestra, now leading his own bands and scooping awards); and Jeremy Brown, one of the go-to bassists on the UK scene who’s played at Epsom at least half a dozen times in various line-ups.

It’s a rare treat to hear five musicians on this stage, with two brass-blowing front men. The sound is full and punchy, hitting right to the fore during the energetic thematic heads, and adding that extra bit of variety as the players take their solo turns.

The band took the vocally enthusiastic crowd on a fabulous journey through the recorded sessions, from the mid-tempo bopper Pullin’ Strings to the smoothly striding Eclipse of Spain, via the hard bop of Benny Golson composition Step Lightly.

The night’s focus on the short series of Black Hawk gigs – with occasional forays into other Shelly Manne albums (the grooving, Latin-tinged The Breeze and I from Boss Sounds!) or pieces by his various collaborators including Henry Mancini (the exquisite ballad Dreamsville) – provided a satisfying coherence to the concert you don’t always get.

That satisfaction only deepened with the scholarly asides, stories and nuggets of background about Manne, the gigs and the man’s musical life that Skelton amused us with between numbers.

Oh, and did I mention the drums? Skelton beats them hands down.

Amanda Gregory

Epsom Jazz Club puts on concerts at the Comrades Club, 1 The Parade, Epsom KT18 5BT. The next evening will feature violinist Matt Holborn and his quartet on 27 November, starting 7:30 pm.

Photo by Steven McCormick of Steven McCormick Photography

Horse racing Sports

Epsom’s Famous Turf Set for a Smoother Ride

5 November 2025

Racehorses galloping down Epsom’s famous turf could soon enjoy a smoother start, after The Jockey Club won backing to re-route a battered path cutting across the six-furlong chute on the … Read More

Community Council

4 November 2025

Bourne Hall is delighted to announce the return of its much-loved Christmas Lights Switch-On event, taking place on Saturday 29 November from 4pm until 7.30pm. This free, family-friendly celebration invites … Read More

Arts Community Culture

Music and dance for Ukraine at Epsom Methodist Church

4 November 2025

The 13th Ukraine Music Evening took place on Saturday 25th October at Epsom Methodist Church, organised by Lionel Blackman with the support of the Epsom Refugee Network and Surrey Stands … Read More

Community Faith

Epsom Methodist Church launches new Story Club and Warm Wednesdays

1 November 2025

Epsom Methodist Church (EMC) is organising two exciting ventures for local people and families this autumn. First out of the blocks is a new Story Club for parents and toddlers … Read More

Council Council constitution News

Surrey resident’s views on County split ignored?

1 November 2025

The Government has been accused of ignoring Surrey residents’ views on how to dissolve and merge the county’s councils after it emerged there was a clear preference for three unitaries … Read More

Council Council constitution News

Government Casts Doubt on Surrey’s Mayoral Devolution Promise

31 October 2025

No promises have been made that Surrey will get full devolution and a directly elected mayor – despite it being the “entire purpose” of the lengthy and arduous process of … Read More

Crime News

Surrey prison drug smuggling drones might be investigated

31 October 2025

Drones smuggling drugs into prison will be investigated in an inquest into a man who died in custody. The full inquest, which opens next month, will also look at his … Read More

Education News

Surrey Uni show AI systems based on the human brain’s save energy

30 October 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) could soon become more energy-efficient and faster, thanks to a new approach developed at the University of Surrey that takes direct inspiration from biological neural networks of … Read More

Council Finances News

Residents sigh of relief if Government bail out bankrupt Woking

29 October 2025

The government’s whopping £500m bailout for debt-ridden Woking Borough Council may not be the last. The cash injection, announced as part of Surrey’s local government reorganisation on October 28, will … Read More

Council Elections

Some election detail on the new Surrey Councils

29 October 2025

Election dates in Surrey, and how the seats will be split in the two new mega councils, have been confirmed as more details emerge of how everything will work following … Read More

Council Officers will be available to speak to you in person at the following places

• Monday 13 February 14:30 – 19:30 Bourne Hall, Azalea Room
• Thursday 16 February 12:00 – 17:00, Ashley Centre, Central Square
• Tuesday 21 February 14:30 – 19:30, Bourne Hall, Azalea room
• Wednesday 22 February 10:30 – 15:30, Community & Wellbeing Centre, Sefton Road
• Saturday 25 February 11:00 – 16:00, Ashley Centre, Central Square
• Tuesday 28 February 10:30 – 15:30, Community & Wellbeing Centre, Sefton Road

Epsom and Ewell Times exclusive: 21st June 2022 HRH The Princess Royal entered the Borough of Epsom and Ewell. The Court Circular states: Her Royal Highness this afternoon opened the First World War Centenary Woods’ “Regiment of Trees”, Langley Vale Wood, Langley Vale Road, Epsom, and was received by Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey (Mr. Michael More-Molyneux).

The Epsom and Ewell Times requested The Woodland Trust to explain activity at the Headley Road Car Park entrance that day. The owners of the Centenary Wood fell silent. Our investigation reveals that no “song-and-dance” has been made of the Royal event as the car park cannot open until electric vehicle charging points are working.

As today’s photos show, they are nearly ready but the car park remains closed. Walking is the best way to get to the Wood at the moment. The narrow country roads that surround the wood have no safe places to park.

The 650 acre Centenary Wood at Langley Vale is the English site of the four for the four nations of the United Kingdom. Epsom and Ewell is very privileged to have this extraordinary amenity at our doorstep.

^{Ed: This story was ready to break just before Queen Elizabeth II died. Out of respect for the Royal Family we put a hold on publication until after the State Funeral. The car park remains closed as of today.}