A celebration of community spirit and shared humanity is coming to Epsom on Saturday as part of a nationwide initiative inspired by the late MP Jo Cox.

Hosted by local charity Good Company (Surrey), the free event—branded The Great Get Together—will take place in Epsom and promises an afternoon of food, music, games and family entertainment. The day will begin with a formal welcome from the Mayor of Epsom and Ewell, Councillor Robert Leach, accompanied by the Mayoress.

The event is one of hundreds taking place across the UK this weekend to honour the message of Jo Cox, the Labour MP for Batley and Spen who was murdered in 2016. Cox is remembered for her powerful maiden speech in Parliament, in which she said: “We are far more united and have far more in common than that which divides us.” Her words have since become the cornerstone of an annual campaign celebrating unity and community cohesion.

In Epsom, the programme includes live performances from the Ukrainian Choir, a Disney singalong, and the Freedom Pulse Brass Band. Children will be kept busy with games, crafts, a treasure hunt, and even Crazy Golf. There will also be henna hand-painting and a showcase of artisan goods.

Jo Sherring, who leads the Epsom and Ewell Refugee Network, said the day is about bringing people together:

“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.”

Good Company (Surrey), the charity behind the event, also operates the Epsom & Ewell Food Bank, the local Refugee Network, and community pantries in Epsom and Banstead.

While the event is free to attend, organisers ask that attendees book tickets in advance via the QR code on promotional flyers or the charity’s website, where a full afternoon timetable is also available.

The Great Get Together campaign is run by The Jo Cox Foundation and aims to encourage people across the UK to bridge divides and build stronger, more connected communities. The Foundation states: “Change starts at the community level; we all have the power to make a difference.”

Further information about the national initiative can be found at:
🔗 https://www.jocoxfoundation.org/our-work/stronger-communities/great-get-together/

Contact for local event:
Jo Sherring
Lead, Epsom & Ewell Refugee Network
📞 07849 631747
✉️ jo@goodcompany.org.uk

A British Red Cross volunteer from Epsom who has spent 40 years with the organisation has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King’s Birthday Honours.

Jon Richards, 61, followed in his mum’s footsteps as a volunteer with the British Red Cross and has worked across a number of different services during his four decades with the charity.

Jon enjoys helping individuals and families, having attended numerous callouts across the South East as well as helping at rest centres. This included an incident in 2014 when Jon volunteered for four days straight, supporting people caught up in severe flooding in London and Brighton, and in 2017, when he supported the response at Grenfell Tower.

Jon, who also met his wife through the British Red Cross, said: “It’s a real honour to be given a British Empire Medal in the King’s Birthday Honours for my time volunteering with the British Red Cross.

“We work hard to help people who face the most difficult challenges in life and I’m very proud to be recognised with this award.”

Described as a modest and quiet man by his colleagues, Jon’s knowledgeable, methodical, and calm approach builds trust with both service users and partner agencies. On one of his most recent callouts, Jon supported in a case of hoarding, where the member of the public would not allow firefighters or social services into their home, but felt comfortable allowing  Jon in to discuss alternative accommodation options.

Jon added: “It’s important to show kindness and compassion whenever you’re carrying out volunteering duties and having met so many brilliant colleagues over the years at the British Red Cross, I know that everyone here will do everything they can to help those in need.

“Throughout the last 40 years, I’ve worked in so many different areas of the British Red Cross and had a chance to see how big an impact the work we do can have on communities.”

British Red Cross Chief Executive Béatrice Butsana-Sita said: “Jon is an incredible ambassador for the British Red Cross and a fantastic example of the brilliant staff and volunteers that support our vital work. 

“For 40 years he has been a huge figure in our Surrey services, giving up his time to support people when they need it most.

“I am delighted to see Jon rewarded for his work with a British Empire Medal in the King’s Birthday Honours list and would like to congratulate him on this amazing achievement.”

A group of 23 dads in their 40s and 50s from the Epsom area will take on their 2025 hike – the ‘Carneddau to Coast’ challenge across the rugged mountains of North Wales.

The Epsom Trailblazers are back for their fifth charity hike. On 14th June, the group will tackle 11 peaks, 30km and 1,700m of ascent in one day, all in aid of two amazing charities.

Established in 2016, the Trailblazers’ charity hikes have raised over £55,000 in recent years, and this year’s target is a massive £10,000 for their chosen charities – one local (Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation for Disabled People) and one national (The Brain Tumour Charity).

The bi-annual walking challenges plus many months of training routines have helped the Trailblazers become great friends as well as shaking off some excess kilos in the process.

According to four-times Trailblazer John Croome: “The Trailblazers have all been training really hard this year, hiking endless repeats of the Box Hill ascent every weekend in preparation for the Carneddau challenge and getting in shape any way we can.

“We think we are ready, and are really looking forward to the hike to raise much-needed funds for these great charities.”

The Brain Tumour Charity is the largest dedicated funder of research into brain tumours globally, and has a special connection to the group, with a best friend of a Trailblazer currently undergoing treatment for a brain tumour. Supporting their work will help to save and improve the lives of everyone affected by a brain tumour.

The Trailblazers have also chosen to support the Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation for Disabled People as their local charity this year – the Surrey-based charity supports disabled people of all ages to maximise their independence and achieve their potential. Again, the group has a personal link with the charity with one of the Trailblazers working hard at the charity every day.

Firzana Khan, Community Fundraiser for The Brain Tumour Charity, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to the Epsom Trailblazers for choosing to support The Brain Tumour Charity on their epic Carneddau to Coast challenge.

“Their determination, camaraderie and generosity are truly inspiring, especially as they walk in support of a close friend affected by a brain tumour. Every step they take helps us move closer to our goal of doubling survival and halving the harm that brain tumours cause. We’re cheering them on every inch of the way!”

The Trailblazers 2025 challenge: https://www.givewheel.com/fundraising/8095/trailblazers-2025-carneddau-to-coast/

The Sunnybank Trust is celebrating a major milestone – five years of Sunny Sessions, its inclusive radio show dedicated to amplifying the voices of the learning disability community.

Founded during the lockdown by CEO Dorothy Watson and Futures Manager Claire Dawson, the show began with the goal of keeping the community connected during a difficult and isolating time. Sunny Sessions aimed to provide comfort, connection, and positivity through buzzing music, exercise segments, and relevant news updates.

Dorothy Watson, CEO of The Sunnybank Trust, said:
“We are proud to be celebrating five years of Sunny Sessions. What started as a way to connect people has become a vibrant platform run by and for the learning disability community. Congratulations to Jon Andrews, our dedicated producer, and many thanks to Surrey Hills Community Radio for hosting our show.”

To mark this milestone, The Sunnybank Trust is pleased to announce that the BBC Breakfast Show will host the anniversary celebration on 28 March 2025, between 7 – 9 am on BBC Radio Surrey & Sussex.

As part of the celebration, the show will feature an interview between Emma Blackmore, a Sunnybank reporter based in Bristol, and the consultants from Understand Us, a consultancy founded by The Sunnybank Trust in 2019.

Understand Us is a learning disability-led consultancy based in Epsom, offering services such as training, workshops, and audits to help businesses become more accessible to people with learning disabilities. For more information, visit understandus.co.uk.

During the interview, the consultants will share insights into their roles, discuss how businesses can benefit from Understand Us, and reflect on their favourite projects.

James Cannon, BBC Producer, said:
“We are incredibly proud of the journey Sunny Sessions has taken over the past five years. This anniversary and the feature on BBC Breakfast provide an opportunity to share the voices and stories of the individuals who have been part of the show’s success. Our mission has always been to amplify these voices and promote inclusion, and we are excited to take this next step in reaching an even wider audience.”

Today, Sunny Sessions is presented by Jon Andrews, who brings his passion and energy to the show as it continues to grow. The programme has expanded to cover a wide variety of topics, providing a platform for people to share their stories, engage in meaningful discussions, and raise awareness about issues that matter to them.

Jon Andrews said:
“I’m incredibly proud of what we have achieved with the radio show and excited to see where the next five years will take us.”

The Sunnybank Trust

Photo: Jon Andrews from The Sunnybank Trust, and James Fieldus, a Sunnybank Reporter. Photo by The Sunnybank Trust.

The Royal British Legion’s Epsom and Ewell branch has once again demonstrated the remarkable generosity of the local community, raising a record-breaking total of £79,366.99 during the 2024 Poppy Appeal. This astounding figure, collected throughout the borough in November, marks an increase of £16,000 from the previous year—an incredible achievement as collectors and supporters returned in full force after the pandemic.

Poppy Appeal Organiser Amy Johnson, alongside her dedicated deputies, coordinated an army of volunteers, young and old, who braved the autumn chill to collect donations across the Ashley Centre, Sainsbury’s Kiln Lane, local schools, shops, businesses, and various poppy stands throughout Epsom and Ewell. The generosity of local residents ensured that the borough, known for its strong community spirit, once again surpassed expectations.

A special note of thanks goes to the Ashley Centre and Sainsbury’s Kiln Lane management teams, whose continued support provided vital collection points for this year’s appeal.

Reflecting on the significance of the funds raised, Barb Warwick, Chair of RBL Epsom and Ewell, stated:

“As we sadly say farewell to the last of our WWII service men and women, our mission now is to ensure that the new generation of Armed Forces personnel and their families receive the support they need, no matter where or when they serve. We are secure in the knowledge that Epsom and Ewell, the smallest borough with the biggest heart, will rise to this challenge.”

The Royal British Legion continues its vital work providing welfare and support to serving and former members of the Armed Forces and their families. Anyone in need of assistance, whether they have served in the past or are currently in the Armed Forces, is encouraged to reach out to barb.warwick@virginmedia.com for confidential support and guidance.

With the borough’s unwavering dedication, Epsom and Ewell have once again shown their commitment to remembering and supporting those who have served. Lest we forget.

An Epsom man has completed an extraordinary fundraising challenge in memory of his sister, raising more than £22,000 for national charity Epilepsy Action.

Barry Ahearn, from Epsom, ran 27 half-marathons over the past year to honour his sister, Abbie, who tragically passed away in September 2023 following a severe epileptic seizure. Barry’s challenge was deeply symbolic—each half-marathon representing one minute of the 27 minutes his sister’s brain was without oxygen while paramedics fought to save her life.

His final run took place on Saturday, 8th March, in Battersea Park, where he was joined by 40 fellow runners and 150 supporters, including family, friends, and representatives from Epilepsy Action.

A Challenge Driven by Love and Loss

Reflecting on the challenge, Barry said:

“Losing Abbie has been the hardest thing I’ve ever experienced. She was kind, compassionate, and full of life. Every day since she passed, I’ve felt emotional pain—so I decided to match it with physical pain and push myself to do something in her memory.”

Abbie was just three months away from her 30th birthday when she suffered a fatal seizure. Having been diagnosed with epilepsy only six weeks earlier, her death came as a devastating shock to her loved ones.

Barry’s journey has taken him across the UK, completing half-marathons in London, Carsington Water, and even at his local park, where he ran up and down a single path 55 times to complete the 21km distance. Some runs were part of organised events, while others were solo challenges that tested his mental and physical endurance.

Community Spirit and Support

Throughout his challenge, Barry was supported by his wife Naomi, who not only cheered him on at every race but also ran parts of the final half-marathon with him.

“Seeing my best friends, family, and their children cheering me on has been so special. The solo runs were tough emotionally, but I knew I had people behind me every step of the way.”

His efforts have not only raised funds but also heightened awareness of epilepsy, a condition that affects over 600,000 people in the UK, with three people dying from epilepsy-related causes every day.

An Impact Beyond Fundraising

Barry’s campaign has been hailed as a remarkable achievement by Epilepsy Action’s Director of Fundraising, Philippa Cartwright, who praised his determination and resilience:

“Barry’s efforts are truly inspiring. The funds he and his team have raised will help support vital services, from Talk & Support groups to our helpline, ensuring people with epilepsy get the help they need.”

Barry hopes that his sister’s story will encourage more people to learn about the risks associated with epilepsy and push for better awareness and research.

“When I started this challenge, I wanted to raise awareness and funds. I can’t measure the full impact it’s had, but if this helps save even one life, it will have been worth it.”

How to Support the Cause

Barry’s fundraising page remains open for donations to Epilepsy Action, which continues to campaign for better services and support for those affected by epilepsy.

To contribute to Barry’s campaign, visit: JustGiving – Barry Ahearn’s Fundraiser

For more information on epilepsy and support services, visit www.epilepsy.org.uk or call the Epilepsy Action helpline on 0808 800 5050.

Epsom’s Market Place was a scene of unity and reflection today as residents, dignitaries, and members of the Ukrainian community gathered to mark the third anniversary (24th February) of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Organised by the Epsom & Ewell Refugee Network (EERN) and Epsom based Surrey Stands With Ukraine (SSWU), the event served as a powerful demonstration of the town’s enduring support for those affected by the war.

The Worshipful The Mayor of Epsom & Ewell, Councillor Steve Bridger, (RA Stamford) and the Mayoress, Carol Bridger, attended the commemoration, reaffirming the borough’s commitment to standing in solidarity with Ukraine.

“Kindness Will Prevail”

The event opened with a speech from Jo Sherring, co-founder of EERN, who highlighted the strong bonds forged between the local and Ukrainian communities. “We are privileged to have met and worked with such wonderful people, and we will continue to support them as long as they need our help,” she said. EERN supports as many as 80 or more families from Ukraine. Mainly women and children.

Roy Deadman, Chair of SSWU, praised the tireless efforts of volunteers who have dedicated time and resources to aid Ukraine. “The support for Ukraine we have seen today from this wonderful community still shows us that kindness will prevail in a world that feels very dark right now,” he said. SSWU has sent a van of civilian aid nearly every week since the war began and thousands of pounds of aid for humanitarian projects in Ukraine.

The two charities work together in offices generously provided by the Ashley Centre and for which the Council has waived all business rates.

MP’s Message of Support

Epsom & Ewell’s MP, Helen Maguire, who was unable to attend in person, sent a statement which was read aloud to the assembled crowd. She paid tribute to Ukraine’s resilience and urged continued support for its fight against Russian aggression.

“Three years ago, the world watched in horror as Putin launched his brutal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. I am proud that Epsom’s community has gathered here today to say what we have said from the very beginning: We stand with Ukraine. We stand with its people. And we will not waver,” she said.

Ms Maguire described Ukraine’s battle as one for “democracy, sovereignty, and the right of nations to choose their own future.” She praised the courage of the Ukrainian people, whether on the battlefield or in communities enduring relentless attacks, displacement, and loss.

“To our Ukrainian friends here today: you are not alone. We have not forgotten you, and we will continue to support you, in both word and action, for as long as it takes,” she added.

The MP also called for the UK to take a leadership role in supporting Ukraine’s victory, advocating for military assistance and the seizure of Russian assets to aid in reconstruction. “The future of Ukraine must be decided by Ukrainians,” she said.

Emotional Tributes

The gathering featured a powerful performance by Helin Konyar, a third-year student at Laine Theatre Arts and a Ukrainian national, who sang Ukraine’s spiritual anthem God Save Ukraine. Her performance deeply moved those in attendance.

A particularly poignant moment came from Constantin Ryzhikov, a blind Ukrainian refugee, who shared his heartfelt gratitude for Britain’s support. He spoke about the difficulties faced by Ukrainians both in their homeland and those who have sought refuge abroad, moving many in the audience to tears.

The event also included a prayer led by Deacon Gary Carter of St Joseph’s Church in Epsom, calling for peace and strength for those suffering in Ukraine.

A Show of Unity

The commemoration ended with the Ukrainian national anthem, once again performed by Helin Konyar. The assembled crowd joined in a moment of solemn reflection, standing in solidarity with Ukraine.

As the war enters its fourth year, the event served as a poignant reminder of Epsom’s unwavering support for Ukraine and the power of community in times of crisis.

Ukrainian Culture

Since the war talented Ukrainian musicians and a local Ukraine Choir come together for the 11th Ukraine Music Evening since the war began. Held at 6pm on Saturday 22nd March in the Worship Area of the Epsom Methodist Church in Ashley Road. Entry is free and a leaving collection is dedicated to support the musicians whose livelihoods have been cut in their homeland.

For more information on how to support Ukraine locally, visit:

• Epsom & Ewell Refugee Network: www.epsomrefugeenetwork.org
• Surrey Stands With Ukraine: www.surreystandswithukraine.org

Image: Roy Deadman of SSWU addresses the crowd alongside Jo Sherring of EERN and Deacon Gary Carter (Credit Nina Kaye)

Related reports:

Sir Ed supporting Epsom based Ukraine charities

Fire Assembly for Ukraine

2 years on Epsom to gather in solidarity with Ukraine 

Dear Editor,

I am writing on behalf of Epsom and Ewell Talking Newspaper (EETN) to share some wonderful news following our 50th Anniversary celebration this past November.

Helen Maguire, our local Liberal Democrat MP for Epsom and Ewell, has kindly recognised EETN’s invaluable contribution to the community in her recent newsletter. She congratulated us on this significant milestone and commended the tireless efforts of our volunteers who ensure visually impaired residents in Epsom and Ewell remain connected through vital access to news and local information.

Moreover, we are proud to announce that Helen Maguire has submitted an Early Day Motion (EDM) in Parliament in honour of our 50 years of service. This EDM reads as follows:

“That this House congratulates Epsom and Ewell Talking Newspaper on its remarkable achievement of 50 years of service; recognises the charity’s outstanding commitment to supporting visually impaired residents in Epsom and Ewell by providing vital access to news and local information; commends the volunteers whose dedication, effort, and time have made this invaluable service possible; acknowledges the critical role such services play in fostering inclusion and community connection; and wishes the charity continued success in its future endeavours supporting those in need.”

For those unfamiliar, Early Day Motions are a way for MPs to bring attention to specific causes or achievements. While few are debated, they often attract public interest and media coverage.

We are deeply grateful to Helen Maguire for her continued support and advocacy for EETN, and we look forward to many more years of serving our local community.

Yours faithfully,

Judy Sarssam

Chairman

Epsom & Ewell Talking Newspaper

Epsom Surrey had more mental hospitals than most English counties and, at Surrey History Centre, we are justly proud of the quantity and quality of surviving records we hold. These range from the early private asylums of the late eighteenth century through to the county asylums of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.

Many of these records were rescued by our archivists when the institutions were closed down in the 1990s, and they include the records of some of the ‘Epsom Cluster’ of hospitals. In 1896 the newly created London County Council, faced with the need to provide for huge numbers of the mentally ill, purchased the Horton Manor estate at Epsom and built five large hospitals. The Manor opened in 1899; Horton in 1902; Ewell Epileptic Colony, later St Ebba’s, in 1904; Long Grove in 1907; and West Park in 1924.

Among the extensive archive of The Manor hospital at Surrey History Centre is a wonderful collection of glass plate negatives of individual male and female patients dating back to 1899. The patients were photographed on admission to the hospital and many who recovered after treatment were often photographed again on discharge, showing a marked improvement in their demeanour.

These glass plates had been languishing in our strong rooms so, earlier this year, we started creating digital positive copies of some of the plates that are over one hundred years old. Once digitised, the images were identified by matching them to the photographic prints in the Manor Hospital patient case books. Sadly a few of the case books had not survived, so a number of images remained unidentified, but more of this later. Thanks to our volunteer, Brenda, we have now successfully digitised over 500 images which can be viewed by researchers in our searchroom. The names of the patients whose photographs have been identified are also available on our online catalogue.

This digitisation project was actually prompted by the work of the Epsom based Friends of Horton Cemetery. Their Out of Sight, Out of Mind project explores and commemorates the lives of some of the 9,000 Epsom Cluster patients buried in unmarked graves in the disused cemetery. More information about this fascinating project can be found on the Horton Cemetery website.

This has truly been a collaborative undertaking. Also working in partnership with Surrey History Centre and the Friends of Horton Cemetery is multimedia artist and medic, Dr Eric Fong. His work spans film, photography, sculpture, and installation, often exploring themes of the body, identity, and vulnerability. His moving and haunting Cyanotype Apparitions exhibition, using some of the Manor Hospital patient glass slides, won the London Independent Film Awards’ Best Experimental Short October 2024 award.

And here’s a fitting postscript: last month saw the recovery of one of the long-lost Manor Hospital patient case books, filling an important gap in the hospital’s record collection at Surrey History Centre. Discovered in an attic, this remarkable volume, spanning May 1900 to July 1901, records the medical histories of 250 women, complete with their personal details and poignant photographic portraits. And importantly, it has allowed us to identify some more of the unnamed glass plate images.

For more news from Surrey History Centre – read more here.

Image: glass plate negative of Caroline Appleton and William Smith

Surrey History Centre

Related reports:

Attic find fills gap in Epsom local asylum history

Portraits of pauper patients in Epsom’s Horton Cemetery, inspires artist

Petition to reclaim Horton Cemetery from property speculator

A young woman from Epsom is amplifying young people’s voices after being chosen as a UK Youth Ambassador for The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE).

Kalina Hristova, 17, joins a select group of 35 DofE Award holders aged 16-24 from across the UK. These Youth Ambassadors will advocate for young people by sharing their insights on key issues, speaking at events, meeting decision-makers in Parliament, and contributing to the DofE charity’s direction.

Originally from Bulgaria, Kalina has lived in the UK for ten years and credits the DofE with helping her socially. She began her DofE journey at the Silver level when she joined a new school, finding it a great way to meet people outside her classes.

Kalina said:
“Starting a new school in Year 10 is quite daunting, so I joined DofE to make new friends and learn new skills. I’m glad I did, as I’ve met some of my best friends through DofE, and I’ve been able to dedicate my time to something I want to achieve.”

For her Volunteering section, Kalina coached netball, leading sessions for younger students, running drills, and planning fun games. This not only improved the students’ skills but also enhanced Kalina’s communication abilities.

For her Physical section, she focused on fitness, tracking her progress through her Apple Watch. An avid sportswoman, she joined a gym to start weightlifting. “Sometimes I found it a bit intimidating, as it can be a male-dominated environment, but the more I progressed, the easier it became,” Kalina added.

She also participated in the London Vitality 10K race, raising awareness and funds for the DofE. “I would never have run a distance like this if not for the DofE. I was not a runner before, but with all the work I put in for my Physical section, I knew I could do it,” she said.

As part of her Gold Volunteering, Kalina became her school’s DofE ambassador, supporting Bronze and Silver participants, organising expeditions, and teaching skills like map reading and food planning.

For her Residential section, Kalina attended a three-week summer programme in Pennsylvania called Leadership in the Business World, which inspired her to consider studying Economics or Finance at university. “DofE has been so much fun, and it’s way more than just an Expedition. I applied to be a Youth Ambassador to apply the skills I’ve learned through DofE to the real world,” she explained.

Empowering Young Leaders
Funded by The Gosling Foundation, the Youth Ambassador programme places young people at the heart of shaping the DofE’s work. Ambassadors have met Ministers, spoken at high-profile events, represented the DofE at international forums, and influenced key decisions across the charity.

Ashley Williams, UK Youth Engagement Manager at The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, said: “Kalina is one of many young people who have achieved incredible things through their DofE. As a charity, we’re determined to put young people at the heart of everything we do and give them opportunities to make a positive impact on the issues they care about.”

“It’s not an easy time to be a young person, with the after-effects of the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis. Opportunities like the DofE allow young people to have fun, grow in resilience and self-belief, and develop vital skills they can’t always get in the classroom.”

Young people aged 14-24 who participate in the DofE choose activities in four sections: Physical, Skills, Volunteering, and Expedition. Along the way, they gain confidence, discover new talents, and work toward a highly respected award.

“I feel we are here today to pay homage to those good people who 50 years ago, established this splendid Charity and all those who have contributed ever since. On behalf of all the visually impaired Listeners over the past fifty years, I send a huge thank you to the Founders of Epsom & Ewell Talking Newspaper – EETN – and the multitude of Volunteers who have kept the free service operational for over half a century.’’ With these words, Judy Sarssam the present Chairwoman of EETN, welcomed the Worshipful Mayor of Epsom and Ewell (Charity’s President) Councillor Steve Bridger along with forty Volunteers and guests, to celebrate its Golden Anniversary on Thursday 21st November.

‘Our Volunteers are the shining stars,’ Judy continued, ‘because without them there would not be an Epsom & Ewell Talking Newspaper, whose function today is as valid as it was fifty years ago.’ Judy, herself visually impaired, went on to explain the importance of keeping visually impaired people feeling part of their community, as those with sight loss can so easily become isolated. Although technology has advanced in leaps and bounds since the early recordings, Judy was keen to emphasize that in a world now dominated by technology, isolation becomes more of an issue for those who are not technically adept.

During the celebration, messages of congratulations were read out, including from Mike Wood, President of The Talking News Federation, who acknowledged that 50 years of providing this regular, interesting and friendly service, recording more than 2390 editions, showed commitment by Volunteers and Listeners alike. Lionel Blackman, Director of Epsom & Ewell Times, said he was proud to be associated with EETN and was inspired by the dedication of its Volunteers. Councillor Clive Woodbridge, Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Committee for Epsom & Ewell said when he visited EETN as Mayor and presented long service awards to 15 Volunteers, he was impressed by the passion and hard work that goes into creating each edition.

Many of the Volunteers have been with the EETN for more than 10 years. Penny Dearing and Gwyneth Smith have been associated with EETN almost from its inception. Gwyneth joined as a Reader and her distinctive voice was well loved and remains melodic though Gwyneth is past her 90th birthday. She moved to Wales when COVID struck to join her family. A talented poet, she had planned to come to the celebration and read her 50th Anniversary poem. Sadly she was snow-bound in Wales, but emailed her wonderful poem which was read by MC of the day, James Dubois.

Following the messages from the many well-wishers, Penny Dearing, a former News Editor, Trustee/Committee member and Reader, told us her pleasure at working with those early pioneers. The EETN travelled from being recorded in Volunteers’ homes to a room in the Age Concern offices to a corridor at Swail House and eventually into a designated Studio at Swail House, which was the first site in the UK, designed specifically for visually impaired residents. During Covid full circle was reached as once more the EETN was temporarily recorded and produced in Volunteers’ homes until it was possible to return to the Studio once more.

A montage of Volunteers past and present caught everyone’s eye, as they enjoyed the delicious anniversary cake which the Mayor Councillor Steve Bridger ceremonially cut after making a generous speech in praise of the free EETN service. The celebration provided a wonderful opportunity for Volunteers to share their pleasure in continuing to offer access to local news, entertainment and information for the visually impaired people of Epsom and Ewell. Judy closed the event praising once more the special, hard-working team of 2024.

EETN Golden Jubilee – Poem by Gwyneth Smith

For over thirty years it was my privilege and pleasure
To be one of the READERS and the memories I treasure.
When Covid lockdown was announced my son rushed down to Surrey
To take me back with him to Wales to save us all from worry.

Continuing injections for my macular condition
I’ve now become a LISTENER and welcome each edition.
When it arrives in yellow pouch, protected from the weather,
I’m grateful to the Post Office, and how much more to Heather.

Epsom born I did not leave until my ninetieth year
So Epsom news and local views I’m very pleased to hear.
The MAGAZINE has always been the choice of those who EDIT
The wide variety produced is greatly to their credit.

It gives the READERS much more scope for their interpretation
Verse old and new and humour too can be a revelation.
So well done all who have a share in making each RECORDING
I hope you find the jobs you do are suitably rewarding.

With SECRETARY, TREASURER and Judy in the CHAIR,
We’re led by a COMMITTEE and we thank them for their care.
So happy Golden Birthday TALKING NEWSPAPER we say.
Let’s give three cheers for fifty years and longer may you stay!

Gwyneth Smith, 2024

Photography by Steven McCormick.

Residents of Cuddington ward held a community bulb plant on the 9th of November, thanks to fantastic local volunteers. Help from RA Surrey Councillor Eber Kington via an allocation from Your Fund Surrey, plus a generous crocus donation from Wandgas Sports and Social Club, enabled Councillor Kim Spickett (RA Cuddington) to obtain enough spring bulbs for three streets. “We have been planting bulbs in various locations in the ward for the last three years. The aim is to have spring colour and happy bees in every street, so we tackle a new area each Autumn. It is great exercise and a wonderful way to meet your neighbours”.

The streetscape around Wandgas has been planted with Crocus tommasinianus Whitewell Purple, a good match for the club kit colours.

Kim said “All our pollinating insects are fans of Wandgas cricket and football – now they will have somewhere to enjoy half-time refreshments”.

In the surrounding streets, Kim, volunteer residents of all ages, RA Surrey and EEBC Councillor Steven McCormick plus the Wandgas team planted “Tenby” daffodils and early snowdrops.

The bulbs will ensure a boost for wildlife and some neighbourhood cheer after a long winter.

MAIN PHOTO, LEFT TO RIGHT: Wandgas Club Secretary Gary, President Chris, Managers Alison and David, Paul. INSET PHOTOS: volunteer Nicky’s snap of the volunteers in action and examples of the flowers to expect during Spring 2025

Kim is also chair of Surrey’s Wildflowering Project. They have groups all over Surrey, bringing native planting and people together.

Today, Sir Ed Davey MP, leader of the resurgent Liberal Democrat Party, accompanied by Epsom and Ewell MP Helen Maguire, visited the “Ukraine Hub”. Offices generously provided by the owners of the Ashley Centre and where Epsom and Ewell Borough Council has waived all business rates.

The premises are home to the Epsom and Ewell Refugee Network and Surrey Stands With Ukraine.

Sir Ed was introduced to the leaders of the refugee network, Nina Kaye and Jo Sherring, who told him of the hardships faced by refugees fleeing persecution and conflict. He saw English classes in session and shook hands with many refugee students.

The Party leader and new MP were given a tour of the Hub and took part in packing winter survival packs for Ukraine. Costing £50 the smart packs contain a gas cooker, a power bank and a flexible re-chargeable torch. Essential items fo civilians effected by the inevitable power outages that will occur this winter throughout Ukraine.

If you wish to donate please visit Surrey Stands With Ukraine and businesses that sponsor full packs will benefit from the charity’s extensive social media coverage.

Sir Ed then helped pack some survival kits and proceeded to help clean walking aids the charity is sending to Ukraine.

The Hub was full of volunteers for both charities who work closely together and a press posse was all around.

Sir Ed undertook a series of interviews with media representatives and fielded questions ranging from the election of Donald Trump to the future for Ukraine.

Image: Sir Ed Davey MP and Helen Maguire MP and Roy Deadman of SSWU in Epsom’s Ukraine HUB

Controversy surrounded the appointment of the salaried Centre Manager of Epsom and Ewell’s new arts and exhibition venue, The Horton Arts Centre.

Documents obtained by the Epsom and Ewell Times under Freedom of Information Act requests reveal that the Charity Commission found that the trustees of the Horton Chapel Arts and Heritage Society did not seek its prior permission to employ the wife of a trustee.

A recently retired trustee, a trustee or a person connected to a trustee through marriage may not be given paid employment by their charity without prior Charity Commission approval.

The Commission found that Maria Reeves, the wife of founding chairman of the Charity, Ian Reeves, who was herself previously a trustee, was appointed to the manager role without its permission.

In these circumstances the Commission would normally order the trustees to pay the Charity the salary of the employee in question. However, in this case the Commission determined that the appointment had been hidden from the Commission for so long that such an order would be “disproportionate”.

The Commission also determined that the eventual appointment was “made in good faith”, but refused to answer how that finding was compatible with the failure to seek its permission. It has also refused to disclose the justification submitted to it by the trustees for the retrospective Commission approval.

Other documents obtained by the Epsom and Ewell Times show that an earlier recruitment exercise, described by an expert as “exemplary”,  was reversed on the intervention of trustees, including the then Chair Ian Reeves and his next door neighbour and trustee, Rupert Salmon.

That process had not short-listed the Chair’s wife Maria Reeves.

One former short-listed candidate who asked not to be named said: “I was of course disappointed that the recruitment process for The Horton Centre Director role was aborted as I had been shortlisted to the second round and was expecting to attend a second interview.

With regards to the Charity Commission’s role – it is disappointing that the Charity Commission’s own guidelines were difficult to enforce in this instance.”

None of the short-listed candidates from the aborted recruitment process were invited to re-apply and it appears that the recruitment process that led to the appointment of Maria Reeves was from a candidate list of one.

Ian Reeves and Rupert Salmon have been requested on a number of occasions to provide their response. Our press regulator confirmed that they had been provided with a reasonable opportunity to do so.

One former trustee stated: “Mr and Mrs Reeves deserved a reward for all the unpaid effort they had put into converting this disused chapel into a beautiful arts centre”.

Lionel Blackman, a former trustee and chair of the initial 6 strong recruitment committee, that consisted of three independent trustees and three independent external experts, said “I only wish to make a general observation that trustees of charities should comply with the rules. That expectation is somewhat heightened when a charity has been given £3 million of public money.”

Changes to the Winter Fuel Payments means that many people are worried that they may not be
able to heat their homes this winter.

For the eighth year running, Citizens Advice Epsom & Ewell (CAEE) has teamed up with the Rotary
Clubs of Epsom and Ewell to bring much needed support to those in the borough in need of help
with paying fuel bills this winter.

This year, residents in the Epsom & Ewell borough are being asked to donate any amount to Project
Wenceslas to help those affected. All funds will help those struggling with electricity and gas bills, as
well enable energy efficient appliances to be purchased. CAEE manages the distribution for the
benefit for those in fuel poverty, direct to fuel suppliers with no deductions for costs or fees.
Lisa Davis, CEO, Citizens Advice Epsom & Ewell, said:

“With changes to the Winter Fuel Payments this winter, an increased number of people in our
community are worrying about heating their homes. Many people relied on the Winter Fuel
Payments to help manage their energy usage and budgets. Some people may be eligible for benefits
but many may not.

“Project Wenceslas is more important than ever to provide that much needed support and peace of
mind for individuals and families across the borough who are struggling. Please get in touch if either
you want to donate or you are in need of support.”

To find out more about donating, please contact via the websites epsomrotary.uk or
ewellrotary.club and search for Project Wenceslas.

If you are struggling with fuel bills, then contact Citizens Advice Epsom & Ewell on 0808 278 7963
(Mon-Fri, 10am – 4pm) or see our website: www.caee.org.uk.

Sat bang in the middle between M&S and Waitrose on Banstead high street, a new community food store has opened to help people struggling to buy affordable groceries in Surrey. 

Surrey’s second pantry officially opened October 7, stocked with donations and surplus food from supermarkets which would otherwise be thrown away. For just £5 a week, members of the pantry can receive £30-35 worth of food and household items. 

“We want shopping to be a dignified experience,” said Project Manager Bex. She explained that everyone can access good quality food and members have the choice of what they want to buy, like in any shop. 

After a soft launch in mid-September, the pantry already has about 75 members despite no advertising. “There is a really nice buzz when it opens up,” Bex said. “People sometimes shop at the same times to meet people every week, or share recipes if buying the same ingredients.”

Located on Banstead’s high street, Pantry Manager Ashley said it was important for there “not to be any shame associated” with coming to the food store. “Living in Surrey is can be really difficult when you don’t have a disposable income.”

Although Banstead features low on the level of deprivation in Surrey, Ashley explained that there are pockets of hidden food poverty. “Sometimes where there is obvious need, there is obvious help,” Ashley said. Banstead’s pantry aims to address this issue in providing support for people who may be missed in areas more affluent. 

Epsom Pantry first opened in July 2022, as the cost-of-living crisis was beginning to pinch. The typically leafy market town has been ranked in the top 10% of least deprived areas in the UK. Now, with around 400 members to the pantry, Epsom is now oversubscribed. 

Bex, who used to work at Epsom Pantry, said there was a real community feel. “People used to come in at similar times, rely on each other and check-in how people were doing,” Bex said. 

The mission of the Pantry is to bridge the gap between food banks and commercial grocery stores. Some people may not be eligible for crisis support from Food banks but are still struggling to make ends meet in their weekly shop.

Fresh fruit and veg is free, with high value items like Kellogg’s Crunchy Nut and Yorkshire Tea more restricted. Standard cupboard essential like pasta, tinned beans, herbs and biscuits are also on offer. 

Customers can sign up to the Pantry and answer a few questions about their financial situation. Then, they will be invited in for an assessment to see if the Pantry is the right support for them or whether they need any other help. 

Beyond the food store operations, the pantry is also looking at putting on cooking classes, sewing workshops, energy saving guides to help members save money and develop community. 

The initiative is led by a partnership between Raven Housing Trust (RHT), Good Company Surrey, as well as Reigate and Banstead Borough Council. RHT’s housing association and the council can point people in the direction of the service who may be eligible for support.

Link: https://www.yourlocalpantry.co.uk/pantry-listings/banstead-pantry-surrey/

Food bank locations: https://epsomewell.foodbank.org.uk/locations/

^{Image: Project Manager Bex and Pantry Manager Ashley outside Banstead Pantry. (Credit: Emily Dalton/LDRS)}