Coronation Outcomes

WELCOME TO DORKING THE HIDDEN GEM

OF THE SURREY HILLS

WELCOME

Greetings from the charming market town of Dorking We wanted to share the outcomes of our Coronation Programme, recently shortlisted for an Association of Town and City Management ‘Best Social and Community Contribution Scheme’ for the DorKing Coronation event. The winner will be announced at the ATCM Summer School Awards Dinner in Leicester on June 21st. The rest of this document shares the Coronation event, our partners and what we acheived on the day

The DorKing Coronation was a celebration of Dorking’s community spirit. The event was designed to create a legacy to create something truly meaningful, whether that's committing to support local high street businesses, adopting a new sustainable practice, or volunteering in the community Here are the results:

Approximately 5,000 attendees

85+ Nominations for Community Spirit Awards with 3 winners

40+ Volunteer Village and Sustainability Market Vendors

29 artist submissions, with 1750 public votes to select 5 winners

8 musical acts and entertainers

12 radio interviews

7articles in the press

3 media placements at the railway stations

4,700 downloads of our e-zine, 8,800 impressions and 125,000 link impressions

1 digital art trail by a local artist, in collaboration with LoyalFree - The Place Promotion App and Waitrose & Partners

1 letter of congratulations from the Royal Household

Thank you for your support

MEET AWARD-WINNING

PHILIPPA MC FARLANE, FOUNDER OF SANDROCK HOUSE

5 WEST ST, DORKING

PROGRAMME

HIGH STREET (BARCLAYS)

VOLUNTEER VILLAGE, SUSTAINABLE MARKET, LIVE MUSIC, SELFIES WITH ROYALS, FACEPAINTING

12:00

MARTINEAU BRASS

ST MARTIN'S WALK 13:00

VOLUNTEER VILLAGE, SELFIES WITH ROYALS, HENNA ARTIST

DORKING HALLS + SPORTS CENTRE

VOLUNTEER VILLAGE, LIVE MUSIC, SELFIES WITH ROYALS, FOOD TRUCK

SOUTH STREET GARDENS UNITED REFORM CHURCH

VOLUNTEER VILLAGE, SUSTAINABLE MARKET, LIVE MUSIC, SELFIES

FACE PAINTING, CRAFTS FOR KIDS

12:15

DORKING SHOW CHOIR

RAMPANT ROOSTERS

12:30 THE DANCE PROJECT 13:30

SPORTS CENTRE TASTER SESSION

DORKING CHORAL

MARTINEAU BRASS

HELLO DORKING

13:15

DORKING SHOW CHOIR

SPORTS CENTRE TASTER SESSION

RAMPANT ROOSTERS

DORKING CHORAL

PROGRAMME

MEET ANDREW AND VICKY MAGNANI, FOUNDERS OF THE MAYFLOWER SPA

61 WEST STREET, DORKING

HIGH STREET (BARCLAYS)

VOLUNTEER VILLAGE, SUSTAINABLE MARKET, LIVE MUSIC, SELFIES WITH ROYALS, FACEPAINTING

14:00

RAMPANT ROOSTERS

ST MARTIN'S WALK 15:00

MARTINEAU BRASS

HELLO DORKING

VOLUNTEER VILLAGE, SELFIES WITH ROYALS, HENNA ARTIST

DORKING HALLS + SPORTS CENTRE

VOLUNTEER VILLAGE, LIVE MUSIC, SELFIES WITH ROYALS, FOOD TRUCK

VOLUNTEER VILLAGE, SUSTAINABLE MARKET, LIVE MUSIC, SELFIES

PRESENTATION OF AWARDS AT SOUTH STREET GARDENS

SOUTH STREET GARDENS UNITED REFORM CHURCH 14:30

SPORTS CENTRE TASTER SESSION

RAMPANT ROOSTERS

SPORTS CENTRE TASTER SESSION

CLOSE OF THE DAY

15:15

DORKING CHORAL

FACE PAINTING, CRAFTS FOR KIDS

FIND YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE IN

DORKING

HIGH STREET (BARCLAYS)

SOUTH STREET GARDENS

MAP LEGEND

VOLUNTEER VILLAGES + SUSTAINABLE MARKETS

34 organisations and businesses are joining us, shining a light on what's right here on our doorstep for all to see. Our 'Big Help Out' will create a legacy that will be the kick-off to something truly meaningful for everyone.

ART EXHIBITION

29 artists joined us to celebrate the King's Coronation with art. Nearly 1,750 votes were cast and three winners were selected Two highly commended were also recognised. We will feature them in our shops and in our public exhibition on our high streets.

GETTING HERE

Each of Dorking’s three stations are served by trains from both Victoria and Waterloo (approximately 55 minutes). For train times please visit www.nationalrail.co.uk. Walking directions from Dorking’s main station and Dorking Deepdene station can be found here and from Dorking West can be found here Parking is free on the day - find car parks here

ST MARTIN'S WALK

DORKING HALLS + SPORTS CENTRE

UNITED REFORM CHURCH

JOIN OUR ART TRAIL

EXPLORE OUR TRAIL

1

STEP Download LoyalFree

Complete our Coronation Art Trail, created by Sam TM! Scan the QR codes featured in the trail and be entered into a raffle to win a hamper sponsored by Waitrose. Finish half of the trail and be entered into a raffle for a smaller hamper!

2

STEP Visit our shops

From award-winning, nationally recognised salons, spas, luxury lingerie, sustainable clothing, to our outstanding professional

services – to homeware and gifting, to cafes to butchers, to a thriving interior design stroke antiques quarter, Dorking really does have something for everyone

VOLUNTEER VILLAGE + SUSTAINABLE MARKET

THE BIG HELP OUT

The DorKing Coronation is a celebration of Dorking’s community spirit. We are shining a light on what's right here on our doorstep for all to see and we want this event to create a legacy that will be the kick-off to something truly meaningful for everyone, whether that's committing to support local high street businesses, adopting a new sustainable practice, or volunteering in the community. To do this we are embracing and sharing ‘The Big Help Out’ message and hope that locals and visitors alike will join us.

9 SUSTAINABLE STALLS

20 VOLUNTEER ORGANISATIONS

6 FAMILY FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES

5 MUSICAL ACTS

1 GREAT DAY ALDAG

ALDAG aims to support all young adults with learning disabilities to ensure they are provided with the opportunities to lead fulfilling lives within their local community.

Artist Susie West

Artist Susie West is busy painting her way around Britain's lovely cities, towns and villages, starting with an acrylic painting and then turning them into collectable travel poster prints

The Ashcombe School

The Ashcombe School is a coeducational secondary school and sixth form located in Dorking in the English county of Surrey.

Bee Happy Face Painting

Bee Happy Face Painting loves adding colour and sparkle to all events, parties and fairs! Feel free to contact Lerryn for quotes and availability.

Bon Vivant Food

The name of "Bon Vivant" derives from the French saying describing a person who is "living well" - enjoying the finer things in life; good food and a luxury lifestyle!

Born Free Foundation

Born Free joins all Dorking residents and businesses in celebrating ALL the entries to the Dorking Coronation Community Spirit Awards

Circular Clothing Collective

I am on a mission to show you don’t have to sacrifice style in order to be more sustainable, challenge some of the stigma around preloved clothing and bring awareness to the wealth of other options available.

BORN FREE FOUNDATION

Circular Dorking

Circular Dorking is a network of businesses, community groups and individuals who are working together as volunteers to strengthen our Dorking community, by creating a local circular economy at its heart This will mean we are all better placed to support each other to deal with the challenges of climate change and future uncertainty.

Citizens Advice Mole Valley

We have been helping local people in Mole Valley for over 80 years. We opened our office in Leatherhead in 1939 (one of the first in the country), with Dorking following in 1941. Citizens Advice Mole Valley was established in 2006 when our 2 offices merged We provide free, confidential and independent advice to everyone.

Community Orchard

The Community Orchard is a community project and the orchard is open to everyone!

Dorking Camera Club

Dorking Camera Club is a friendly club for anyone with an interest in photography, regardless of gender, level of skill or camera equipment. If you want to take your photography to the next level consider joining us and get more out of your hobby.

Dorking Minds

A charitable volunteer group that aims to help people in the Dorking area to take control of their mental health.

Dorking Men’s Shed

Dorking Mens Shed launched in Summer 2019. We are a member of the 'Mens Shed' movement - community spaces for men to connect, converse and create The activities are designed to help reduce loneliness and isolation, but most importantly, they’re fun.

Dorking Museum

Dorking Museum is a small local history Museum, run entirely by Volunteers The Museum tells the story of Dorking and the surrounding area from Cretaceous times right through to the present day when the 2012 Olympic Road Race came through our town

THE DORKING MUSEUM

Dorking Scouts

Dorking District Scouts is part of The Scout Association of the United Kingdom and is 1 of 18 Scout Districts which together make up Surrey Scouts We provide everyday adventure for 600 young people in the heart of the Surrey Hills.

Dorking Sports Centre

Take Advantage Of Incredible Facilities Including Creche & Physiotherapy. Creating Active Places For Healthy People. Flexible Contracts Available Physiotherapy Amenities: City centre location, Free WiFi, Expert team.

Dorking Choral Society

Dorking Choral Society is a friendly, non-auditioned choir of around 60 voices. The choir sings to a high standard under the direction of professional Musical Director, Daniel Mahoney

Dorking Rotary

Rotary in Dorking is part of the Rotary International, the world's largest voluntary service organisation One of Rotary's key objectives is the eradication of Polio worldwide.

Food Float FoodFloat is a community interest company, run by the community for the community It has been running in Dorking for 13 years now and continues to grow with the help of its volunteers.

Honey Bees Face Painting

Bringing fun & colourful designs to parties, fayres, christenings & events.

THE FOOD FLOAT

VOLUNTEER

VILLAGE +

SUSTAINABLE MARKET

O R O N A T I O N C O C K T A I L

Ingredients

Glass

Cubed Ice

50 ml Insane Ostrich Classic Gin (or your fave gin)

25 ml Elderflower Cordial

12.5 ml (or 1/2 a lemon) Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice

Lemon Wedge

Top with Prosecco

Straw

Cheers!

God Save the King!

Cocktail developed by The Gin Kitchen

VOLUNTEER VILLAGE + SUSTAINABLE MARKET

Ike and Gabe

Bespoke scented candles, hand-etched glassware and individually handmade ceramics, created for your home.

Gin

Kitchen

Infused with the finest ingredients sourced from around the globe, handcrafted in an artisan distillery at the heart of the Surrey Hills, the Gin Kitchen produces a beautiful collection of luxury gins and signature spirits to entice and enthral

Lucy’s Dance Project

Here at the Dance Project, we believe in nurturing your child’s natural abilities through inventiveness and creativity, encouraging personal and physical confidence through fun, dance and performance from tots to teens and beyond!

Martineau Brass Band

Martineau Brass are a quintet that have now been playing together for around 15 years, during which time they have built up a large repertoire of music on which they draw for their performances

THE VINEYARD, DORKING

Midsurrey Community Fridge

We believe that no food should go to waste and that everyone should have access to fresh, healthy food. Our award-winning team works tirelessly 5 days a week to rescue good, surplus food that would otherwise go to landfill and to bring it to our community

Mole Valley Arts Alive

The aim of MVAA was to encourage all ages to participate in local arts, and there were around sixty events The majority were talks, presentations and live music. In 1997 the festival was renamed Arts Alive

Ozzy’s Organic Sweets

Ozzy's Dry Food and Organic sweets offers authentic, organic sweets and dried food Their customers rave about the quality and deliciousness of their products. Not to be missed!

Paws Animal Sanctuary

We have been rescuing animals for 30 years. Paws attained charitable status in 2002 Our aim is to rescue and rehome as many animals in need as we possibly can, and our volunteerswork tirelessly to this end, last year ' s figure of 850 animals rehomed should give you an idea of just how dedicated everyone is here at Paws.

VOLUNTEER VILLAGE + SUSTAINABLE MARKET

The Repair Cafe

The Repair Cafe is a free meeting place and it’s all about repairing things (together) We have tools and materials and experts to help you make any repairs you need.

Rampant Roosters

Rampant Roosters were the first Morris side to be based in Dorking and adopted the cockerel of the famous Dorking breed as their emblem

Silent Pool

Taking their inspiration from Scottish whisky distilleries, Silent Pool founders founders Ian McCulloch and James Shelbourne started out with a grand vision of making a truly sustainable distillery next to a fresh water source, producing handcrafted, artisan spirits using locally sourced ingredients.

Show Choir

Come and join us for a free taster session, and have fun singing all the big West End show songs. Just bring a bottle of water and a smile No need to read music, no auditions, you never have to sing on your own (unless you want to!)

Snappy Twigs Forest School

Snappy Twigs Forest School provides a fun space to play, relax, chat and explore new activities regularly in the local woods in Dorking Run by a forest school leader and helped sometimes by an experienced helper, we provide a woodland experience and activities with a community spirit

Tikka Nation

An Indian Takeaway and Eat In providing an excellent quality traditional and contemporary Indian food in a Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) form. Here to tantalise your taste buds with dishes like Chicken Tikka, Paneer Tikka, Chaats, Vada Pao, Masala Chai and many more.

The Village Cakery

We are twinned with Gouvieux in France, Guglingen in Germany and Sinalunga in Italy We also have a link with Duxbury in the US due to the Mullins and Mayflower link. The aim is to maintain cordial relationships with our European neighbours and provide a facility for young people to experience cultural and language differences in a fun and educational way.

There cannot be a celebration without cake! Come find us to enjoy a slice of quality fresh cakes, mouthwatering cupcakes, delicious chocolate chip cookies and really chocolatey brownies

TIKKA NATION, DORKING

MEET THE ARTISTS

MEET THE ARTISTS

We are celebrating the DorKing Coronation in true Dorking style: by embracing our local artistic flair, independence and spirit From February 20 to March 9, we held an art competition to feature the creativity and spirit of Dorking artists. We hope that all of our artists are as proud as we are of them to be featured on our high streets and in our shop windows. The three winners will receive a trophy to commemorate the occasion, sponsored by The Boothole

First Place: Faith Conway-Dickens

Second Place: Tiffany Budd

Third Place: Sarajane Ferris

Faith Conway-Dickens

29 ARTISTS

1,750 VOTES

AWARD WINNERS SELECTED BY PUBLIC VOTE

"Hi, I’m Faith Conway-Dickens, and I love a lot of things, I like my cat of course his name is Socks I love drawing and painting, ice skating and hanging out with my friends. I love playing ROBLOX with all my friends I like the movie ‘Stranger things’ and squish-mallows And my cat Socks is very funny, he is black and white I love him very much He is the best My dad has bought me very good pens/pencils which will help me with my skill with drawing/painting!"

- Faith Conway-Dickens First Place

ART COMPETITION AWARD WINNERS

'I just love Dorking, it's an incredibly unique and special place I was married at Denbies Vineyard, and exhibit in the art gallery regularly.

I live just up the road in Capel, with my studio in Newdigate There are so many special places to visit here and in my banner art piece I wanted to include every one I could think of keeping it fun, clear, concise and colourful. This included Leith Hill, Stepping Stones, Box Hill, Denbies and of course, the cyclists!!

I used acrylic paint as this gives the painting a lovely strong colour As a professional artist, I am known for using bold colour, strong lines and making things look a little bit different, which is what I tried to achieve in my banner painting, with the curving road heading up to the top of Box Hill

I am a full time artist with a studio in Newdigate and won awards for my artwork. I have collectors all over the world. I especially love painting commissions for clients, be it pet portraits or landscapes, anything is possible!

Every day in my studio is different and I wouldn't want it any other way. '

- Tiffany Budd Second Place

Tiffany Budd

ART COMPETITION AWARD WINNERS

The Star Beneath The Moon by SarajaneTwinkleton Art

This is Sarajane’s creative interpretation of The Star pub at the entrance to West Street Dorking, hand drawn with pen and ink, it enables the viewer to visit an imaginary world called Twinkleton, a magical place where the moon shines bright on a night of falling stars Since December 2021, Sarajane has been creating this series of night time illustrations which depict much loved scenes around The Surrey Hills and always with a starry twist

She also creates commissions of people’s homes, businesses, wedding venues and memorable places. You can find more Twinkleton Art at South Street Gallery, Dorking, RH4 2EU - Open Tues - Sat 10am - 5pm. There is also a piece currently on display at The Dorking Halls cafe and bar, part of The Creative Makers Art Gallery, Curated by Dapper and Suave.

Sarajane responded to the news: "I'm absolutely over the moon that Twinkleton Artwork has been picked and especially honoured to be displayed in West Street Thank you, it has been a great opportunity to celebrate some of the wonderful creative talent here in Dorking, congratulations and well done to everyone involved."

- Sarajane Third Place

ART COMPETITION HIGHLY COMMENDED

MEET THE ARTISTS

The artists' work will be displayed on lamp post banners throughout the summer at the entrances of town and across the banner on West Street for the Coronation period We will also distribute A3 posters displaying our winners' work in Dorking businesses.

Highly Commended: Lucy Rose

Highly Commended: Kelly, Sienna and Riley

Morgan

Kelly, Sienna and Riley Morgan

Lucy Rose

HOLMESTORES

MEETOUR SUSTAINABILITY CHAMPION FINALISTS

MEET THE FINALISTS

SUSTAINABILITY CHAMPION

Our sustainability champion can be any individual who is leading, or who is taking steps to lead change in their organisation, business or in society to transform our community into a more sustainable place

Out of 22 nominations, we have eight finalists The winner will receive a special gift sponsored by the Born Free Foundation and a £100 Shop Local gift voucher, courtesy of Hello Dorking (the Dorking Business Improvement District) Winners will be announced on 8th May at 2pm at the DorKing Coronation Celebration.

Clare Davies

Clare co-founded the Dorking Community Fridge which became so successful that it has become Mid Surrey Community Fridges Clare had a vision of preventing food which is still good to unnecessary go to landfill She negotiated with the local supermarkets to receive and make such goods available to the community. This was done without the stigma that it is for poor people but rather it was everyone who cared for the planet I have taken my children to the community fridge specifically to teach them about food waste and how together we can be more responsible towards the resources available Clare recently announced that she was stepping down as a CEO of The Mid Surrey Community Fridges but her founding work and dedication were so incredible and important that it would be astonishing if she does not get recognised for it

CLARE DAVIES

SUSTAINABILITY CHAMPION FINALISTS

Kirsten Johnson

Kirsten has spearheaded so many projects to ensure the future of what makes this area so beautiful and encourages its community to flourish. Kirsten was seminal in setting up a Just Bring Yourself™ (JBY), a community interest company initially set up to address the vast amount of rubbish left by visitors to Box Hill over lockdown; the company ' s ethos is to convince visitors to love the countryside and become deeply vested in its future through inspiring natural history guided walks, particularly for children and groups lacking access to nature

Lainey Hanson

Lainey Hanson launched the Circular Clothing Collective last year to show that you don't have to sacrifice style to be more sustainable She is single handedly challenging the stigma around preloved clothing by bringing awareness to the wealth of other options available

LAINEY HANSON, CIRCULAR CLOTHING COLLECTIVE

SUSTAINABILITY CHAMPION FINALISTS

HolmeStores

Holmestores have transformed the Dorking Deli into a totally sustainably built concept from the ground up:

-eliminated glass and single-use plastic from soft drink range

-serve beer & wine on tap in recyclable keykegs to reduce waste and glass/plastic consumption

-use commercial-grade refillable plant based cleaning products throughout the business

-use who gives a crap™ loo roll

-use organic milk to reduce the carbon footprint of one of our highest used products

-champion British products

-grow some of our own produce

- and seek to develop this further in 2024

-most furniture and lighting made from reclaimed wood

-paperless business

We made our printer redundant 6 months ago

-all packaging recyclable/ compostable

-use planting on our outside terrace to encourage bees

-eliminated gas from our kitchenuse 100% sustainable energy from octopus solar farm in Hailsham -use sustainably sourced Surrey Hills wood for our pizza oven

-all lighting is LED

Lighting in low traffic areas (toilets etc) use movement sensors to save energy

-switched our oat milk from an international brand to British brand Wild Oats™

Offer Sproud™ split-pea milk. I instead of soya milk as a more sustainable option

-kitchen aprons made from sustainable fabrics

-new front-of-house uniforms under development with sustainable clothing brand

SUSTAINABILITY CHAMPION FINALISTS

Powell Corderoy Primary School Council

The pupils of Powell Corderoy Primary School recently decided, through their school council, to sign up to the ReFood initiative, to help fight food waste within their school by investing in a special ReFood bin to recycle leftover food and its packaging

Alwen South

I have been running Dorking Community Freebay for nearly 3 years. Its a group running on facebook born during covid. The ethos is Reduce, Reuse & Recycle within our local community. I work with the Community to reduce landfill and at the same time build support for each other & encourage friendships Through the group we also support individuals who are rebuilding their lives following Domestic violence situations and w Breast Cancer c with as have per something that I

SUSTAINABILITY CHAMPION FINALISTS

Pat Smith

Pat created Dorking Climate Emergency, helped instigate Circular Dorking, & leads outreach for Surrey Climate Commission She leads by example, walking, cycling, composting, fundraising, public speaking. Pat is a skilled organiser, motivator & teacher.

Pat has her fingers in every sustainability pie in Dorking and Mole Valley She coleads Dorking Climate Emergency, a voluntary group who campaign and share their passion for a greener Dorking. Through that, she helped establish Circular Dorking, a group of shop and business owners who promote shop local and zero waste. As a Pixham resident and lover of the River Mole, she has helped raise the profile of the sewage pollution in our beloved river Her energy spreads, having been instrumental in running Leatherhead's climate hub and as a leading member of the Surrey Climate Commission's outreach group (including setting up our Sustainability map of Surrey). The list goes on! Her energy is infectious, and she always goes to great lengths to bring people with her and to celebrate everyone ' s contribution She really is a local sustainability leader Vote Pat!

Amanda Wheatland

Amanda has set up the Dorking Repair Cafe, which is going from strength to strength, manned by a fellow group of marvellous volunteers As well as being the backbone of the group, organising the monthly Repair Cafe, Amanda volunteers each month on the textiles team. The Repair Cafe enables people from Dorking and surrounds to get myriad broken items fixed, from clothing to electrical items to bikes to garden tools to sewing machines and food mixers. This keeps items in use and out of landfill, materially contributing to sustainability in Dorking and surrounds It would be brilliant for Amanda to be recognised, as external recognition of the success of the Repair Cafe.

COMMUNITY SPIRIT AWARDS

MEET THE FINALISTS

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

We are recognising those who go the extra mile for their local community Volunteers add value to our community that can be difficult to quantify. Hear from both the nomination submission and the Judges in the following sections. Six finalists have been selected from 26 nominations. Winners will be announced on 8th May at 2pm at the DorKing Coronation Celebration The winner will receive a £100 Shop Local gift voucher, courtesy of Hello Dorking (the Dorking Business Improvement District).

Kathy Atherton

From the Nominator: Kathy leads by example. She devotes many hours every week to successfully making Dorking Museum the best heritage centre for the community and for the volunteers, helping to bring visitors from all over to the town Kathy provides direction for every aspect of the operation, getting involved in all the activities She is a prolific author, she gives engaging talks, she organises all the exhibitions and provides leadership for the walking tours, the cave tours and the family activities, engaging the local community whenever possible Kathy brings impressive professional skills to bear as the museum prepares for accreditation by the Arts Council, writing the policies and procedures required while leading the way on diversity, inclusion and accessibility She manages to take every challenge in her stride while encouraging others. Kathy does all this with good humour and grace. She is generous and supportive and is respected and loved by everyone she meets

From the Judges:

A great ambassador for Dorking Keeping Dorking on the map! She does so many great initiatives and brings so many people a great deal of pleasure She is well known well beyond Dorking, through the books she has written, the talks she gives, the walks and other events she organises. What a great volunteer.

COMMUNITY SPIRIT AWARDS

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

FINALISTS

Clare Davies

From the Nominator: Clare Davies. Well what can I say except she is an absolute legend? Clare does so many wonderful things for Dorking. She is synonymous with Dorking and what makes Dorking Dorking Humility, Coolness, Talent, Boundless Creativity, Can-Do-It-Ness, Unstoppable With Clare on your side, we are literally unstopabble Everything Clare touches is a success Won the Queen's Award last year, she is just the most incredible person. We wouldn't be Dorking without her.

From the Judges: Claire has created so many amazing initiatives from nothing that has benefitted so many local people.

COMMUNITY SPIRIT AWARDS

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR FINALISTS

Simon Edmands

From the Nominator:

Simon gives his time freely for many charities and the whole of Dorking. He does this with advice and help and running many fundraising quizzes for Friends of Dorking, Dorking & District Town Twinning Association, PSDS, support for Dorking Christmas Lights, MND and many more. All of this with huge cheerfulness and fun There is probably far more to his giving of which we may not know.

He is a very active Rotarian but additionally works hard to support the Christmas lights appeal, runs quizzes for charities and lends his barge every single year to charities including children in Darfur. He is arguably the most active volunteer in the district for countless causes.

Simon's achievements are endless. He diligently supports so many as a Campaigner for MND Charity quizmaster and to all who ask Simon is incredibly modest about what he does.

Simon makes such a difference - without him the town would be a less happy place, and charities would not have as many funding opportunities.

From the Judges:

Nominated several times, this volunteer is clearly and inspirational leader in his community and spreads his efforts across many different organisations.

COMMUNITY SPIRIT AWARDS VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR FINALISTS

Jacqui Hamlin

From the Nominator: Jacqui organises Community Festival Pippfest and inspires a team of grass roots volunteers and artists to create an incredible event with very little funding. She makes the magic happen! All to raise awareness of keeping Pippbrook House in the hearts and minds of the local community and ultimately to save the building.

From the Judges:

As an organiser of many events myself I know just how much effort goes into creating events like the Pippbrook Festival This lady brings so much pleasure to so many and has shown such great leadership in the town.

JACQUI HAMLIN

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR FINALISTS

Tony Knight

From the Nominator:

Tony has been a stalwart of local football for more than 30 years As a founding member of Dorking Wanderers he was a lynch pin in putting Dorking on the sporting map. However, he chose not to take the easy option by piggy backing on the clubs latter day success but instead by leading many other local clubs, coaching children of different ages for the last 10 years in an independent and voluntary capacity Tony, gives his all every week 3 times a week to set up training, matches and extention sessions for the hardest age group to engage, the U17s Not only does Tony take time to coach so successfully, but he did so when the chips were down.

When Dorking Wanderers decided to increase their signing on fees by 300%

Tony recognised the demographic of young footballers and their families under his tutelage could ill afford the new fees Instead of just allowing them to take a hit and lose 60 young local footballers to the ether; he set up a new team (partly subsidised by himself) to ensure those children and families most vulnerable to being lost to local football, and sport in general were not lost.

Tony inspires the young adults under his tutelage and the families and siblings around them. He is quiet, shy and has never for a moment thought of himself whilst striving to help others in this local community This is why Tony is the perfect candidate for this local award.

From the Judges:

I have heard of the amazing work this chap has done in Dorking. Such commitment to his community and particularly the young people of Dorking

COMMUNITY SPIRIT AWARDS

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR FINALISTS

Di Sutherland

From the Nominator:

Di has been running 9th Dorking Brownies for around 35 years. She has given her time and enthusiasm freely each week - planning, running weekly Brownie meetings and organising many pack holidays. The Brownies gain confidence, independence and always have great fun Di is retiring this July and this would be a fitting tribute to her dedication to Girlguiding.

From the Judges: With a track record of 35 years running the 9th Dorking Brownie Group – that is some achievement. It would be a fitting tribute for her to be recognised in the run down to her retirement.

MEETOUR BESTHIGH STREET BUSINESS FINALISTS

BASIL AND SUSAN DOHA, MULLINS COFFEE HOUSE

MEET THE FINALISTS

BEST HIGH STREET BUSINESS

These are the bricks and mortar businesses that are contributing to the success of Dorking High Street. Businesses that are helping others, rejuvenating the high street, and supporting each other They can be a new business, a start up, or a long-standing business. The winner will be announced on 8th May at 2pm at the DorKing Coronation Celebration, and will receive a £100 Shop Local gift voucher, courtesy of Hello DorkingDorking Business Improvement District.

Mullins Coffee Shop: Basil Doha

From the Nominator: Basil and Susan Doha own Mullins Coffee House and they are a wonderful champions for Dorking High Street and ambassadors for Dorking. Basil and Susan travelled to the US for the 400th anniversary of the sailing of the Mayflower, organising many of the activities to ensure Dorking has a place at the table with our US neighbours in Duxbury, MA

Basil volunteers his time at the Dorking BID, a volunteer role that he does diligently, and works very hard to ensure the voices of the West Street Association and other levy payers are heard He is a balanced and thoughtful advocate for all businesses and I find him to be measured and even in his approach He works tirelessly to support Dorking's rejuvenation He is an advocate for all businesses and I am proud to know him. I can't think of a better high street hero. He has skin in the game, he actually has a shop on the high street and works so hard every day to ensure everyone is taken care of You'll find Basil washing the pavement in front of his historic shop because he truly cares What a community asset he is Basil doesn't just say he supports the high street or his fellow businesses -- he walks the walk He supports businesses and the community because he truly cares about the future of Dorking. We should be very proud to have someone like Basil running a shop and supporting local in Dorking We need more Basils and Susans in Dorking!

From the Judges: Mullins Coffee Shop - Basil is clearly someone prepared to get his hands dirty to make Dorking a great place to live and work. He goes above and beyond to put Dorking on the map.

BEST HIGH STREET BUSINESS FINALISTS

S.C. Fuller

From the Nominator:

Not only is Fullers our oldest shop but it has mutated to try and match the needs of the town Andrew and Liz do so much to keep Dorking going They have stuck to their traditions with a twist! Dorking without Fullers would not be Dorking Residents may not buy things from them very often but we know where to get fireworks, fishing and more...everything is always sold with a smile, and Liz's daughter keeps helps them with their on line presence A real family business that just keeps going.

From the Judges:

A much loved, local institution Dorking without Fullers simply wouldn't be the same!

HELLO DORKING

ELIZABETH FULLER AND ANDREW FULLER, S C FULLER

BEST HIGH STREET BUSINESS FINALISTS

Holmestores: Louise Holme

From the Nominator:

From the ashes of COVID rose Holmestores When COVID hit, Louise turned Dorking Deli from a cafe restaurant into a grocery and delivery service.

Founded by Louise Holme in 2012, The Dorking Deli achieved so much in 8 years

From a deli selling the best of British produce, to an artisan coffee store serving fresh breakfast and lunch menus all prepared on site, she hosted supper clubs, pop-up restaurants partnering with guest chefs, cheese, wine and cider tastings, cocktail making workshops, kids cooking classes and more. She transformed the deli into the masterpiece that is Holmestores, a perfect combination of what the Deli was and what everyone calls the best place to experience in Dorking.

She and her partner built Holmestores from scratch - from the refinished, upcycled tables to the countertops to the colour scheme that is reflected across the entire brand. The entire concept is ethical, locally sourced and the menu is perfection. I think Louise should consult with other businesses in Dorking and the entire Southeeast as an example of what a restaurant/cafe experience should embody. A true entrepreneur and innovator, Louise and her wonderful team gives everyone a warm experience, amazing food and a smile whenever they visit. They are one of the reasons people visit our town.

We are lucky to have them.

From the Judges:

Louise is a credit to the local community She's passionate about her business and the town, and works collaboratively to deliver results on an individual and town-wide basis She's also not afraid to try something new in the face of challenging circumstances.

COMMUNITY SPIRIT AWARDS

BEST HIGH STREET BUSINESS FINALISTS

Anni & Arthurs: Jo Sherwood

From the Nominator:

In this pre loved fashion store they are promoting preloved prom dresses to encourage 15 to 16 year olds to think and be more green and sustainable Being on a high street with a shop window is the best way to promote sustainability , it is their opportunity to display and encourage our society and to make it the next new trend.

From the Judges:

A shop with a conscience. Jo has clearly tapped into a relatively new market and doing so in a way that cares for both the community and the environment. She’s also bringing in the next generation of shoppers.

JO SHERWOOD, ANNI & ARTHURS AT THE YARD

THANK YOU

Acting Executive Editor of BBC Radio Sussex and BBC Radio Surrey

We are honoured to have our three esteemed judges provide their expertise. They judged 85 entries, submitted by members of our community for our Community Spirit Awards. These nominees embody and champion the independent spirit that helps to make Dorking a wonderful place to visit, live, work, and enjoy.

Chris Howard

ent - Surrey Hills Society

Mark Carter

JarmilaYu

Founder and MD

Yunique Marketing Ltd

SPONSORS

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

Our community partners have come together in the spirit of collaboration and partnership to support this event in meaningful and profound ways, and for this, we thank each of them.

Celebrating 40 years in Dorking this year, the Boothole is a family run business that offers a range of Awards, Gifts, Memorial plaques, signs and boot and shoe repairs

We are a wildlife conservation charity that's passionate about wild animal welfare and Compassionate Conservation

The Boothole

SPONSORS

Dorking Halls

Dorking Halls is a stunning Art Deco theatre overlooking the Surrey Hills which stages the very best comedy, music and screens all the most recent films and live screenings

Flowers by Elaine

Flowers by Elaine in Dorking is a Florist online shop providing beautiful flowers for same day & next day local and national flower delivery in Dorking.

Mole Valley DC

Dorking Halls is a stunning Art Deco theatre overlooking the Surrey Hills which stages the very best comedy, music and screens all the most recent films and live screenings

Waitrose

Supermarket chain for fresh British produce, groceries & baked goods, including storebrand items.

White Horse Hotel

The White Horse Hotel Dorking, part of the Bespoke Hotels, stands as one of England's most storied coaching inns, with a history dating back as far as 1278.

HELLO DORKING

What makes Dorking Unique? Heritage, Culture and Independent Spirit. We like to think we are the hidden gem of the Surrey Hills.

It begins with three words: outstanding natural beauty that is right on your doorstep. Dorking boasts incredible outdoor spaces that draws those with an independent, free spirit to our town.

With easy access from the M25, Dorking is a relaxed train ride from London by train, and with three train stations, Dorking is an easy get-away

KELLY, SIENNA AND RILEY MORGAN, HIGHLY COMMENDED ART COMPETITION AWARD WINNER

ABOUT DORKING

Where else can you find historic underground caves, a semi-pro football club and the birthplace of Lawrence Olivier? Visitors and locals rave about our award-winning volunteer-led Dorking Museum.

Dorking satisfies the appetite of the weekender-cyclist who craves a bit of the wild outdoors or the collector who’s been searching for the perfect miniature George III mahogany chest of drawers on West Street. Take tea at the only remaining Pilgrim home in the United Kingdom – American Presidents claim ancestry to the Mullins family through William’s daughter Priscilla Alden.

But there’s so much more to Dorking than its past – it has a thriving cultural and independent shopping scene It is home to local, independent traders, quirky boutiques, a vibrant art scene, farmer’s markets, and to the Michelin-starred, award-winning Sorrel.

Thanks to visionaries, dreamers and well, Dorkinians, this quintessential market town is leading revolutions in local food, pastry, craft spirits and beer, putting Dorking on the world’s culinary radar.

From award-winning, nationally recognised salons, spas, luxury lingerie, sustainable clothing, to our outstanding professional services – to homeware and gifting, to cafes to butchers, to a nationally recognised interior design and antiques quarter, it really does have something for everyone.

Learn more at hellodorking.com and be sure to visit us soon.

Celebrating and championing Dorking businesses, culture and community in our historic market town.