Heathscene Spring 2017

heathscene great place | great community | great future spring 2017

#TalkSurreyHeath news Surrey Heath Show 20 May Business Awards latest

5

Message from the

Camberley Town Centre Update

Chief Executive

The latest on Ashwood House and other key projects

16

Hug A Milestone

Surrey Heath Museum’s social media campaign

20

Surrey Heath Show

A great family day out

22

Surrey Heath Business Awards 2017

Ready for this year’s prestigious ceremony

Copywriting by Kate Noviss and Joanne Atkinson, Surrey Heath Borough Council Designed and printed by Frontline, Ashdown House, Charlwoods Road, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 2HJ Published by Surrey Heath Borough Council, Email heathscene@surreyheath.gov.uk Tel: 01276 707100.

If you require this magazine in a different format, please call the media & marketing team on 01276 707312. Copyright © Surrey Heath Borough Council. Surrey Heath Borough Council does not accept responsibility for the views expressed by advertisers in this magazine, nor does it necessarily endorse products or services advertised.

Promote your business with Surrey Heath Borough Council

Would you like the opportunity to promote your business to 37,000 households in Surrey Heath? Surrey Heath Borough Council offers advertising space at competitive rates in Heathscene magazine, distributed to every household in the borough. For further information contact Frontline on 01342 312570 or email frontline@frontlinedesigners.co.uk

With spring upon us, we’re looking forward to a fantastic next few months in Surrey Heath. There’s plenty going on, from the Surrey Youth Games for the sporting stars of the future (see page 12) to the Surrey Heath Show - always a fun day out for all the family (see page 20). As a Council we are proud to be enthusiastic supporters of both events.

We’re also pleased that after its launch last year, Camberley International Festival will return this summer, with a fantastic line up of cultural events throughout the town - see page 7 for all the exciting events planned.

Turn to page 4 for an update on our latest #TalkSurreyHeath online Q&A event, which was on the theme of ‘Clean, Green & Safe’. We’re proud of this innovative new way of consulting with local residents and businesses - thanks for your constructive engagement so far!

There’s an update on our key priority of regenerating Camberley Town Centre on Page 5, plus a financial update, including council tax setting, on page 9.

As always there are some fantastic shows and events coming up at Camberley Theatre - check out all they have to offer at www.camberleytheatre.co.uk!

Have a great spring, Karen Whelan Chief Executive

www.surreyheath.gov.uk I Heathscene I 3

#talksurreyheath

#TalkSurreyHeath Clean, Green & Safe

In the latest of our innovative live online Q&A sessions, Surrey Heath residents and business owners had the opportunity to quiz Surrey Heath Borough Council officers and councillors on the issues that matter to them.

The subject of the second #TalkSurreyHeath live streamed event on 11 January was ‘Clean, Green & Safe’, focusing on one of the Council’s key priorities.

The panel consisted of Leader of the Council, Cllr Moira Gibson, SHBC Chief Executive Karen Whelan, Surrey Heath Executive Head of Community Tim Pashen, and Cllr Vivienne Chapman, Portfolio Holder for Community.

They answered questions on a wide range of subjects including recycling bins, anti-social behaviour, dog fouling, fly-tipping, litter, parks, Christmas tree recycling and the pedestrianisation of the High Street in Camberley.

During the event, which was broadcast via Facebook Live from the Council Chamber at Surrey Heath House, members of the public could follow the live video

stream on the SHBC Facebook page (www.facebook.com/ SurreyHeath) - there is no need to have a Facebook account in order to view. If you’d like to watch the video of the hour-long session it can be found on the same page.

Before and during the event, questions were submitted via Facebook, Twitter, or email on talk@surreyheath.gov.uk The Council is organising these interactive online events to encourage as many residents, business owners and interested parties to have their say on issues that are important to them.

Cllr Gibson said: “We are very pleased with the success of the #TalkSurreyHeath events so far. The levels of engagement with the public are very encouraging, and we are receiving lots of

4 I Heathscene I www.facebook.com/surreyheath

positive comments from those who are tuning in.

“We hope that those who watched found it interesting and useful, and we look forward to holding more online Q&A sessions in the future on the subjects that matter to people in Surrey Heath.”

The next #TalkSurreyHeath live stream event will be on Tuesday 28 March at 7pm, discussing the Council’s plans for the year ahead.

camberley town centre

Camberley

Town Centre update - the centre will be rebranded with a new name revealed in due course.

Ashwood House Berkeley Homes has been awarded the contract to redevelop Ashwood House, which occupies a key site on Pembroke Broadway in Camberley town centre, and was acquired by SHBC in 2015 to facilitate its future development.

The upper floors of the building will be transformed into high quality residential accommodation, with the potential to offer around 100 flats, subject to planning permission.

At the same time, Berkeley Homes will redevelop Pembroke House, located on Frimley Road.

Town Centre Investment

The Mall purchase announcement

The Mall Following the purchase of The Mall shopping centre in October last year, retail property experts Montagu Evans have been appointed to provide Asset and Property Management services.

• The Asset Management team are working with the appointed

At the end of last year, the council completed the purchase of the freehold of the House of Fraser and NatWest building in Camberley town centre for £17.6m.

The Council bought the property at 45-51 Park Street, which currently houses NatWest and House of Fraser, from the M & G Property Portfolio, in a deal funded through local government borrowing.

Cllr Moira Gibson, Leader of Surrey Heath Borough Council, said: “This latest purchase is further evidence of the Council’s commitment to invest in Camberley, and gain control of strategically important assets to drive regeneration of the town centre.”

Car parks

Early designs of how the Ashwood House scheme could look

This scheme has the potential to offer around 25 flats, providing affordable housing, subject to planning permission.

SHBC Leader Cllr Moira Gibson, said: “We are pleased to have appointed Berkeley Homes, whose proven track record, wellconsidered proposals, and expertise aligns with the Council’s town centre delivery objectives.”

letting agents to maximise the opportunity to retain existing retailers and attract new brands to Camberley, with good progress already made.

Level 5 and the associated ramp of Main Square Car Park have been refurbished, including resurfacing work, as part of Parking Services’ ongoing Life Care programme.

• The Property Management team provides day-to-day management of the centre, supporting retailers and customers.

With the introduction of contactless payment at our multistorey car parks, Parking Services continue to work to improve the parking experience for local residents, businesses and visitors to Camberley.

• A new website has been launched, www.camberleyshopping.co.uk

For more information go to www.surreyheath.gov.uk/parking

www.surreyheath.gov.uk/camberley I Heathscene I 5

leisure

Festive fun round-up Camberley on Ice

Local residents and visitors to Camberley were able to enjoy a fantastic festive attraction throughout December, courtesy of Camberley on Ice. Nearly 7,000 skaters and many more spectators enjoyed the thrill of a real ice rink as part of the event on London Road Recreation Ground, which also offered fairground rides, food stalls and a café/bar.

Daniel Harrison, Executive Head of Business said: “The aim of Camberley on Ice was to provide something different for residents and visitors to Camberley over the Christmas period. We are very happy with the positive feedback we received from skaters, in particular in relation to the helpful on-site staff and the ice-rink itself. We’d like to thank the local residents whose feedback and support played a big part in making sure the impact of the event was kept to a minimum.”

The quality 25 metre rink was also host to an exhibition ice hockey game and performances from Team GB figure skater Frances Howell.

Around 12,000 visitors came down to London Road Rec in December to enjoy this new addition to Christmas in Camberley.

Super Cinderella!

The 2016 production of ‘Cinderella’ set new box office records to become the highest-grossing pantomime in Camberley Theatre’s history. The theatre welcomed over 13,000 people through the doors for the fairy tale production.

In 2016 Camberley Theatre was proud to support Challengers, a charity based in Guildford which provides exciting and challenging leisure opportunities for disabled children and young people. Thanks to the wonderful generosity of the ‘Cinderella’ audiences, a total of £2285.04 was raised for Challengers.

Theatre manager Andy Edmeads was thrilled with how the pantomime was received: “I am delighted with the success of

Cinderella,” he said.

“It was a magical production from start to finish and I’m so pleased our audiences loved watching it as much as we did making it! Our cast, crew and staff were a delight to work with and we’re already excited at the thought of 2017’s pantomime, ‘Peter Pan’.”

6 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk/leisure

camberley

The Return of the Camberley International Festival After the success of last year’s inaugural event, June 2017 will see the second Camberley International Festival take place.

Camberley’s theatre, pubs, cafes and even multi-storey car park, will play host to contemporary dance, music, comedy, children’s workshops, street performers and film from 7-17 June.

The BAFTA Award-winning actress Juliet Aubrey is once again delighted to be the festival’s patron - here’s a flavour of what’s in store...

• To kick everything off, there will be a ‘Z Cars’ themed launch party at Camberley Theatre on the evening of June 7. Free to attend, this will be co-hosted by actor Ian Cullen who starred in the BBC series as Joe Skinner from

Jack Philp Company

in the iconic television series. If you would like to attend this ‘Z Cars’/C.I.F. launch party, email Jo.Bartlett@surreyheath.gov.uk

great comedy on offer, along with contemporary dance from the Jack Philp Company on Sunday 11 June.

• On Thursday 8 June the multiaward winning folk group The Oysterband will be performing at Camberley Theatre, while Saturday 10 June will see a day of free live music taking place across the pubs of Camberley.

• There will be a very special event to mark the closing of the festival on Saturday 17 June - more details to follow!

• The ever-popular Rooftop Cinema series, in conjunction with Collectively Camberley, will take place on the roof of the Main Square multi-storey car park from the 14-16 June.

Festival patron Juliet Aubrey

1969-75. There will be drinks and live music in the theatre’s café bar, followed by an episode of ‘Z Cars’ shown in the main auditorium and a Q&A session with Ian and others involved

• Throughout the ten days, various bands will be playing in the town’s pubs including The Carpenters Arms, The Bear and Central Bar.

Surrey Heath Corporate Portfolio Holder Cllr Josephine Hawkins said: “We are so excited to be bringing the Camberley International Festival back again this summer, and cannot wait to see the streets and venues buzzing with excitement as the festival grows year on year.”

www.thebestprint.co.uk

The Best Print are proud to be sponsors of the Camberley International Festival

• Camberley Theatre will have For details please visit www.camberleyinternationalfestival.com or www.facebook.com/CamberleyInternationalfestival

www.camberleyinternationalfestival.com I Heathscene I 7

camberley theatre

Coming up at Camberley Theatre

There’s plenty going on at Camberley Theatre over the next few months - here are just a few of the highlights! For full listings go to www.camberleytheatre.co.uk.

You Win Again The Story of the Bee Gees.

Thurs 6 April; 7.30pm, Full £22.50, Theatre Club £20 Following its West End debut at the Leicester Square Theatre, You Win Again - The Story of The Bee Gees will be embarking on its first ever nationwide tour.

Immerse yourself in the brothers’ hits through the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s, topped off with a glittering array of iconic artists they wrote for, such as Diana Ross, Celine Dion and Dionne Warwick. This spectacular production tells the incredible story of The Brothers Gibb through the eyes of their manager in an all new musical experience.

Richard Herring - The Best Weds 12 April, 8pm, £16 Richard Herring, King of the Edinburgh Fringe, Metro columnist and the UK’s Podfather picks his

favourite routines from his 12 oneman shows and crams them into 90 minutes for your delectation.

From his deconstruction of the genealogy of Christ to him proving that racists are less racist than liberals, will your favourite routine make the cut? A great introduction to this influential cult comedian for the newcomer and a welcome greatest hits for long term fans.

Sir George Martin.

The Temperance Seven Fri 2 June, 7.30pm, £17.50

Singer/songwriter Gordon Haskell is back! In his 70th year, he brings his jazz/blues-influenced songbook and golden voice back to theatre audiences countrywide. Gordon will be joined by Hannah’s Yard, a musical collective supported by BBC Introducing. Think ‘Norah Jones meets Fairground Attraction’ performed by some of the UK’s finest musicians and featuring the beautifully understated voice of acclaimed 20-year-old Hannah Layton Turner.

The Temperance Seven began their quest to promote all things British - cricket, steam trains, real ale and jazz music - and the band was brought to the attention of one

Sir George placed them around one microphone in an attempt to simulate a recording from the 1920s - the resultant “You, You’re Driving me Crazy” gave Martin his first number one.

Gordon Haskell & Hannah’s Yard Thurs 6 July, 7.30pm, £20

Did you know the theatre can be hired for celebrations, functions and children’s parties? Visit the website for more details.

8 I Heathscene I www.camberleytheatre.co.uk

council

Financial update In a climate of disappearing central government funding, the Council is pursuing a strategy of increasing efficiency and income generation to safeguard services.

Surrey Heath Borough Council has suffered many years of reductions in Government funding, losing the final £357,000 this year - meaning that the Government will provide no support for local services.

Increasing efficiencies is another area of focus - for example the recently signed Joint Waste Contract will save taxpayers across the four authorities involved more than £2m a year.

Furthermore in 2019/20 the Council expects to have to pay a subsidy to Government to support other areas amounting to almost £1m.

These actions have improved the Council’s financial situation - but there are still challenges ahead if services that residents value, such as Meals at Home, refuse collection and leisure facilities, are to be preserved.

Members did not want to cut services, so the Council has adopted a strategy of delivering efficiency and increasing income.

The Council has borrowed £130m to invest in property, which after repayments and interest is contributing an additional £1.5m income. In addition the investments made in properties such as the Mall will also support the Council’s number one priority to improve and further develop Camberley Town Centre.

Surrey Heath Finance Portfolio Holder Cllr Richard Brooks said: “In this climate of hugely reduced funding it is vital that we take control of our own financial destiny, hence our property investment strategy to generate income.

“The investment income’s contribution this year has meant we have been able to continue to offer as wide a range of Council services as possible, which is our aim into the future.”

At a Full Council Meeting last month Members set the budget and Council Tax for 2017/18, and voted to increase Council Tax by £5 a year - equivalent to 1.4p per day.

Surrey Heath collects Council Tax on behalf of Surrey County Council, Surrey Police and parishes, yet only keeps around 12% of the total charged, which equates to £206.30 per year for a Band D property.

The Mall shopping centre: one of the property investments made by SHBC

www.surreyheath.gov.uk/counciltax I Heathscene I 9

community

Star citizens!

Year 7 students from across Surrey Heath learned how to ‘Think Safe’ and deal with real-life situations by taking part in a Young Citizen scheme.

With the tagline “Be Streetwise, Be a Star Citizen” the scheme aims to help young people broaden their social responsibility skills and lead safe, healthy lives.

Among those hosting the workshops were: Surrey Fire and Rescue Service, St John Ambulance and Surrey Police and Crimestoppers’ youth service, Fearless.

Through a range of interactive sessions, students explored themes such as first aid, road and fire safety, alcohol awareness, personal safety and peer pressure, as well as internet safety and reporting crime anonymously.

In addition, students watched a play by the Solomon Theatre Company to highlight issues around alcohol abuse, peer pressure and its consequences.

Over 450 students from Kings International College and Collingwood College were involved over three days in November.

A VIP day saw special guests including the Mayor of Surrey Heath Cllr John Winterton and Children’s Champion Cllr Josephine Hawkins visit Collingwood College to present certificates to the schools taking part.

The Mayor commented: “Young Citizen is a fantastic interactive way of giving young people the knowledge and skills to lead safe and healthy lives, and to understand how their behaviours can impact on others.

Ready to quit?

Are you considering stopping smoking? Do you know it’s the best way to improve your overall health?

Join all the Surrey Heath residents who have given up using a new free service. You now have the

choice of three free local stop smoking clinics at Camberley Fire Station, Camberley Arena and Ash Vale Health Centre. The specially trained, highly experienced staff at each clinic will provide you with the support and encouragement you need to stop smoking for good. With their help you are 3-4 times more likely to give up than going it alone.

10 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk

“I’m sure the hundreds of students involved this year have benefited immensely from this experience.

Collingwood College pupils gave the Young Citizen course the thumbs up too.

Jake Pang, 11, said: “I really enjoyed the practical First Aid sessions, they were very interesting and useful,” while Nula Brown-Smith, 11, said: “I liked the play, as it was a visual thing it helped you to understand it all.”

The scheme is organised and funded by the Safer Surrey Heath Partnership and the Surrey Heath Learning Partnership.

Surrey Heath’s Mayor and Mayoress with Young Citizen partner organisations

Book your free appointment today.

Phone: 0800 622 6968 Text: smokefree to 66777 Email: contact.quit51@nhs.net www.surreyheathccg.nhs.uk/ stay-healthy/smoking

Sponsored by

surrey youth games

Calling all 7-16 year olds

Would your child or a young person you know like to try out a new sport, or get better at one they already play? In conjunction with the Specsavers Surrey Youth Games, Surrey Heath Borough Council is offering free coaching sessions at a venue near you.

Between April and June, coaching sessions will be taking place across 15 diverse sports including boccia (a pan-disability sport), boxing, lacrosse, netball, girls’ rugby (noncontact), swimming, table tennis and more - so there is an activity to suit every taste.

Sessions are hosted at schools, clubs and leisure facilities across the borough either after school or at the weekend and are led by qualified coaches.

These ‘taster’ sessions could open the door to a lifelong love of sport while providing a fantastic chance to meet new people and make new friends. Many young people go on to join clubs after the event and enjoy the various benefits that an active lifestyle brings, including improved physical and mental wellbeing.

Additionally, every child attending the coaching sessions has a chance of being selected to represent “Team Surrey Heath” at the Specsavers Surrey Youth Games on 17 and 18 June. Coordinated

by Active Surrey and hosted at Surrey Sports Park, the weekend

provides a unique experience of an Olympic-style event where the 11 Surrey boroughs and districts compete against each other with an anticipated 2000 young people taking part during the weekend.

Coaching sessions are open to anyone below county standard in their chosen sport (each sport is open to specific age groups/ gender) and currently living and/or attending school in Surrey Heath.

12 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk/syg

For details of session venues, dates and times or to register, please visit www.surreyheath.gov.uk/syg or for further details call 01276 707100 and ask to speak to a member of the leisure team.

health

Support the NHS

by choosing the right care at the right time NHS leaders are appealing to local people to use NHS care wisely to help reduce unnecessary costs and use every public pound wisely.

NHS Surrey Heath Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) has to save £8m this year, which is 7% of the annual £114m budget for hospital, community and ambulance services in Surrey Heath and Ash Vale.

People can help by using the most appropriate care for their condition.

Chief Officer Dr Andy Brooks, who is also a GP at Park Road Surgery, Camberley, said: “The CCG is reviewing how it can make savings and we are working closely with colleagues in Adult Social Care, Community Health Services and at Frimley to make changes.

He added: “I know our community understands the financial pressures we are under, and has always been loyal and supportive of the NHS locally.

“I am appealing to them now to help by doing simple things which will make a big difference.”

To help reduce the burden on local NHS services: 1. Only using A&E if you are really ill Advice and information is

available from pharmacists and from NHS 111.

2. Remember your GP surgery is open from 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday The 10 surgeries in Camberley, Bagshot, Lightwater, Frimley and Ash Vale have appointments with GPs and Practice Nurses until 8pm on weekdays.

3. Consider all the options before choosing major surgery Sometimes surgery is not always the best option, so ask your surgeon about the ‘NHS Right Care Patient Decision Aids’ so you can decide together what treatment plan would suit you best.

4. Don’t waste prescribed medicines Only order the medication that you will actually use medicines costing the local NHS £500,000 are wasted each year. Ask your pharmacist for a medicine review.

For more information visit www.surreyheathccg.nhs.uk.

For health advice and information visit NHS Choices at www.nhs.uk

Ask your local pharmacist for advice - your pharmacist can give you advice for many common minor illnesses, such as diarrhoea, minor infections, headache, travel advice or sore throats.

Make an appointment with your GP if you are feeling unwell and it is not an emergency.

Call NHS 111 if you urgently need medical help or advice but it’s not a lifethreatening situation.

You can also call NHS 111 if you’re not sure which NHS service you need.

Call 999 if someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk.

www.surreyheathccg.nhs.uk I Heathscene I 13

mayor

First Mayor’s cadets chosen The Mayor of Surrey Heath, Cllr John Winterton, has appointed the first 2 Mayor’s Cadets.

Daniel Farrow and Libby Butler, who both attend Gordon’s School, West End, were presented with their Mayor’s Cadet sashes at the Full Council Meeting in December.

Daniel, 16, and Libby, 17, are both in Year 12 and members of the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) at Gordon’s.

They were nominated by Squadron Leader Peter Mockeridge and WO1 Philip Fox for their commitment to the Cadet section throughout their time at Gordon’s - Daniel in the RAF section and Libby in the Army section.

Lt Col Tim Cave-Gibbs from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst also attended the presentation ceremony, along with the Mayoress Mrs Di Winterton.

The Mayor’s Cadets are a new initiative in Surrey Heath, enhancing the Council’s historic links with the military in the Borough.

There will be two cadets each year, a boy and a girl, who will serve for an academic year, from September to September.

Cllr Winterton said: “I am really pleased to welcome Libby and

The Mayor and Mayoress of Surrey Heath with Daniel, Libby and Lt Col Tim Cave-Gibbs

Daniel as my first Mayor’s Cadets.

“It seemed appropriate to introduce a new role connected with the Mayor of Surrey Heath that recognises and strengthens our links with the military in and around the Borough.

“Given the strong historical ties going back come 200 years, our military presence in the Borough includes the National Cadet Training Centre in Frimley, the Royal Logistics Corps in Deepcut and the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst.

“The Cadets will attend various civic events in the Borough, as well as the Remembrance and Armistice commemorations, and Armed Forces Day of course.

“I hope that this initiative will continue with future mayors in Surrey Heath.”

Libby, from Camberley, said: “Being

14 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk/mayor

selected as a Mayor’s Cadet is an honour, and we hope to represent all cadets with the utmost integrity.”

Daniel, from West End, added: “I’m extremely pleased with the appointment, and I’m looking forward to the responsibilities the role will bring. I look forward to inspiring more young people to join the cadets.”

Fundraising update The Mayor of Surrey Heath for 2015/16, Cllr Joanne Potter, raised £24,428 for her chosen charities during her time in office.

The funds were split between Alzheimers Café Camberley, Sebastian’s Action Trust and Parity for Disability.

This year’s charities, chosen by current Mayor Cllr John Winterton, are Connect Counselling Service and Disability Initiative.

council

County Council election update

On Thursday 4 May 2017 voters in Surrey Heath will go to the polls for the election of six County Councillors to represent the six county divisions of the Borough.

81 Councillors make up the County Council and together they are responsible for managing education, children’s and adults’ social care, and highways across the county.

Only people who are registered to vote can take part in May’s elections. If you are not already registered the quickest way to do this is online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.

The deadline to register is midnight on Thursday 13 April 2017.

A paper form can be downloaded from the registration site, or alternatively be requested from Democratic and Electoral Services at vote@surreyheath.gov.uk.

For information on candidates, go to www.surreyheath.gov.uk/ elections from 5 April.

Local Plan update Surrey Heath Borough Council is preparing a new Local Plan for the Borough which will guide the sustainable development of the area up to 2032.

The Council will be undertaking a number of formal consultations throughout the preparation of the Local Plan, commencing in late 2017. A Local Plan webpage will be available to provide more information on when these consultations will take place and provide updates on the Council’s plan-making work. www.surreyheath.gov.uk I Heathscene I 15

history

Milestone Matters

Surrey Heath Museum’s campaign to raise awareness of these historic landmarks was a social media success!

The London Road milestone, which has stood outside Camberley Glass on London Road in Camberley for nearly 300 years was removed for structural reasons in Spring 2016. Since then there has been a huge campaign led by local history enthusiasts and Surrey Heath Museum to have the milestone reinstated.

The £1811 costs of cutting, shaping and re-lettering a replacement milestone have been raised via many societies and individuals and include Camberley Glass, Surrey Historic Buildings Trust, Surrey Heath Museum Action Group and private individuals.

There are 10 milestones in our area which are positioned along the

People have travelled through Surrey Heath (as we know it today) since the 1700s, when Turnpike Trusts were set up to charge tolls to travellers, funds from which were used for the upkeep of the roads; the latter was key to ensure the stagecoach kept to a timetable between destinations.

A30 (the Great West Road) and the A325 (the Portsmouth Road).

These milestones are a window on the past and the stagecoach heritage of the area.

To raise awareness of these milestones, Surrey Heath Museum began a ‘Hug a Milestone’ campaign last year which invited people to find and hug their nearest milestone, then post the photos on social media using the hashtag #hugamilestone. The campaign caught the imagination of many and it appeared in The Sunday Telegraph, on BBC Radio Surrey, Waitrose Weekend Magazine, and in local press both printed and online.

One keen runner even adapted his daily run to take in as many of the milestones as possible, taking selfies en route!

The new milestone is due to be reinstated this Spring - and to continue the milestone campaign Surrey Heath Museum intends to organise a Sponsored Walk between the milestones.

16 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk/museum

recycling

Recycle Right

Thank you to all residents that have been recycling correctly and putting acceptable items in their green recycling bins loose.

Since the “Recycle Right” guide was distributed last spring, the recycling quality has significantly improved.

In the latest Local Authority results published by Defra, Surrey Heath achieved a household recycling rate of 62.1%, the fourth highest in the country. This is an amazing result - but we are sure we can do even better this year with your help!

Please remember the recycling in your bin must be loose.

There is a weekly collection for cooked and uncooked food waste which is recycled into electricity and soil improver.

4 Plastic bags or

compostable liners can be used to contain your food waste

There is a fortnightly collection for small electrical items on recycling week.

Please ensure that items are

4 kept separate &

clearly label ‘Electricals’ (do not put in recycling bin)

4 carrier bag-sized quantities

There is a fortnightly collection for clothes and textiles on refuse week.

Please ensure that items are:

4 clean & dry (please bag)

4 kept separate &

clearly label ‘Textiles’ (do not put in recycling bin)

4 carrier bag-sized quantities

Find out more www.surreyheath.gov.uk/ food-waste

Find out more www.surreyheath.gov.uk/ small-electricals

Find out more www.surreyheath.gov.uk/ textiles

Joint Waste Contract signed Residents in Surrey Heath, Elmbridge, Mole Valley and Woking are to receive an improved waste and recycling collection service thanks to a new joint waste collection contract.

As well as a better service, the contract with Amey will save taxpayers across the four authorities

more than £2 million a year. It is the first contract of its kind in Surrey, and was part-funded by the Surrey Waste Partnership and supported

by Surrey County Council as the waste disposal authority.

The contract covers all aspects of waste collection, street cleaning and fly-tipping, and will last for 10 years, with an option to extend.

Residents will continue to receive

18 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk/recycling

the same fortnightly recycling and waste collections as they do currently with weekly food waste collections.

A subscription-based garden waste contract option will also be available to residents.

The contract will have a staggered start depending on when each council’s current contract ends - Surrey Heath will join in February 2018.

community

Supporting you to get around Our Community Transport Service provides access to services, appointments, facilities and social activities in Surrey Heath and the neighbouring area.

Door-to-door We offer a door-to-door service, for residents who are unable to access public bus services due to a disability, frailty, mental health problems or unavailability of bus services.

Flexible The service operates Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 4.30pm, giving you the flexibility to travel when and where you want to go.

Fully accessible Transport is provided using fully

accessible vehicles enabling easy access for all our passengers, including those who travel seated in their wheelchair.

Paying for your journeys Our journeys are competitively priced, providing affordable transport for you.

Sign up!

Contact our team on 01276 707655 or visit www.surreyheath.gov.uk/ communitytransport to register online. Membership is free of charge.

“The drivers are very professional, kind and understanding when dealing with the individual needs of users�

www.surreyheath.gov.uk/communitytransport I Heathscene I 19

surrey heath show

Visit the

Surrey Heath Show Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Surrey Heath Show is a fantastic family fun day out!

Saturday 20 May Frimley Lodge Park 10am - 4pm The Surrey Heath Show is back and this year celebrates its 10th anniversary! The Show will feature perennial favourites such as the Companion Dog Show, a classic cars display, arena events and plenty of children’s activities.

Each year over 8,000 people flock to Frimley Lodge Park to enjoy this fantastic day out for all the family.

The main arena will host a variety of performances from music to dance to sports and games - something to suit everyone’s taste.

The annual Companion Dog Show is always very popular. You can bring your dog along on the day to enter, with entries for all classes open from 11am and judging starting at 12 noon.

There will be refreshments available via the Show’s own BBQ which will be offering delicious burgers, hot dogs and bacon rolls, all sourced from a local independent butcher. The Show will also feature a wide range of stalls including food and drink, fairground games, local businesses, community groups and charities.

If you’re a motor enthusiast be sure to take a look at the classic car display which features a great selection of vehicles every year.

20 I Heathscene I www.surreyheathshow.org

There will also be plenty to keep the kids entertained with fairground rides, zorbing and inflatables. And you can explore the rest of the park by taking a ride on the miniature railway. Full steam ahead!

Music will be provided by The Farnborough Concert Band of the Royal British Legion throughout the day.

Each year the Surrey Heath Show distributes some of its proceeds to local charities and community groups. In 2016 over £10,000 was given to such groups to help fund some of their projects.

The show is sponsored by The Best Print, Camberley Audi Fleet Department, The Massage Company, Arena Leisure Centre and Jamaisons Ltd. The event is free to attend.

Car parking for the day is £3.

For more details, please visit: www.surreyheathshow.org

council

Voluntary funding awarded

Voluntary organisations in Surrey Heath are to receive almost £160,000 of support in 2017/18.

Following a meeting of the SHBC Executive in January, grants were approved to community organisations and charities dedicated to helping people within the borough.

reviewed annually by the Council.

The other organisations awarded grants were Surrey Heath Arts Council, Surrey Heath Sports Council, Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership, Camberley Central Job Club and Tringhams lunchtime club, West End. Cllr Colin Dougan, Transformation Portfolio Holder for Surrey Heath, said: “Voluntary organisations within Surrey Heath do a tremendous job and are hugely valued.

A total of £159,900 will go towards supporting groups including Citizens Advice Surrey Heath, Voluntary Support North Surrey, Surrey Heath Age Concern, and Basingstoke Canal Authority.

The grants have been allocated for the past 14 years, with the funding

Surrey Heath Age Concern

“They continue to provide vital services - whether helping people on a day to day basis, or enriching the community through the arts, sport, or access to the natural environment.

The Revenue Grants awarded were:

“While the Council has limited funding resources from which to give grants, we are committed to recognising their crucial work in Surrey Heath.”

• Voluntary Support North Surrey: £30,000

• Citizens Advice Surrey Heath: £80,000

• Tringhams, West End: £13,000 • Surrey Heath Age Concern: £10,000 • Basingstoke Canal Authority: £10,000 • Camberley Central Job Club £7,000 • Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership: £5,000 • Surrey Heath Sports Council: £3,500

Basingstoke canal

• Surrey Heath Arts Council: £1,400 www.surreyheath.gov.uk I Heathscene I 21

business

The wait

is nearly over…

The Borough’s best businesses will gather at the end of this month to celebrate the winners in the Surrey Heath Business Awards.

Now in its fourth year, the awards include six categories: Best New Business - Spotlighting new and emerging businesses.

Developing Talent Award Recognising businesses that provide opportunities for personal development.

Business Innovation of the Year - Awarding creativity with measurable results.

Corporate Social Responsibility Award Recognising organisations who take responsibility towards the

community and the environment.

Best Small/Medium-Sized Business - Spotlighting businesses with less than 250 employees.

Outstanding Achievement Award - Celebrating a company, organisation or individual who has significantly contributed to the growth and success of the Surrey Heath business community over a number of years.

The awards are hosted during Surrey Heath’s Business Breakfast event at Camberley Theatre. The event is an excellent opportunity for local businesses to meet and network.

Five-star Hotel & Spa Pennyhill Park in Bagshot was named winner of last year’s Outstanding Achievement Award.

Managing Director Danny Pecorelli said: “Any successful business needs to start off by being embedded and respected in its own local community so it was a huge honour to be awarded the prestigious Outstanding Achievement award at last year’s Surrey Heath Business awards.

“It was also such a boost for our fantastic team to get the public recognition an award such as this gives.”

As well as a specially commissioned award, each winner will be invited to the annual Surrey Heath Civic Dinner, and promoted through various media channels, including Heathscene magazine, the council’s website and social media.

Good luck to all shortlisted companies!

2016 winners

22 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk/shba

More details are available at: www.surreyheath.gov.uk/shba

business

Supporting

Global Growth Surrey Heath is ‘Open for Business’ - encouraging export is part of our strategy to deliver economic growth across the borough.

Along with supporting business associations, fostering a digital network and providing business advice clinics, in partnership with Surrey Chambers of Commerce we are proactive in supporting local businesses that are looking to expand and take advantage of the many opportunities available internationally. With the expertise of partners such as the Department for International Trade (DIT) and Open to Export we are able to signpost businesses to the information they require.

Why should local businesses export?

• Tap into new markets and find new customers • Reduce reliance on the UK market • Increase the life of your products or services • Higher productivity - lower unit cost • Stimulates innovation and product development • More competitive in home market • Helps create and sustain jobs • Develop the skills of staff • Motivate and retain people

Academic research confirms that companies which export: • Achieve stronger financial performance • Are more productive and innovative than non-exporters • Are more resilient to an economic downturn • Have a higher profile and more credibility • More likely to stay in business Is exporting too difficult, or too risky?

No - provided you: • Understand why you are exporting, and what you want to achieve • Are clear about your core offer • Identify the key risks to your business • Research and plan at every stage

• Look for and take advice As well as providing specific information and a number of services directly to exporters Surrey Chambers of Commerce can put you in touch with local International Trade Advisors from DIT who can help you to: • Develop your export thinking • Identify the right markets • Access target customers/partners • Raise profile and credibility overseas • Identify relevant export-related activities • Fast-track market entry; reduce risk of failure For further information please contact Sarah Butcher at sarah. butcher@surrey-chambers.co.uk.

www.surreyheath.gov.uk/business I Heathscene I 23

enforcement

Taking action

on fly tipping

Surrey Heath Borough Council and Accent Housing team up for new anti-fly tipping campaign.

Officers from Surrey Heath Borough Council and Accent Housing have joined forces in an effort to combat fly tipping in problem areas.

The ‘Don’t Just Dump It!’ campaign aims to tackle the problem, discouraging fly tipping and informing tenants about steps they can take to report fly tips.

The two organisations are firmly committed to taking appropriate action against perpetrators which includes the issuing of £400 Fixed Penalty Notices for low level fly tips and taking criminal proceedings for more serious cases.

Rob Mills, Regional Housing Director for Accent Housing said ‘The aim of this campaign is to encourage our tenants to take responsibility for their neighbourhoods and pride in the area. Not only is fly tipping unsightly, it seems to act as a catalyst for others to dump rubbish.

“We have a very strong working relationship with Surrey Heath Borough Council’s Corporate Enforcement officers and I am confident that this joint venture will have a positive effect on our tenants and residents of the borough in general.”

Surrey Heath Audit, Counter Fraud & Corporate Enforcement Manager Julia Greenfield added: “We are pleased to work together with Accent on this campaign

as part of our ongoing work to reduce fly tipping.

“We will continue to rigorously investigate all reports of fly tipping and take appropriate action against

24 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk

the perpetrators.”

To report a case of fly tipping, please contact corporateenforcement@ surreyheath.gov.uk

borough news

Borough news Christmas trees recycling update

Have your say on the future of Camberley

In January, for the first time the Council ran a free Christmas tree recycling service at 15 drop off points across the Borough.

Sunday 7 May, 7pm Spend an evening with Surrey Police Band at St Barbara’s Church, Deepcut, as they perform a relaxing mix of traditional and popular music in their popular Spring concert. From marches and overtures through to modern selections, there’ll be something for everyone!

Residents could bring their real Christmas trees to any of the locations, and from Jan 3-15, 500 trees were collected, and woodchips have now been used to replenish pathways on the trim trail at Frimley Lodge Park. A truly green scheme!

In aid of Shooting Star Chase, a local hospice providing care for terminally ill babies, children and young people.

The interval will see their infamous spread of homemade refreshments and a fantastic fundraising raffle too.

Surrey County Council are proposing a raft of measures to the A30 and Camberley town centre that would potentially reduce traffic queues, maintain bus reliability and help cyclists and pedestrians to get around more easily.

Thanks to all the residents who took part in the scheme so enthusiastically, and to Bagshot-based tree care firm Branch Management for their sponsorship of the scheme.

After its successful first year, the intention is to repeat the scheme next Christmas.

Spring concert - Deepcut

More info: www.surreypoliceband.org.uk or call 07849 675627.

Residents are being asked to view and respond to the proposals the consultation runs until Sunday 9 April.

To complete the online questionnaire, go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/ majortransportprojects and click on the Surrey Heath link. www.surreyheath.gov.uk I Heathscene I 25

museum

What’s on

Visit your local museum to check out the latest exhibition, enjoy family activities or treat yourself at the gift shop!

Exhibitions

Children’s Activities

1 April to 13 May Surrey Heath’s Art Collection

Family Fun: School Holiday and Special Activities for children aged 4 to 12 yrs 1 - 14 April - Easter Eggstravaganza!

Drop-in, all day, every day that we are open.

An exhibition featuring paintings and prints from the museum’s art collection, donated by local people over nearly 90 years. Alongside the work of amateur local artists there will be paintings from our three prominent collections - George Edward Lodge, Percy Harland Fisher and George Kenner.

See if you can find all the eggs hidden around the Museum, have a go at our Easter quiz, and then paint your own egg.

Toddler Tuesdays, Drop-in fun and craft sessions for the under 5s, 10.30am to 12 noon (50p per child suggested donation) 9 May - Art Attack 13 June - Father’s Day card Toddlers’ Saturday Spin-offs; it’s like Toddler Tuesdays but on a Saturday! Older kids welcome too.

25 March - Camberley Elephant 29 April - May Day

Exhibition Talk and Tour with Senior Heritage Officer, £2.50, please book in advance.

Surrey Heath’s Art Collection Wed 19 April, 11am-12.30pm Thurs 11 May, 6-7.30pm

Local History Events Sat 13 May - Behind the Scenes Store Tour Free tours every hour from 11am-2pm Surrey Heath Walks find out about the history of our area on these walking tours. £2.50 please book in advance Thurs 27 April York Town 6-7.30pm

Sat 22 April - St George’s Day Crafts 10.30am-12 noon, £2.50 Dropin to create all you need to re-enact the famous story of England’s patron saint.

26 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk/museum

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