In an exclusive for Epsom and Ewell Times, we report on Paul Matthews’ (of Lewins Road Epsom) recent experience taking aid provided by Epsom based Surrey Stands With Ukraine [SSWU] to the bombed and neglected Ukrainian Black Sea city of Odessa.

What is it really like to be take humanitarian aid to Ukraine?

Many people have responded to the terrible situation of the war following the invasion by Russia, but what really happens to all that money and donations that are made in the UK?

Paul Matthews returned last week after travelling in a borrowed van packed with generators and medical supplies destined for Odessa on the Black Sea coast.

Most aid is handed over at the western border between Poland and Ukraine, but for the 21^st supported vehicle to travel for SSWU the plan was to try to take the aid to where it was most needed.

Paul left with with co-driver Alan Avis of The Greenway Epsom and volunteer coordinator of Surrey Stands With Ukraine, for the two days to Krakow and stopping off at a major hub for refugees from Ukraine. This was aid on an industrial scale with a large number of women and children quietly waiting their turn to collect a carrier bag of food and an opportunity to find a pair of shoes for a child or jacket. A phone call with the hosts in Odessa leads to urgent additional supplies filling the van and then the roof rack. The site is open each day, and each family can visit only once a week. Another completely different group will be here tomorrow. What we also learn is that what are the needs in Poland are different to those in the south and east of the country close to the war, and that transport is a key problem, but only one of many.

Poland was the last place to get fuel. Russia destroyed the only refinery in Ukraine, and then targeted the storage facilities, so if you go into Ukraine you need to take all your fuel needs. That meant next stop was finding fuel cans to buy and fill, so with a mixture of 10, 7 and 5 litres cans the day ends with a full tank of 90 litres, and another 192 litres in the back. Time to say goodbye to Alan who flys back from Krakow, and on to the border for Paul.

The plan was for a Ukrainian national to meet and co-drive at the border, and immediately that plan went wrong as he couldn’t get to the border control. With helpful Polish and Ukrainian officials, and a Red Cross sign stuck on the windscreen to enable Paul to drive past miles of waiting traffic he was through in a couple of hours. Then eight hours of driving to Uman before the nighttime curfew started. Uman was the base for two nights with a daytime 3-hour dash to Odessa to drop the aid and leave, but that was just another plan that was not to happen.

On arrival the Odessa lawyers Bar Association gave a warm greeting mixed with a need to get down to the business of offloading and learning about the situation, along with the background wail of an air raid siren…something Paul would soon get used to. And that is when everything changed again. Fuel in Ukraine is difficult to find, and the further away from Poland the situation worsens. Now the group of volunteers who before the war spend their days in court were now feeding and caring for IDPs (Internally Displaced People), who had been forced from their homes or were damaged and now uninhabitable.

Without a working vehicle or fuel to put in it the aid would not be very helpful. So plans changed and Paul was to spend the next week in Odessa and towns to the east. His accommodation was a hotel, but not the one he was booked into on the seaside since missiles had recently destroyed one nearby. So with a change of accommodation, and the trying on of a bullet proof vest and a, “sorry, you can’t keep that it’s needed for someone else”, it was off to find out more of the situation in Odessa.

Over the next week Paul spent time either making aid drops to towns and villages or meeting with other humanitarian aid groups and local volunteers. But there was a troubling question. Where is the international and European aid? Well, not much really. Once past Lviv in the west the presence of organisations from outside Ukraine seem to disappear. In Paul’s time since going south and east he never found another UK or even west European number plate. Only one organisation he met had any external funding, from a charity in Germany.

Local NGO’s (Non-Government Organisations) have sprung up in response to the war in Ukraine. Paul met only Ukrainians who in their previous life were teachers, builders, shop workers or IT engineers, who now were splitting litre bottles of vegetable oil between three families who had arrived from the east. I did eventually bump into an Australian who had arrived last week and was busy helping, and one German TV crew filming a well known shopping centre that had recently been destroyed (and no sign of any military there). For 500 metres all the blocks of flats had shattered windows and frames and were now also deserted and uninhabitable. Two missiles destroyed a shopping centre and made a couple of hundred people homeless. The destruction was in the centre of Odessa, but also in the east and west. Some looked targeted with cruise missiles, and others random. Paul visited a block of flats near the sea hit by a shell from the Russian navy. Just one shell, but as the husband went out to buy food his wife, her mother, and their 3 year old child stayed in, and three generations of a family killed together. Now the block stands empty as the shock wave also badly damaged the block, and even killed a man who was sitting in his van 50 metres in front of the block. Random, and deadly. The situation was best described when asking “if it’s safe?” by the answer “No where is 100% safe.”

Everywhere Paul went he was met with gratitude and appreciation and often someone wanting to offer a coffee or share whatever little they had. He found himself realising that everyone he met was deeply affected by the war. Either people were also receiving aid, or volunteering to help give aid, and often both. People who helped were scrupulous beyond his expectations at managing the aid received, and this usually was given by other Ukrainians. Whilst some dealt with IDPs others prepared and cooked food and gave it free from soup kitchens sometimes on the street or gave it to volunteers working all hours to help others. Nothing was wasted, and every piece of aid was recorded, listed, and only given after registration and proof that you were a refugee in your own country. No one got angry. No one took more than they could be given. Everything was in short supply and people also had to be turned away. Some NGO’s will only help families with three or more children such is the scale of problem. Others try to help pensioners who can no longer get their medication and try to find donors and pharmacies locally who will donate the drugs.

People have lost jobs. Businesses have closed. Odessa is a vibrant lively summer beach resort. Odessans love their Black Sea and promenade and still go to the beach (especially as it costs nothing). Taking the kids to play in the sand is one of the few possibilities to help the kids forget the war for a few hours, but even that has issues. The main beaches where a sea borne invasion is possible are off limits now with minefields. Even where there are no mines (if the beach is too small), then no one is allowed in the water as it’s heavily mined by both Ukraine and Russia. Mines just under the water regularly end up on the beach. In the meantime a few beach bars open behind the red and white tape to mark the minefield, and children play in the sand in the few feet left before the tape. That is life in Odessa, and then there is the air raid sirens, and occasionally the missiles.

If it is difficult in Odessa it’s worse outside in the smaller towns and villages.

Arriving in Mykoliv, to more air raid sirens, but this time with the almost mechanical sound of thunder. It’s incoming artillery. Landing far enough away that no one runs for the shelters. Those that can wear their body armour. There is an App for everything, and now one that tells you where is being hit, it’s called Liveuamap. A must have for every smart phone here. However, phone and internet signal is not everywhere and in the area you need it most such as the “Grey” zone. Appropriately coloured on the Apps map is not clearly under Russian or Ukranian control. The next stop for the van was to mothers with babies and the elderly in villages that had not seen any aid and with all the men under 60 having left to fight as we were close to the front line. On arrival the village mayor had organised the waiting mothers and elderly, or it required a visit to take the aid to them. 

Another place to get too was through a Grey zone corridor to Bashtanka where an Odessa NGO was supporting a church turned into a forward IDP hub. All known as “hubs”, this one was known as the bunker. Paul was shown why. The basement had a large room with bare walls, and here, for three weeks, 120 women, children, babies, and elderly lived. Water was usually carried in buckets. Sanitary situation was bad, and there was not enough room for most people to lie down.

Above them the Russians arrived, and fighting did take place with locals with rifles and burning tyres to try to stop their “liberation”. The area stretching from Donbas and the border with Russia to Odessa is all Russian speaking. Many who can now try to remember to speak only Ukrainian in this dual language country.

The people remained in the bunker of the church praying not to be discovered as the Russians used a tank to hit the village’s main shops in a tiny central area. Where its not burnt out machine gun holes and shrapnel pepper the buildings around and again, glass is everywhere from broken windows and shattered homes, houses, and businesses. Paul was told most people left before the Russians arrived, and then Basktanka had many come from other attacked villages further east. The charity and church run high risk trips in minibuses to collect those wanting to leave from behind Russian lines passing through Ukranian and Russian checkpoints (though the latter usually require a “present”). The church building is quiet now as vehicles had just taken the last group to Odessa and now the kitchen starts preparing food again. Mattresses on floors are packed close together, are tidied and clean sheets put on ready for the next group. In a side room there is a pop-up pharmacy, the only one in the area after the Russians looted and destroyed the local hospital as they retreated a few weeks ago. 

Paul and his Ukrainian guide/minder/bodyguard are offered some vegetable soup and coffee before leaving to return to Odessa with an empty van and leave these many locals to their fate. Not long after Paul sees on the App that Basktenka was shelled. The journey back passes lovely countryside, and they stop briefly in Mykolaiv as Andre (name changed) wants to show the city centre and where he used to enjoy summer days and evenings on the Parisian styled boulevards with cobbled streets and boarded up businesses. Around the corner they are stopped from entering and put away phones…this is where a Russian missile hit the high-rise municipal town hall killing 34 office workers and punching a huge hole through the centre of the building. Paul recognises it from the TV pictures back home. At checkpoints they are usually met with a friendly chat, mainly due to being the only UK registered number plate vehicle they have seen.

Paul started his return to Epsom after a week in Odessa and areas east. A near empty van is added to with donations given by his hosts keen for me to bring gifts for SSWU and a jar of Arcasia honey. It is a long way from home now and Paul is alone. The checkpoints thin out between Odessa and Kiev, but you need to be alert. One time Paul saw a small rise in the road and slowed, and found it was the edge of a crater caused by an airstrike on a fortified structure…a bus stop.

Paul’s most memorable meeting was not planned. It happened in a tiny village outside Odessa on one of the aid drops. A young woman wanted to talk and she spoke English. Aged 20 and studying culture at university in Kherson was under attack. She left with student friends and fled to Odessa terrified before it fell to the Russians. Her parents were further east and caught behind the Russian lines and unable to leave. Why was she in this tiny village? Odessa was then attacked from the sea and an invasion expected and her friend asked her to come to stay with her family. Her life is disrupted and twice she has become homeless in two months. It is quiet, cut off, but it feels safe. Throughout she struggles to talk between tears, but wants her story told. She fears for her parents most of all. Every few days a phone call or internet works long enough to talk to them. They ask if she remembers a neighbour who is an elderly man with a small field next the family home. Yes, of course she answers. He was shot tending his vegetables by a Russian sniper. And another woman was walking on the street they live on with her shopping. Shot as well. Others are mentioned. She can not talk anymore.

On the way back from Mykolaiv, Odesa, Kiev, Urpin and everywhere else Paul is thanked for coming and for the aid brought from Surrey. Somehow it doesn’t seem enough.

The aid to Odessa was made possible by donations to Surrey Stands With Ukraine

Donations of money are needed most, to be directed to give immediate humanitarian aid to the oblast (region) of Odessa and it’s villages. Support for this can be made to Surrey Stands With Ukraine

Long term support, in partnership with the UN and others using helicopters is planned, and this can be supported with donations to humanitaid.com

Paul is taking an ambulance to deliver further aid to be used in the Odessa Oblast. Donations for this can be made to Just Giving, Medical Life Lines Ukraine with the reference “Odesa”.

“You have to ask yourself is it worth it?”: Undercover officers stop 106 vehicles in just three days for road traffic offences.

A dedicated road safety campaign by Surrey officers saw 106 vehicles stopped in just three days for a variety of road traffic offences. 

Officers from the Surrey and Sussex Roads Policing and Commercial Vehicle Unit used an unmarked HGV lorry from National Highways, as well as unmarked police cars, to catch law breakers in the act.

This tactic is outside the box, but the logic is sound. A large HGV lorry is the last vehicle anyone would expect to be part of an undercover operation.

The campaign which ran from 30 May to 1 June, saw officers patrol the M25 and deal with a variety of offences including the use of mobile phones whilst driving, not wearing a seatbelt, and drug driving. 

Over the three days, officers completed 82 traffic offence reports, issued four FPNs (fixed penalty notices), and summonsed ten drivers to court. 

Surrey’s dangerous drivers will now be thinking twice when not giving their full attention to the road.

Sergeant Huw Watts, who led the team said: “This has been a very productive operation for our officers. It is always disappointing to see that the road safety message is not being received by drivers on some of the fastest roads in our counties. Despite advances in vehicle technology drivers still feel the need to use their mobile phones whilst driving including texting, checking emails, and even watching film clips!”

“Ten of the drivers we stopped will now have to attend court and potentially face losing their driving license, which will have a very real impact on their lives. We take road safety very seriously at Surrey Police and we run these dedicated operations alongside our normal road policing operations 24/7, 365 days a year. We will catch you, so you have to ask yourself is it really worth it?”

READ MORE: The Local Plan to plan The Local Plan

Epsom and Ewell Borough Council’s Licensing and Planning Policy Committee (LLPC) met on the 26th of May 2022 to agree on a timetable for consultation on drafting “The Local Plan”.

A Local Plan provides Epsom and Ewell Borough Council (EEBC) with policies on development, building heights, renewable energy requirements etc. Without a Local Plan EEBC has limited ability to refuse what otherwise might be planning applications the Council and local residents might think are inappropriate. The LPPC agreed on a revised “planning framework” which will be the foundation for The Local Plan preparation.

The layers upon layers of documents and policies involved would go beyond satisfying Sir Humphrey Appleby of “Yes, Minister”. A bureaucratic labyrinth that may occupy officers for years, baffle elected representatives and endlessly confuse the public.

In 2016 the Council commenced the production of a new Local Plan but it has never got to the final stage of completion. Why the long delay? Council officers cite as reasons for the delay the intervention of Brexit, Co-Vid and new national planning policy. Those interruptions to the process meant that other sources of evidence about housing and economic needs became out-of-date. An adopted Local Plan should be based on evidence no more than three years old when examined during the preparation of The Local Plan.

Yet these excuses can be contrasted with the achievements of Epsom and Ewell’s neighbours. Mole Valley District Council submitted to the Government its Local Plan on 14th February 2022, with much of the preparatory work on it being done during the Brexit and Co-Vid years. Elmbridge Borough Council approved its draft Local Plan on 23rd March 2022. Reigate and Banstead Borough Council adopted its equivalent “Development Management Plan to 2027” in September 2019. The London Borough of Sutton’s Local Plan to 2031 was adopted in February 2018 and finally, Epsom and Ewell’s last neighbour to mention, the London Borough of Kingston-Upon-Thames has started its development of a Local Plan aiming to have it approved by central government by 2024.
In April 2022 the Epsom and Ewell LPPC agreed on the following timetable for the Local Plan process:

October/November 2022 – Drafting the Local Plan commences
October/November 2023 – Submission to Public Consultation
December 2023 – Submission to the Secretary of State
Winter 2024 – Estimated date of Adoption

If this timetable is not interrupted then nearly 8 years will pass between the 2016 start and the estimated final adoption of this vital Local Plan.

The Local Plan also is important as it plays a role in implementing objectives that are set out in EEBC’s Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP) and has a key role in delivering sustainable development. One of the key objectives of the CCAP is the adoption of 2035 as the year for when EEBC itself should aim to be net carbon
neutral.

The preparation of The Local Plan involves a raft of contributing policies and documents:

A Sustainability Appraisal (SA). The first stage is the preparation of an SA “scoping report”. This is a tool to appraise planning policies and spatial options for development. It is made up of objectives, indicators and targets tailored to the key sustainability issues for Epsom and Ewell Borough. Planning policies are looked at against these to understand how they will contribute to the sustainable development of the Borough. The last SA was in 2017 and is treated as out-of-date.

A duty to cooperate framework is being developed to agree to the strategic cross-boundary issues with EEBC’s DTC bodies. EEBC’s DTC bodies include neighbouring local councils and other statutory bodies.

A Land Availability Assessment (LAA) -This assesses all sites for all uses. A key part of this is to ensure EEBC has considered all sites and left no stone unturned. A Housing and Economic Development Needs Assessment (HEDNA) – The core component of this work is to provide an integrated assessment of future housing needs (including a breakdown by type, tenure, and size) the scale of future economic growth and the quantity of land and floor space required for employment development across the Borough.

A Viability Study – The role of the viability assessment is primarily at the plan-making stage. Viability assessment should not compromise sustainable development but should be used to ensure that policies are realistic and that the total cumulative cost of all relevant policies will not undermine the deliverability of the plan. A policy about policies!

A Climate Change Study (CCS) – this study is aimed at exploring how climate change objectives, both in respect of mitigation and adaptation, might most effectively be addressed through the emerging Local Plan. Epsom Town Centre Masterplan will be a key piece of evidence to inform the Council’s Local Plan by identifying development options for specific key town-centre sites and identifying how the wider town centre could be improved. This evidence will be used to inform the Local Plan spatial strategy, site allocations and policies including matters such as land uses and scale of development. EEBC has secured some £225,000 of funding from The Department for Levelling Up and the regional Local Enterprise Partnership fund. The money is earmarked to pay consultants to develop this Epsom Town Centre Master Plan, including digital community engagement plans. Next week we will report further on the preparations of this “masterplan”.

A Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) sets out who, how and when EEBC consults others about all manner of planning applications and planning policies. The latest draft SCI was approved at the 26th of May 2022 meeting and is subject to public consultation on itself, prior to a final document to be presented to the LPP’s 28th of July 2022 meeting.

The consultation has opened and closes at noon on the 4th of July 2022. Participate via this link: Epsom and Ewell register

Epsom and Ewell Times urge readers to urge the Council to use local online news services to publish its planning notices. At present, the Guidelines only provide for the use of printed newspapers of which there are none truly dedicated to serving Epsom and Ewell.

There are other documents that will feed into the creation of the Local Plan not least the National Planning Policy Framework published in July 2021 by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, which requires a Local Plan to be:

Positively prepared – providing a strategy which, as a minimum, seeks to meet the area’s objectively assessed needs; is informed by agreements with other authorities, so that unmet need from neighbouring areas is accommodated where it is practical to do so and is consistent with achieving sustainable development.
Justified – an appropriate strategy, taking into account the reasonable alternatives, and based on proportionate evidence.
Effective – deliverable over the plan period and based on effective joint working on cross-boundary strategic matters that have been dealt with rather than deferred, as evidenced by the statement of common ground.
Consistent with national policy – enabling the delivery of sustainable development in accordance with the policies in the Framework and other statements of national planning policy, where relevant.

LPPC member and Labour Councillor Kate Chinn (Court Ward) commented after the 26th May meeting: “It is vital that Epsom and Ewell Borough Council manages to meet the timescales just agreed at the LLPC committee meeting to produce the Local Plan. There has been too much dither and delay and without the plan, the Council
cannot ensure that residents are consulted and enabled to remain in the Borough. The plan must meet the challenges of minimising climate change and demand that homes are built to a high standard for Borough residents to live and settle in with security of tenure. The current priority seems to be challenging the government’s target of how many homes the Borough build which is surely not the main objective. Councillors should be listening to people and looking at the number of people with housing needs who are living in expensive Borough temporary housing. Currently, families are being moved away from both their support networks and their children’s schools. The borough needs a plan that works with housing associations to provide social housing of a good standard with EV points, solar panels, insulation and where possible heat pumps.”

Julie Morris Liberal Democrat Councillor for College Ward was stark in her criticism and said after the meeting: “Epsom & Ewell’s new Local Plan has become the train to nowhere.  Every time we have apparently had the human and financial resources in place to make progress, things have stalled.  The ruling RA (Residents Association) group seems oblivious to the importance of the Local Plan in delivering policies designed specifically for Epsom & Ewell.  It regularly chooses to blame central government rather than look inwardly to its own lack of leadership and commitment to the task.”

Epsom and Ewell Times invited the Conservative Councillor and an RA Group Councillor to comment too.

Watch out for updates on Epsom and Ewell Times on the consultations and other key developments. If you want to go into even greater detail go to the Committee pages of the Epsom and Ewell Borough Council website and the pages of the independent Epsom Civic Society.

By our special correspondent.

All over the Borough of Epsom and Ewell for the past days and weeks, the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee has been celebrated by residents and businesses in Epsom & Ewell. 70 years of rule is a momentous occasion, no Monarch has ever ruled for such a long period of time, and the celebrations on display in the Borough reflected this fact.

After such a busy and energetic period, it’s important to look back and reflect on the revelries of the last days and weeks, and have a look at all the ways that the Borough celebrated the Jubilee. Some things you may have seen, some you may have heard about but missed, and some things you might have never even heard of. Epsom & Ewell Times took great notice of all the efforts from all corners of the Borough, to put on a proud display for our Queen and to entertain all who wished to celebrate. From Murals and Artwork to special musical concerts, there was something for everyone.

With beacon lightings, street parties and a huge fair in Epsom Market Square, there was no shortage of revels and festivities going on across the Borough. We were lucky enough to attend the fair and it was great fun; Sunshine, music and fun surrounded all, as people joined together to celebrate the long reign of our Queen.

Epsom & Ewell Times has collected photographs from across the Borough to showcase a number of the festivities that took place, to shine a light on all the incredible effort put into decorations and parties by local residents.

Family Fun Festival

The Family Fun Festival took place on Wednesday, with Music, games and fun for all the family. Stilt-walkers, Musicians and dancers kept us entertained and happy all day as we celebrated 70 years of our Queen. The Epsom Derby Hall of Fame was also unveiled, with roundels commemorating famous past winners, horses and jockeys are alike.

Epsom Beacon Lighting

Thursday saw the lighting of the Epsom Down’s Beacon. Hundreds of Beacons across the country were lit concurrently.

Woodlands Avenue Street Party

Also taking place on Thursday was a wonderful street party on Woodlands Avenue, at the northern tip of the borough in Worcester Park. A representative for the road told Epsom & Ewell Times: “Huge thank’s to our organisers Liz, Helen and Danielle. We had a Pimm’s stall, tombola stall, and Music (Ben did a great job compèring).  BBQ, Large Jenga, best-dressed competition, plant a sunflower, and a plant sale. We were happy to raise £260 for the Bumblebee Conservation from the plant sale and £172 for Ukraine. A wonderful day had by all. Great community spirit!”

Very special thanks to Tara Lavelle who sent us these lovely photos.

Epsom Jazz Club – Jubilee Concert

Epsom Jazz Club celebrated the Jubilee it’s way.

Tenor sax virtuoso Vasilis Xenopoulos fronted a quartet featuring Nigel Price on guitar, Mikele Montolli on double bass and Laura Klain on drums. Laura had flown in that morning from Italy to join this truly international set. Not to avoid entirely the Jubilee celebrations several numbers played were composed 70 years ago in 1952.

A delighted audience of over 40, sitting comfortably in the cabaret setting of the acoustically perfect Oaks Room at the back of the Conservative Club in Church Street Epsom, were treated to an evening of superb professional jazz musicianship. This new jazz club bringing quality live music to the Borough continues next month on 7th July with a quartet featuring celebrated jazz vocalist Jo Harrop.  See www.epsomjazzclub.com for details and tickets.

Wandgas Club Beacon Lighting

The lighting of the Cuddington RA/Wandgas Club Jubilee Beacon was a grand event, of all the beacon lightings, this one may have taken the cake. With an impromptu fireworks show to go along with the lighting.

We were lucky enough (not to mention thankful) to have photos provided by Richard Johnson, who also had this to say via Facebook…

“Yesterday evening, at 9:45 pm, numerous Jubilee beacons were lit across the Commonwealth. I went along to see the lighting of our local (KT4 postcode area) beacon at Wandgas Sports & Social Club. At 9:45 pm, Cuddington RA’s Cllr. Phil Neale stepped forward as official firestarter, setting in motion Cuddington’s salute to Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. There was also the unexpected, simultaneous bonus of fireworks.”

Station Avenue Bunting

Now, from west Ewell, in the centre of the Borough, the dedicated residents of Station Avenue sent us photos of the bunting they put up on their road. Special thanks to Abigail Kuti for sending us the photos.

READ MORE: GALLERY: Inside the Epsom Jubilee Family Festival!

Today, Epsom’s very own racing Hall of Fame was unveiled by Mayor Clive Woodbridge alongside representatives from The Jockey Club.

Starting off the Queens’ Platinum Jubilee celebrations and the Derby weekend in Epsom and Ewell, the unique Derby Hall of Fame was officially launched on Wednesday 1 June in front of an appreciative crowd enjoying the activity and attractions of the refurbished Epsom Market Place.

The Hall of Fame comprises a series of commemorative roundels, celebrating notable and record-breaking Derby winners: jockeys, horses, and trainers. The roundels are installed into the floor on Epsom Market Place, following the line of trees, beginning at the Evocation of Speed statue, and working in date order towards the Clock Tower.

This Hall of Fame is a unique landmark that recognises the borough’s long-standing connection with the Derby, one of the most famous flat races in the world and celebrates Epsom and Ewell’s rich culture and heritage.

READ MORE: Nationals report Queen to miss Epsom Derby

Commemorated here are some of the most famous and recognisable names in horse racing history – including Alex Greaves, the first female jockey to compete in the Derby; Geoff Lewis, the first Epsom-based winner, as well as the legendary jockey, the late Lester Piggott who features in two plaques – as youngest winner of the Derby and as the winning rider on Nijinsky, plus many more.

The roundels have been produced by Richard Wolfströme, an award-winning creative with over 34 years’ experience, who specialises in holistic wayfinding and cultural placemaking that explores and develops unique design solutions for places, buildings, parks, and landscapes.

Together, they will sit alongside notable artworks such as The Evocation of Speed and the new Emily Davison Statue, which capture the richness and historical significance of the borough.

The informative trail was opened by the Epsom & Ewell Borough Council New Mayor, Councillor Clive Woodbridge and included appreciative clapping in memory of the late Lester Piggott. The installation of the Derby Hall of Fame marks the culmination of a significant regeneration project for Epsom and Ewell, funded as part of The Market Place Project by Epsom & Ewell Borough Council and Surrey County Council.

The Hall of Fame will continue to be added to over time, as more significant racing landmarks are reached and will provide a fascinating information trail in the heart of Epsom Market Place.

GALLERY: Each and every roundel

Further to the sad recent death of Councillor Clive Smitheram, an election is to be held to elect one Borough Councillor for the West Ewell ward, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council. This will take place on Thursday 7 July 2022.

West Ewell ward, in the west of the borough, has three seats on the Council, at present all three are held by the Residents Association.

The formal call for candidates and notice of the election has been issued today.

Forms of nomination for the Borough Election may be obtained at the Town Hall, The Parade, Epsom, Surrey, KT18 5BY from the Returning Officer who will, at the request of an elector for any electoral area, prepare a nomination paper for signature.

Nomination papers must be delivered to the Returning Officer on any day after the date of the notice (31 May 2022), Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm but by no later than 4pm on Friday, 10^th June 2022.

If the election is contested the poll will take place on Thursday, 7^th July 2022.

In the event of a poll, the polling stations will be at:

Polling District EA: West Ewell Evangelical Church, 23 Lansdowne Road, West Ewell KT19 9QJ (Polling Station 1); and

Polling District EB: All Saints Church & Community Centre, Fulford Road, West Ewell KT19 9QY (Polling Stations 2 & 3)

READ MORE:

It is looking increasingly likely that the Queen will not attend the Epsom Derby on June 4th, The Sunday Times reports.

The Sunday Times is reporting that the Queen will miss the Epsom Derby due to ongoing episodic mobility problems. The long-reigning monarch, who is due to celebrate her Platinum Jubilee, has already missed many important events, including the opening of Parliament. The Queen is currently resting at Balmoral in the run-up to the Jubilee.

The Sunday Times has said that it is “increasingly unlikely” that the Queen will make an appearance. Her Majesty will instead be represented by her daughter, the Princess Royal.

Hopes were high for the Queen’s appearance at the Derby and higher still that Her Majesty would have a runner, but her colt Reach for The Moon was unable to race.

The Queen is still expected to greet adoring crowds from the palace balcony at Trooping the Colour, as well as the grand finale to the Jubilee, the Pageant Parade.

The absence of the Queen at the Derby is sure to be a source of disappointment for attendees and organisers, although it’s hard to say if they’ll be as disappointed as the Queen herself, as a passionate lover of horses and horse breeding she is famously fond of the racing event.

READ MORE: Platinum Jubilee: 5 things to do in Epsom!

Lester Piggott, a legend of horse racing, passed away at 86 in Geneva yesterday (29th May). Lester had a long and colourful career as a Jockey and Trainer, winning the Epsom Derby 9 times, a record yet to be broken. 

Lester won his first Derby in 1954 on Never Say Die when he was 18 years old. The following 8 wins were on Crepello(1957), St. Paddy (1960), Sir Ivor (1968), Nijinsky (1970), Roberto (1972), Empery (1976), The Minstrel (1977) and Teenoso (1983).

Nicknamed “The Long Fellow” due to his above-average height for a Jockey, Lester had a decades-spanning career and accumulated thousands of wins (4,493) in 9 different countries, before retiring in 1985 at the end of the flat season. He returned to racing in 1990 and continued to win races until officially retiring in 1995. His last race on British soil was in the November Handicap in 1994, his last race was in Canberra in 1995, where he won the Black Opal Stakes riding Zadok. 

When Piggot was inducted into British Racing’s Hall of Fame, jockey Frankie Dettori told BBC Sport: “I’ve managed to win two Derbys and Lester won nine, which is beyond anyone’s imagination,”

“Looking back at the footage of Lester ride, he was 20 years ahead of his time, like Tiger Woods or Michael Jordan.

“He was ruthless. He had such a will to win, he had balance, he had everything. He is the greatest.”

In his later years, Piggott moved to Burisnel, Switzerland, with his partner Lady Barbara FitzGerald. He published a book, Lester’s Derby’s in 2004.

Epsom crowds will never forget the rising tide of the crowd urging “Come on, Lester” as he neared the Derby-winning post. A true legend.

READ MORE: Jubilee: Borough’s Brace of Beacons

Wherever you live in the Borough of Epsom and Ewell there is a good chance on the evening of Thursday 2nd June you can see a Platinum Jubilee Beacon lighting. On Epsom Downs and Wandgas Sports Field on Grafton Road.

Cuddington Beacon Party

There’s something for everyone at the Cuddington Beacon Party, featuring Beer-pong for the adults and Crown-making for the children. The beacon will be lit at 9:45 PM, with food huts around the ground and a fully-licensed bar, it’s definitely not one to miss.

Epsom Downs Beacon Lighting

Meanwhile, on Epsom Downs, the Mayor will be present to light the beacon that has been so generously donated by GoEpsom and will be lit at 9:45 PM.

Note: Grandstand Road will be closed to traffic before the event with limited parking in the area.

If Beacons aren’t your cup of tea, why not have a look at the various other events taking place in Epsom & Ewell across the coming days?

Epsom Jazz Club: Jubilee Evening

If you get no buzz from Beacon burning, then alternative evening entertainment on Thursday 2nd June includes a night of Jubilee Jazz from Epsom’s very own Jazz Club. Performing at Oaks Room of the Conservative Club, it will surely be a wonderful evening. Vasilis Xenopoulos is considered to be one of the most accomplished Greek contemporary musicians of his generation and celebrated tenor sax. He will be accompanied by Nige Price – UK’s top jazz guitarist, leading the evening’s modern jazz quartet.

All profits from the evening will go to Epsom-based charity Surrey Stands With Ukraine.

Strictly 1950’s Jubilee Jive

Fancy an afternoon of 1950s style family dance fun in collaboration with Surrey Dance Addicts? Come on down to the Horton Cafe for a day of toe-tapping 1950s tunes.

Timed teaching sessions will be held throughout the day for anyone who wishes to learn some new moves from Surrey Dance Addicts. The sessions take place at 2:15, 2:45, 3:15 and 3:45.

Afternoon Tea at the Marquis

Come along for a traditonal afternoon tea (running 12 pm – 5 pm) in the garden of The Marquis of Granby. With a television in the garden, coverage of the Jubilee will run all day. So come along, relax, have some tea, sandwiches and cake.

The tea will be followed by live music out front, from 7 pm – 10 pm.

READ MORE: GALLERY: Epsom wears its Royal pride as the Jubilee approaches

Today (Fri 27th May) in Epsom Square, a String Quartet performed in honour of the NHS workers of Epsom & Ewell who have worked so hard these last few years. As the pandemic froze our country (and the world) to a halt, the brave, dedicated health workers up and down the country worked around the clock to help bind up the wounds that COVID-19 opened.

The event was organised by Epsom Music to raise funds for the Epsom and St Helier Hospitals charity for the welfare of the local NHS staff.

The Salieri Quartet played music by Bach and Mozart, to an excited crowd on a beautiful sunny day in Epsom Town Centre. Passersby stopped to take photos and to listen. Children sat calmy on the laps of their parents and grandparents as the Quartet’s music filled the surrounding area with lovely music.

A certificate, featuring an original poem by friend-of-the-paper Audrey Arden-Jones, was read out (by Arden-Jones herself) and presented to nurses from Epsom Hospital preceded by some nice words from Councillor Clive Woodbridge, Mayor of Epsom & Ewell. Chris Grayling MP was in attendance as well and shared some brief words with the crowd, extending his thanks to not only NHS workers but their families too.

Audrey’s lovely poem is as follows:

Thank you for your devotion

Thank you for your dedication

Thank you for going beyond the call of duty

Thank you for all that you do to make a difference

Thank you for your patience, your kindness and your talents

Thank you for being there for all of us during the long days, the long nights

Thank you to each one of you for your hard work during the Covid pandemic

We photographed the event, and are delighted to share the photos with you all.

5.30 pm 26^th May 2022 Epsom and Ewell Borough Council announced the departure in July of its Chief Executive Officer, Kathryn Beldon, following her decision “that this is the time for a new chapter in [my] life.” Ms Beldon joined the Council in 2014 as the Director of Finance and Resources before being appointed as the Chief Executive in April 2017.

Epsom and Ewell Times has seen evidence that in fact, the current CEO’s last working day in office will be in just 11 days’ time on June 6th and that the current Director of Corporate Services, Jackie King, will “take on some of [the CEO’s] responsibilities on an interim basis whilst the longer-term arrangements are determined.”

Councillor Hannah Dalton, Chair of the Residents’ Association Majority Group said, “It is with regret that Kathryn will be leaving Epsom and Ewell Borough Council. As Chief Executive, Kathryn has led many initiatives including the development of the borough’s Future 40 vision and more recently she has been pivotal in the borough council meeting the immense challenges presented by COVID-19”.

“Kathryn has led the organisation to support our community and has worked with councillors and our partners to deliver plans to benefit residents and local businesses. She has risen to meet many challenges and leaves the organisation in a strong position for the future.”

Ms Beldon said: “It has been a privilege to work for Epsom and Ewell Borough Council.  The last few years have been a period of exceptional challenge and I am deeply grateful for the commitment and dedication of colleagues who have worked so hard to support our residents and businesses during these unprecedented times.  With a clear vision and plan for the future, I wish members and officers well as I move on to the next chapter.” 

The loss of the CEO follows the departure of a number of Departmental Heads following re-organisations over the course of the last two years. Will the Council now be able to attract a dynamic Chief Executive and how long will the process take?

READ MORE: EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Meet Epsom & Ewell’s new Mayor, Clive Woodbridge.

Two 16-year-old boys have been charged after taking part in a burglary in Epsom

The incident took place on Saturday 14th May.

Sergeant Adam Staplehurst said: “Our residents’ safety is our priority, and we are committed to investigating reports of crime within the Epsom and Ewell area.”

A spokesperson for Surrey Police said: “Two 16-year-old boys have been charged after a burglary in Epsom on Saturday, 14 May. The two boys, one from Epsom and one from Carshalton, have both been charged with burglary and aggravated vehicle taking.“

“They are next due to appear in court on 1 June 2022.”

READ MORE: Teenager from Epsom to spend 18 years in prison after stabbing acquaintance in the chest

On a rainy, downcast day, Epsom & Ewell Times’ Tom Luckham has had the pleasure of sitting down with Clive, Epsom and Ewell’s new Mayor.

Epsom might not be too familiar with its new Mayor yet. Clive Woodbridge is a former Journalist who is now Epsom and Ewell’s First Citizen. He’s dedicated to raising awareness for multiple charities and good causes. He loves a curry and he has a dog named after England legend Geoff Hurst.

Clive took office on Tuesday after the official Mayor-Making ceremony on Monday evening, replacing previous Mayor Peter O’Donovon.

Mayor of Epsom & Ewell being an annual position, Clive will serve in this role for a year.

After a short(ish) discussion about our shared love of West Ham United, we got into the questions that I had prepared.

Tom: The main thing I wanted to discuss was charities, I see that you are championing seven charities in your first Mayoral year, could you expand upon why you chose those particular charities?

Clive: They’re all charities that mean something to me and Mary (The Mayoress) and our family. While Epsom and Ewell is an affluent area there are people who are struggling and I think Epsom & Ewell Foodbank are doing tremendous work. They’re working with the Council to set up Epsom & Ewell Pantry. The Foodbank celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, so I thought it was an excellent time to make people aware of what they’ve done, and the new things that they’re doing.

Shine Cancer Support, sadly, my son passed away at the end of March after a battle with cancer, my wife and I sat down and thought that we’d like to support a cancer charity. I wanted to choose a small charity, and Shine focuses on people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s who have received a diagnosis. They’re small, so if I can give them something it’ll mean something to them.

Onto JDRF, that’s a diabetes research charity, both my son’s fiancee and my best friend from university have type 1 diabetes, so I’ve seen how it can be an inconvenient illness at best and a life-threatening one at worst. JDRF does a lot of good research for type 1, there are others that focus on both but I wanted to raise awareness for JDRF.

Cardiac Risk in the Young:  My children went to Glyn school and we lived just around the corner. It is a charity that the School supported since some Glyn students went to sports camp and unfortunately died due to heart issues. The statistics show that many young people die from this, but if awareness is raised and they’re all scanned and have those medical checks, we can potentially save lives.

Epsom Sports Club: I’m interested in sports, they do a fantastic job, they support people of all ages, they do a wide range of sports for people of all ages, the Council has always been a supporter of the Surrey Youth Games. They’re trying to raise funds for a Pavillion at the moment, I’d like to raise awareness of that fundraising effort.

Racing Welfare: Well, we’re a racing town and I’m an Epsom and Walton Downs conservator myself. It seems a very glitzy business but some people involved have quite hard lives, so Racing Welfare does a lot of pastoral care and financial support for those people.

Last but not least, Bliss: My wife was a midwife. She has seen the good work that Bliss does. A few parents started it up. This charity provides support for parents whose children are born very ill and have to go into intensive care.

As you can probably tell, there’s no particular theme that runs through these charities, it would be nice to make money for them, but that’s not my primary aim, it’s about awareness so that at the end of the year, hopefully, I can give them a platform and more people can be aware of them.

Tom: Next question I wanted to ask was what are your priorities for your year in office?

Clive: That’s a good question, Epsom and Ewell is a wonderful place, we’ve got fantastic people who give up their time to help people, we’ve got fantastic companies who are innovating and creating new things, we’re a wonderful place physically in terms of the Downs and Epsom Common, so I just want to put the spotlight on what’s good about Epsom and Ewell and let those things speak for themselves. Also the diversity of our community. On Sunday there’s the Hindu chariots event in Stoneleigh. I’ve never been to it, but I’m looking forward to going. They raise funds for charity.  I think it’s about celebrating our diversity. Really, it’s about meeting as many people as I can, saying well done to them for their efforts and perhaps sprinkling a bit of magic mayoral dust on them.

Tom: On the other side, what do you think could be improved about the Borough?

Clive: I think one of the things the Council is quite keen on is volunteering because Councils and the government can’t fix everything. Increasingly we rely on the goodwill and efforts of people who might go out and pick up litter or look after people and provide that sort of support. I don’t think there are any specific things wrong, but perhaps there are some things that our society needs that I can help promote.

Tom: What are you most looking forward to in your new role?

Clive: That’s a good question, I’m looking forward to being the First Citizen. Epsom and Ewell is a place I love. I’m not someone who is naturally in the spotlight. In my political career, I’ve tried to stay out of it.  I suppose that’s something I’m not looking forward to but will have to get used to “laughs”. I am very much looking forward to taking part in the Platinum Jubilee celebrations. The Queen has done a fantastic job, she’s a role model for anyone in public service, and I know Epsom and Ewell will make her proud. The Derby is one of her official events, so I really do hope she does come. Really, I’m just looking forward to meeting people and taking the time out of my working life to do these things. One of the things about being Mayor is that it’s not an easy thing, it’s a voluntary role.  I’m very lucky, as we’re entering more normal times post COVID-19, 

Tom: I read that you’re a head judge at the British Curry Awards, what was the best curry you’ve ever had and who made it?

Clive: Le Raj organises the British Curry Awards. They’re my favourite outside-of-London curry house anyway, I’ve always really enjoyed their Chicken Biryani, so I’d probably say that. The other curry restaurant I like going to is the Cinnamon Club in London. It’s very interesting, it’s in the old parliamentary library that was converted, the food is fantastic and the ambience is brilliant, you’re sitting there in this old library eating a curry.

Tom: If you were just named West Ham’s manager, who is the first player you would sign?

Clive: Oh that’s very difficult, anyone I want? I’ll tell you what, this might be controversial, but I loved seeing Dimitri Payet play when he was there, he’s doing so well at Marseille at the moment, look at his assists! If I could get him back for one year, we need a player like him. The Brentford centre-forward Ivan Toney is very impressive, he’d certainly be somewhere up there. But do you know what, if Gareth Bale, at his best, was available and willing to play for West Ham then I think I would take him? If not, I’d try and find a good young player from the lower leagues. I mean, my son’s dog is called Paulo (Paulo Di Canio), my late dog was called Bobby (Moore) and I now have a Geoffrey (Hurst), so if I live long enough there’ll have to be a Martin down the line.

Image: Local Models showcasing a selection of the hats in question. The models included Lisa Connell and Anne McEntee(fifth and sixth from left) who represented Brain Tumour Research.

Some of the UK’s leading milliners have created a one-off collection of hats inspired by the seven decades of The Queen’s reign to be auctioned in aid of Brain Tumour Research, it has been announced today.

The collection of 15, which is entitled “Hats Fit For A Queen” and includes pieces by Royal milliners Stephen Jones OBE and Rachel Trevor-Morgan, is being auctioned online until midnight on Sunday 12^th June.

The hats will be displayed in the Queen’s Stand at Epsom Downs Racecourse for both days of The Cazoo Derby on Friday 3^rd & Saturday 4^th June.

This year’s Derby takes place across the central weekend of Platinum Jubilee Celebrations when Her Majesty The Queen is set to attend Derby Day for the 73^rd time, her first since 2019.

The project forms part of Go Epsom’s wider Jubilee festivities across the Borough of Epsom and Ewell, which celebrate the Queen’s lasting association with hats and their continued importance as a quintessential piece of race day style.

More information about the initiative can be found here which is a new collaboration between Go Epsom, The British Hat Guild, Brain Tumour Research and Epsom Downs Racecourse and will be promoted via the hashtag #HatsFitForAQueen.

Karen Pengelly, Bid Manager for Go Epsom said: “We chose hats as a theme because it ticks every box: hats and style are synonymous with horseracing, Her Majesty is the world’s most famous hat wearer and Epsom is home to the University of Creative Arts and some of the brightest young designers. Hats are fun, stylish, visual and colourful, perfectly matching the excitement and ambience of Epsom over the first weekend in June. In addition to this great initiative, our local schools and charities are busy designing and embellishing their own headpieces and we look forward to seeing all of the hats being proudly shown off over the Jubilee weekend!”

Carol Robertson, National Events Manager of Brain Tumour Research comments: “We are proud and delighted to be involved in this project, and it was wonderful to see Lisa Connell model one of the hats at Epsom a few weeks ago. The British Hat Guild’s generous contribution of these regal hats for the Derby will raise crucial awareness and fund vital research that can improve the lives of those living with brain tumours across the country”.

Speaking on behalf of The British Hat Guild, Edwina Ibbotson said: “It has been a pleasure to have been involved in this wonderful project which has created 15 ‘Hats Fit for a Queen. Each hat has been expertly crafted in celebration of one of the seven decades Her Majesty has been on the throne and it is inspiring to know that the funds raised will support this vital charity. We hope to raise as much money as possible for such a worthy cause”.

Simon Durrant, General Manager at Epsom Downs Racecourse said: “This year’s Cazoo Derby at Epsom Downs is set to be a spectacular celebration across the Platinum Jubilee weekend, and we cannot wait to welcome Her Majesty and tens of thousands of racegoers back after the last two years. We’re delighted to be working closely with Go Epsom, The British Hat Guild and Brain Tumour Research in what we hope will be a lasting collaboration. We want to play our part by utilising the profile of this year’s event to celebrate the very best in raceday style across The Queen’s reign and raise important funds, and I would urge everyone to donate to the auction if they are able to.”

READ MORE: Platinum Jubilee: Flypast to go over Epsom

A man who tried to murder his acquaintance and was only scared off from continuing his attack after passers-by stopped to help his victim, has been sentenced to time behind bars. 

On the morning of 23 September back in 2021, Vadim Scintei, 19, stabbed his victim in the chest after a minor verbal argument on Blenheim Road, Epsom. After the victim staggered away covered in his own blood, Scintei followed and circled him on his bike until members of the public, including a doctor, stopped to help. He was then spooked and fled the scene. 

Scintei, of Malden Road, Kingston-upon-Thames, appeared at Guildford Crown Court on Thursday 19 May, where despite initially claiming he had been set up, he pleaded guilty to attempted murder and possession of a bladed article, and was sentenced to 18 years in prison.  

The sentencing on Thursday, 19 May, concludes a comprehensive investigation by Surrey Police’s Criminal Investigation Department.

Detective Sergeant Betchley, who lead the investigation said,

“This was a violent and unprovoked attack that the victim was extremely lucky to survive. Thanks to the quick thinking and bravery of members of the public, the victim was able to make a full recovery but understandably has been left traumatised by this attack. 

“The investigation team worked quickly to ascertain what had happened and only a few days after the incident on 25 September, Vadim Scintei was charged with attempted murder and possession of a bladed article. Scintei will now spend a long time behind bars where he belongs.”

Image: Epsom & Ewell Foodbank

Epsom & Ewell Foodbank is a vital public service for the borough, providing assistance to people and families who are in need of help. With the current cost of living crisis, Epsom is being hit as hard as the rest of the country, and our foodbanks are unfortunately more vital than ever. Many local residents take the time to donate items to Epsom & Ewell Foodbank, not just food, but toiletries and baby-related items.

According to Epsom & Ewell Foodbank, there has been an increase in demand this month, and they fed more than 550 people in April. The foodbank has released a list of things that they’re either running low on or have run out of on their website. If you find yourself with any of these items that you can spare, please make your way to one of their donation points, which are listed at the bottom of this article.

They have completely run out of:

Powdered milk
Washing-up liquid
Sweets and treats for children (freddo, buttons, mini cookies, hairdo etc.)
Chocolate treats for adults
Instant mash
Honey
Peanut butter

Long-life sponge puddings

Pump soap

Washing powder, pods & tablets (bio & non-bio)

They urgently need:

Packet soup
Tinned fish
Tinned fruit
Coffee Sugar (500g) Meat pies
Powdered milk
Long-life sponge puddings
Biscuits
Tinned vegetables
Squash
Long-life UHT milk (semi-skimmed and full fat only)
Long-life fruit juice

Spaghetti in sauce

Pasta sauce

Shaving foam
Deodorant – all kinds
Shampoo & conditioner Adult toothbrushes

They are fully stocked with:

Pulses, pasta, rice and beans.

Their donation points are located at:

Leeds Building Society, 13 High Street, Epsom, Surrey, KT19 8DA

Epsom Methodist Church, Ashley Road, Epsom, Surrey KT18 5AQ

Budgens, 65 The Broadway Stoneleigh, Epsom KT17 2HP

Sainsbury’s, Kiln Lane, Epsom, KT17 1EQ

Sainsbury’s parking garage, Leatherhead

Tesco, Oxshott Road, Leatherhead, KT22 0EF

Asda – Burgh Heath

The donation drop-off times are: Monday to Friday 9 am – 2 pm. They are closed on Bank Holidays.

The Foodbank’s contact details are:

Email – foodbank@generation.org.uk

Phone – 0208 786 8221

READ MORE: Is this Epsom Couple getting their heating for free?