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GUILDFORD & VILLAGES • DECEMBER 2017 •
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Safe as houses? This month local expert Sonal Rabheru from TWM Solicitors discusses the risks of property fraud. The issue of property fraud has escalated dramatically in the last few years. Unfortunately, the risks continue to grow as organised crime sees it as a low risk area to target. We are all at risk of being hacked by fraudsters. Whilst we take continuing measures to prevent this, property fraud can be committed in a number of scenarios, and two of the most common are as follows: Scam emails - A fraudster might send out an email to the client from an email address containing only a subtle difference to ours, requesting funds and giving incorrect bank details. The email may advise that the firm has changed its bank details. We will give you our bank details in our letter at the outset of the transaction. It is highly unlikely we will ever change our bank details. However, if we did, you would be notified by letter. You must never accept an email notification of change of bank details. If you do receive an email requesting funds, call the person you are dealing with to verify the authenticity of the email. Fraudulent sales - Most Titles are held electronically by the Land Registry on a public register, so more fraudsters are targeting certain properties to impersonate the owner to sell or re-mortgage the property without the real owner’s consent. Common situations where the risk of this fraud may arise are:
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Where a property is empty (e.g. after a death)
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Where the owner is abroad or otherwise absent
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Where a property is rented out
Where there is no mortgage secured against the property Where a relationship has broken down
There are a number of measures that can be taken to protect you and your property:
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Register a restriction against the Title to your property whereby the Land Registry will not register any dealing with your property without a certificate signed by a conveyancer that they are satisfied that the person who has signed the relevant documents is the owner of the property
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Ensure that your personal details, including your correspondence address, on the Title are up to date
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Apply for voluntary registration if your property is unregistered
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Sign up to the Land Registry Property Alert. You will be notified by email of any activity relating to your property. This service is free and can be applied for at: https://propertyalert. landregistry.gov.uk/
If you have any concerns with regard to property fraud and how to mitigate the risks, please contact Sonal Rabheru in our Guildford office.
TWM Solicitors – Guildford 65 Woodbridge Road, Guildford, Surrey GU1 4RD sonal.rabheru@twmsolicitors.com
twmsolicitors.com
YOUR LOCAL MAGAZINE • Vantage Publishing Limited 9 Chestnut Suite, Guardian House, Borough Road, Godalming, Surrey GU7 2AE.
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VantagePoint is published by Vantage Publishing, a Godalming-based local magazine business which was first established in 2009 when we launched our first community magazine. We publish five magazines which are delivered monthly by Royal Mail to over 119,000 homes across Surrey, Hampshire and West Sussex, giving us the largest local circulation in the areas we cover. Each of our magazines is specifically localised and tailored to its geographical area and hand-delivered by your postman. Please visit www.vantagepointmag.co.uk or contact any of us with the details on page 6 if you need any more information. CONNECTSURREY
December 2017
M e d i a Surrey and Sussex
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• CONTENTS
RUGMART Surrey’s Biggest Rug Shop www.rugmart.co.uk
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6 The Editor's Note Plus contact information
8 Winter Safety Andy Goundry with tips for safe winter motoring 10 Celebrating Christmas... ...with culinary delights from local producers
Visit us for a huge range of Modern, Contemporary & Bespoke rugs
14 Christmas with the National Trust Events taking place locally in December 18 Fashion Kirstie Smillie with girly gifts for Christmas 20 Profile The Nomads
22 Gardening Beth Otway with gifts for gardeners 26 Food & Drink Mincemeat and mince pies
28 Walk
Climping Beach
30 Jottings
Hand Woven Oriental Rugs Traditional & Antique Rugs Large and Over Size Rugs Persian & Afghan Rugs Handmade Tribal Kilims Hall Runners & Hearth Rugs
Your local community noticeboard
45 Business Cards Small ads for trades and services
Come and visit our showroom: 2-3 Woodbridge Road, Guildford GU1 4PU Be inspired by our treasure trove of rugs over 4 floors and 7000 sq ft!
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47 Competitions Win one of three great prizes
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VANTAGEPOINT The contents of this magazine are protected by copyright and nothing can be reprinted without prior permission of the publisher. The publisher has tried to ensure that all information is accurate but does not take any responsibility for any mistakes or omissions. We take no responsibility for advertisments printed in the magazine or loose inserts that might be delivered alongside it. © Vantage Publishing Limited.
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† Sign up for membership with this advert and receive a free tower of treats. Offer valid at Costco Farnborough until 31/12/17. New members only. * Membership Criteria applies. Please visit www.warehouses.costco.co.uk/membership for details. Accepted methods of payment: cash, debit card, cheque or American Express. Membership must be obtained before purchases can be made. ∆ ID required to preview. JN15888
• THE EDITOR'S NOTE Christmas is almost upon us and it does not seem that long since it was still summer. In this issue, we have included plenty of gift ideas from our writers to help you choose the right present for your loved ones. Where you can, please not only try and buy through our local shops but also try and buy things that are made or grown locally. Phil Kemp writes about just some of the great food and drink products that are made with passion within just a few miles of where we live. From chocolate to gin and condiments to sparkling wine, these often award-winning items are well worth locating and many will be available at some of the Christmas fairs and markets that will be taking place in December. Imagine a Christmas table where the food miles for almost everything you are about to eat is barely into double digits. It is perfectly possible and something worth trying. I have ordered my beef, chipolatas and turkey from a local producer and will try and make sure the vegetables have not been anywhere near an airport. Mince pies will be homemade (look out for our recipe in this edition) and festive fizz is easily sourced from one of any number of fabulous local vineyards. However I will draw the line at red wine - for me, it has to be claret!
CONTACTS Marcus Atkins, Sales Director 01483 420173 / 07702 132157 marcus@vantagepublishing.co.uk Jesse Boon, Sales 01483 418141 / 07542 710508 jesse@vantagepublishing.co.uk Lauren Broughton, Sales 01483 661088 / 07852 041227 lauren@vantagepublishing.co.uk Claire Taylor, Sales 01483 661089 / 07787 157263 claire@vantagepublishing.co.uk Nick & Angie Crisell, Jottings 01483 421601 jottings@vantagepublishing.co.uk
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Merry Christmas and a happy and proseperous New Year from all of us at VantagePoint Stefan Reynolds, Editor & Publisher 01483 421601 stefan@vantagepublishing.co.uk
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For more articles, please visit it us online at
Contributors: Louise Buchanan, Andy Goundry, Gill Kellett, Phil Kemp, Beth Otway, Kirsty Smillie
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Next Copy Date: 4th December 2017 6 VANTAGEPOINT
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BEEF • VENISON • RABBIT • SAUSAGES • STEAK PIES • BEEF BURGERS • LOGS • HOPS
HAMPTON ESTATE IS A FAMILY OWNED AND RUN TRADITIONAL AGRICULTURAL ESTATE LOCATED IN BEAUTIFUL RURAL SURREY. We supply the most succulent English Beef, and other produce, naturally reared on the Estate. Join us for our next collection days on Friday 1st and Saturday 2nd December. For further information on how to ‘place your order’ as well as details on our ‘Pop Up’ restaurant and woodland walk on New Year’s Day, please visit our website: www.hamptonestate.co.uk
Telephone: 01483 810465 Email: enquiries@hamptonestate.co.uk www.hamptonestate.co.uk Hampton_VantagePointAd_147x91.5mm_Landcspae.AW.indd 1
09/11/2017 12:42
Waverley Foot Clinic Keeping our feet healthy for busy lives
Fungal Nail Infection is an extremely common problem in the UK.Simply treat fungal nail infections using Lunula ‘cold’ laser therapy Today the latest Cold Laser Technology can be used to eradicate this problem.
Fungal nail infections are an increasing problem facing many people within the UK. Many people don’t recognise the infection allowing it to grow and spread without control for months or sometimes years. Topical treatment are often tried but rarely result in an improvement. Nail fungus is caused by fungal organisms such as dermatophyes which thrive in the warm, dark and humid environment within our shoes. The fungus digests the keratin within the nail and also skin, associated with other skin infections such as athlete’s foot. The nails appear discoloured and become thickened; eventually thewww.waverleyfootclinic.com nail may become brittle and 01252 716611 crumbly, in many cases leading to the total nail break down. Suites 5 & 6, 29 East Street, Farnham GU9 7SW The latest treatment available in Farnham can be found at Waverley Foot Clinic. Lunula ‘Cold’ Laser therapy is a simple process of five consecutive weeks’ treatment (half hour each week). As the name suggests, the laser light used is within the cold spectrum so there is no sensation at all. Lunula ‘cold’ Laser is a therapy from the USA and has been successfully used in the UK since June 2012 and is now available at Waverley Foot Clinic in Farnham. Finally, it’s very important to understand that fungal nail very rarely goes away without treatment. For a diagnostic appointment to discuss all aspects of a nail fungus infection and Lunula ‘cold laser therapy please call Waverley Foot Clinic on 01252 716611. Much more information is also available on the website at www.waverleyfootclinic.com The results before and after
www.waverleyfootclinic.com | 01252 716611 Suites 5 & 6, 29 East Street, Farnham GU9 7SW December 2017
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Image: Confused.com
Winter Safety Andy Goundry with tips for safe winter motoring
The winter may be upon us, but most of us will need to use our cars, even though the seasonal weather could bring hazardous driving conditions. So what can you do to make driving safer? First, let’s start with correcting a widely-held misunderstanding – that 4x4s are the thing to have in bad weather conditions. Unfortunately, most of the time it’s just not true. True, a 4x4 will get you moving on slippery surfaces better than a conventional 2-wheel-drive vehicle. However, having 4-wheel-drive offers little or no benefit if you need to stop quickly on those same slippery surfaces. And stopping, or being able to take avoiding steering action, are of course far more important than being able to get going in the first place. Far better is to have tyres which are optimised for the season: most of the tyres that we buy or indeed are fitted to our new cars, are not at their best in winter conditions. In fact, below around 7°C, the rubber of these so-called summer tyres hardens, giving much less grip than at higher temperatures, resulting in longer stopping distances and a much higher risk of skidding.
These are powerful arguments in favour of changing to winter tyres when temperatures drop. However, most people are put off doing so, both by the costs of buying an extra set of tyres, and the hassle of changing them over twice a year. Also, winter tyres tend to perform slightly worse than summer tyres above that critical 7°C temperature. All is not lost, though, for a new breed of tyre has emerged over the last few years, ‘all season’ tyres. These, as the name implies, offer most of the benefits of both winter and summer tyres and can be kept fitted all year round. Typical of these all-seasons tyres is the highly-regarded Michelin CrossClimate range, although many of the well-known brands are now offering similar products. So, consider fitting all-season tyres when your car next needs new rubber, but
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Image: HiQ
So what’s the answer? Traditionally, fitting special winter tyres which do not harden at low temperatures is the best way to keep safe. To give you a flavour of just how effective winter tyres can be in adverse conditions, Auto Express magazine carried out a test of emergency braking on snow from 30mph using cars which were identical except for tyre fitment. The winter tyres stopped in 27 metres, whilst the summer tyres took an incredible 85 metres to stop from the same modest speed! And just to reinforce the point about 4x4s, other independent tests have demonstrated that a 4x4 on summer tyres will take far longer to stop in winter conditions than a conventional 2-wheel-drive car on winter tyres. vantagepointmag.co.uk
WINTER SAFETY remember that it’s best to change all four at once. Cost wise, they are only a little more expensive than summer tyres. After tyres, it’s particularly important in winter months to keep your wipers in good condition. Wiper blades are past their best after a couple of years, and the resulting smeared windscreen causes increased glare, making for tricky night driving. New blades are not too expensive, particularly if you buy online. The same goes for lights: they need to be clean and functioning. Not just to help you to see clearly, but even more importantly to make sure that you can be seen. How often do we meet an oncoming vehicle with only one headlight working, making it extremely difficult to judge its width, which can easily have disastrous results. Sadly, it’s tricky to replace headlight bulbs on many modern cars without a costly dismantling job. Nevertheless, urgent replacement of failed bulbs is vital if you want to stay safe. On a positive note, an increasing number of newer cars are being offered with either xenon or LED headlamps. These have a much greater life expectancy than conventional halogen bulbs, making this one option box which is well worth ticking if you order a new car, for as well as the improved life, they are much more powerful, lighting up more of the road ahead, provided, that they are correctly adjusted. Correct headlamp adjustment needs specialist equipment, so a garage visit is necessary if you suspect your headlights are not as powerful as they should be. Again, correctly
adjusted lights help not just you as a driver, but also oncoming drivers, who are not dazzled by poorly-aimed beams. And finally, always ensure your windscreen and other windows are clean, for dirty screens again increase glare from oncoming traffic. Many proprietary car glass cleaners are available which do an effective job, although an old traditional method of using damp newspaper also works well. Don't forget the inside of the glass, where an insidious layer of grime can develop unnoticed. Screen washers should also be checked and topped up with winter grade fluid. So with suitable tyres, good lights and wipers, and a clean screen, stay safe and happy winter motoring!
FIND OUT MORE Find more of Andy’s articles at www.autonews.uk.com © Andy Goundry 16 October 2017
Leading the way in providing an AFFORDABLE PROFESSIONAL service
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If you are over 65 it will only cost you £75* to make or update your Will. We are also Lasting Power of Attorney Specialists - only £85* each LPA if instructed during the Will appointment. FREE home visits, so no travelling! Call us now for a no obligation chat on: 01483 256625 www.westminster-law.co.uk
email: info@westminster-law.co.uk
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*OUR PRICES INCLUDE VAT. These very special rates are only available if you are over 65 years old. Our normal low price for a standard single Will is £125, £195 for two. Mag half page landscape Jasper 05/09/17
December 2017
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05/09/17
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Celebrating Christmas
WITH CULINARY DELIGHTS FROM LOCAL PRODUCERS
Phil Kemp has his Christmas palate tantalised and teased by Kevin Depree of The Godalming Food Company Every year in the run-up to Christmas, we invariably suffer from a promotional tidal wave of publicity from the large manufacturers and national retailers who want us to fill our homes with their Christmas-themed grocery products. For many of us catering for Christmas understandably becomes a dreaded chore – but, there is another way which is not only refreshingly different, it can also be great fun too.
itself as ‘A Food & Coffee Oasis’. And given that its proprietor Kevin Depree some 25 years ago joined the catering industry as a chef, to quickly rise up through the ranks to end up running restaurants, who better to guide an exploration of the culinary side of Christmas?
Scattered across Surrey is a healthy community of independent grocery retailers, who not only supply a refreshingly different range of food and drink to proudly grace your Christmas dinner table, but also source exciting products from local producers. They will also provide suggestions and helpful guidance on what you can do to make this Christmas special.
“Here at The Godalming Food Company we run a deli-style shop where we pride ourselves on a totally personal shopping experience,” enthused Kevin, as we stood close to a display of extremely tempting breads and cakes. “And I have tasted every single product you see on the shelves in here, some more often than not, especially when it comes to the decent wines. I’ve made a point to refresh my memory how each of those taste - quite regularly!”
Tucked away in my home town of Godalming’s High Street is an independent retailer that quite deservedly describes
Kevin laughed at my quip on how poor memory does have a hidden benefit in his line of business, before quite appropriately leading me over to the shelves laden with wines, spirits and beers.
Proprietor Kevin Depree in festive spirit
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“Our motto is local wherever possible, and if not local then certainly English next. There appear to be a lot of local brewers making good beer. We’ve also got a very good wine scene in Surrey, and some great spirits up and coming too.” Kevin picked up a bottle of ale. “This is from the Crafty Brewing Company, a micro-brewery in
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Some of your most promising shareholders could be living right under your nose.
Are you the owner of a company? Or are you thinking of starting one? Well, here’s something else to think about. Who should your fellow shareholders be? You could be living cheek by jowl with some of the most ideal candidates, yet perhaps the least obvious: your children. Yes, that’s right, your children.
“Darling, I saw the doctor and guess what! There’s another little shareholder on the way!”
A tidy sum tax-free By making your children shareholders, and paying them dividends from the company’s profits, you can quite legally pay each one £11,500 a year, tax-free, plus the tax-free sum in dividends to which every shareholder is entitled. There are, though, a couple of catches. Firstly, a child’s blood parents cannot provide the shares for their offspring. But almost anyone else can, as long as the shares are a gift for what’s known as ‘love and affection’. Secondly, you can’t spend the dividends willy-nilly. They must be used to buy items or experiences that are purely for the benefit of the child, for example, school fees, or clothing and shoes, or to save for university tuition fees later.
Want to know more? Children as shareholders are all part of a wider consideration when setting up a company: good corporate structuring. At Cheesmans we’re only too aware of the need to ‘get the paperwork right’ as we put it. We’ve helped hundreds of companies into existence and re-structured many others. Which is why we consider corporate structuring to be one of our specialisms Call Carol Cheesman on 020 7354 3914 or drop us a line at corporate@cheesman.co.uk We’ll arrange a meeting to talk things over, with no obligation on your part.
CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS WITH CULINARY DELIGHTS FROM LOCAL PRODUCERS
Dunsfold. Luke, the owner, used to brew in Godalming and the five ales he makes are extremely good.” “Now this cider has got a really good story behind it,” said Kevin as he tapped at a bottle labelled The Garden Cider Company. “It’s made in Chiddingfold using apples brought in by people from their gardens, and in return they get rewarded with bottles of cider made from their and other people’s donated apples. It sells here really, really well. “To the wine and gin. There is a good demand for Horsmonden White, a still wine from the Davenport Vineyards in Sussex. Closer to home we stock Silent Pool Rosé from the Albury Organic Vineyard, a good wine, as are the wines from the Greyfriars Winery near Guildford who do a really good sparkling wine. All of these are in our fridge at the moment so that you can come in and taste them. You can also sample the gins we have including Juniper Green from a company based in Bramley and Dancing Dragontail a summer gin - here with Gutsy Monkey the winter gin from The Gin Kitchen in Dorking. And, of course, we stock The Silent Pool Distillery’s range of gins and cordials.” Having previously seen a hamper that The Godalming Food Company had filled with an interesting range of different items, I asked Kevin to suggest how he could
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make a choice from the products he was introducing me to. “There is a demand for hampers all year round, and as well as alcohol there are of course many food items to choose from. To make it easier for Christmas we provide some hamper ideas in our brochure – but we can adapt the range to suit what you need. This can, for example, make allowances for gluten intolerance. We’ll even walk around the shop and help customers fill a hamper tray by making suggestions according to who they intend the hamper to be given to. And at Christmas we try and make it all about families sharing. Steering Kevin back to continuing my tour, particularly with locally sourced products, we moved on to the food sections. “Some time ago I was asked by a customer: ‘What products wouldn’t you be without?’ A great question, and here I can give you some examples. The guys at Briscoes used to run pubs in Reigate where they used savoury jellies in their food recipes. Now they produce artisan jellies that can be mixed in sauces or eaten with cheese or cold meats. They sell phenomenally well throughout the year. Another is Le Mesurier Horseradish Sauce, created in Godalming and described as ‘so hot it makes your eyes water’! “Local from
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the
cheeses include Gimblett Cheese
those micro-
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CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS WITH CULINARY DELIGHTS FROM LOCAL PRODUCERS dairy in Haslemere. Little parcels of creamy goodness! Local company Crosbies make loads of quiches and tartlets, as well as fantastic cakes. Chris and Claire Crosbie are excellent bakers and make some of the best gluten-free brownies I’ve ever tasted.” Kevin noticed that I was keenly eyeing up the chocolate section. “Ah, Amelia Rope’s chocolate is lovely, as are those from Noble & Stace Chocolatiers. Farnham-based Mummy Makes crumbly fudge is a nice local product. But let’s get spicy with the Art of Curry sauces made by Sameena, her products are amazing – as are Dee’s Pies from Kingston in Surrey. Amazing pies with lots and lots of filling and not too much pastry which seems to be the cost-cutting norm from other makers. “Our artisan coffees come from Redber, roasted and blended in Guildford, and also from the Surrey Hills Coffee roastery in Dorking. All Fairtrade and very tasty coffee. You’ll love this too.” Kevin picked up a pack of Tweetea. “They’re over in Cranleigh and have come up with something so unique. She has created tasty fruit teas from natural ingredients for children. Not only is it popular with kids, adults like it too!” Kevin was in overdrive now, so although I’m running out of space I’ll let him finish with the passion he undoubtedly has for food, and as he told me right at the beginning of the interview: ‘I’ve always loved food, I’ve never wanted to do anything but be in and around food.’ “Our Surrey Honey is produced so close to us we believe that the bees fly over the deli at some point en route to visit flowers to feast on! Jams and marmalades? Mad Jams in Godalming are handcrafted in a unique style – try pineapple and cracked pepper for instance, or strawberry and Pimms! And a great way to finish is with Two Birds, an additive you can add to yoghurt, porridge and muesli – it really lifts the texture and flavour of what you are eating. Very, very popular and we’ll always stock those.” To say I enjoyed my introduction to locally produced food and drinks that will go down extremely well at Christmas is a total understatement. It’s a no-brainer to me. Hunt out your local independent deli retailer and go and talk to them. It’ll be the best Christmas feasting you’ve had in a long time! Phil Kemp is a Godalming-based writer and photographer. www.weyriver.co.uk FIND OUT MORE The Godalming Food Company, 99 High Street, Godalming, Surrey, GU7 1AQ. www.godalmingfood.co.uk. Tel: 01483 239891 Visit an independent food and drink retailer near you to find the best local producers. December 2017
Featured producers: The Crafty Brewing Company - Dunsfold www.craftybrewing.co.uk The Garden Cider Company - Chiddingfold www.thegardencidercompany.co.uk Davenport Vineyards - Rotherfield www.davenportvineyards.co.uk/ Albury Organic Vineyard - Albury www.alburyvineyard.com Greyfriars Vineyard and Winery - Guildford www.greyfriarsvineyard.co.uk/ Juniper Green - Bramley www.junipergreen.org/ The Gin Kitchen - Dorking http://gin.kitchen/ The Silent Pool Distillery - Albury www.silentpooldistillers.com Briscoe's Jellies - Reigate www.briscoesjellies.co.uk Le Meseurier - Godalming www.lemesuriers.com Gimblett Cheese Micro-dairy - Haslemere www.gimblettcheese.co.uk Crosbie Foods - Wormley www.crosbiefoods.co.uk Amelia Rope Chocolate www.ameliarope.com Noble & Stace Chocolatiers - Easebourne www.nobleandstace.co.uk/ Mummy Makes - Farnham www.mummymakes.net Art of Curry Sauces - Godalming www.theartofcurry.co.uk Dee's Pies - Kingston www.facebook.com/DeesPiesUK Redber Coffee - Guildford www.redber.co.uk Surrey Hills Coffee - Dorking www.surreyhillscoffee.co.uk Tweatea - Cranleigh www.tweetea.co.uk Two Birds Cereals www.twobirdscereals.uk
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VANTAGEPOINT 13
Christmas
with the National Trust Petworth Visit Petworth and journey on a Grand Tour Christmas, inspired by the historic tradition of travelling Europe. Wandering the six rooms of the mansion you’ll discover room-sized cityscapes of countries dressed for Christmas alongside historic star items that connect to each country. The last leg of your trip is into the chapel where a 20-foot tree awaits you. You can help decorate the tree by colouring in your own ornaments or take them home to decorate your own. There are blank cards where you can write wishes to hang and see if they come true. Open every day 11am to 3.30pm, from 2nd December to 1st January, except 24th and 25th December. There are also special Winter’s Trails for families outside in the parkland. Polesden Lacey Dressed to impress Polesden Lacey’s 18ft Christmas tree will welcome you to the party as you step into the central hall. Step back in time and experience all the glamour of a high society Christmas soirée. The house is abloom with seasonal flowers, the scents of nutmeg and cinnamon drift from the servery; and the sound of 1930s tunes float through the air. Festive food is served in the Granary café. Come midweek for a relaxed, leisurely visit and browse the Christmas gifts in the shop. Polesden Lacey's 1930s Christmas party is open daily from 1st to 23rd December, free for National Trust members, entry fee for non members from £15 for adults. Children’s trails are available in the house and gardens, plus horse drawn carriage rides at weekends. Between Christmas and New Year join in Polesdenopoly, a life-size version of the classic Christmas game in the gardens, £5 per game bag.
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Polesdon Lacey
Wreath making workshops are on 1st, 5th, 8th, 12th and 15th December, 10.30am12.30pm and 1.30pm-3.30pm, £30, booking essential on 01372 452048. Finally, enjoy a bracing Boxing Day walk across Ranmore Common with our Rangers, adults £8 children £4, booking essential on 01372 452048. Hatchlands Park Enjoy a really family-friendly outdoor experience at Hatchlands Park this Christmas. Meet Father Christmas and Mrs Christmas too. Follow a new children's trail across the parkland telling the story of the mice who made Silent Night. Meet the resident donkeys, and stop by the café for a mince pie.
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CHRISTMAS WITH THE NATIONAL TRUST house will be beautifully dressed in winter greenery and the fires will be crackling in the grates. Sample festive food, made by our volunteers. There will also be crafty activities for families and above all, a warm welcome. Open 8th, 9th and 10th December, 11am to 3.30pm. There is a wreath making workshop on 1st December, 10.30am-1pm, £36, booking essential on 0344 249 1895. Visit the animals from Miller’s Ark in the courtyard on 16th and 17th December, 11am to 3pm or book a timed slot to meet Father Christmas, weekends from Saturday 2nd until Sunday 10th December, and 21st and 22nd December, 11am-3pm. £5 per child. On Saturday 16th December there is an evening of festive music at Hatchlands with crossover soprano Mary-Jess Leaverland, tickets £15. Booking essential: 01483 444334, or join in with Family Christmas Carols on 17th December, Booking essential: 01483 444334. Surrey Hills From harvesting your own Christmas tree to wreath making there are lots of festive traditions to discover across the Surrey Hills this season. Or simply set out for a walk across Surrey's most picturesque winter landscapes. There will be Christmas tree harvesting at Hindhead Commons and the Devil’s Punch Bowl on 2nd, 9th and 10th December. Bring along a saw and pair of gloves and cut your own Christmas tree, £15 each. Christmas wreath making workshops are on Friday 1st December at Landbarn Farm, near Dorking and Sunday 3rd December at the Witley centre, near Haslemere. £36 including wreath materials and soup for lunch, booking essential on 01372 220644. Carols for Clandon In aid of the Clandon Park Appeal, Join Dame Penelope Keith and the Oxford singers for readings and carols at Holy Trinity Church in Guildford. All proceeds will go towards restoring the collection and gardens at Clandon. Book now for tickets for the 16th December performance: 01483 444333. Leith Hill Place Some of the best-loved Christmas carols were arranged by composer, Ralph Vaughan Williams, who lived at Leith Hill Place as a child. ‘O little town of Bethlehem’ is based on an old English folk song, which the composer collected from the nearby village of Forest Green. Enjoy singing this and other favourites, led by local vocal groups. The
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River Wey Navigations Indulge your creative side with our Christmas crafts workshops on the River Wey this winter. Or head out, in good company, for a guided walk alongside the beautiful River Wey, with a stop-off for mulled wine and mince pies. Take part in an adult craft session for Christmas on 5th December with talented willow weaver Judith Needham. Get festive making willow reindeer and simple stars, or join in a festive circular walk on 10th December from Town Lock, past Coxes Mill with a chance to warm up with a mince pie and mulled wine at the White Hart. Booking essential on 01483 561389. Winkworth Arboretum With its flourishing Winter Garden and twisting Holly Walk, this internationally significant landscape is a wonderful place for a stroll in the winter. Nestled on a hillside in the heart of Surrey, Winkworth's wintry woodland is the perfect spot for a festive walk in the crisp, clean air. With a mixture of level walkways and more challenging slopes, there's a route for everyone, including winter wonders trail for families around the arboretum. On 16th and 17th December, bring your four legged friend to meet Santa Paws at his festive kennel at Winkworth Arboretum and receive their own doggy treat for Christmas. There is also a wreath making workshop on 3rd December, 11am-1pm, £30, booking essential on 01483 208477. FIND OUT MORE For more Christmas information, please visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk.
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Creative fun with flowers in small friendly groups, hosted in the Wild Thyme Flowers Studio or in the comfort of your own home or office. Have you ever wished you could create something fabulously floral? Whether you are a complete beginner and don’t know a daffodil from a daisy, or you would like to build upon your basic floral skills, a Wild Thyme Workshop is a perfect way to have fun. All materials supplied - drinks, nibbles and giggles included!
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Girly gifts for Christmas • FASHION
With Kirstie Smillie
What to buy the ladies in your life? Kirstie Smillie offers a few hints. Slinky underwear has its moment but in reality most of us would like to receive gorgeous everyday things we will actually use. Leather bags, dramatic scarves, cashmere sweaters and designer treats. Aim for small and luxurious rather than big and budget. For the lady who likes hands free
For the luxury loving vegan
1
For the never have enough stripes
2 For the outdoorsy ankles gal
3 For the label lover on a budget
4 For the creative with swish
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5 For the ooh aah, ‘it’s cashmere!’
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For the print on print drama
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Wrap it up Put some thought into how you are going to present your present! Get creative with gift wrapping and select a theme with arty bits you have or visit a local craft shop for ribbon, trims, letter stamps and card punches. If you are visiting Godalming, take a browse in Arty Crafty in Church Street, Godalming as it's full of gorgeous inspiration to get you into the ‘Christmas creative’ mood. Tel: 01483 427133. GRAPHIC Natural and black, cut out letters in sparkly card and add stripy ribbon.
TARTAN Multi-coloured tartan ribbon, a different plaid for each gift.
BAUBLES Use small Christmas tree baubles with clashing ribbon and paper.
Credits
NATURAL Go natural with brown paper, string and a few green sprigs. 1. Great backpack, natural leather with plenty of pockets and strap options, £95.99 www.zara.com; 2. Waxed canvas and vegan leather make up bag, £48.50 www.jessicarussellflint.co.uk; 3. Cotton stripy top that will always be in fashion, £29 www.johnlewis.com; 4. Wool blend Fairisle Bonnie socks, £19. www.hobbs.co.uk; 5. Dior Vernis nail varnish, £20, www.dior.com; 6. Tassel silk thread earrings, £48 www.anthropologie.com; 7. Cashmere boyfriend cardigan, £139 www.purecollection.com; 8. Printed quilted scarf wrap, £19.99 www.mango.com
Kirstie Smillie is a Personal Fashion Stylist. Follow her style blog at www.kirstiesmillie.com. For appointments, email kirstie@kirstiesmillie.com or call 07773 234947. All images found on www.pinterest.com December 2017
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VANTAGEPOINT 19
The Nomads • PROFILE Theatre will all have extra rehearsal space, and their ‘Prompt Corner’ group are looking forward to holding their monthly meetings and lunches in a more spacious venue. The good news is they already have funds raised to complete the building, around £250,000 from members’ donations and bequests, however, they are still appealing for additional funds to fit the building out with a kitchen, bar and servery, soft furnishings and décor. Funds have been raised through events including a recent visiting production of ‘Once Upon A Labrador’ and the highly anticipated arrival of the Ember Big Band. The new green room and its predecessor
The Nomads in East Horsley have been performing as a group since 1934, firstly in a local WI hall. The current theatre building was originally erected in 1957 on land owned by a founding-member's family, and in 1980 they acquired an old hut from Horsley Towers and this became the green room, housing the bar, kitchen, paint store and props store. This remained in place when the new theatre was built on the site in 1998, funded by members and a National Lottery grant.
With the last leg in sight, they are keeping the momentum up and are ready to welcome audiences into the green room in December for the pantomime, Dick Whittington & his cat. With a cast ranging in age from 8 to 80, including a dance troupe and a dame, as well as Guildford College providing the stage make-up, they are confident they are all set for the most wonderful time of the year!
Dick Whittington
In 2016, The Nomads set about plans to replace the old building. They were lucky to receive a legacy from a longserving member which kick-started the campaign to plan a replacement and raise enough money. The demolition began in February 2017 and they said an emotional goodbye to an old friend, ensuring they kept some of the old pieces from the bar surround of course! It took 11 people two weeks to empty the hut and rehouse all the contents – every nook and cranny in the main building is being used.
& his cat
by Peter Denyer
Directed by Andrew Hamel-Cooke Musical Director Gareth Alber
TUESDAY 12 to SATURDAY 16 DECEMBER 2017 Evenings at 7:30pm / Saturday Matinee at 2:30pm THE NOMAD THEATRE
A temporary bar has been set up in the foyer for audiences to enjoy, and while the build means they are limited on space for a few months, all visitors are very excited to see the progress of the construction. The Nomads are also thankful to De Vere Horsley Park Hotel for the use of their car parking facilities – how nice to have generous neighbours! The new building is an integral part of the main theatre. Double doors into the new multi-purpose room allow easier access for audiences, including wheelchair users which the annual production, Play In A Week, will benefit from. Affiliate groups, Nomads productions and Nomes Youth
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EAST HORSLEY, SURREY KT24 6RT
BOX OFFICE 01483 284747
WWW.TICKETSOURCE.CO.UK/NOMADTHEATRE Tickets: Tuesday: Adults £12, Children/Students £10 Wednesday-Saturday: Adults £16, Children/Students £10 /NOMADTHEATRE @NOMADTHEATRE /NOMAD.THEATRE
WWW.NOMADTHEATRE.COM
This amateur production is presented by arrangement with NODA Limited
FIND OUT MORE www.nomadtheatre.com/the-greenroom-project/ www.nomadtheatre.com/dick-whittington
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Make Your House a (holiday) Home Professional Tree Surgery & Hedge Maintenance Services There can be many financial benefits to owning a holiday home but getting started can be daunting, so where should you begin? Your first consideration should be location. Though it’s not necessary for your property to be in a ‘hot spot’, where you base your rental can make a real difference to bookings. Photography is also key as it helps to grab the attention of customers early on, therefore uncluttered, striking imagery is a must. When taking promotional shots ensure rooms are clean, lights are switched on and fires are lit to maximise effectiveness. If your second property isn’t near your home, it’s imperative you partner with a reputable maintenance company that can tend to odd jobs on your behalf. Working with letting agents can relieve pressure and be less time consuming than going it alone as they will deal with enquiries, bookings and negotiations with customers, as well as providing marketing materials needed to get bookings in.
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VANTAGEPOINT 21
Gifts for Christmas • GARDENING
With Beth Otway Charles Dowding, who will give a talk entitled 'Successional Sowing and No Dig Gardening' at 8pm, on Wednesday 14th March 2017, at East Horsley Village Hall, Kingston Avenue, East Horsley, Leatherhead, KT24 8QT. Entrance is free for NVS members. Tickets are £1 for members of affiliated societies, £2 for RHS students, and £5 for other visitors. Post a stamped envelope, marked with your address, to NVS Treasurer, 1 Oakfields, West Byfleet, Surrey, KT14 6RZ, with a cheque payable to the National Vegetable Society Surrey District Association.
I treasure the joy I experience when I find the perfect gift for a special person. I will share this joy with you by mentioning the best products that I have tried and tested this year, to help you find superb presents for your loved ones this Christmas. There are many great local gardening societies who meet regularly across Surrey. Membership of a gardening society is a lovely gift. Society members can learn more about gardening, make new friends and have fun! If you're looking for a society near you, or a friend or relation, visit www.surreyhorticulturalfederation.org where you'll find details of horticultural societies and information about their meetings, talks, shows, and events. The Surrey Horticultural Federation are hosting a very special Spring Talk entitled 'Trees a Cut Above the Rest' with Tony Kirkham, Head of Arboretum at the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, at 2.30pm, on Sunday 4th March 2018 at Normandy Village Hall, Manor Fruit Farm, Glaziers Lane, Normandy, Guildford, GU3 2DE. Tickets to this event are limited and available in advance. Ticket prices: £7.50 for members of affiliated societies, £10 for non-members. Please enclose a stamped envelope, marked with your address, with a cheque payable to Surrey Horticultural Federation and post to SHF Secretary, Redleaf Nursery, Green Lane, Tilford, Farnham, GU10 2AP.
I was thrilled to receive a gift of an Access Garden Products Exbury classic growhouse this autumn (below). This growhouse, is rather like a tall cold frame, it is free standing (lean-to models are available) and boasts some great features, including an automatic watering system, sliding doors, 4mm toughened safety glass, versatile staging and shelves that are easily added or removed. The Aluminium framework can be colour coated in a range of attractive colours and has a 25 year guarantee. If you don't have room for a glasshouse, this is perfect! Green & Blue Bee Bricks and Bee Blocks (right) are brilliant. Designed as nest sites for solitary bees, these bricks and blocks can be incorporated into house builds, extensions, or used as a bee home in your garden or allotment.
The National Vegetable Society are hosting a very special evening with 'No Dig' advocate
22 VANTAGEPOINT
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VANTAGEPOINT 23
GARDENING - GIFTS FOR CHRISTMAS I love my BiOrbAir Terrarium! This updated terrarium offers a number of new features and runs silently, it's a great improvement on the older model. I grow a wide range of miniature orchids, ferns, and terrarium plants inside my BiOrbAir terrariums.
Permanent Publications (ISBN: 978-1-85623-301-9) is a fabulous book, full of information for gardeners, cooks, and anyone inspired to create products using natural ingredients. The Book of Orchids: A Life-Size Guide to Six Hundred Species from around the World by Maarten Christenhusz, published by The Ivy Press (ISBN: 978-1-78240-403-3) is a wonderful book for orchid enthusiasts that features lifesize pictures of each orchid.
Dalefoot Composts produced the best performing composts in my 2016 Peat Free Compost Trial. Dalefoot Composts are available for purchase online and delivered to homes across the UK, saving the recipient the task of collecting and unloading their compost.
The Chinese Kitchen Garden: Growing Techniques and Family Recipes from a Classic Cuisine by Wendy Kiang-Spray, published by Timber Press (ISBN: 978-1-60469-677-6) is a charming book that's certain to delight keen cooks and gardeners alike.
In my 2017 Sweet Pea Trial, the Maxi Rootrainers from Haxnicks performed better than the more widely used Deep Rootrainers. These larger-sized seed trays are ideal to use for sowing sweet peas, tomatoes, beans, and other deep-rooted plants.
The English Roses by David Austin (ISBN: 9781-84091-751-2), published by Conran Octopus is an updated book of roses, ideal for anyone planning a rose garden. Garden membership is a wonderful gift. The recipient will enjoy unlimited visits during opening times, with many gardens offering other exclusive, member only benefits. We are fortunate to have so many glorious gardens open to us and many are close by. It’s important to support these gardens and charitable organisations, to ensure we protect these beautiful spaces of historical and horticultural importance, their plant collections, horticultural knowledge, expertise, and training opportunities, for future generations.
Now for some book recommendations. Hedera: The Complete Guide by Hugh McAllister and Rosalyn Marshall, published by the Royal Horticultural Society (ISBN: 978-1-90705-773-1), is a marvellous ivy encyclopaedia. Packed full of everything you could wish to know about ivy, this fantastic book is perfect for Christmas.
and
Why not give Charles Dowding's latest book alongside the talk tickets? No Dig Organic Home & Garden: Grow, Cook, Use and Store Your Harvest by Charles Dowding Stephanie Hafferty, published by
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Christmas is traditionally thought of as the season of goodwill. Friendship and times shared together are priceless. Why not volunteer to help in a friend or relation's garden, at a school, or in a local garden? Gardening is wonderfully uplifting - it's magical to share the experience and the joy.
FIND OUT MORE For full reviews and more information about each of these gifts, a planting list for terrariums and bottle gardens, gardening advice for the month ahead, and much more besides, visit my website www.pumpkinbeth.com.
Allium ledebourianum (Beth Otway)
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Food for Christmas • FOOD & DRINK
Recipes by Gill and Louise, the Great Little Cookery School
Mincemeat and Mince Pies Christmas for me is a time for family traditions, whether long-established ones or newly added. This recipe is my mum's mince pie pastry recipe; although she sadly died almost 17 years ago a lot of my recipes that I use today constantly evoke her memory. I have a small A6 handwritten book that she gave me back in Christmas 1994, now falling apart at the seams and so well thumbed through, a very treasured possession. It all depends how much time you have but I find shop-bought mincemeat overly sweet. I tend to add to a 400g jar a selection of things: some grated peeled cooking apple, a handful of chopped dried apricots, sultanas, some chopped cranberries either fresh or dried, possibly a slosh of brandy. I decant the jar into a larger bowl and stir in my additions. Do not let the mixture become too wet. Any that I am not using straight away can be frozen in a zip lock bag for the next baking session. Or add to stewed apples for a simple festive apple /mincemeat with crumble topping.
Ingredients: For the mincemeat: dried fruit -raisins, currants, apricots, cranberries, mixed peel approx 350g total weight, 150g beef or vegetarian suet, 120g dark brown sugar ,1/4 tsp mixed spice and 1/4 tsp nutmeg, zest and juice of a small orange, grated peeled cooking apple, 1/2 inch root finely grated peeled fresh ginger, approx 75ml brandy, or if you prefer alcohol free 75ml of well brewed black earl grey tea. For the pastry: 225g/8oz plain flour,110g/4oz packet margarine (I use Stork), 25g/1oz lard or vegetable baking fat -Trex, 1oz sugar, 1 egg yolk, 1-2 tbs cold water
For the mincemeat, add all to a large bowl and mix thoroughly with hands. Store in fridge in clean sterilized jars for one week or freeze in a zip lock bag and use within three months. 1. In a large bowl rub fats into flour until resembles fine bread crumbs. Stir through sugar. Stir through egg yolk. Now add water slowly initially 1 tbs and keep stirring through with a knife. Add more water slowly. You are aiming for a cohesive non-sticky ball that you can gently knead briefly. Really no more than 30 seconds otherwise you will have tough pastry. If you have added too much water simply dust with a small quantity of extra flour and gently knead until you have smooth dough. 2. Cover with cling film and allow to rest for at least 30 mins. It will keep well at least a week at this stage. 3. When you are ready to make the mince pies pre heat the oven to 210C - gas 7. Lightly flour both your work surfaces and rolling pin and roll to desired thickness. I find shop-bought mince pie pastry too thick and the fillings too sweet. With home made you can create them exactly how you like them. For me, I roll to about 2mm thick. 4. The number you make does depend on the thickness of your pastry but I make around 15 with this quantity. Don’t despair if you are new to pastry making -if the first rolling out doesn’t go well simply form back into a ball and start again - it is always easier to roll second time around. I like my mince pies decorated with a variety of pastry shapes such
as hearts and stars rather than a full pastry lid. 5. Make sure your mince pie tins are lightly greased – I use the wrapper from the packet margarine to do this. Don’t overfill each pie - approx 1 heaped tsp as you don’t want the mixture bubbling up and over the edge on cooking. If that happens just work fast to remove from the trays before it starts to stick. 6. Cook for 10-15 mins in the oven until lightly browned and smelling delicious Carefully lift out the pies whilst still hot. I use the tip of a rounded knife to ease out- allow to cool on a cooling rack. The filling will be very hot at this stage so resist all temptation to eat straight from the oven. 7. Once cold or just pre serving, sprinkle lightly with icing sugar. Stored in an airtight tin they will keep well in a cool place for one week or freeze well wrapped.
For more information, please visit www.glcookeryschool.wordpress.com. They offer gift vouchers which make fantastic presents to the would-be cook. 10% off either a course or a voucher if you mention VantagePoint Magazine.
26 VANTAGEPOINT
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VANTAGEPOINT 27
Climping Beach DEVIL'S PUNCH BOWL: HIGH ROAD AND PINE VALLEY This is a lovely walk along a great and unspoilt beach, just perfect for some post-Christmas exercise with the family and dogs. Just one factor that might influence your choice of date: it may be best not to go during a high tide. This is because the shingle on the beach is uncomfortable to walk on but at low or medium tide there is a wide mixed sand-and-pebble strip all the way which is perfectly walkable. To check before you go, try the tide times website at: www.tidetimes.org.uk and click on 'Worthing'. This walk is taken with permission from www.fancyfreewalks.org.
• THE WALK 1. Facing the sea, turn left along the beach. If you go down the shingle you will find a fairly sandy strip and, although there are pebbles here and there, it is quite comfortable to walk on. At low tide, you may find even more sand. If you are walking at high tide, you can make use of a tarmac drive and continue over the dunes. Your first destination is a long breakwater in the distance. It guards the outflow of the River Arun. After a walk of 2km, turn left back up the beach alongside a sea barrier, looking across the river to Littlehampton and its funfair. 2. Go through a pay-and-display car park and continue near the river. You can either take a concrete lane or go down a strip of sand even closer to the river. If you choose the sandy route, you need to go left-right round a creek by the marina and possibly duck under some boarding ramps, after which you must exit left back to the concrete lane, through the Littlehampton Yacht Club and ferry entrance. Continue along the lane and, where it bears left to the West Beach car park, leave the lane by forking right on a narrow tarmac footpath. There are small sand dunes here and, as a temporary diversion, on your right a footbridge takes you to an islet with a seat, a possible picnic spot. Continue following the high path, passing a creek with several interesting old wrecks, going beside the white Dormy Cottage. You come out to a road. Keep straight ahead along the road, ignoring a footpath on your left. On your right soon is Ruth’s Café, a pleasant outlet with generous sandwiches. At a T-junction, turn right. Straight ahead, but not
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28 VANTAGEPOINT
on your route, is a swing bridge and, on the other side of the Arun you will find two pubs, the Steam Packet and the Arun View, both well regarded for food. Believe it or not, the River Arun didn’t always reach the sea here. Until the late 1400s it flowed into the River Adur 10 miles to the east. That route got silted up and the river found its own way to form the present estuary during the 1500s. 3. Turn immediately left on a wide tarmac drive for the Littlehampton Marina. In 50m, turn right as indicated, continue straight across the gravel to the riverside and turn left on a grassy path. After several impeccable mobile homes, you pass the Marina and, at a fingerpost, your path veers left across the concrete slipway and then veers right on a tarmac drive, passing the Boat House Café which is noted for its fresh fish. Keep right by some chalets and fork left, as directed by a signpost, through a gravel parking area and through a modern kissinggate onto a woodland path. As the path quickly winds its way out of the wood close to a road bridge, fork right up a bank onto a higher path, going under the road bridge and rejoining the wide path. Very shortly, before a solid metal fence, turn left as indicated on a rather overgrown path, up a step, over a wooden bridge into a field. 4. Follow the nice clear straight path across the barley field. After 600m, as you enter the next field, the path turns right at a fingerpost. Fork immediately left on a narrower path, avoiding the large metal gate ahead. You have a good view on your right of Arundel Castle and the South Downs. Your path veers left at a fingerpost onto a wide path and comes out, via a large metal gate to a road. Your route is left along the road, but 300m to the right, if you wish to visit, the late 12th / early 13th -century church of St Mary's Clymping, with many interesting features. Having turned left on the road, using the footway, continue to a roundabout and cross straight over to Crookthorn Lane opposite. (To avoid the barrier, it is best to switch first to the right-hand side.)
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Climping beach by Stefan Czapski
5. Just after a thatched cottage, turn right on a byway, passing St Mary's Clymping Primary School. Ignoring the footpath ahead, turn left opposite the school on a wide track between fields. After 300m, you reach a 4-way signposted junction. If you are not visiting the pub and the village, there is a short cut here: simply keep straight ahead on the track and turn right at the beach, or on a tarmac track, back to the start. Turn right on a nice clear path across the wheat field, continuing on a drive past thatched cottages to a lane. Turn left, immediately reaching the Black Horse Inn, a traditional country pub. After a possible break, continue on the lane, passing some old flint houses of the village and some woodland, arriving back at the beach where the walk began. Directions: Arriving at the big Arundel roundabout (via the A29/ A284 or the A27), take the minor turning for Ford, Climping. Go 3 miles through Ford, crossing a railway, to a major crossing of the A259 with a roundabout. Turn right on the A259 and, in nearly ½ mile, turn left as for Climping Beach. Park at the end of the lane
DISTANCE: 5 miles OS MAPS: OS Explorer 121 (Arundel)
in the car park. There is a modest charge by ticket, calculated from arrival time. A possible alternative free parking site is Crookthorn Lane, postcode BN17 5QU, with some competition from the school run. An alternative route is via the A24 and Worthing. Follow signs through Littlehampton and, from the A259, look for Climping Beach as above.
Tra Travel, Explore, Adventure
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STARTING POINT: The walk begins at the Climping Beach car park, near Littlehampton, West Sussex, postcode BN17 5RN. For many more walks, please visit our website at www.vantagepointmag.co.uk/category/walks. December 2017
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Jottings Jottings is your FREE community noticeboard for charities, local events, groups and information, compiled by Jane Gosnell. To feature here, please email us at jottings@ vantagepublishing.co.uk by the first Friday of the month prior to month of publication. Please note that space is limited and inclusion cannot be guaranteed. We believe you should demand the highest levels of service from your travel company. Travel Dream will tailormake your holiday experience by listening to your ideas, then hand pick resorts for you in stunning locations around the world. Please mention VantagePoint Travel Club when calling to secure the best offers available.
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Right folks, the silly season is well and truly in full swing now. Dig out those Christmas jumpers and get out there for some festive fun at one of the many events we have detailed in this month’s jottings - panto, Christmas concerts, craft fairs, wintery walks - there is something for everyone. I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and hope that you find some time to rest and enjoy time with your loved ones. See you in 2018! The Magic of Christmas – Stories and Songs with Santa 29th November to 23rd December For a magical day out, come and meet Santa at Wisley this festive season. From Wednesday to Friday join them for a classic Christmas tale, have a sing-along and a story with the man himself and receive a small gift. At weekends and Tuesday 19th to Friday 22nd December you can also decorate delicious gingerbread to take home. All events start at the Plant Centre Christmas Grotto. You can book online right up to the day before, plus they also hold back some spaces for on the day - for bookings on the day, you can buy a ticket from the Plant Centre. www.rhs.org.uk/ wisley. Christmas Glow 30th November to 3rd January The garden will be open until 8pm (last entry at 7pm). Enjoy the atmosphere of the festive season with the breath-taking Jigantics installation of giant illuminated flowers around the garden. The shop and plant centre will stay open late for your Christmas shopping needs. More at www.rhs.org.uk/wisley. Gag House Guildford Christmas Specials Friday 1st, 8th and 15th December 8pm With the Gag House you will find some of the best comics that are touring the UK circuit. For their Christmas specials in Guildford the festive line-up includes: Matt Price, Maff Brown, Stephen Bailey and Mike Cox, Danny Buckler, Phil Jerrod, Jake Lambert and Aaron Simmonds, Larry Dean, Abi Roberts, David Jordan and Darren Walsh. For more details on these events and more visit www.gaghousecomedy. com. A 1930s Christmas at Polesden Lacey 1st to 23rd December This December, you’re invited to step back in time and 30 VANTAGEPOINT
enjoy all the glamour and sparkle of a high society soiree at Polesden Lacey in the 1930s. Step into the hall and admire the 18ft Christmas tree adorned with authentic ornaments and lights – this is how Christmas should look. The fireplaces are filled with poinsettia, filling each room with festive warmth, while Christmas trees twinkle in every corner. Delicate mistletoe adorns each picture frame in anticipation of Christmas kisses. Scents of nutmeg and cinnamon drift from the servery, while 1930s tunes float through the air to set your feet dancing. Explore rooms within the house that have never been open to National Trust visitors before, like the servants attic bedrooms and the king's suite. Find out about the plans to restore them to their original glory. Unseen spaces tours will happen every day in December at 2.15pm. They suggest a £2 donation per person. Collect your key from visitor reception. If you’ve been good this year then head to the gun room and set down your Christmas wishes in a letter to Father Christmas. While you’re in the house, look out for Mrs Greville’s mischievous pooches, Billy and Dougal, who are having a party of their own. Out in the garden, check out the chicken coop’s Christmas makeover before taking a horse and carriage ride through the frosty grounds to the sound of sleigh bells – weekends only, adults £3 and children £2 each. More at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesden-lacey. Burlesque and Cabaret Christmas Special Saturday 2nd December 8pm (bar open from 7pm) A divine way to welcome the festive season, Guildford Fringe is delighted to present The High Octane Club Burlesque and Cabaret Christmas Special at the Electric Theatre in Guildford. This sexy and naughty night of burlesque, comedy, music and variety is strictly to be enjoyed by over 18s only. You’re in for a real treat: ready to tantalise and tease, your hostesses with the mostest for the evening include Amber Topaz, Elsie Diamond, Gemma Louise Rix and Miss Glory Pearl. Although dressing up is far from compulsory, there will be a prize for the best Christmasthemed, burlesque or vintage costume, so get rifling through your wardrobe and dress to impress. Advanced booking is certainly recommended for this night of debauchery and immorality. Tickets are £18 (£15 concessions). To book yours, please call the Electric Theatre Box Office on 01483 501200 or visit www.electric.theatre.
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YOUR COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD • Wonersh and Shamley Green Christmas Fair Saturday 2nd December 11am-2pm This fantastically festive event is for all the family, including Santa and his helpers offering Santa train rides. With a fabulous selection of stalls for all your Christmas shopping, this year's fair has everything from handcrafted gifts and jewellery to festive food and Christmas wreaths, the new WSG Primary School Cook Book and lots more. Their Christmas raffle promises some wonderful prizes and there will be plenty of mulled wine and mince pies available to truly get everyone into the festive spirit. Wonersh and Shamley Green Primary School, Guildford Road, Shamley Green GU5 0RT. The Unattached Group (TUG) A social group for single people aged 55-69, have an action packed programme of events, including theatre, cinema, walks, meals out, day trips to London attractions, and many more. The have a weekly pub meeting in the Guildford area plus a Christmas dinner dance planned this month. New members are welcome. If you are interested or would like to know more, please visit www.theunattachedgroup.co.uk or ring Becky on 07855 008897. Meet Father Christmas at Hatchlands Saturday 2nd and 9th, Sunday 3rd and 10th, Thursday 21st and Friday 22nd December Book a timed slot to meet Father Christmas between 11am3pm in his cosy sitting room and receive your present in person. Tickets are £5 and booking essential via Guildford TIC on 01483 444334 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ hatchlands-park for details. Oakleaf Christmas Choir Concert Saturday 2nd December Oakleaf Enterprise are putting on a charity choir concert this December titled Guildford in Harmony. What better way to get into the Christmas spirit than by enjoying a variety of performances from four local choirs and Oakleaf's very own guitar group. Tuck into a homemade mince pie and enjoy a nice warm cuppa whist also supporting your local mental health charity. Singing is notoriously good for your mental health and wellbeing, so join them at Guildford Baptist Church and have a good old sing along! Tickets: £8, group discounts available. Call 01483 303649 or email charlotte. may.jones@gmail.com. German Christmas Market in the Guildhall Sunday 3rd December 11am to 4pm Guildford Freiburg Association is celebrating Guildford’s twinning with the German city of Freiburg with a 'Mini' Christmas Market in the Guildhall, High Street, Guildford. Wooden toys from Freiburg, Christmas candles, German Christmas biscuits, German Christmas cards and gifts will be on sale, Glühwein (mulled wine) will be available and there will be a tombola. Literature about Freiburg will also be on display. Send and Ripley Exhibition Until the end of December on Saturdays 10am-12.30pm This exhibition is titled 'Send United - Evolution of a December 2017
Parents are worried sick about falling ill. If you are concerned that if you or another family member develops a serious illness what will happen to your finances and how you can protect your family. Below are some possible solutions: Income Protection One solution is to take out an income protection policy. These policies pay out if you are not able to work and earn money due to illness or injury. They are designed to cover your basic monthly financial expenses such as mortgage or rent, food and bills. It provides income for those that are self-employed or employees who would receive limited or no sick pay from their employers. It is usually your net monthly earnings minus any state benefits you may receive. It could be up to 55% of your gross earnings and the income is tax-free. Policies usually pay out between 4 to 52 weeks whichever is the deferred period you have chosen. They continue to pay until you return to work or when the policy term comes to an end. Critical Illness Cover This is a standalone insurance policy that pays out a lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of the conditions listed in the policy, such as some Cancers, Parkinson’s, Heart Attacks, Stroke etc. It is often linked with life insurance so pays out on diagnosis; you would still have life cover so your dependants would be looked after should you die unexpectedly. Combined life insurance and Critical Illness Cover. This insurance pays out if you die or get a critical illness whichever is the first event; you get one pay-out so if you claim for critical illness your life insurance will end. It is less expensive than taking out two separate policies but you’ll only get one payout. As part of a mortgage protection life insurance policy This policy gives you enough life insurance and/or critical illness to cover your mortgage. With a repayment mortgage your debt is paid off in full if you die or are diagnosed with a critical illness and again only one pay-out. Anglo International Group Ltd is an Independent Financial Adviser authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority no. 307774. You can access the full article on our website www.angloifa.com under the tab MoneyMatters September/October edition page 12 If you want independent financial advice please call us on our Freefone number or email us on address below. Address: 170 Epsom Road, Guildford Surrey GU1 2RP Tel: 01483 300377 Freefone: 0800 193 1066 Email: info@angloifa.co.uk
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Village'. Held next to Ripley village hall, GU23 6AF. For more information visit www.sendandripleyhistorysociety.co.uk. Horsley Choral Society present 'Hallelujah' Sunday 3rd December 7.30pm Featuring Handel's Messiah Pt 1 together with Christmas music and carols for all. There will be a retiring collection in aid of 'Parkinson's Can Dance'. Held at St Andrew's Church, Cobham KT11 3EJ. Tickets are £12 or £6 for under 18s available from the ticket office on 07768 573987. Their spring season starts 8th January 2018, new members very welcome. East Horsley Village Hall 8pm-10pm every Monday. Drop in and try a free taster rehearsal. For more details visit www.horsleychoralsociety.com. Classes for the Visually Impaired Twice weekly Mondays and Fridays WeySight is a local charity dedicated to helping adults who have a visual impairment develop new communication skills so that they can increase their independence. Classes include braille, moon, touch typing and IT skills using specially adapted software. Classes in Guildford and Godalming. Volunteers also needed. For more information please contact Kate on 07790 434952 or kate@weysight. org.uk. Christmas Music at Clandon Regis Golf Club Monday 4th December 8pm The West Surrey National Trust Centre will be holding this evening with the wonderful Epsom Chamber Choir, giving 32 VANTAGEPOINT
All homes fully CQC compliant. Fees reflect charitable status.
you a great start to the Christmas season. Tickets are £15 each, which includes a mince pie and coffee or tea. All enquiries to Gisela Duckworth on 01252 836857 or please email giselawsntc@outlook.com. GSC Bard Walk Film Premiere Tuesday 5th December 7.30pm Charity screening of Guildford Shakespeare Company’s Bard Walk film, charting Shakespeare’s 146-mile journey from Stratford-upon-Avon to Shakespeare’s Globe in London. Last year, during the 400th Anniversary of William Shakespeare’s death, between 13th-21st August, Guildford Shakespeare Company Co-Founder Matt Pinches embarked on an expedition that would see him realise a long-held ambition to walk the journey Shakespeare once took from his home town Stratford-upon-Avon, to his place of work, London’s Bankside. Tickets £10 and include an introductory talk from Matt and Q&A. Book online www.guildford-shakespearecompany.co.uk or call 01483 304384. Held at St Mary’s Church, Quarry Street, Guildford, GU1 3UA. Guildford’s Adult Panto - Jack and His Giant Stalk Until Sunday 31st December 8pm (Saturday matinees 3pm) Think you’re too old for Panto? Think again… Raunchy, rude and occasionally downright crude, Guildford’s Adult Panto returns for a fifth year as Jack and his Giant Stalk will dominate the Back Room of the Star Inn Guildford. Strictly over 18s and not for the easily offended, this night of bawdy
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YOUR COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD Oxenford 2012_Layout 1 07/11/2014 15:36 Page 1 • humour and hilariously inappropriate innuendo promises to be the one Christmas party you really don’t want to miss. For tickets call 0333 666 3366 or visit www.GuildfordFringe. com for more information and bookings. Historical Association (West Surrey Branch) Lecture Tuesday 5th December 7.30pm Professor Andrew Jotischky, University of London: 'The Crusades: Holy War or the Clash of Civilisation?' What really happened has become an issue in our times. Held at St Nicholas' Hall, Bury Street, Guildford GU2 4BW. Visitors very welcome (£3 at the door) students free. Further information from Rollo Crookshank on 01252 319881 or email crookshank@starkmann.co.uk. Dance Maze at The University of Surrey Tuesday 5th December 7.30pm This programme explores an instrumental combination capable of great power and excitement. Senior lecturer in music, Tom Armstrong, occupies the centrepiece of the recital with the world premiere of his Dance Maze, a piece that can exist in multiple forms – as a duo and as solos for trumpet or piano. Held at PATS Studio One, University of Surrey,GU2 7XH. Tickets £7. Free for students/under 18s. Mane Chance Christmas Lunch Wednesday 6th December 12 noon The Mane Chance Horse Sanctuary Christmas Lunch in association with Europasat will be held in the beautiful Mandolay Hotel in Guildford. A prosecco reception will start proceedings and that will be followed by a 3 course festive lunch with wine. Diners will then be entertained by this year’s guest speaker, the incredible Chris Moon, MBE, who lost two limbs when helping to clear landmines when one exploded and is the only westerner to have survived kidnap by the Khmer Rouge. For more information visit www. manechancesanctuary.org/lunch. Tickets available from £55. Lunchtime Recital at The University of Surrey Wednesday 6th December 1.10pm Weekly lunchtime recitals featuring student performers playing a wide range of styles. Full details can be found at www.surrey.ac.uk/arts. Held at PATS Studio One, University of Surrey GU2 7XH. Admission Free. West Surrey Family History Society Wednesday 6th December 2.30pm Have you ever wondered when soup or meat was first packed in a tin? The question will be answered by Ian Waller in his talk ‘In the Pantry’ to the society. He will show how many everyday products have originated by accident or have grown from a cottage industry and mention popular foods and appliances which are still on sale today. The society’s meetings take place in the Friends Meeting House, Ward Street, Guildford. Further information from Mrs I. Hawkins on 01483 535986. Shere Village Cinema – Dunkirk Thursday 7th December 8pm Allied soldiers from Belgium, the British Empire and France are surrounded by the German Army, and evacuated during December 2017
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Jottings a fierce battle in World War II. Tickets are £5 per adult. Book online at www.villagecinema.org or visit www.facebook. com/sherevillagecinema. Les Amitiés Françaises Thursday 7th December 7.30pm Les Amitiés Françaises’ next lecture will be on Judaism in France. Cedric Cabanne, a wonderful speaker, is a history and geography teacher and also lectures on cruise ships. The presentation will take place in central Godalming, at the Baptist Church Hall on Queen Street, on Thursday 7th December at 7.30pm. Visitors are welcome. For details of events and membership, please email john.petty@which. net or visit: www.amitiesfrancaises.com and our Facebook page: @amitieswaverley. Dick Whittington at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Friday 8th December until Sunday 7th January 2018 Judy Cornwell stars as Fairy Bowbells in the rags-toriches family pantomime adventure Dick Whittington this Christmas. Causing mischief and mayhem, panto favourite Jamie Brook plays Idle Jack – play being the operative word, as Idle Jack does not like hard work. Bag the best seats in the house by getting your family Christmas outing in the diary now and join the panto gang on their magical, swashbuckling search for fame and fortune. Tickets for Dick Whittington are on sale now. Book by calling the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Box Office on 01483 440000 or by visiting the website at www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk.
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The Therapy Garden Shop Normandy Daily Monday to Thursday 10am-2pm Open and full of local, freshly grown produce – visit them in Normandy to see what’s been freshly dug. They are a horticulture and education charity that uses gardening to generate positive change and they are also looking for volunteers. If you have a few hours to spare and fancy working in their garden, visit the website www. thetherapygarden.org or call 01483 813846. Mr B, The Gentleman Rhymer Christmas Special Thursday 7th December 8pm (Bar open from 7pm) Bringing his truly splendid, superbly unique chap-hop style to Guildford, Mr. B The Gentleman Rhymer Christmas Special comes to the Electric Theatre. A glorious blend of hip-hop performed in a jolly received pronunciation accent, Mr. B began his chap-hop career in 2007 when he decided to bring elements of his previous incarnations – UK rapper, jump-up breaks producer, banjolele maverick and dandy – together, to create a brand new genre. Mr. B’s merry jaunt to Guildford this December will see him present a mostly festive show, with songs from Mr B’s Christmas Album and other festive chap-hop favourites. For a rip-roaring evening of entertainment, you’ll need a ticket chum! They’re just £12 (£10 concessions). To book, please call the Electric Theatre Box Office on 01483 501200 or visit www.electric.theatre. Christmas Gift Certificates Supporting Kids for Kids The best gift for someone who has everything, is giving hope to those who have nothing. Kids for Kids is enabling children and their families to stay in their homes in Darfur. They are helping people to help themselves. Violence, drought and then when the rains came, flooding, which has swept away treasured seed for the food for next year, have left families in desperate need. Their sustainable projects lift families out of poverty and transform whole communities. They send your gift to Darfur and a special Christmas gift certificate to your loved ones - the best gift they will ever have. For more details visit www.kidsforkids.org.uk. Waverley Dowsers Society Friday 8th December 7.30pm Ann Stallybrass will give a talk: Star Gates and End Times. Held at the Unitarian Hall, Meadrow, Godalming GU7 3JB. Meetings are held the 2nd Friday of the month. Check their website for more information at www.WaverleyDowsers.co.uk. The Guildford Scrabble Group Every Wednesday 7.30pm-10.30pm This is a very friendly group who welcome all new players, from beginners to seasoned players. Meeting in Shalford Village Hall weekly. Car parking is free and the cost is £2.50 per evening, which includes tea, coffee, cake and biscuits. For more information contact Barbara on 01483 579873. Guildford Repair Café. Saturday 9th December 10am-12 noon Join the Guildford Repair Café and learn how to repair your items yourself under the supervision of volunteers that have the know-how to fix them. Join them at The Boileroom, 13
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YOUR COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD • Stoke Fields, Guildford GU1 4LS. Expert DIY-ers, seamstress, a bike doctor and a portable appliance tester will be available to help you make possible repairs, free of charge. Bring clean, broken items along. For more information visit their website: www.guildford.gov.uk/repaircafe.
Sanctuary Shetlands who always manage to woo their audience with their beauty. Mulled wine and mince pies will be available after the carols. Tickets are just £10 with concessions £5 and are available from tickets@ manechancesanctuary.org.
Carol Praise in West Horsley Saturday 9th December 7pm-9pm Enjoy an evening of carol singing in West Horsley, with an interval for refreshments. Free entrance. For more details contact 01483 282474. Held at West Horsley Methodist Church, next to West Horsley Village Hall.
Albury Vineyard Christmas Tasting Event Sunday 10th December 12pm-4pm Join them for a festive afternoon of tastings, mince pies, music from the Godalming Community Gospel Choir, and get some shopping sorted at the same time - who wouldn't like local wine, brandy, chocolate or honey for Christmas?! Adults £5, children and Albury Wine Club Members free. Visit www.alburyvineyard.com.
Mane Chance Christmas Wreath Making Saturday 9th December from 10am-3pm Christmas wreath making in the Mane Chance Sanctuary Barn in Compton, will take place on Saturday 9th December from 10am-3pm. The bespoke florist from Oxshott will teach the art of making a festive wreath. All wreath making materials (including foliage freshly picked from the Sanctuary) will be provided along with a seasonal light buffet. Start your festive preparations, enjoy a day at Mane Chance Sanctuary and take home your own handiwork. Tickets are £50, numbers are limited and must be prebooked by emailing tickets@manechancesanctuary.org. Full details on www.manechancesanctuary.org/wreath. The Hogs Back Road Race Sunday 10th December In its 57th year, this 11.7km race has 800 runners already entered. The historic race raises funds for Guildford and Godalming Athletics Club. Places are selling fast, so those that wish to take part are urged to enter now. Starting and finishing at the majestic Loseley House, runners will run a route to the Hogs Back with views from the North Downs Ridge across the Surrey Countryside. Visit www.aat-events. com/race/hogs-back-road-race for details.
Amnesty International Annual Social Event Monday 11th December 6.30pm-10pm Join members of Guildford Amnesty Group at their annual social event for a glass of festive cheer and to sign greetings cards to people suffering human rights abuse all over the world. Messages of friendship and solidarity give hope and encouragement to victims of imprisonment and torture. Drop in for 15 minutes or an hour, all welcome. For more information contact Marilyn Jarrett at ai@1square.org. Held at St. Nicolas’s Community Centre, Bury Street, Guildford. Epworth Choir Family Christmas Concert Monday 11th December 7.30pm Woking’s Epworth Choir will be performing its annual Family Christmas Carol Concert at Christ Church, Woking at 7.30pm
The Guildford Institute seeks new Honorary Treasurer The trustees of the Guildford Institute are looking for someone with an accountancy background who is interested in working with an educational charity providing a range of courses and other activities from an elegant building in the heart of Guildford. The Treasurer has a key role in guiding trustees and the institute manager with advice and reassurance on all aspects of our financial management, reporting, controls and compliance. Commitment in time varies but is not less than four days per month. If you'd like to apply for the role, or would like any further information, please contact Amy Rice (Acting Institute Manager) on 01483 562142 or at amy@guildford-institute.org.uk. Mane Chance Christmas Carols Sunday 10th December at 5pm The Church of St. Peter and St. Paul in Godalming is once again the venue for their 6th annual Christmas Carols. They will be joined by St. Hilary’s School Junior Choir and celebrity readers including Martin Shaw, Jenny Seagrove, Sara Crowe, Damien Edwards, Philip Cumbus, Thomasin Rand and Eyra Norman. However, the real stars are the December 2017
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on Monday 11th December 2017 and will be joined again by St Andrew’s School Choir. At this year’s concert, the choir will be raising funds for yourSanctuary, an important local charity, which has been supporting survivors of domestic abuse for the past 40 years.The much-anticipated annual carol concert conducted by the choir’s Music Director, Michael Waldron, will include the usual mix of carols old and new and there will be plenty of opportunity for everyone to celebrate the festive season with the ever-popular audience carols. At the choir’s recent autumn concert, Michael said "Our Christmas concerts are always hugely popular. This year we have a really special programme with St Andrew’s choir, and we hope that we attract a record audience to support such an important cause as yourSanctuary".Tickets for the concert are available either at the Epworth Choir box office, tel 07771 726722 or online at the choir’s website: www.epworthchoir.org. West Horsley Parish Council's Monthly Meeting Tuesday 12th December 8pm The Parish Council meeting takes place at West Horsley Village Hall. Everyone welcome. For more information please see www.westhorsley.info or contact clerk@westhorsley. info. Kathryn Harries Presents a Celebration of Christmas Tuesday 12th December Come and support your local cancer charity, the Fountain Centre, at their annual Christmas concert. It promises 36 VANTAGEPOINT
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to be a wonderful evening of Christmas music hosted by international opera star Kathryn Harries with special guests. Join them for an evening that cannot fail to get you in the mood for Christmas! Visit www.thelittleboxoffice.com/ fountaincentre for tickets. Held at St Nicolas' Church, Guildford. Horsley Floral Decoration Group Tuesday 12th December 2pm Demonstration by Graham King entitled ‘By Candlelight’. The Horsley Floral Decoration Group is a friendly afternoon flower arranging club. They meet at East Horsley Village Hall on the second Tuesday of each month (except August). They have a varied programme of demonstrators/speakers/inhouse entertainment, trips, internal competitions etc. Visitors and new members very welcome. Join them for fun, flowers and friendship. For more details please phone Beryl 01483 831422 or email bjg317@virginmedia.com. Dick Whittington and His Cat Tuesday 12th to Saturday 16th December, The Nomad Theatre presents a traditional pantomime for all the family. With barrels of laughs, slapstick, great musical numbers and plenty of audience participation there will be something for everyone to enjoy. Adults £16, children/students £10. Tickets from the box office on 01483 284747 or www.ticketsource.co.uk/nomadtheatre. Bishopsmead Parade, East Horsley KT24 6RT, www. nomadtheatre.com.
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YOUR COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD •
Late Night Openings
• Fresh, home grown Christmas Trees • Meet our resident reindeer
8th & 15th DECEMBER 6pm - 8pm with 10% discount on all trees purchased between these times.
• Visit Santa in his grotto * • Two fantastic shops for decorations and gifts • Wreath making & Pottery painting workshops (Booking essential)
• Local produce market * • Catch the barrel train * • Horse and carriage rides * • Refreshments from the 140 field kitchen * * Weekends only
Guildford University Carol Service Wednesday 13th December 6pm Traditional carols and readings for Christmas performed by the University Chamber Choir and the Gospel Choir. There will be a retiring collection in aid of charity along with free soft drinks and refreshments. Guildford Cathedral, Stag Hill, GU2 7UP. Admission Free. Western Front Association Surrey Branch Wednesday 13th December 7.45pm Forgotten Voices of the Great War - a talk by Max Arthur. Max will share his experiences of interviewing the last 21 British veterans of WW1 - youngest at the time was 104, the oldest 109. Please email Andy Thompson info@eyewitnesstours. com for full details. Held at Cobham Day Centre. Wintershall Nativity Play 13th to 17th December at various times Experience the Christmas story in a new way at The Wintershall Nativity Play, brought to you by the Wintershall Players. Dramatic and intimate, the story begins in the open air with the shepherds. The audience then take their seats in the atmospheric barn, where the story unfolds of how Jesus changed the world. The play is performed by 50 volunteer cast in beautiful biblical costumes, with songs and music, assisted by a full complement of sheep, donkeys, horses and a sheepdog. It is truly the perfect opportunity to enjoy a show with friends and family and enrich the experience of Christmas. This year, for the first time, there will be three performances on December 2017
Saturday 16th December to meet public demand. Mince pies and hot drinks will be available before the show. Holly Barn at Wintershall, Bramley near Guildford. To book please call 01793 418299 or book online at www.wintershall-estate.com. Guildford Rambling Club’s Walks Programme Various dates during December and January 2018 Unless otherwise stated visitors are welcome to try out on any of their walks which normally start at 10am. For the nine mile circular walk on Epsom Downs on Thursday 28th December, call Mick, on 07765 205353. Look to David R on 07935 887499 as your contact for the nine mile circular walk from Bentley on Sunday 7th January. For the eight mile circular walk from Milford on Sunday 14th January, again call Mick. Then David R again for the five mile morning walk from Ockham on Thursday 18th January. Full details of these walks can be found at www.guildfordramblingclub.org.uk. The (Decorative & Fine) Arts Society Lecture Wednesday 13th December 9.45am for 10.30am start The Christmas lecture will be ‘Will The Real Santa Claus Please Stand Up!’ by Janet Robson, held in East Horsley Village Hall, Kingston Avenue KT24 6QT. Visitors (£5) and new members welcome. Lectures take place every second Wednesday of the month (except August and September). For more information and the full programme phone 01372 451015 or see www.theartssocietyhorsley.org.uk. A 70/70/70 Challenge Update You may recall our Jotting in October about this challenge.
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Well, Bridget did it - with only a swollen ankle and some rather large blisters - so far raising over £3250 for Shooting Star Chase. She would like to give her enormous thanks to the team, Jess for the early morning first day taxi and William for driving what seemed enormous distances on all the other other drop offs and collections. Even more importantly this comes with her sincere thanks to you and all the many friends and family who helped Bridget on her way with encouragement and really fabulous monetary support.
West Surrey Natural History Society Talk Thursday 14th December at 8pm ‘An introduction to the wildlife of Zimbabwe’ - illustrated talk by Mike Grimshaw. Mike's daughter has a bungalow in Harare and Mike will talk about his visits to some of the best nature reserves in this little-visited country. There are some wonderful photographic opportunities and the talk will include wildlife from bee-eaters to zebras. This month’s talk will be followed by festive mulled wine and mince pies! Members £3, non-members £5. Held in Ripley Village Hall.
Charity Gospel Music Evening Wednesday 13th December 8pm-9.30pm (doors 7.45pm) A Silent Night Christmas Concert. Join this community choir for an evening of Gospel music at St Francis Church, Guildford, GU2 8BU. Free entry. Nibbles will be provided and they are accepting donations for Challengers.
A Christmas Carol at The Electric Theatre Thursday 14th to Saturday 16th December 2017 This Christmas, The Man In The Moon is delighted to return to the stage of The Electric Theatre with A Christmas Carol. Featuring a young cast filled with plenty of local talent, this magical retelling of the classic story makes a brilliant alternative to pantomime. Ebenezer Scrooge hates Christmas. But one Christmas Eve, he is visited by the late Jacob Marley and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. Will the things that they show Scrooge be enough to make him change his miserly ways forever? Box office: 01483 501200 or visit their website www.electric.theatre. The Electric Theatre, Onslow Street, Guildford GU1 4SZ.
Guildford Wey Valley Decorative and Fine Arts Society Wednesday 13th December 10.45am Please join them in Shalford Village Hall for ‘Adoration of the Magi: From Catacomb to Christmas Card’ when Dr Geri Parlby will explore who the Three Wise Men of Christian Art were and how they have been portrayed. Refreshments available from 9.30am, with wine and mince pies after the lecture. Visitors £6 and new members welcome. For more information contact the Membership Secretary on 01483 423090 or visit www.gwvdfas.org.uk. 38 VANTAGEPOINT
The Arts Society Shalford Thursday 14th December 10.15am Would you pay money to see a man climb inside a bottle? People in 1749 did! Their lecturer, Ian Keeble, a member
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YOUR COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD • of The Inner Magic Circle, having already gained a First Class degree from Oxford in PPE, will explain how the Bottle Conjurer Hoax inspired satirical prints throughout the 19th century. Connecting it to Napolean and the allegedly adulterous Queen Carloine, wife of George IV. Join them at Shalford Village Hall plus a reception afterwards. £7 lecture plus £2 reception. Call Katie Wells on 01483 860969 for further information.
Bringing Back The cheer!
Oakleaf Christmas Appeal They need to raise £100k! Can you help? Oakleaf Enterprise is a local mental health charity, based in Guildford. Since 2015 they have been delivering an incredibly successful project which has enabled them to develop and deliver a comprehensive programme of wellbeing and social inclusion activities across Surrey. However, there is a high cost being borne by Oakleaf for improving people’s lives which can only be met through very active fundraising. This Christmas they are asking local churches, businesses, individuals and community groups to help them continue to do vital work. If you are willing to help in any way please contact us and discuss your ideas or just dive straight in and help them meet our target of £100k! For more info or to donate, please contact Clive Stone (Oakleaf CEO) on 01483 303649 or email clivestone@oakleaf-enterprise.org.
For many Christmas is a lonely and depressing time. Can you help us Bring Back the Cheer this Year? Guildford Lions Welfare Fund, working with the Mayor of Guildford’s Local Distress Fund & the Guildford Food Banks, want to help local individuals and families in need this Christmas.
gUiLDForD Lions chrisTMas aPPeaL
Guildford Folk Dancers Christmas Dance Saturday 16th December 7.30pm-11pm Ivan Aitken will be calling a variety of traditional English folk dances with accompanying music by Keeping Thyme. In addition, the club meets regularly on Thursday from 8pm-10.15pm at All Saints Church Hall, Onslow Village, Gu2 7QJ. They welcome new and experienced dancers, either with a partner or alone. For further details visit www. guildfordfolkdancers.org.uk.
Were you aware affluent Guildford has four Food Banks? Do you know how many lonely people there are in Guildford? Perhaps you receive the Government Fuel Allowance but do you really need all of it?
Christmas Animal Visit at Hatchlands Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th December 11am-3pm Come and snuggle up with some furry friends from Miller's Ark Farm and also meet Hatchlands' own resident donkeys, Morris and Callum. Normal admission applies. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hatchlands-park.
Donating couldn’t be easier - four options are available via: 1. our online appeal at: www.justgiving.com/campaigns/charity/ guildfordlionsclubctf/bringbackthecheer 2. By Bacs transfer or cheque, see www.guildfordlions.com 3. our annual high street collection on December 17th 4. cash or food items donation at our all day supermarket collections: • Tesco on December 7th • Sainsbury’s Burpham on December 9th • Waitrose on December 15th & 16th
The Make Space at Watts Gallery Every Sunday Drop in 11am-4pm No space at home to be messy? Drop in to their family friendly Make Space every Sunday. From printmaking to painting and sewing to sculpture, families can explore different kinds of materials and making, with a new activity every week, free with admission. Visit www.wattsgallery. org.uk for more details. The Occam Singers at Holy Trinity Church Guildford Saturday 16th December 7.30pm Handel: Messiah with The Hanover Band. Handel’s Messiah is surely one of the musical wonders of the world, it is indeed miraculous that Handel composed Messiah in just 24 days in 1742. They present their performance of Handel’s masterpiece accompanied by the skilful players of the world-famous Hanover Band – one of Britain’s finest December 2017
YoUr DonaTion Large or sMaLL wiLL coUnT anD Make a reaL DiFFerence
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01730 220006 01483 651181 period instrument orchestras. Tickets at the door are £15, pre-booked £12 via The Occam Singers 01252 783977, Record Corner, Godalming 01283 422006 or GTIC, 155 High St. 01483 444333. They are proud to be supporting the work of local charity LinkAble this season, whose main aim is to champion people with learning difficulties.
and 2pm and cost £10 per person to include festive refreshments and a gift from Santa for all children under 12 years of age. There will also be a Santa Cruise for the Grown-ups and Boxing Day and New Year’s Day trips. Booking in advance is essential for all the trips. For full details and bookings visit www.weyandarun.co.uk.
Shere Village Cinema – The Big Sick Sunday 17th December 8pm Pakistan-born comedian Kumail Nanjiani and grad student Emily Gardner fall in love but struggle as their cultures clash. When Emily contracts a mysterious illness, Kumail finds himself forced to face her feisty parents, his family's expectations, and his true feelings. Tickets are £5 per adult. Book online at www.villagecinema.org or visit www. facebook.com/sherevillagecinema.
Guildford Travel Club Monthly Talk Tuesday 19th December 7.30pm for 8pm start Guildford Travel Club welcomes you whether you're a 'seasoned' or an 'armchair' traveller. The club meets at Onslow Village Hall for illustrated talks on travel by a range of photographers, travellers, explorers, mountaineers and writers. This month they have a talk entitled 'Alone in the Jungle' given by travel writer Antonia Bolingbroke-Kent. In 2013 she spent two months travelling along the remains of the Ho Chi Minh trail by motorbike. It proved to be a thrilling and dangerous journey. Visitors are very welcome and will be charged £7 on the door with student card holders paying just £3.50. For further details please visit www. guildfordtravelclub.org.uk.
Family Christmas Carols at Hatchlands Sunday 17th December 12 noon-1pm and 2pm-3pm Enjoy a festive sing-song in the music room at Hatchlands. Exercise your vocal chords with their fun, family focused carol concert. Adult £8, child £4, family £20. Booking essential via Guildford TIC on 01483 444334 or visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/hatchlands-park. Festive Cruises On The Wey and Arun Canal Various dates during December Bookings are already being taken for the extremely popular Santa Cruises which will be running on 10th, 17th, 21st, 22nd and 23rd December. Trips depart at 11am, 12noon 40 VANTAGEPOINT
West Surrey Decorative and Fine Arts Society Tuesday 19th December 9.45am for 10.30am start Continue their programme of lectures with a lecture-recital entitled ‘The Twelve days of Christmas’. Each year, Christ’s birthday, 25th December, signifies the beginning of twelve festive days of celebrations and music making. In this lecturerecital Peter Medhurst explores the wealth of Christmas
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music, traditions and curious legends that are connected with them. New members and visitors are very welcome. Details of their programme of lectures, visits and holidays for 2018 can be found at www.nadfas-westsurrey.co.uk. Guildford Walking for Health Various dates throughout December Beat the winter blues! Come out for a healthy walk and talk. There are four friendly walk groups offering 30 minute and also 60 minute walks, from the Boxgrove Park shops Mondays at 10am, Merrist Wood Golf Club car-park Wednesdays at 10am, Shalford Seahorse Inn overflow carpark or Watts Artist Village overflow car-park Wednesdays at 11am and from the Whitmoor Common Jolly Farmer pub car-park Fridays at 11am. Optional hot drinks afterwards. Visit www.walkingforhealth.org.uk/guildford-walking-forhealth for info. East Horsley WI monthly talk in East Horsley Village Hall Wednesday 20th December 8pm The WI meet at the East Horsley Village Hall, Kingston Avenue, on the third Wednesday of every month except August and are entertained by a speaker before having refreshments and a good chat! This month their talk has unsurprisingly a Christmas theme and is entitled ‘Magic Show’ with Roy Plumridge. Within their WI they have other activities - book clubs, painting group, bridge & rummikub, as well as outings and craft events. All visitors very welcome. Any enquiries to burgejs@gmail.com. December 2017
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Age UK Surrey's Annual Carol Concert Thursday 21st December 11am-12.15pm Held in the Guildford Cathedral. Refreshments and mince pies will be served before the concert from 10.15am-11am. This will be the first Christmas that the Cathedral will open since their recent renovations. The event will be a mix of traditional Christmas carols and readings. Free entry to all, donations welcome. Car parking is available on site. If you require wheelchair access, or are bringing a group please call Age UK Surrey on 01483 503414 or email enquiries@ ageuksurrey.org.uk. Aled Jones at G Live Thursday 21st December 7.30pm Alongside the release of his new album, join Aled Jones for a special one-off concert this Christmas. He is the original crossover star and has had an extraordinary career over the past three decades. Aled Jones has sung for the Pope and the Royal Family, received an MBE, released over 30 albums, with over 10 million album sales and counting and has over 40 silver, gold and platinum discs. More information at www.glive.co.uk. Harlequin Chamber Choir Christmas Event Friday 22nd December 7pm This year their Christmas concert is at a different venue, namely Holy Trinity Church in Guildford. I know many of you like to hear Harlequin perform, so you will love their festive 2017 Christmas offering Gloria! Carols and Classics for
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Jottings Holiday courses for children Holiday courses aged 7–13 forwho children aged 7–13 who
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Choirs and Brass. They are joined by Surrey Brass and also a Children's Choir from Tillingbourne School. Tickets are £14 (under 18s £7) available from Guildford Tourist Information on 01483 444334 or www.visitguildford.com. Free refreshments are provided. Voluntary Action South West Surrey Voluntary Action South West Surrey is a local support and development organisation working with the voluntary sector to provide advice, support and information. If you would like to find out more about what volunteer roles are available and how you can get involved, you can contact their volunteer centres on 01483 565456 or 01252 725961 or email guildfordvc@vasws.org.uk. The Alternative Bridge Club Every Tuesday 7.30pm-10.30pm They are a friendly duplicate club and would welcome more members. Held at Sutherland Memorial Hall, Burpham. Please call Davina on 01483 869855 for more details. Meditation Sessions at Seale Natural Health Mondays 10.30am-12 noon and Wednesdays 7.30pm9pm Held every fortnight at Seale Natural Health, Seale, Farnham just off the Hogs Back or down the road from Puttenham and Elstead. Suitable for beginners or those who have enjoyed meditation previously. Various forms of meditation including guided meditation, silent meditation, breath work, mindfulness, reflection and more. For more details visit www.sealenaturalhealth.co.uk or call 01252 246824 to book in. Horsley Garden Society Horsley Garden Society hold flower and produce shows, meetings, lectures and visits to bring together those with an interest in gardening - from beginners to experts. Venue West Horsley Village Hall. New members and visitors are welcome. Anyone interested in membership at the cost of £5 per annum should contact the Chairman, Roger at r.lindsay339@btinternet.com or Terry at terrylazenby@ terrylazenby.plus.com. Shere Village Cinema Double Bill Thursday 28th December Beauty and the Beast at 2pm. An adaptation of the fairy 42 VANTAGEPOINT
tale about a monstrous-looking prince and a young woman who fall in love. Followed by West Side Story at 7.30pm. On the harsh streets of the upper west side, two gangs battle for control of the turf. The situation becomes complicated when a gang members falls in love with a rival's sister. Book online at www.villagecinema.org. Community New Year’s Eve Party in Compton Club Sunday 31st December 7pm-12.30am This is a great idea! After being disappointed last year when trying to find a family New Year's Eve event locally at a price that was within a tight post-Christmas budget, a group of enthusiastic individuals have organised this event. The first hour dedicated to the children with music, fun and games for all ages,followed by a disco and a finger buffet. £6 per person and £3 per child booked in advance, or £10pp on the door. There is a licenced bar and everyone is invited to bring a plate of finger food which will be added to the buffet. Call the Compton Club on 01483 810268 or Julia Foster on 01483 415023 for tickets. Mane Chance New Year's Day Walk Monday 1st January 10am-12 noon Start the New Year with an enjoyable and fun-filled walk around Mane Chance Sanctuary in Compton. See our beautiful horses, ponies, chickens and countryside. A two mile walk (or shorter if you prefer) around the farm to work off those extra inches….. with bacon butties and hot chocolate to help along the way! Bring your family, friends and dogs (on leads) - all are welcome. Children’s quiz and lots of fun. Adults £3 and children (over 5) £1.50. Pre-book your places for discounted rates of adults £2 and children £1. Places can be booked by emailing tickets@ manechancesanctuary.org. Hampton Estate Pop-Up Restaurant Monday 1st January 2018 The famous Hampton Pop-Up is back and will open at Myrtles Courtyard from 11.30am-2.30pm for Hampton Beef in a bap followed by fresh apple fritters and cream. BYO drinks. They will also signpost a woodland walk for those who want to blow away the cobwebs and exercise the dog, a must for New Year’s afternoon. To book please RSVP to office@hamptonestate.co.uk or ring the Estate Office
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YOUR COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD • 01483 810465 with your preferred lunch time. Myrtles Courtyard is off the Littleworth Road GU10 1JH and will be signed. In Print - British Landscapes At Watts Gallery Until 7th January 2018 British Landscapes will be the theme of this year’s annual selling print exhibition at Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village. The exhibition brings together work by 13 contemporary print makers to celebrate the diversity of contemporary practice in this medium. This exhibition demonstrates how the landscape is an endless source of fascination for artists. Using wood engraving, linocut, collage, etching, screenprinting and solar plate etching, the exhibition shows the wide range of techniques employed by today’s artists to depict landscape in print. For further information please visit www.wattsgallery.org.uk. Horsley U3A Meeting Fourth Wednesday of each month 10.30am Meets at the East Horsley Village Hall at (except July, August and December) to hear interesting and entertaining speakers. Coffee is served from 9.45am. On 22nd November there will be a talk about Christmas on the Home Front, looking at bombing, rationing and shortages in wartorn Britain. The U3A welcomes new members, the only qualification being that you must be no longer in full time employment. The aim is to “Learn, Laugh and Live”, so if you want to try something new, joining one of the fifty plus activity groups within the organisation, making new friends and sharing experiences, the U3A may be for you. For information, please visit horsleyu3a.org.uk or contact Bill Hewlett on 01483 283635. Pledging for the Planet Thursday 18th January 2018 Ever wondered what you can do in your everyday life to help protect the planet? Hear from Hermione Taylor, founder of Do Nation, and be inspired by some of small lifestyle changes you can make to positively impact the environment. From eating seasonably, getting on your bike or, eating less meat – all of these pledges can help reduce carbon emissions, improve health and help to protect the planet! Tickets £5, available from wwf.org.uk/ whatson. Guildford Astronomical Society at Guildford Cathedral Saturday, 20th January 6pm-9pm Once more, Guildford Cathedral opens its famous Angel Doors for an astronomical event, combining stargazing, access to experts and enthusiasts, displays and craft and children's activities with a stellar theme and featuring two eminent speakers - the evening promises fun and all the wonder of the universe. On the south side of the cathedral a chain of telescopes will be staffed by members of Guildford Astronomical Society as well as visiting societies. These will allow viewing of the winter sky. Please do wrap up with extra layers as it can be chilly but well worth queuing for a view! The two talks will be given inside the newlyrefurbished cathedral. There is no entrance fee, plenty of December 2017
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parking but this may be very popular. Refreshments will be available. Merrow Dramatic Society Presents Cinderella Thursday 25th until Saturday 27th January 2018 This year Merrow Dramatic Society Proudly presents ‘Cinderella’ the pantomime. Written by MDS member and last years Sleeping Beauty - Elena May Mason. Cinderella is fun filled entertainment for the whole family. Will Cinderella get her Prince? This year they have new families in the cast as well as a former Panto junior who has returned to Merrow and become part of the adult ensemble. Performances are at Merrow Village Hall. Ticket prices are adults £12 and children £8. The box office is open on 01483 570621.
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Puss In Boots 2018 Thursday 25th to Saturday 27th January The SHADES (Shamley Green Amateur Dramatic and Entertainment Society) are proud to announce their 2018 Pantomime of Puss In Boots will take place in the Arbuthnot Hall, Shamley Green. This year’s Pantomime tells the old tale of a poor miller’s son who inherits a cat, but no ordinary cat! There will be the usual magic and mayhem you have come to expect from a SHADES pantomime. Tickets available at www. shamleygreenshades.co.uk, from Celebration Cakes of High Street, Cranleigh, the Bricklayers Arms Public House, Shamley Green Country Stores and Hair Gallery, all in Shamley Green and through the Box Office line on 01483 274530 in early December. Tickets Prices Adults £7 kids/Seniors £5. Oakleaf Annual Quiz Night - save the date! Friday 16th February 2018 The Oakleaf Quiz is back!. A great night of tantalising trivia and friendly competition is in store, not to mention a fabulous raffle draw, with all proceeds go to Oakleaf. Cash bar available on the night. Tickets are just £15 each, to include a 2 course meal plus tea and coffee. Held at St Catherine’s School, Bramley. For more information, or to book, please contact Camilli on 01483 303649 or email camillidabreau@oakleaf-enterprise.org. Romeo and Juliet with Guildford Shakespeare Company 3rd to 24th February 2018 The award-winning Guildford Shakespeare Company will open their 2018 programme with Shakespeare’s timeless love-story, staged in Surrey’s largest Georgian church, Holy Trinity. An ancient feud spills out onto the streets and strict family and religious ties strain to keep control. At a high society party, a young man and woman meet, igniting a passion that sets all Verona alight. To stay together, they must risk everything… For full details and bookings please visit www.guildfordshakespeare-company.co.uk. Cherry Trees – Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 Sunday 29th July Cherry Trees have some places available for the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100. Contact fundraisingsupport@ cherrytrees.org.uk or call 01483 222507 for more information.
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VETTED • INSPECTED • QUALIFIED
24HR EMERGENCY SERVICE NON DESTRUCTIVE SPECIALIST BROKEN KEY REMOVAL MASTER KEY SYSTEMS
For more information, please contact; Peter
L. J. DEVANEY
LOCKSMITH • • • •
All made in beautiful timber
Reliable, Friendly, Local with Full Insurance
Email: info@trade-timberwindows.co.uk www.trade-timberwindows.co.uk 01252 591855 | 07730 384028
07563 618415
Vetted • Inspected • Qualified
003710
• Box Sash Windows • Flush Casements • Entrance Doors • French Door sets • Bi-fold doors
Fully Insured 14 years experience Domestic and Commercial
All aspects of Interior and Exterior decorating Mob:07737664201 Home:01252 724039 Email: ljdevaneydecorating@gmail.com
To advertise, please call 01483 420173
VANTAGEPOINT 45
• BUSINESS CARDS To advertise here from just £25 per month, please call 01483 661088 or email lauren@vantagepublishing.co.uk.
SASCHA MEDING
Master Chimney Sweep Call us FREE on 0808 1646030 “KEEPING YOU SAFE AND WARM”
20 Glebe Road
Road Cranleigh Connor Dollerson20 Glebe 20 Glebe Road Cranleigh Connor Dollerson Surrey, GU6 7AS Cranleigh Connor Dollerson Surrey, GU6 Road 7AS 20 Glebe Surrey, GU6 7 M: 07842 481000 Connor Dollerson M: Cranleigh 07842 E: 481000 connor@totbc.co.uk
DO NOT PUT YOUR HOME AT RISK WE ARE EXPERTS IN CHIMNEY SWEEPING, SAFETY INSPECTIONS AND CHIMNEY MAINTENANCE. FREE CCTV INSPECTION WITH EVERY SWEEP
info@stova.co.uk
THE COOMBE, BETCHWORTH, SURREY RH3 7BT
HELP AT HOME WHEN YOU NEED IT Cleaning. Catering. Anything. Reliable. Experienced. Creative.
THE GOOD LIFE SIMPLE EVERYDAY HELP 07521 748 629
hello@thegoodlifecompany.co.uk
"“ www.thegoodlifecompany.co.uk
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LANDSCAPE & GROUNDWORKS From landscaping to extensive site excavations, we offer a high quality, honest, reliable and competitively priced service, guaranteed to meet all your needs.
07871 051661 / 01372 458616 www.timskerrittgroundworks.co.uk
Find Your Style
Dear Kirstie, I just wanted to say thank you for ensuring that I no longer look middle aged and frumpy. I had no idea that there was a whole world of fashion out there that would actually appeal to me. You have reignited my interest in how I look and what I wear. I would never have been able to do this without you. Xx
Book a Wardrobe Edit and Shopping Experience with a Personal Stylist and enjoy your clothes again.
E: kirstie@kirstiesmillie.com www.kirstiesmillie.com T: 07773 234947
46 VANTAGEPOINT
totbc
M: 07842 481 GU6 7AS E: Surrey, connor@totbc.co.uk W: totbc.co.uk E: connor@to W: M: totbc.co.uk 07842 481000 W: totbc.co.uk E: connor@totbc.co.uk W: totbc.co.uk
07988 494922 We provide a fast, efficient, professional, commercial and domestic pest control service in the local area. Rats, Mice, Moles, Wasps, Bees, Squirrels, insects and all other pests destroyed or removed. Call us now: Milford: 01483 429105 Woking: 01483 822204 www.thecountypestcontrol.co.uk
• Traditional Chimney Sweeping service • Local chimney sweep • New customer discounts available • Cages, Caps and Cowls supplied/fitted
Tel: 01483 207420
www.wilkinschimneysweep.co.uk/guildford
To advertise, please call 01483 420173
vantagepointmag.co.uk
Enter at www.vantagepointmag.co.uk
COMPETITIONS •
Please enter online unless otherwise stated. Postal entries can be sent to us at the address given on page three.
4 adult tickets to Beaulieu National Motor Museum and Buckler’s WIN... Hard - PLUS an overnight stay at the 4 star Holiday Inn Winchester
Our lucky winner and three friends will experience an exciting Friends Short Break exploring the world of Beaulieu’s National Motor Museum, with the tickets including entrance to Beaulieu’s World of Top Gear, Secret Army Exhibition, Palace House, Gardens and Abbey. PLUS tickets to Beaulieu’s sister attraction Buckler’s Hard, the 18th century shipbuilding village with its Maritime Museum and more. After this fascinating and stimulating day our winning party can retire to the comfort of the 4-star Holiday Inn Winchester for an overnight stay in two standard rooms, followed by breakfast before departing. The hotel is ideally based to explore all that Winchester and the surrounding area has to offer. To win, please answer the following question: Q: Name the nearest major motorway to the Holiday Inn Winchester Please enter online at www.vantagepointmag.co.uk by 31st December 2017. Full terms & conditions are on the website.
WIN... a Family Karting Experience at TeamSport, Farnborough TeamSport, the UK’s No 1 for indoor karting, with its 24 centres nationwide, is offering VantagePoint readers the opportunity to win a family karting experience for up to four people at its local Farnborough circuit. With kids and adults karts available everyone can come along and compete together for the top spot on the podium.
With their specially-designed Cadet Karts for the over-eights and friendly team of trained professionals, there’s never been a better time to safely enjoy all the fun that karting brings. Race across multi-level tracks, speed down the straights and master the hairpin bends in powerful eco-friendly electric karts. www.team-sport.co.uk. To win, please answer the following question: Q: How many centres do TeamSport have across the country? Please enter online at www.vantagepointmag.co.uk by 31st December 2017. Full terms & conditions are on the website.
WIN... One night dinner, bed & breakfast at the White Horse, Dorking
Dorking's historic White Horse is set to re-open in December 2017, following a substantial £4 million investment. Featuring 56 stylish bedrooms, a reimagined dining area with a capacity of 100 covers, introducing an all-new drink, dine, deli concept, specialising in local Surrey produce. www.whitehorsedorking.com. To celebrate, we're giving away a night's stay, along with breakfast and dinner in 'at The Dozen', the property's exciting new restaurant. For a chance to win dinner, bed & breakfast with a value of £250, please answer this question: Q: How many bedrooms does the White Horse have? Please enter online at www.vantagepointmag.co.uk by 31st December 2017. Full terms & conditions are on the website.
TERMS & CONDITIONS OF ENTRY: By entering these competitions you agree to receive periodic emails from VantagePoint Magazine, Vantage Publishing Ltd and the originator of the competition you are entering. You can opt out of receiving these at any time and your data will never be passed on for use by third parties. The prizes are non- 47 VANTAGEPOINT transferable and have no cash alternative. Only one entry per person per competition and prizes will only be sent to homes with a GU, KT and RH postcode.
Christmas at Limegrove care home
Bring your friends and family along for a community Christmas party With mulled wine, mince pies and musical entertainment Thursday 21 December 2017 2pm-5pm, Limegrove care home St Martin’s Close, East Horsley, KT24 6SU
For more information about Limegrove, call us free on 0808 102 4345 or visit anchor.org.uk/limegrove
Proudly not-for-profit. Established since 1968.