UK charity Music for All is thrilled to announce their annual flagship event Learn to Play is back for
2024 giving everyone in Epsom a chance to take part in ‘the biggest free music making weekend of
the year!’

The event will be held in Guitar, Guitar – 6 Capitol Square, Epsom on the 11th -13th October and is open to all; regardless of age, experience and background and provides opportunities for participants to
experience a free taster music making lesson from a musical instrument!

Learn to Play aims to inspire, encourage and enable both new and lapsed music makers to enjoy the
wide range of benefits of music making, as well as connecting and championing local UK music
providers through a shared celebration of music making.

Learn to Play arrives at a time where music making opportunities are difficult to access due to
current cuts to arts education, resulting in many primary schools failing to meet basic music
curriculum needs for young people 1 impacting the future of the UK arts, the creative potential of the
next generation and the people who deliver quality arts education in the UK.

Sonali Banerjee, Music for All’s General Manager explains: “The Learn to Play weekend is needed
now more than ever and through our regional music making events we aim to inspire as many people
as possible in experiencing the unique joys and benefits of music making. The arts enrich our lives,
our community and economy, as well as improving our mental health. We welcome all age-groups
and particularly encourage youngsters who may not have the opportunity to experience music
lessons at school, to come along and try out an instrument of their choice.”

Music for All believes everyone should have equal access to music making and supports
disadvantaged individuals, educators and community projects through cash and instrument award
rounds throughout each year.

The positive impact of using music to support and enhance mental and physical health throughout
people’s lives has long been documented in numerous academic and social research. Learning to
play music is a fantastic opportunity to:

 Challenge your mind and strengthen your memory
 Feel pride and a sense of achievement
 Connect with others and make new friends
 Take a break from stresses and worries
 Have fun whilst being creative
 Explore the joy of music-making!

Jamie Cullum, Musician and Music for All ambassador said: “Playing a musical instrument is an amazing thing to have in your life. Sadly, not everyone has the opportunity to have those experiences. I am proud to be a supporter of the Music for All charity and delighted to be involved in their work in changing lives through music. I encourage everyone to participate in a Learn to Play event near them.”

Joshua Franklin attended a Learn to Play event nearly a decade ago and has experienced the numerous opportunities and benefits since taking part. “At eight years old Joshua decided he wanted to play the Saxophone but was unfortunately turned down from taking lessons at school for being under the age threshold. Joshua was still determined to learn so attended a Learn to Play saxophone lesson at Dawkes Music’s in Maidenhead.

Through this experience, he managed to convince his school that he was ready and able to continue learning. Joshua excelled playing the saxophone, taking his first exam (Grade 3) aged nine, achieving a distinction at Grade 8 three years later, gaining a ABRSM Diploma and taking his music G.C.S.E exam two years early, achieving a Grade A.

Joshua’s love for music has continued through obtaining a Grade A in A-level music. He now plays lead alto in Cardiff University’s big band and attends local jazz jam nights where he frequently plays along with others at local venues.”

The Music for All YouTube channel will also have a series of online tutorials by professional musicians available, including some big names! In previous years these have included Music for All charity supporters and Ambassadors such as Jools Holland, Alison Balsolm, Anne Denholm, Rob Rolfe and Dave Tench – these tutorial lessons can be accessed by anyone at any time; subscribe for free here: Music for All UK charity – YouTube.

Those interested in getting involved in Learn to Play ‘24 events and accessing their free music lesson should simply visit the Learn to Play website, select their closest venue using the interactive map and register their interest directly with the venue.

For more information on Music for All visit: www.musicforall.org.uk

The Learn to Play ’24 event is generously supported by the NAMM Foundation. Other partners include Music Industries Association, Black Lives in Music, Make Music Day UK, Music Mark, Making Music and Take it Away.

To get the latest updates on Music for All and the Learn to Play ‘24 event follow us on our social channels

Epsom & Ewell Council’s Tense Debate Over Green Belt Protections and Housing Targets: Key Decisions from the Licensing Planning and Policy Committee Meeting

On Tuesday, 24th September 2024, the LPPC of Epsom & Ewell Borough Council convened to deliberate on a highly contentious matter: changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and their potential impact on the borough’s Green Belt and housing targets. Chaired by Councillor Peter O’Donovan, (RA Ewell Court) the meeting attracted public attention, with many residents filling the gallery, reflecting the importance of the issues under discussion. At the heart of the debate was the question of whether the council should uphold strict protections for the borough’s Green Belt or adapt to the government’s increasing pressure to meet housing demands.

Councillor Peter O’Donovan began by welcoming the public to the meeting, acknowledging the deep concerns of residents. He then proceeded with the formalities, including the adoption of the minutes from the previous meeting and a roll call of councillors and officials present. O’Donovan stressed the gravity of the evening’s discussions:

“We have important decisions to make this evening that will shape the future of our borough for years to come. The government’s proposed reforms to the NPPF are significant, and while we recognize the need for housing, we must balance this against our responsibility to protect the Green Belt, which is vital to both the environment and the identity of Epsom & Ewell.”

Following his introduction, Ian Mawer, the council’s Planning Policy Manager, provided an overview of the NPPF changes, particularly the impact on housing targets and Green Belt land. He noted that the consultation on these changes was closing later that evening, and the council needed to finalize its draft response.

“We are looking at a proposed increase in our housing needs,” Mawer explained. “Based on changes to the standard method for calculating housing needs, our target could increase from 576 homes per year to 817. This would place significant pressure on both brownfield and Green Belt land, and we must carefully consider the implications of these changes.”

A Call for Fair Tree Protection

One of the first substantive discussions centered on a seemingly smaller but crucial issue: tree protection applications. Councillor Clive Woodbridge (RA Ewell Village) argued that the council’s response to the NPPF changes downplayed the importance of adequate funding for tree protection measures.

“We have always struggled with the resources to meet our tree protection needs,” Woodbridge began. “Our current response underplays this issue. I think tree applications, especially those related to trees in conservation areas or subject to Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs), should be subject to a fee process that helps recover our costs. This would ensure we can meet our obligations without burdening the public purse too heavily.”

Woodbridge’s remarks sparked a broader conversation about local authority resources and the need for a sustainable fee structure that would help finance these vital environmental protections. “We must be tougher on this,” he added. “It’s not just about protecting trees—it’s about ensuring we have the resources to do so effectively.”

A Sharp Critique of Housing Targets

As the discussion turned to housing targets, Councillor Robert Leach (RA Nonsuch) made an impassioned and controversial statement against further development in the borough, particularly on Green Belt land. Leach took a hardline stance, asserting that the borough had no need for additional housing.

“In my view, the housing need for this borough is zero,” Leach declared, “We don’t need more homes on Brownfield, Green Belt, or any other kind of land. The housing numbers we’ve been given are based on flawed calculations—a case of multiplying one wrong number by another wrong number and somehow thinking we’ve arrived at the right answer. But we all know that number is wrong. Our Green Belt is not negotiable.”

Leach’s speech took an unexpected turn when he criticized both the current Labour government and previous Conservative governments for their handling of migration policies, which he blamed for the housing crisis. “The population of the UK has risen from 45 million to 67 million in my lifetime, and almost all of that is due to migration,” he said. “This housing crisis is a direct result of the government’s failure to control immigration, and now we are being asked to sacrifice our green spaces to accommodate more people.”

Leach’s remarks met with mixed reactions. While some in the public gallery nodded in agreement, other councillors were quick to counter his assertions.

A Call for Balance and Realism

Councillor Phil Neale (RA Cuddington) was among those who pushed back against Leach’s extreme stance, advocating for a more balanced approach. Neale acknowledged the challenges posed by increasing housing targets but emphasized the need for the council to take a pragmatic view.

“I understand the passion behind Councillor Leach’s remarks,” Neale said, “but the reality is that we do have a housing crisis in this borough. I have two sons who have had to move out of the area because they simply cannot afford to live here. And we have a growing homeless population that we are struggling to accommodate. To say we have no need for more housing just doesn’t reflect the reality on the ground.”

Neale went on to argue that while the Green Belt must be protected, the council must also find ways to meet its housing obligations. “We need to strike a balance. We can’t just say ‘no’ to everything. If we do, we risk losing control of our local planning decisions altogether.”

Addressing Climate Change and Housing Needs

Councillor Julie Morris (Lib Dem College) brought another crucial issue to the fore: the intersection of housing development and climate change. She criticized the NPPF reforms for failing to place sufficient emphasis on sustainable development and renewable energy.

“We’re facing a climate crisis, and yet, when I look at the government’s proposed changes to the NPPF, there is very little focus on sustainability,” Morris lamented. “We should be pushing for stronger commitments to renewable energy and green building standards. Our response should reflect this urgency. I’m disappointed that the government has missed an opportunity to make these reforms about more than just numbers.”

Morris also raised concerns about the type of housing being built, arguing that the borough’s needs were not just about quantity but also quality. “It’s not just about meeting a target of 817 homes per year,” she said. “We need to be building homes that meet the actual needs of our community, particularly affordable housing for young families and the elderly.”

The Question of Local Democracy and Transparency

As the meeting continued, the issue of transparency and local democracy emerged as a critical point of contention. Councillor Kieran Persand, (Conservative Horton) a vocal advocate for greater openness in the local plan process, questioned whether the council was doing enough to involve the public and ensure their concerns were heard.

“Residents have been left in the dark for too long,” Persand argued. “We’ve had consultations, but have we really listened? I’m hearing from residents across the borough that they feel shut out of this process. They want more say in what happens to their Green Belt, and they deserve that say. We should be leading the charge for more transparency, not hiding behind bureaucratic processes.”

Councillor Julie Morris echoed Persand’s concerns, adding that the council had missed opportunities to engage the public more effectively. “We’ve had chances to talk about this—whether it’s Green Belt protections or housing targets—but we haven’t taken them,” she said. “We could have held more public meetings, we could have been more open about the challenges we’re facing. Instead, we’ve been too closed off. That needs to change.”

Green Belt Protections: A Divisive Issue

As the meeting drew to a close, the committee faced a critical decision: whether to adopt the council’s draft response to the NPPF consultation, which supported increased housing targets while maintaining a cautious approach to Green Belt development.

Councillor Robert Leach made one last impassioned plea to protect the Green Belt: “I believe the housing need for this borough is zero, and I will say it again. We cannot afford to lose our Green Belt. It’s what makes Epsom & Ewell special, and we should be fighting to protect it, not handing it over for development.”

In contrast, Councillor Phil Neale urged his colleagues to think practically: “None of us want to build on the Green Belt. But if we don’t submit a local plan that meets the government’s requirements, we risk losing control over the process entirely. That’s a real danger. We have to be pragmatic here.”

The Decision: Moving Forward with Caution

In the end, the committee voted to approve the draft response to the NPPF consultation, which included support for increased housing targets but emphasized the importance of protecting high-performing Green Belt land. The decision was met with mixed reactions, with some councillors and members of the public feeling that more could have been done to safeguard the borough’s green spaces.

Councillor Peter O’Donovan closed the meeting by reassuring the public that the council would continue to fight for the best interests of the borough. “We’ve made a decision tonight, but this is not the end of the process,” he said. “There will be further opportunities for public input, and we will continue to work hard to protect what makes Epsom & Ewell such a special place to live.”

As the government’s NPPF consultation comes to a close, the residents of Epsom & Ewell will be watching closely to see how their council balances the need for housing with the imperative to protect their cherished Green Belt land. For now, the battle between development and preservation continues.

26th September Epsom and Ewell Council issued a press release stating its responses to the consultation on the NPPF. You may read it HERE.

The Surrey Campaign for the Protection of Rural England also issued a press release you may read HERE

Related reports:

Challenges to Epsom and Ewell Council’s Handling of Local Plan

Time to press the gas on Epsom’s Local Plan?

Epsom and Ewell Brace for Government Housing Targets

Here we go again on the Local Plan?

Minister gets heavy on a Local Plan delay

Mystery Local Plan critic revealed

Local Plan costs eat into Council reserves

Local Plan to move forward after passionate debate

and many many more. Search “local plan”

Your creative senses will be tingled from the moment you arrive at the second Art Surrey contemporary art fair coming to The Duchess Stand, Epsom Downs Racecourse, 4 – 7 October 2024.

Art Surrey opens on Friday 4th October with a Preview Evening with a complimentary glass of fizz from 5.30pm to 8.30pm and opens over the weekend on Saturday 5 October 11am-5pm and Sunday 6 October 11am-5pm.

This exciting art fair curated by Art Surrey and Ewell based Art Adviser and Gallery, Caiger Art, offers art lovers and collectors the chance to browse and purchase artworks from over 80 of the most exciting contemporary and traditional artists selling today, many of whom are Surrey based artists.

As final preparations get under way, Carol Caiger, Director of Art Surrey, is, once again, excited to be bringing this art fair back to Epsom. “We had a very successful art fair at Epsom Downs last year so had no reservations about coming back for a second event.We had great feed back from visitors and one of our favourite comments was, ‘It’s like a London Art Fair, but right on our doorstep”. Being one of the largest art fairs within the south east of England, this contemporary art fair will the perfect place to find artwork to start your art collection, or add to your collection if you are already an art enthusiast!”

There will be over 3000 works of art to see, paintings, drawings, prints, digital art, mixed media art, photography, sculpture, glassworks and ceramics. With all artwork ranging from £50 to over £3000, there will be something for everyone.

Weekend facilities include a bar and café / restaurant serving teas, coffee and food throughout Saturday and Sunday, so you can easily spend a whole day there! The venue is also wheelchair accessible.

Have a sneak peek at the limited edition art fair brochure here:

Brochure – Epsom 2024

Tickets are available to buy for the Friday Preview Evening, Saturday and Sunday from https://artsurrey.co.uk/tickets/,

For further information about te art fair or art advisory contact carol@artsurrey.co.uk or call 07828513885

A frail, elderly man “cried for help for over an hour” before tragically dying after getting stuck in a gap between his care home bed extension, a Surrey coroner has found.

Paul Batchelor was found dead at The Red House, Ashtead, on 27 June 2023, after a mattress extension fell through his bed’s extension frame.

Assistant Coroner, Susan Ridge, raised concerns that Mr Bachelor’s “numerous cries for help” were not responded to and there is a “lack of awareness” about bed extensions which could put other lives at risk.

A spokesperson for the care home said the circumstances around Mr Batchelor’s death was “deeply distressing” and they “fully accept and respect” the assistant coroner’s findings.

Ms Ridge found that despite one carer hearing Mr Batchelor’s cries for help, she “did not open the door or go into his room as it was said she was frightened of him”. Even as he called out for help for over an hour, between 10:05pm-11:15pm, much of the staff were doing their night-time routine.

Mr Batchelor, who was under respite care, was put into bed around 9pm by care home staff. Later that night he had manoeuvred himself to the foot of the bed and was lying on the mattress extension.

But because there was no deck in place supporting the extension, Mr Batchelor fell through the bed extension frame and became wedged in the gap.

Ms Ridge also addressed her report to the governmental Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) regarding a possible “lack of awareness” of the support needed for a mattress extension or bolster on extended beds.

She said: “Without adequate support there is a risk of death in that the mattress extension can fall through the bed frame creating a sufficient gap for a person to become wedged or stuck.”

A Red House spokesperson said: “We strive to provide the highest level of personal care and support to all our residents.” They added the company had addressed the concerns raised with equipment and staff protocols as a “matter of priority”.

The member of staff no longer works for the company, the spokesperson said, stating the care home has “ensured that the wider team understands how best to manage challenging or stressful situations”. They added: “We have underlined the importance of seeking support from others to sustain responsive and appropriate care, which is our highest priority.”

Dr Danielle Middleton, Deputy Director in Benefit/Risk Evaluation at MHRA, said she is reviewing the report carefully. The government agency has 56 days to respond to the coroner’s concerns.

Dr Middleton said the MHRA issued a National Patient Safety Alert, after reports of “adverse incidents” involving bed rails, medical beds, trolleys, bed rails, bed grab handles and lateral turning devices, warning of the risk of entrapment.”

The Alert requires staff receive device training suitable to their roles. Organisations are also required to have an up-to-date medical device management system in place, with regular servicing and maintenance of medical devices in line with the manufacturer’s instructions.

She added: “It also requires regular risk assessments for patients using bed rails or handles, including entrapment risks.”

The prevention of future deaths report, issued on September 13, has also been sent to the interim chief executive of the Care Quality Commission and chairman of The Red House (Ashtead) Limited.

_{The Red House Care Home, Ashtead. (Credit: Google Street View)}

Epsom and Ewell FC 3-2 Seaford Town FC. Combined Counties League – Premier Division South. Saturday 21st September 2024.

Although ultimately irrelevant, two Seaford Town goals in the 86th and 88th minutes would be the memory of this match that most supporters will have taken as they headed home, which was a pity as this was the most dominant performance I had seen from an Epsom and Ewell team since we returned to Step Five in 2023. We won this F.A. Vase contest by three goals to two in the end, although 5-0 wouldn’t have been a score line that the visitors could complain about. When considering that they brought a supporters coach to this match, and that we had around a dozen children in the ground as mascots, together with a number of parents, the attendance of 78 on a hot sunny afternoon was an extremely disappointing one for such a prestigious match.

Two changes were made to our starting eleven after Tuesday’s defeat to high-flying Knaphill, with Ethan Nelson-Roberts and fit again Fabio Nunes coming in for Luke Taylor and the absent Sean Anderson. Jason Bloor put in a fine appearance from the bench in that match and may have started here, had he not been on holiday! Taylor dropped to the bench where he was alongside a pair of debutants in Niall Stillwell and Anthony Nazareth. Stillwell spent much of last season at Guildford City, where he stood out despite their disappointing season. He is also my boy’s P.E. teacher! Nazareth played for us briefly in pre-season but has now joined after spending time at Cobham. Both would make their debuts later in the match.

We went into this match in fairly good form with three wins from our last four matches, but Seaford Town were top of the Southern Combination Division One and were expected to put up a decent fight, even if their main priority is probably a run at promotion. We also carried a strange statistic into this encounter, as we had not scored in the first half of the twelve competitive matches we had played so far, which equalled a record set way back in 1982, starting with our famous F.A. Trophy match at home to Altrincham and concluding with a 2-1 win at St Albans City in our thirteenth match. What we would give to be playing those sort of teams again!

We nearly consigned that stat to the history books as early as the fourth minute as Nunes set up Carl Oblitey for a good strike from close range, but he sent the ball flying into the car park at the Tolworth end. Adam Green then struck a tapped free kick from Nunes wide from twenty yards. The next chance came when Oblitey did well on the right and his delivery was met by a brave low dive from Nelson-Roberts whose header went just wide.

We were completely dominant at this stage and a Green corner was met by a header from Stefan Aiwone that keeper Wester Young did well to keep out before Nunes sent the loose ball wide from only a few yards out. Young is advancing in years now but was part of the strong Molesey line up that used to play us around fifteen years ago before moving to East Sussex and playing for Hailsham Town against us in recent seasons. Young punched away another good delivery from Green before Oblitey finally got the ball past him from Nelson-Roberts’ low left wing delivery, only to see the Assistant’s flag raised against him.

Nelson-Roberts then hit the crossbar from twenty yards out with a curling strike from out wide and Oblitey then cushioned a header back for Green to strike at goal, but Young parried the ball away to safety. We were half an hour into the match before the visitors even had a half chance when a deep cross had Dan O’Donovan scrambling and he just clawed the ball away just when it looked like it might drop over him, although was relieved to see the incoming striker send the loose ball way over the bar from not that far out.

Aiwone couldn’t get his header on target from a Green corner and Luke Miller was sending in some dangerous deliveries, but it was becoming apparent that we were approaching the half time mark with another blank. Just as I was preparing my half time tweet to the masses, I had to re-write it as Miller’s ball in was sliced into the far top corner of his own net by the Seaford Captain Ryan Knight from about eight yards in the 47th minute and there was no time to restart the first half. Technically, we did still set a new club record in terms of 619 minutes without scoring in the first half, even if we didn’t quite register that thirteenth consecutive half time duck!

But 1-0 was the least we deserved, and it arguably could have been much more. We had to change things around almost immediately after the restart when Aiwone hurt his knee and had to be replaced by Nazareth in the 48th minute. It didn’t stop the flow of traffic though and we extended our lead in the 52nd minute with a superb defence splitting pass from Green that Miller ran onto in the right wing channel. He drew the keeper and struck at goal, only to find a defender had just extended a foot to block the shot, but it fell kindly for him and with Young committed to blocking the previous effort, our tricky winger had the simple job of sliding the ball at an angle into the empty net from eight yards. Miller has now scored thirty-four goals for our club and is one away from joining the club Hall of Fame which shows the top fifty goal scorers in our history and contains some names that regular supporters will know well, like Jamie Byatt, Kyle Hough, Robbie Burns, Daryl Cooper-Smith and Dale Marvell, not to mention the top man himself Tommy Tuite. It is quite an elite group!

Toby Young had a chance from a corner, but the ball hit his back as he jumped and the ball just looped over the bar, before Green saw his strong shot cleared for a corner. Craig Dundas then sent his header wide from that Miller corner as we continued to boss the game completely.

We had a scare in the 62nd minute when O’Donovan, who was probably a bit bored by his lack of action to this point, started to make a number of incursions outside his penalty area and from one of these, his headed clearance just went up in the air behind him and Young had to react quickly to head the ball clear of our goal under pressure from a visiting striker.

But this was an isolated foray into our half and we scored a third goal in the 65th minute when a deep Green corner was reached at full stretch by Nelson-Roberts at the far post. His shot struck the foot of Young’s left hand post, but rebounded kindly across goal, where Nazareth reacted first to poke the ball over the line from a couple of yards out.

Frustration boiled over for the visitors and Lewis Hallett picked up a yellow card for going straight through the back of Oblitey, although our centre-forward then picked up a card of his own just a few minutes later, although it wasn’t clear what for, and even Oblitey seemed perplexed by the decision. Nazareth then sent a header wide as we continued to do most of the work.

However, in the 86th minute the visitors received a lifeline when a long ball out of defence was reached by Josh Wright ahead of O’Donovan who had come a long way out of his goal, leaving their man with the simple job of putting the ball into the empty net. Although it might look as though O’Donovan was at fault here, it is important to question why he felt the need to come so far out of his goal so often in this match. It’s worth noting that Dundas had by this time left the field and we just didn’t seem to be so organised after that point. Two minutes later, a right wing cross was turned in unmarked at the far post by Matt Holland to make the score 3-2.

We still had chances as a couple of substitutes got involved. Taylor sent a header back across Young, only to see the ball drop inches beyond the Seaford crossbar, while Felipe De Lima was booked for an unconvincing fall just outside the penalty area that the referee correctly saw as simulation. In fact, De Lima was probably a little lucky to stay on the field as he clattered into a visiting player in the 96th minute and could easily have picked up a second yellow card. Although the whistle blew as the Seaford player landed, fortunately it was to signify full time!

So it’s now four wins in five matches for our boys and we remain in good form ahead of our League Cup First Round tie at home to Hilltop on Tuesday. It’s also good to report that discipline was much better, following the issues from last Tuesday and now we have to focus a little better on concentration for the full ninety minutes, or it may cost us next time. Overall though, this was a strong performance against a team that I thought would push us far more than they did and obviously credit goes to our boys for restricting them as well as we did.

Monday’s F.A. Vase First Round draw will be released around lunchtime and, as always, we’ll have full details available within minutes of the draw being released on Twitter / X at @EEFCOnline and soon after that at the Epsom and Ewell FC Archive website at: www.eefconline.co.uk That match will take place on Saturday 19th October, unless we are drawn at home, in which case it will probably be the Friday evening as our landlords are at home that day in a League match. That means our next Vase match will take place just one week before the fifty year anniversary of our first ever F.A. Vase match in 1974/75, which ended with an appearance at Wembley Stadium in the first ever Final. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a Vase run to match that!

Epsom & Ewell: Dan O’Donovan, Ethan Brazier, Kionte Gillfillian-Waul, Adam Green (c), Toby Young, Stefan Aiwone, Luke Miller, Craig Dundas, Carl Oblitey, Fabio Nunes, Ethan Nelson-Roberts

Subs: Anthony Nazareth for Aiwone (48), Felipe De Lima for Nunes (63), Niall Stillwell for Young (76), Luke Taylor for Dundas (83)

Report Source: www.eefconline.co.uk

Sutton and Epsom RFC 43 v Old Reigations 48. Saturday 21st September 2024.

It has been a Jekyll & Hyde start to the campaign for Sutton & Epsom. However, the reality
dates back to Epictetus and his motto that has been adopted by coaches from around the globe:
“Control the Controllables”. The one aspect out of your control is the standard of the opposition
and Beckenham last Saturday provided a far sterner test than the opening day Old Colfeians. Last
season Old Reigatian did the double over S&E in a couple of high scoring contests. They started by
winning a fluctuating game at home 35-29 before a first half blitz was the basis of their second
success at Rugby Lane by 38-21. New heights were reached on Saturday with a dizzying 12-try
spectacular with the tries equally distributed as Old Reigatian hung on in a fabulous finale to win
by 48-43 and continue their unbeaten start to the season.
It was a superbly sunny Saturday, firm under foot with a refreshing breeze and all was set
fair for entertaining running rugby and these two sides did not disappoint. The visitors dominated
the early exchanges including their front row winning a penalty at the first scrum. In customary
fashion the front row offender demonstrated his prelapsarian innocence with a look of amazement
at having been penalised. With tenacious defence OR were denied. It was frustrating for Sutton
that their first possession in the backs culminated in an interception near halfway and Harrison
Mitchell running in the opening try that was unconverted for a 5-0 Reigatian lead. After the restart
Adam Bibby’s reward for his excellent chase and tackle was a twisted ankle and being replaced by
Lawrence Elliott for the remaining 70 minutes.

After a dozen minutes S&E were on the scoreboard. Gareth O’Brien initiated the counter
before a powerful carry by Jordan Huie and a probing run by Pete Gordon. Then the backs were
released and the crowd enjoyed the delicate tracery of O’Brien’s weaving run to score under the
posts. Freddy Bunting’s conversion gave the hosts a slender 7-5 lead. In the next 20 minutes
Sutton’s hopes were hampered by discipline. Tom Baldwin willingly accepted a trio of penalties and
the Black & Whites were reduced to 14 when Jordan Huie connected with an opponent in midair.
The yellow card was perhaps not a condign punishment but this law is harsh if not essentially fair.
With the visitors leading 14-7 Glanville and Whitaker rallied the hosts who were awarded a penalty
of their own and Freddy Bunting reduced the lead to 14-10 to OR. Moments later a further 3-point
opportunity was declined and Captain Bunting kicked to touch for a 5-metre lineout. Mount, no
doubt, wearied by the moil of his scrummaging duties delighted at receiving the ball close to the
line and dutifully scored. Despite the balmy temperatures Freddy Bunting was as cool as the
underside of a cucumber and being as hard to rattle as two grapes in a wine glass he converted
from the flank to take a 17-14 lead as the first half entered time added on.

As is frequently witnessed at every level of the game the restart is a vulnerable time for the
team that has just scored. The Black & Whites secured the ball and seemed to have avoided the
fatal error only to concede a penalty on their second sortie. Tom Baldwin made it four from four to
level the score at 17-17. Neither side were content to just play out the first period with parity and
audaciously tried to wrest the advantage from the other. Despite the endeavours of all concerned
there was no addition to the score and the sides turned around level, 17-17. It had been a
commendable effort by Sutton to shackle the Old Reigatian team and restrict them to one try and
they now had the elements in their favour for the second period.

S&E were immediately under the cosh in the second half and were indebted to vital
interventions by Jordan Huie, Alex Mount and Pete Gordon. But the Old Boys would not be denied
and as it was Harrison Mitchell, who again opened the scoring, this time applying the coup de
grâce from closer range. Ten minutes elapsed before the next score which was to be the first of a
Tom Baldwin hat trick. Showing great determination he forced his way over in the corner despite
considerable attention from the defenders and a dubious crowd dropped their remarks into the
understanding air. Though unable to add the extras to his try Tom Baldwin had stretched the lead
to 27-17. Sutton needed a swift reply and that was supplied by the livewire flanker Dan Jones with
the Bunting boot bisecting the uprights the game was once more in the balance with OR leading
S&E 27-24.

The game appeared to have taken on an entirely different complexion, and ended as a
contest, with a sensational 5-minute burst from the men from Geoffrey Knight Fields. When 18-
year-old William Henry Perkin invented by accident the synthetic purple dye, mauveine, in 1856 he
became a multi-millionaire. It appeared that this purple patch of three tries in five minutes would
be equally priceless to Old Reigatian. The hosts muffed the restart and Tom Baldwin dummied
with numbers queuing up to score for his second. The inside centre completed his trio courtesy of
some indecisive defence. Then replacement back William Parker joined the party with the pick of
the tries courtesy of some delightful legerdemain. It was suddenly 48-24 with Tom Baldwin’s
personal tally 33 points. Whilst their opponent’s back play was passing and running in excelsis
Sutton had embraced the arms of Morpheus. The third rapid score would have encouraged the
Rugby Lane faithful to get to the bar before the rush or view the remainder through the leper’s
squint. However, it was the catalyst for the transmogrification of the home XV’s performance.
With ten minutes on the clock the game that was threatening to become a rout became a
spectacular comeback. Sutton to their credit did not panic with reckless play but valued their
possession and waited for the openings. Jordan Huie brought the ball out of his 22 and it was
recycled wide to Lawrence Elliott who stepped inside and broke to halfway before launching a
speculative kick. The ball nestled under the posts and Arun Watkins won the race to touch it down.
The simplest of conversions made it 48-31. Playing with pride and passion the Rugby Lane men
laid siege on their opponents’ line. Finally, the pressure told and Matt Whitaker scored and though
the touchline conversion drifted wide it was 48-36 as the game entered time added on. Ewan
McTaggart demonstrated how to secure the restart and put Sutton on the attack again. Freddy
Bunting saw a gap and accelerated into the Reigatian half. The retreating defence of the Old Boys
conceded a penalty. Without hesitation it was quickly taken and Matt Whitaker was dotting down
under the posts. The rapidly taken conversion was successful and the scoreboard read 43-48.
It was breathless and unbelievable rugby and the passionate crowd had witnessed the
most extraordinary reversal of fortunes. The Black & Whites secured possession and Bunting and
Watkins led the charge to halfway. This time the penalty led to a yellow card and the 14-man Old
Reigatian team were forced into their 22 by Freddy Bunting’s arrowing kick. Then another penalty
and Mr Whinney issued another yellow card with a mortician’s lofty detachment for the irksome
job in hand as OR were set to complete the game with 13 on the pitch. The visitors faced a 5-
metre lineout with no doubt a mixture of emotions from total disbelief to grim determination. To
their eternal credit the visitors defended with heroic valour tackling with ferocity and denying
space until they forced a turnover. The final whistle was greeted with jubilation and relief by Old
Reigatian whilst the Sutton faces were marked deeply with the hieroglyphics of pain.

First and foremost, this was a fabulous game of rugby that did great credit to all who were
involved. The Old Reigatian backs attract a lot of praise, which is thoroughly deserved, but do not
underestimate the front row triumvirate of Messrs Monk, Nestor and Collister who provided an
excellent platform. No doubt the club archivist will be asked if Tom Baldwin broke the record for
most points in a league game. For Sutton the remarkable revival should convince them that they
have the capability to beat anyone in the league when they play their best rugby. Next week the
1 st XV travel to Battersea Ironsides who themselves have enjoyed three close encounters of the
rugby kind so far this campaign with two victories. The kick off will be 3pm at Burntwood Lane and
it will be the first time Sutton have played a league fixture at this venue as last season the
weather meant it was relocated to the Grasshoppers RFC’s synthetic surface.

Sutton & Epsom
O’Brien, Watkins, Scott, Bibby, Huie, Bunting ©, Munford, Mount, Gordon, Boaden, Glanville,
McTaggart, Rea, Jones & Whitaker.
Replacements: Hilton, Green & Elliott.

Old Reigatian
Woodford, Mitchell, Allen, Baldwin, Coyle, Holder, Skinner, Monk, Nestor, Collister, Jones, Franklin-
Talbot, Brooks, Goldsmith & Travers.
Replacements: Lee, Courteney-Walker & Parker.

Photo: Robin Kennedy

Tuesday 17th September Epsom and Ewell Borough Council gave one minute of its time before discarding a motion to take steps to recover an Epsom cemetery of 9000 souls from a private property speculator. The matter came before Councillors sitting on the Strategy and Resources Committee.

Horton Cemetery Hook Road in Epsom, between 1899 and 1955, received the bodies of patient paupers from the Epsom cluster of five psychiatric hospitals. Sold in mysterious circumstances to Marque Securities in 1983 the five acre site has been neglected ever since. Relatives have travelled from as far as Australia to pay respects but cannot enter the private land that is now hazardous to tread. Surrounded by twisted iron railings, unkempt undergrowth and fallen trees.

In an officer’s report to the Councillors it was argued that a compulsory purchase order (CPO) could not be legally obtained.

The officer’s report acknowledged the status of the site as a Cemetery and the prohibition on its development. However, in the opinion of the report author the fact that the owner could walk about the Cemetery and enjoy it as a wood gives it an “amenity woodland ” value. Comparative valuations were provided to Councillors based on sales of woodlands (not cemeteries) in the South-East.

Lionel Blackman, Honorary Secretary to the Friends of Horton Cemetery responded to the latest setback to the aims of the Charity. “Some progress has been made. The “amenity woodland” description now sits alongside the Council’s recognition that the land is a cemetery. On the occasion of the Council’s previous refusal to contemplate a CPO “amenity woodland” dominated the thinking. Nevertheless, it is regrettable that Councillors were not advised of previous cases where CPOs have been used to acquire neglected cemeteries, including Arnos Vale in Bristol and West Norwood.”

He added: “It is in large part a question of money. Pure woodland valuations include the element of speculative development value. That cannot apply to a cemetery the report acknowledges cannot be developed. Where there is a will there is a way. One day the Council will find the will to correct this historic outrage.”

Related reports:

Petition to reclaim Horton Cemetery from property speculator

Local community gathered at Horton Cemetery

You are invited to commemorate the 9000 souls in Epsom’s forgotten cemetery

Council: Horton CPO debate shelved

Image: Horton Cemetery in 1952

Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) is a prevalent condition, particularly affecting peri- and post-menopausal women. It causes significant discomfort in the soft tissue on the outside of the hip and can severely limit mobility. This article discusses the signs, causes, and management of GTPS, with a focus on why it predominantly affects women undergoing hormonal changes.

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Luke Schembri is an Advanced Physiotherapy Practitioner working within the NHS, while also offering care to a limited number of private patients from his home. Born and raised in Epsom, he has always lived near Epsom Downs, which inspired his initial interest in the horseracing industry where he began his physiotherapy career. Luke is dedicated to delivering evidence-based, high-quality care to his local community. In addition, he authors a fortnightly blog that addresses health and wellbeing topics, particularly aimed at individuals over the age of 40.

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What is Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome?

GTPS is characterized by pain and tenderness over the greater trochanter, a bony area on the outside of the hip. The condition involves inflammation of the gluteal tendons or bursa, and although it was once called trochanteric bursitis, the term GTPS is now preferred as it covers a broader range of tendon-related disorders.

Signs and Symptoms

The primary symptom of GTPS is pain over the lateral hip, which can radiate down the outer thigh. Key symptoms include:

– Lateral Hip Pain: Often worsened by activities like lying on the affected side, walking, or sitting in low chairs.

– Tenderness Over the Greater Trochanter: Touching this area typically causes discomfort.

– Pain with Activity: Repetitive movements, such as climbing stairs, exacerbate the pain.

– Night Pain: Pain at night is common, particularly when lying on the affected side.

– Weakness or Stiffness: Some may experience hip weakness or stiffness, affecting their gait.

Why is GTPS Most Common in Peri- and Post-Menopausal Women?

GTPS disproportionately affects women in peri- and post-menopause due to hormonal changes and mechanical stress on the hip. Here are the primary reasons:

Hormonal Changes

The decline in oestrogen during menopause impacts the health of tendons, ligaments, and muscles. Oestrogen plays a critical role in maintaining soft tissue integrity, and reduced levels lead to:

– Decreased Collagen Production: Collagen is essential for tendon strength and elasticity, and its decline makes tendons more prone to injury.

– Increased Tendon Stiffness: Lower oestrogen increases tendon stiffness, contributing to gluteal tendinopathies.

– Altered Pain Perception: Hormonal changes during menopause can heighten sensitivity to pain, worsening GTPS symptoms.

Mechanical Load and Changes

Other factors contributing to GTPS in menopausal women include:

– Increased Load on the Hip: Weight gain during menopause places more stress on the hip joints and surrounding tissues.

– Reduced Physical Activity: Lower activity levels can cause muscle weakness, altering hip mechanics and increasing the likelihood of tendon injuries.

– Altered Gait: Pain-induced changes in walking patterns can further strain the hip and lead to GTPS.

Treatment and Management of GTPS

Treatment for GTPS involves conservative methods, physiotherapy, and sometimes more invasive procedures, following the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines, which recommend starting with non-invasive options.

1. Conservative Management

   – Rest and Activity Modification: Reducing activities that worsen symptoms, such as standing for long periods or lying on the affected side, is crucial. Using a pillow between the knees when sleeping may help alleviate pressure on the hip.

   – Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): These medications can reduce pain and inflammation and are often recommended as initial treatment.

2. Physiotherapy

   Physiotherapy plays a key role in treating GTPS and involves:

   – Strengthening Exercises: Targeted exercises to strengthen the hip abductors, particularly the gluteus medius and minimus, improve hip stability and reduce strain on the tendons.

   – Manual Therapy: Techniques such as deep tissue massage and myofascial release can help relieve muscle tightness and provide short-term pain relief.

   – Education and Advice: Physiotherapists offer valuable guidance on managing activities and loading the hip joint to prevent further injury.

3. Shockwave Therapy

   Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive option that promotes healing by delivering shockwaves to the affected area. Some studies show positive outcomes for GTPS patients treated with ESWT.

4. Corticosteroid Injections

   For patients who do not respond to conservative treatments, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation. However, repeated injections can weaken the tendons, so they are not a long-term solution.

5. Surgery

   Surgery is rare and reserved for severe cases where other treatments have failed. Options include removing the inflamed bursa or repairing the tendons.

Conclusion

Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome is a common condition that primarily affects peri- and post-menopausal women. Hormonal changes and mechanical stress on the hip contribute to its development. Effective treatment usually involves conservative management, physiotherapy, and sometimes shockwave therapy or injections. Early diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan can help alleviate symptoms, improve function, and enhance the quality of life for those affected by GTPS.

New Government proposals for housing targets have prompted a passionate response from local officials, community groups, and residents. The Government’s recent consultation on planning reform suggests a dramatic 41% increase in the number of homes to be built in Epsom and Ewell, a figure that has alarmed many and sparked fears of irreversible damage to the borough’s unique character and environment.

Councillor Neil Dallen MBE (RA Town Ward), Vice Chair of Licensing and Planning Policy, led the charge in voicing opposition to the Government’s proposals in a letter addressed to Angela Rayner MP, the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government. Cllr Dallen’s letter paints a dire picture of the potential impact of the housing increase, emphasising that the proposed rise from 576 to 817 homes per year would place immense pressure on the borough’s already-stretched infrastructure and services.

“We are happy to ‘play our part’ and accept that some new housing is needed,” Dallen writes, acknowledging the need for development in line with local plans. However, he warned that the scale of the increase could “destroy our historic district and market town if they come to fruition.” According to Dallen, the increased housing numbers would lead to “endless planning by appeal, change the character of the district, and entirely undermine the plan-led system of Local Plans.”

Dallen also pointed to the significant challenges posed by the geography and heritage of Epsom and Ewell. “With around 50 per cent of the district as Green Belt,” he noted, there is already limited space for development. Protected areas such as Epsom Downs, Epsom Common, and Horton Country Park add further constraints, leaving “few available sites” for development. Dallen concluded his letter with a plea for the Government to consider the borough’s unique challenges and ensure that the final version of the new National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) “does not do irreparable damage to valuable and historic parts of the Country.”

The sentiment expressed by Cllr Dallen has resonated with local residents and community groups, particularly the Epsom Green Belt Group, who have been vocal in their opposition to the housing targets. In a letter to the Epsom and Ewell Times, the group echoed Dallen’s concerns, calling the proposed target of 817 homes per year “undeliverable” and warning that the borough could face severe consequences if the plans proceed unchecked.

“Once it’s gone, it’s gone forever,” the group writes, referring to the potential loss of Green Belt land. They argue that the mandatory housing target would require building on 21 hectares of Green Belt land per year to achieve, an act that would “increase the housing in the Borough by 50% over the plan period,” bringing with it traffic problems, pressure on schools, and strain on local healthcare services.

The group points to the example of Elmbridge, another borough facing similar housing pressures, as a potential model for Epsom and Ewell to follow. In Elmbridge, the council submitted a draft local plan that restricted development to brownfield sites only, with no Green Belt sites included. Although the planning inspector raised concerns about Elmbridge’s plan, the Epsom Green Belt Group believes there are lessons to be learned. “Our draft Local Plan should be more prescriptive about what affordable and social housing is required from each site,” the group argues, suggesting that council-owned sites like Hook Road Car Park could be earmarked for 100% affordable housing.

The group’s letter also highlighted the importance of protecting the borough’s Green Belt, arguing that there are “no exceptional circumstances” that justify the release of Green Belt land for development. They urge the council to resist any voluntary agreements that would allow Green Belt development, emphasising that planning officers should be guided by a strategy put together by elected councillors.

The open letter from Epsom and Ewell BC, addressed to all residents of Epsom and Ewell, calls on the community to unite in opposition to the Government’s proposals. The group stresses that the scale of the housing increase could have devastating effects on the borough’s heritage and environment, and they urge residents to take action before it is too late. “We need your help to meet this threat to the historic and market town of Epsom & Ewell,” the letter states, encouraging local organisations and residents to respond to the Government consultation before it closes on 24th September.

Cllr Hannah Dalton, Chair of the Residents’ Association (RA) Group, which currently leads the council, has also spoken out against the Government’s housing proposals. Echoing the concerns raised by Dallen and the Epsom Green Belt Group, Dalton warned that the increased housing targets could “destroy our historic district and market town if they come to fruition.” She acknowledged the need for new housing but described the proposed numbers as “immense” and unsustainable. “The previous housing figures were already difficult to achieve and unfairly distributed across the country,” she said. “These new proposals make that even more difficult.”

Hannah Dalton also pointed to the borough’s high population density, noting that Epsom and Ewell is “over five times denser than the average in England.” With half of the district protected as Green Belt or other types of protected land, the scope for development is extremely limited. She stressed the importance of submitting a strong response to the Government’s consultation, outlining the “serious harm this scale of development will bring.”

The Council’s letter to residents, and the voices of councillors like Dallen and Dalton, underline the growing anxiety within Epsom and Ewell about the future of the borough. With the Government planning to publish a revised NPPF by Christmas, there is a palpable sense of urgency to the debate. The window for public consultation closes on 24th September, leaving little time for local residents and officials to make their voices heard.

As the consultation deadline approaches, many in the borough are calling for the Government to reconsider its housing targets and take a more measured approach to development. “You cannot squeeze a quart into a pint pot,” Cllr O’Donovan remarked, a sentiment that seems to encapsulate the feelings of many in the community. The next few months will be crucial in determining whether Epsom and Ewell can preserve its unique character while still accommodating the need for new homes.

Related reports:

Epsom and Ewell Brace for Government Housing Targets

Anchored in reason on local housing need?

Special Educational Needs families should be  exempt from Government plans put VAT on independent school fees, six Surrey MPs have said.

Claire Coutinho, Jeremy Hunt, Ben Spencer, Rebecca Paul, Greg Stafford and Lincoln Jopp argue in a open letter to the chancellor Rachel Reeves, that VAT on school fees misunderstands the sacrifices many families make to give their children a better life.

They said the 20 per cent increase would force parents to send their children to state schools and increase pressure on the system – applications from parents “transferring from independent schools” in Surrey jumped from 116 between November 2022 to August 2023, to 382 the following year when Labour’s VAT plans on private schools gained traction.

The Conservative Surrey MPs said price rises disproportionately affect educational needs pupils as 93,000 children at special independent schools do not have Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP).

If their parents are unable to afford the increases, they argue, children would have to attend schools less able to cater to their complex situations.

The Treasury argues that ending tax breaks on private schools will help recruit 6,500 new teachers while children in local authorities where their needs can only be met in private schools will not have the fees apply to them. 

East Surrey MP, Claire Coutinho, said: “One in four children in Surrey attend an independent school.

“Their parents are saving the Government money by paying for their independent school, and paying for a state school place through their taxes. 

“To penalise them for this and increase pressure in the state system is wrong.

“As a former minister for special educational needs, I am acutely aware about the impact that Labour’s tax changes will have on children with special and complex needs. 

“These families, who have often faced uphill battles to find a school that meets their child’s needs, will now be taxed and many children who have settled in a school environment will be forced to move.

“Labour must reconsider this ideological policy and introduce an immediate exemption for SEND children.”

The Government argues that it has carefully considered the impact ending VAT will have on pupils, families and schools across both the state and private sector.

Ending tax breaks on private schools, it said, would help raise revenue to change education,.

 The Government  does not expect significant numbers to move to the state sector part way through the academic year, citing the stable number of children in independent schools since 2000 – despite a near 75 per cent “real terms increase”  in average private school fees over that time.

Pupils in independent schools, funded by local authorities because their needs can only be met privately, will not have the fees apply to them as the council’s will be able to reclaim the VAT.

A government spokesperson said: “We want to ensure all children have the best chance in life to succeed. Ending tax breaks on private schools will help to raise the revenue needed to fund our education priorities for next year, such as recruiting 6,500 new teachers.

“Fees for students with an Education, Health and Care Plan that states their needs cannot be met in the state sector will have their private school fees paid by the Local Authority that can then reclaim the VAT they pay.”

Relared reports:

Taxing question for Surrey’s private schools

_{Claire Coutinho MP for East Surrey}