Today is the final day to get your name on a Surrey ballot ahead of this year’s once in a generation election.
Surrey County Council was created in 1889 with the 11 boroughs and districts forming in 1974.
This year, they will be dissolved and replaced with two new mega authorities covering the east and west of the old county as local government moves from the old two-tier system, into two single councils.
This election, set for May 7, will be the first time people get to vote under the new system and today, Thursday April 9, is the final day for any would-be politicians to get their names on the ballot sheets.
The new councils, East and West Surrey, will be responsible for things that make everyday work, such as waste collection and recycling, planning and building control, as well as adult social care and children’s services.
The idea is to move to two councils that are effectively responsible for everything, rather than 12 each with their own agendas. This, the hope is, will simplify local government and improve service delivery – and ideally make accountability clearer to residents.
Other big ticket items the councils cover include highways and transport, housing and homelessness support, environmental health, leisure and community services.
Basically it’s where your council tax goes.
To stand for election you must be at least 18, be a British, EU, or a Commonwealth citizen, and be registered to vote or have lived or worked in the area for at least a year.
Those looking to stand as a member of a political party should contact their preferred groups while independents can reach out to the Local Government Association Independent Group for any tips.
Valid nomination papers must be submitted with at least two people, a proposer and a seconder, who have agreed you are a suitable candidate – these people need to be on the electoral register in the relevant ward.
Councillors elected in May 2026 will sit on shadow authorities for their new councils for the first year.
This will allow them time to develop budgets and service plans, agree staffing and governance arrangements, and prepare for the transfer of responsibilities from the existing councils.
The new East and West Surrey Councils will then formally begin operating in April 2027, when Surrey’s 12 legacy councils will be dissolved.
To stand for election you must email or call the relevant existing council for the area you wish to stand.
Epsom & Ewell Borough Council Email: electoralservices@epsom-ewell.gov.uk Telephone: 01372 732000
Alton altercation gives Epsom and Ewell FC 3 -0 win
9 April 2026
Epsom & Ewell FC secured their Step 5 status with a composed and disciplined 3–0 victory over Alton FC at Chalky Lane on 7 April in the Combined Counties Premier Division South.
There were two changes from the side that faced Sutton Common Rovers. Tom Collins returned in place of Jason Vincent, who dropped to the bench, while Ali Fofahan came into the starting line-up after missing the previous fixture due to travel issues.
The first half produced few clear-cut chances, although the Salts controlled much of the play and looked the more assured side in possession. Their best moments came through sustained pressure rather than individual openings. Alton’s only real threat came just before the interval, forcing a scrambling clearance off the line and a save from Kit Fletcher. The sides went in level at the break.
The second half belonged to the hosts. Their intent was clear from the restart, and the breakthrough came on 54 minutes. Stefan Aiwone made a powerful run through midfield before being brought down just outside the area. Tom Collins’ free-kick was blocked by the wall but fell kindly to Callum Wilson, who guided the ball home to give Epsom the lead.
From there, the Salts managed the game with maturity, restricting Alton to half-chances while steadily increasing the pressure. The reward came late on. Courtney Swaby struck on 89 minutes to double the advantage before adding a second moments later, finishing confidently from a Kionte Gillfillian-Waul through ball to seal the result.
A clean sheet, three goals and — most importantly — the points that mathematically guarantee survival. The victory lifts Epsom & Ewell several places up the table, adding extra gloss to a night that felt like a turning point for the club.
A local Epsom charity’s campaign to protect a forgotten cemetery appears to have helped shape national thinking on burial law reform.
The Friends of Horton Cemetery (FoHC), based in Epsom, made a detailed submission to the Law Commission in January 2025 calling for stronger legal protections for neglected burial grounds—particularly those in private ownership.
Now, with the publication of the Law Commission’s report on Burial and Cremation in March 2026, several of the group’s core concerns appear to have been recognised at the highest level of policy.
Horton Cemetery, the resting place of around 9000 former psychiatric patients from the Epsom hospital cluster, has long been at the centre of FoHC’s work. Since its sale into private ownership in 1983, the site has suffered decades of neglect, with no public access and minimal maintenance.
In its submission, FoHC argued that the law currently leaves such sites in a regulatory vacuum, with no enforceable duty on owners to maintain them and limited powers for authorities to intervene.
That argument now appears to have gained traction.
The Law Commission’s report identifies private burial grounds as an area of “real gaps in protection” and, for the first time, proposes a legal duty requiring all burial grounds—including privately owned ones—to be kept in “good order”. The report also envisages inspection and enforcement powers at national level.
These proposals closely mirror FoHC’s central recommendation that cemetery owners should be subject to a clear, enforceable maintenance obligation reflecting the historical and emotional significance of such sites.
However, other proposals put forward by the Epsom group have not yet been taken up in full.
FoHC had called for a statutory right of access for relatives, stronger powers for local authorities to intervene, and safeguards against speculative ownership and redevelopment. While the Commission acknowledges many of these issues—particularly the importance of access to graves—it stops short of recommending firm legal rights or stronger local enforcement mechanisms.
Speaking after the report’s publication, Lionel Blackman, solicitor and secretary of the Friends of Horton Cemetery and author of the legal submission said “The recognition of the problem is an important step, even if the solutions remain incomplete.”
The charity’s work has also fed into ongoing discussions with the Ministry of Justice. At a recent meeting, organised by Patron of the Charity and local MP Helen Maguire with trustees of the charity, Theresa Keneflick and Kevin McDonnell and junior Minister Alex Davies-Jones MP, Horton Cemetery was cited as a real-world example of the kind of site falling through gaps in the current legal framework.
The Law Commission’s reforms are expected to take several years to translate into legislation, with an initial Government response anticipated within six months.
For campaigners in Epsom, the message is clear: what began as a local effort to restore dignity to a neglected burial ground is now influencing the national conversation.
And while the law may not yet have caught up fully, Horton Cemetery is no longer being overlooked.
Residents were given a rare glimpse behind the scenes of one of Epsom’s most picturesque racing yards as a community visit brought locals face-to-face with the daily life of a professional training stable.
Around 30 racing enthusiasts gathered on Epsom Downs for an exclusive morning at the yard of trainer George Baker, with the early mist still hanging over the gallops as the visit began. The event was organised by Councillor Steven McCormick, Chair of the Epsom Downs Conservators, with support from fellow Conservator Councillor Kim Spickett.
Guests were welcomed inside the stable gates for a guided tour led by Candida Baker, who offered an engaging insight into the routines, challenges and traditions of the yard. The visit revealed not only the meticulous care given to each horse but also the individual personalities that make up a working stable.
The highlight of the morning came as the group moved out to the fibre sand gallop, where they watched horses thunder past at full speed. Standing trackside, visitors experienced first-hand the power and elegance that define training on the Downs.
The visit also served as a reminder of the deep historical roots of horse racing in Epsom. Councillor Kim Spickett said the morning demonstrated how local traditions continue to be preserved in active use, describing the stables as “living museums” connecting the present to centuries of heritage.
Councillor McCormick added that events like this are about bringing the community closer to what makes Epsom unique, highlighting the importance of maintaining a connection between residents and the Downs.
Further visits are already planned, with the next taking place at Michael Attwater’s yard on April 11th. Spaces are limited and expected to fill quickly, with booking available via Eventbrite. A subsequent visit to Craig Benton’s yard is scheduled for April 18th
Attwater Racing . ● Date: April 11th
● Location: Attwater Racing, Epsom
● Host: Organised by Cllr Steven McCormick & Cllr Kim Spickett
How to Book:
Spaces are strictly limited and fill up fast. To secure your place for the April 11th visit
Contact: Councillor Steven McCormick stevenjmccormick@yahoo.co.uk
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Epsom man runs marathons in memory of sister who died from epilepsy
9 April 2026
Barry Ahearn, 45, is running one of the world’s most famous marathons in memory of his younger sister, Abbie, who passed away just three months before her 30th birthday in 2023. Barry is a long-term supporter of Epilepsy Action and has raised almost £23,000 for the charity so far.
Abbie passed away following an epileptic seizure that was so severe, it sent her into cardiac arrest. Last year, Barry completed a total of 27 half-marathons in memory of his sister. “The reason I chose to do 27 half-marathons is because this represents the amount of time Abbie’s brain was without oxygen, whilst paramedics tried to revive her.
“According to Epilepsy Action, around 1000 people die from epilepsy-related causes, which is about three people every day. I want to make sure Abbie is not just ‘one of the three’.”
Since his first big challenge, Barry has completed an ultra-marathon, been a finalist at the BBC Make a Difference awards, and has planned many future challenges, including the London Marathon. His efforts have been recognised by local MP Helen Maguire and the pair completed a Parkrun together last November. Helen has since been working with the charity.
Helen said: “I’m so inspired to see Barry taking on the London marathon to honour his sister Abbie and support Epilepsy Action. Having joined Barry for a recent park tun in support of Epilepsy Action, I know how powerful these efforts can be in bringing people together and raising awareness. I wish him the very best of luck and commend his incredible commitment to this cause.”
Barry is determined to continue spreading awareness of epilepsy, and highlighting how serious the condition can be. “Losing my sister has been the worst experience of my life. Abbie was kind compassionate, attentive and loyal. She was so much fun to be around, always making jokes and playing pranks. She brightened any room she walked into with her smile and is sorely missed by everyone who knew and loved her.
“Many people think epilepsy is just about ‘seizures’, when in reality there’s so much more that goes along with the condition. Epilepsy takes away people’s independence, stops them driving, can be very socially isolating and some of the medications have really bad side effects, including extreme fatigue and mood swings. Abbie had only been diagnosed with epilepsy six weeks before passing away, but this is the reality she could’ve been living with if she was still here, and I know she’d want me to do something about that.
“I want her passing to mean something, to help make a difference, not only by raising money to go towards research, but also to raise awareness of how serious this condition is.”
“After the London Marathon, I’m already planning my next big challenge. I’m not quite set on what I want to do, but I think it might involve something like doubling the 27 halves….”
Philippa Cartwright, director of fundraising at Epilepsy Action, said: “We’re honoured to have Barry as one of our 2026 London Marathon runners. The challenges he has taken on over these past couple of years have been incredible, and we’re so grateful for his ongoing support.
“Barry has shown extraordinary resilience and determination since losing his sister, choosing to turn the hardest experience of his life, into something that will help so many others. The money he has raised will go directly towards helping Epilepsy Action to continually campaign for better care for people with epilepsy across the country, and funding the frontline services the charity provides including its helpline, support groups and one-to-to one support.
“Epilepsy Action would like to say a big thank you to Barry and we are wishing him and all of our runners the best of luck – we are sure his sister Abbie would be so proud.”
Epilepsy affects around one in every 100 people in the UK and around 80 are diagnosed every day. Epilepsy Action is committed to improving the lives of people with epilepsy, by campaigning for better services and raising awareness of the condition. The charity provides a national network of support groups, with expert advice available on its freephone helpline 0808 800 5050 and online at www.epilepsy.org.uk.
Information on Epsom and Ewell Council’s perished parishes plan blocked on cost
9 April 2026
A dispute between a resident and Epsom & Ewell Borough Council over the conduct of its Community Governance Review (CGR) has escalated, despite the Council’s decision to abandon plans for new parish-style community councils.
In March, the Council dropped proposals to create Epsom and Ewell Community Councils after its second-stage consultation produced a decisive result, with around 82% of over 2200 respondents opposing the plans.
However, correspondence seen by the Epsom & Ewell Times shows that concerns about how the consultation was conducted — and how the Council has responded to those concerns — remain unresolved.
Resident raises formal concerns over consultation process
Local government elector Nathan Elvery and a former Council CEO submitted a detailed pre-action protocol letter in early March raising potential legal concerns about the CGR process, including:
• the design of the initial consultation survey and whether a clear “No” option was available • the adequacy and transparency of financial information • whether alternative governance models were considered • compliance with consultation law principles • whether equality duties had been properly addressed
He also submitted a series of Freedom of Information requests seeking disclosure of internal documents and analysis.
In a follow-up email to the Council’s Chief Executive dated 3rd April, Mr Elvery expressed concern that his correspondence had not been substantively addressed, stating that the Council had treated his pre-action protocol letter as “a routine information request” rather than engaging with the legal issues raised.
He wrote that more than four weeks had passed without acknowledgement from senior officers and that “none of this has happened” in terms of the Council’s own commitments to timely responses.
FOI request refused on cost grounds
On 1 April, the Council responded to Mr Elvery’s FOI requests by confirming that it holds the information sought but declining to provide it on the basis that complying would exceed the statutory cost limit under the Freedom of Information Act.
The Council stated that responding would take more than 18 hours of officer time and was therefore not required under Section 12 of the Act.
In his 3rd April email, Mr Elvery challenges this position, arguing that the Council has improperly aggregated multiple requests to exceed the cost threshold and has failed to meet its duty to provide advice and assistance to narrow the request.
He also argues that some elements of the request — such as whether an Equality Impact Assessment exists or whether legal advice was obtained — could be answered quickly and should not have been refused.
Internal review and possible ICO referral
Mr Elvery has now requested a formal internal review of the Council’s FOI decision and indicated that he will refer the matter to the Information Commissioner’s Office if the refusal is upheld.
He has also renewed his request for a substantive response to the issues raised in his original pre-action letter, including confirmation of what steps the Council intends to take to ensure that future consultations comply with legal requirements.
Although he confirms that he will not pursue judicial review following the Council’s decision to abandon the CGR proposals, he states that the procedural issues identified remain relevant to how the Council conducts future consultations under local government reorganisation.
Consultation outcome settles policy but not process
The Council’s decision not to proceed with creating community councils has resolved the immediate policy question. However, the issues raised in the FOI correspondence highlight continuing debate about the consultation process itself.
One recurring point is that the CGR consultation did not include Neighbourhood Area Committees (NACs) — currently being piloted elsewhere in Surrey — as an option for residents to consider.
Epsom and Ewell Tines (EET) survey suggests alternative preference
Alongside the Council’s consultation, the Epsom & Ewell Times conducted an independent reader survey.
Although based on a smaller sample of only 112 respondents, the survey found:
• around 75% support for NAC-style local engagement structures • a similarly high level of opposition to community councils as reflected in the Council’s consultation
Unlike the official consultation, the EET survey invited respondents to compare different models of local representation.
Transparency and future implications
The Council’s use of the cost exemption under the Freedom of Information Act is a lawful mechanism where a request requires disproportionate time and expense. However, the refusal has left a number of substantive questions unanswered in the public domain.
These include how consultation options were framed, what alternatives were considered, and how financial information was developed and presented to residents.
With Surrey’s local government reorganisation continuing, and new governance structures still to be defined, the issues raised in this case may have implications beyond the now-abandoned community council proposals.
The outcome of the internal review — and any subsequent decision by the Information Commissioner — may determine whether further information is disclosed.
For now, while the policy proposal has been withdrawn, the debate about process, transparency and future local representation in Epsom and Ewell remains ongoing.
Getting to the bottom of Epsom’s Ashley Centre seating
9 April 2026
Shoppers in Epsom have voiced concern after seating in the Ashley Centre was removed and replaced as part of what management describes as an ongoing improvement programme.
One resident contacted the Epsom and Ewell Times to highlight the impact of the changes, particularly on older visitors and those with mobility difficulties who rely on regular rest points while shopping.
The resident said the removal of existing seating was “totally unexpected” and had caused “great concern”, adding that the centre is not only a retail space but also a social hub for many: “It is especially important for the older generation who visit the centre both to shop and to meet friends.”
Concerns were also raised about the suitability of the replacement seating. The resident described the new arrangements as inadequate in number and design, claiming that current provision allows seating for “only twelve people”, which they said was “totally unacceptable for such a busy shopping mall”, particularly following the arrival of a major new store increasing footfall.
The complaint further suggested that the materials used in the new seating may present practical issues: “The upholstery is unhygienic and it will easily get dirty in very little time,” the resident said.
In response, a spokesperson for the Ashley Centre said the changes were part of a planned upgrade and sought to reassure visitors that further improvements are imminent.
The spokesperson said: “We remain committed to providing a welcoming and accessible environment for all visitors and appreciate feedback from the local community. Recent seating changes form part of a planned improvement programme, with additional new seating due to be installed later this month to enhance comfort and accessibility for shoppers.”
The issue is likely to resonate with many regular users of the town centre, particularly those who depend on accessible facilities. Whether the promised additional seating will address residents’ concerns remains to be seen.
Lung disease death widens investigation of Epsom and St Helier Trust service
9 April 2026
Widow still seeking accountability two years on.
A widow whose husband died aged just 48 after treatment at Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust has spoken of her continuing search for answers, as investigations continue into the care of more than 200 lung disease patients.
Laura Noakes, from Sutton, says she still does not know why her husband Daniel died from interstitial lung disease (ILD) in February 2024, despite concerns raised about his treatment before his death. Speaking on the second anniversary of his passing, she said the lack of clear information has left her feeling isolated and unable to move forward.
Her case forms part of a wider investigation involving patients treated under respiratory consultant Dr Veronica Varney, whose practice is under scrutiny. The investigation includes a review by the General Medical Council, though no outcome has yet been made public.
According to reporting by the Daily Telegraph (29th March), a letter from the Trust acknowledged that Mr Noakes had been prescribed Roflumilast for several years — a drug licensed for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease but not for ILD — and that he could have lived longer had he received treatment in line with guidelines.
Mrs Noakes said: “While nothing will bring Daniel back, finding answers is really important. It feels like I’ve been treated in a silo. I haven’t been able to understand the wider picture, and answers have only come after I complained.”
Concerns over treatment and oversight
Mr Noakes, who had never smoked, was first referred to respiratory services in 2018 after developing a persistent cough. The Trust later accepted that earlier scans suggesting ILD were not properly followed up, and that there was insufficient senior medical oversight during his care.
His condition deteriorated significantly from late 2023. While still alive, he was contacted by the Trust raising concerns about his treatment — something his wife describes as a “double trauma”, learning both that he was dying and that aspects of his care may have been avoidable.
She said: “We trusted we were getting top-level care. Instead, we later found there had been serious failings. We could have had many more years together.”
The Trust has apologised to the family and acknowledged that Mr Noakes’ care “fell far below” expected standards. It has also commissioned an external review by the Royal College of Physicians into more than 200 cases.
Wider investigation and cultural concerns
Findings reported by the Telegraph indicate that internal reviews identified a culture at St Helier Hospital that discouraged junior staff from challenging senior clinicians. The Trust has since said it has strengthened safeguards and systems to prevent similar failures.
Dr Varney left the Trust in 2023. The GMC has confirmed she remains registered with conditions while its investigation continues.
An inquest into Mr Noakes’ death has yet to reach a final conclusion.
Legal action and calls for others to come forward
Mrs Noakes is now being supported by clinical negligence specialists at Slater and Gordon.
Senior associate Nadia Saber said: “Daniel’s death was avoidable and premature, and Laura understandably has many questions. The number of cases under investigation gives cause for serious concern, and we would urge anyone worried about their care to come forward.”
Mrs Noakes added that accountability is essential not only for her family, but to ensure lessons are learned: “We need to know what happened and why — so this doesn’t happen to anyone else.”
Plans for 130 Kingswood homes ‘absolute disgrace’ as nearly 700 objectors speak
9 April 2026
Plans to build up to 130 homes on protected green belt land between Kingswood and Burgh Heath have sparked a fierce backlash, with nearly 700 objections lodged by residents.
Developers want outline planning permission for the scheme on 13 hectares of farmland off Canons Lane, with details like layout and design to be decided later. The proposal includes a mix of homes, nearly half classed as “affordable”, alongside green space, play areas, allotments and a community orchard.
Lightwood, the developers, state the land presents a “opportunity to create a high-quality, thoughtfully designed place to live, work and connect with nature”.
But the scale and location of the development have become the biggest flashpoints. The site sits in the Metropolitan Green Belt and an Area of Great Landscape Value, currently made up of open fields used for farming. It also borders existing homes and is criss-crossed by public footpaths used by walkers and cyclists.
Residents say building here would mean sacrificing one of the last stretches of countryside before Greater London.
One objector called the plans “an absolute disgrace”, warning they would “start the loss of the last remaining parcels of farming land” and harm wildlife. Others pointed to records of protected and declining bird species on the land, arguing the development would fragment habitats and disrupt migration routes.
Traffic is another major concern. Access would come from Canons Lane, with opponents saying the rural road is not fit for the extra cars likely to come with 130 households. Nearby routes, including the busy A217, are already under pressure at peak times.
There are also doubts about whether the scheme would genuinely tackle the housing crisis. Some residents argue that so-called affordable homes (typically priced below market rates rather than at social rent) would still be out of reach for many.
Despite this, developers say the site is in a sustainable location, within walking or cycling distance of schools, shops and transport links, including Kingswood railway station. They argue it would form a logical extension to the existing built-up area and deliver much-needed housing.
The plans also promise environmental measures, including new tree planting, upgraded footpaths, and sustainable drainage systems designed to reduce flood risk.
In planning terms, the application is only seeking approval ‘in principle’, with all detailed design matters reserved for a later stage except for the main access point.
Supporters say the benefits, particularly new homes and affordable housing, should carry significant weight. But with objections outnumbering supporters almost 175 to one, the council faces a contentious decision over whether those benefits outweigh the loss of protected countryside.
View of the outline of the proposed development site between Canons Lane and Doric Drive, Kingswood. (Credit: Lightwood planning documents)
Epsom March crime and safety round-up
9 April 2026
Policing activity across Epsom and Ewell in March 2026 saw a mix of enforcement successes, court outcomes and continued concern around acquisitive crime, drugs and community safety.
30th March an unexploded ordnance was handed in to the police counter in the Town Hall, The Parade, Epsom. The area was cordoned off until experts gave the all-clear.
Drug crime crackdown sees cash seizures in Epsom
A significant policing outcome during March was the seizure of more than £12,000 linked to criminal activity following a proactive stop by officers in Epsom. The funds, recovered under the Proceeds of Crime Act, are set to be reinvested into policing. Local police social media updates suggest this forms part of wider activity targeting drug-related offending and organised crime in the borough, with officers using stop-and-search powers and intelligence-led patrols to disrupt offenders.
Targeted operations lead to arrests across offence types
Neighbourhood policing teams reported intensive enforcement weeks during which more than 20 arrests were made across a range of offences including burglary, theft, drugs and weapons possession. (Facebook) These operations reflect a continued emphasis on “visible policing” and proactive interventions in hotspot areas.
Burglary and vehicle crime remain priorities
Across Surrey, two burglars were jailed in March after targeting homes to steal car keys and vehicles in early-morning break-ins. While not limited to Epsom and Ewell, such offences remain a key policing priority locally, with residents repeatedly advised to secure vehicles and keys.
Domestic abuse and sexual offences prosecutions
March also saw several significant court outcomes across the county, including custodial sentences for domestic abuse, coercive behaviour and serious sexual offences. Police continue to highlight safeguarding and victim support as central to their work, alongside encouraging reporting and use of protective measures such as Clare’s Law disclosures.
Community engagement and policing visibility
Residents are being invited to participate in upcoming “Policing Your Community” roadshows, aimed at gathering local concerns and shaping neighbourhood priorities. This follows ongoing efforts in Epsom and Ewell to strengthen engagement between officers and the public.
Ongoing concerns around public safety incidents
Although outside the March reporting window, earlier incidents such as the January report of a teenage girl being approached by two men in Court Recreation Ground continue to frame community concerns about safety in public spaces. (The Sun) Police have maintained increased visibility patrols in such areas in response.
Overall picture
Data and operational updates suggest that policing in Epsom and Ewell during March has been characterised by: targeted enforcement against drugs and organised crime; continued focus on burglary and vehicle theft; strong emphasis on safeguarding in domestic abuse and sexual offence cases; ongoing community engagement initiatives. While Surrey remains a relatively low-crime area overall, the persistence of acquisitive crime and anti-social behaviour continues to shape local policing priorities.
Surrey tech pioneers get £25k boost in start-up drive
9 April 2026
Surrey’s emerging tech entrepreneurs have been given a significant boost after more than 30 early-stage innovators completed the first cohort of a new county-wide startup programme.
Surrey Venture Studios (SVS), a business growth initiative backed by the University of Surrey and partners, has supported participants through workshops, mentoring and pitching opportunities aimed at turning early ideas into viable technology businesses. The programme offers selected founders £25,000 in funding alongside six months of expert support to help launch and scale their ventures.
First cohort builds momentum
Organisers say the inaugural cohort brought together a diverse range of innovators working across multiple sectors, all benefiting from access to experienced mentors and investors. Participants attended intensive workshops designed to refine ideas and prepare them for pitching to expert panels.
Ody Bassioukas, manager of Surrey Venture Studios, said the programme had already demonstrated how quickly ideas could develop with the right support: “It’s been incredibly energising to see just how much progress can happen in a matter of days… ideas gaining clarity, confidence building, and new pathways starting to take shape.”
Among those taking part was Elizabeth Baldwin, founder of Puzzle Proof, a digital system aimed at supporting survivors of domestic abuse. She said the programme had helped validate her idea and encouraged her to take it forward.
Industry figures have also backed the initiative. Iain Jamieson, chairman of the S100 Angel Investment Club, described the programme as “exactly the kind of support that is needed” to help new entrepreneurs succeed.
Applications open for next round
Following the success of the first cohort, applications are now open for a second intake, with a deadline of 8 May and workshops scheduled for June.
The programme is open to people living, working or studying in Surrey and includes an initial two-day workshop and pitching process, with successful applicants progressing to the funded accelerator stage.
Caroline Fleming, director of the Surrey Innovation District ecosystem at the University of Surrey, encouraged prospective applicants to come forward: “This is your opportunity to realise your tech entrepreneur ambition, supported by our world-class innovation ecosystem.”
Addressing a gap in startup support
Surrey Venture Studios has been developed in collaboration with Royal Holloway and the University for the Creative Arts, alongside Surrey County Council, to address what organisers describe as a longstanding gap in support for very early-stage innovators.
By combining funding, mentoring and structured development, the programme aims to help bridge the gap between concept and commercial readiness for new technology businesses.
A webinar for prospective applicants is scheduled for 21 April, offering further information on how the scheme works and how to apply.
Local girl made good. The rise of NESCOT’s Julie Kapsalis
9 April 2026
Julie Kapsalis, CEO and Principal at Nescot college in Epsom, has achieved a remarkable trio of prestigious awards – including an MBE – in recognition of her leadership, dedication, and outstanding contribution across the region.
Julie’s year of accolades began with national recognition in the King’s 2026 New Year’s Honours List, celebrating her transformative work as Chair of the Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) from 2020–2025. During her tenure, Julie championed and delivered major investments in skills, infrastructure and business support, playing a pivotal role in strengthening the region’s economic landscape. This week, Julie was presented with her MBE for Services to Economic Development by His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle.
The success didn’t stop there. At the Gatwick Diamond Business Awards on 19 March, Dee Mathieson, Chair of the Gatwick Diamond Business Council, presented Julie with the Outstanding Contribution to the Gatwick Diamond Award — a special accolade widely celebrated by colleagues, partners, and all who have worked with her. The citation shared: “Over the span of two decades Julie’s career in economic development, skills enterprise and inclusive growth has made her one of the region’s most influential and transformative leaders. For her exceptional leadership, her sustained dedication to the region, and the tangible, lasting positive impact of her work, Julie is a profoundly deserving winner.”
Rounding off an extraordinary week, Julie was also named ‘Gamechanger of the Year’ at the Dynamic Business Awards in Brighton on 26 March. The award celebrates businesswomen who deliver significant, positive change within their industries — something Julie has consistently demonstrated through her bold leadership, commitment to innovation, and passion for skills development.
Julie Kapsalis, CEO & Principal at Nescot said: “I love working in this incredible region, building networks and (hopefully) making a difference. This recognition and the awards are shared with the wonderful colleagues I’ve worked with over the last 25 years including at Nescot, Chichester College Group and Coast to Capital LEP. Meeting the Prince of Wales was such a proud moment – and made all the more special by having my family with me.”
