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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
14 Gardening Beth Otway with gifts for gardeners 18 Fashion Kirstie Smillie with girly gifts for Christmas 22 Walk Climping Beach
24 Food & Drink Mincemeat and mince pies
25 Jottings Your local community noticeboard
26 Profile The Nomads
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surgery. Our claim to fame is that nervous patients DO return! We offer a vast range of treatments from while-youwait denture repairs to crowns, bridges, veneers, teeth whitening and implants, all of which are made on-site by our in house technicians. This takes the pain out of
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paying exorbitant prices and you can sit in and see, for example, how your crowns are made. We are more than happy to chat over a coffee and show you the ‘ones we made earlier’. As the saying goes...we can rebuild you! Astek Dental Centre’s aim is to offer all our client’s our time, our patience and our skills to provide the best dental treatment we can. Our door is always open if you just want to pop in and meet the team! As a seasonal gesture we would like to offer all new patients a half price check up valid until January 31st 2017 when you present this article.
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• YOUR LOCAL TEAM 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.
CONTACTS Marcus Atkins, Sales Director 01483 420173 / 07702 132157 marcus@vantagepublishing.co.uk Jesse Boon, Sales 01483 418141 / 07542 710508 jesse@vantagepublishing.co.uk
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!
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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Contributors: Louise Buchanan, Andy Goundry, Gill Kellett, Phil Kemp, Beth Otway, Kirsty Smillie
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The Surrey Oaks, Newdigate Parkgate, Newdigate, Surrey RH5 5DZ. Tel: 01306 631200
Christmas Market & Winter Beer Festival 9th-10th December BBQ LIVE MUSIC FROM 2PM-11PM BEER MULLED WINE CHESTNUTS Join us for our first Winter Beer Festival combined with a Christmas Market with over 25 stalls.
CHRISTMAS MARKET SAT & SUN 11am - 5pm
WINTER BEER FESTIVAL SAT & SUN 11am - 11pm
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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
8 VANTAGEPOINT
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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
Care for the next generation
To find out more: 01293 447333
andyperry@stch.org.uk www.stch.org.uk
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December 2017
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Please remember St Catherine’s in your will. It costs nothing today, to provide care tomorrow.
We’ll be there, when life comes full circle. VANTAGEPOINT
9
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
10 VANTAGEPOINT
“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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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
12 VANTAGEPOINT
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
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
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VANTAGEPOINT 15
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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Late Night Openings
• Fresh, home grown Christmas Trees • Meet our resident reindeer • Visit Santa in his grotto * • Two fantastic shops for decorations and gifts • Wreath making & Pottery painting workshops (Booking essential)
• Local produce market *
8th & 15th DECEMBER 6pm - 8pm with 10% discount on all trees purchased between these times.
• Catch the barrel train * • Horse and carriage rides * • Refreshments from the 140 field kitchen * * Weekends only
December 2017
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VANTAGEPOINT 17
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
Designing your perfect kitchen Ockley based Park House Kitchens has been designing and installing beautiful kitchens in the local area since 1991. What makes them so successful? First class customer service and a product that stands the test of time. who is excellent, and we always recommend using him if you wish to tie in an extension or other building work with your new kitchen.”
With so much choice out there, it’s difficult to know where to start when it comes to new kitchens, but with Park House Kitchens you can be assured you’ll receive the first rate service you’d expect and a high quality, stylish kitchen perfect for your home. Established in 1991 by Trish Rowland the idea was to create and build a kitchen design business that would offer a customer service that was second to none. Twenty five years later the business is still going strong with Emily, Trish’s daughter, now at the helm, designing beautiful kitchens in the Surrey and West Sussex areas. “Being a small, family business we’re able to offer our clients our full attention. From start to finish they will be working directly with me, and I will have designed their kitchen using a CAD planning software.” Explains Emily. “And I also share a day-by-day schedule with our clients so that they know exactly what’s happening and when, so they can feel confident that the completion date will be stuck to.” When undertaking substantial building work to your home, whether it’s a new kitchen or an extension, it’s important to know who will be working in your home and whether their skills really are up to the job. “Our expert team of trusted tradesmen have been working for us for over 15 years. They work to the high standard that we promise and ensure that your home is treated with respect. We also have our own builder,
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There is a large range of beautiful styles to choose from at Park House Kitchens, from classic shaker units to the contemporary German look and anything in between. All the units are built to measure and can be hand painted to the colour you desire. So in years to come you can freshen up the look with a new colour if you so wish. And with their finger on the pulse of the latest trends and styles, you can be rest assured that Emily and her team will deliver you a kitchen with a look that has been intelligently designed for your home and lifestyle. “At Park House Kitchens we are able to offer a more personal touch.” Says Emily. “You won’t be dealing with a kitchen sales person, just me, and I’m passionate about what we do and will deliver the service you expect.” Eighty percent of their business comes through recommendations from past customers, which is testament to the level of service Emily, Trish and their team offer. To book an appointment with Emily at the Ockley showroom call 01306 713342 or email info@phk.co.uk. Make the most of our winter price drop All kitchens booked and ordered by the end of March 2018 will benefit from our manufacturer’s winter price drop. Book your appointment today. Park House Kitchens Unit 3 Ockley Court Farm. Coles Lane, Ockley, Surrey RH5 5LS Tel: 01403 790 812 Email: info@phk.co.uk www.phk.co.uk facebook.com/parkhousekitchens
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A unique family business designing and installing bespoke kitchens in West Sussex and Surrey for more than 25 years. Trusted and long-lasting product • Excellent customer service • High quality installation Excel in extensions and complex spaces • Passionate about intelligent design
All kitchens ordered and delivered by end of March will benefit from our manufacturer’s winter price drop
Book an appointment to discuss your plans with Emily and visit our showroom in Ockley for ideas and inspiration.
01306 713342 Open Monday to Saturday by appointment only 3 Ockley Court, Coles Lane, Ockley, Surrey RH5 5LS • www.phk.co.uk • info@phk.co.uk
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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22 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
Breaking Free, the independent Outdoor shop 6 Townhall Buildings, The Borough, Farnham GU9 7ND
Breaking Free wish all our customers a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
Specialists in walking footwear
Stocking the largest range of walking boots and shoes in the South East. We stock footwear from Altberg (the only British Boot manufacturer), Berghaus, Hanwag, Keen, Meindl, Scarpa and The North Face. We are a Paramo Partner store.
Paramo Partner store
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
01252 724347
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VANTAGEPOINT 23
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.
24 VANTAGEPOINT
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Jottings
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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 we 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. Newdigate Theatrical Society present ‘Jackarella’ Friday 1st and Saturday 2nd December 7.30pm Kickstarting the December jottings we have Newdigate theatrical Society (NEWTS) are proud to present Jackarella - when Jack of Beanstalk fame meets Cinderella...Sounds interesting! Adults £10 Children £5. Also Saturday matinee performance at 4.30pm. There will be a licensed bar. Call the box office on 01306 631148 for tickets. Volunteer Centre Epsom, Ewell and Mole Valley Would you like to meet new people? Take part in new activities while being out and about over the summer months? There are volunteering opportunities involving December 2017
outdoor pursuits such as gardening and conservation projects, leading walking groups, helping disabled children & adults ride adapted bikes or becoming a sports buddy. If you have a few hours a week to spare call on 01306 640369 or email vcdorking@vamidsurrey.org. A 1930s Christmas at Polesden Lacey 1st to 23rd December This December, you’re invited to step back in time and 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 severy, 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. St Joseph's Church Christmas Fayre Saturday 2nd December 11am-2pm Free admission, with traditional stalls and a Santa’s Grotto. 25% of the proceeds will go to Dementia UK. Held at Falkland Grove, Dorking. Christmas Day at Fetcham Village Hall Open to anyone who may find themselves on their own or going through hard times, are welcome. Last year 120
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VANTAGEPOINT 25
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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Jottings
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Christmas lunches were served and all guests were New Ad Nicola Conley.indd 1 given presents and a Christmas card. 10.30am-4pm with Christmas lunch served at 12.30pm. If you need transport please get in touch on 07413 978422, or email themeetingroom123@gmail.com. They are also looking for volunteers and donations of presents, food and money to help support this worthwhile event. Held at The Street, Fetcham, Leatherhead. Free Festive Parking in Mole Valley From 12 midday on Saturday 2nd, 9th and 16th December Free parking sessions for Christmas across Mole Valley are confirmed for the festive season. Shoppers will park free of charge in any of Mole Valley District Council owned car parks. Additional free parking sessions will run in Dorking from 3pm for the Gala Night on 7th December, in Bookham from 3pm for the late night shopping event on 14th December and in Ashtead from 3pm on 5th December. Notices will be displayed next to the parking payment machines to alert drivers not to pay during the free sessions. Any money that does go into the machines from that time will be donated to the Chairman of Mole Valley Councillor Simon Ling's, two chosen charities the Mid Surrey Dementia Trust and The Meeting Room. Dorking Museum Historic Guided Walks Group bookings throughout December Dorking Museum's programmes of guided walks will December 2017
be taking group bookings by appointment in December 8/6/15 10:34 AM (minimum of 10 people). Guided walks take in hidden Dorking, or former and current town centre pub sites, or the Deepdene Trail. Walks last 90 minutes. Open Days for individual bookings resume in the new year (see website for details). Enquiries and booking via www.dorkingmuseum. org.uk/guided-walks-around-dorking. Violinist Joins the Surrey Mozart Players Saturday 2nd December 7.30pm Chloe Hanslip, a violinist of world renown, joins the Surrey Mozart Players at St Teresa's School, Effingham, to play the Beethoven Violin Concerto. Beethoven's Symphony No 6 (Pastoral) and Rossini's Overture the Thieving Magpie complete the programme. To book tickets call Guildford Tourist Information Centre on 01483 444334 or visit www. guildford.gov.uk/visitguildford. Adult £19, 21s and under £5, family ticket £40. Dorking Museum Exhibition: 'Dorking 1917' Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays until 16th December 10am-4pm The exhibition highlights the impact of the Great War on the life of the town in 1917. The strain on accommodation and services, shortages of food and basics taking their toll on health and morale, yet major summer celebrations raised morale and money for the war effort. Held at 62 West Street, Dorking RH4 1BS. For details please visit www. dorkingmuseum.org.uk or call 01306 876591.
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Jottings The Orchard Morris Dance Project Workshop in Dorking Saturday 2nd December A new venture has been launched to run a series of one day Morris Dance workshops in Dorking. Adults of any age and level of experience are welcome but workshops will be discounted to encourage those in the 18-30 age group. No previous experience necessary. You can come as an individual or bring some of your friends… just for fun! Held at the United Reformed Church Hall in West Street, Dorking. They will be teaching the Raglan tradition. Entry is £12.50 (£7.50 discounted rate for 18-30s.) Special offer buy five tickets get one free. Contact Judith Snelling 01306 875653, email orchardmorris@virginmedia.com Or visit their website www.orchardmorris.com. Dorking URC Christmas and Advent Services Various dates during December Dorking United Reform Church offer a variety of events, from Messy Church and Small Fry Toddler Christmas Celebration to Carols by Candlelight and Midnight Service. For more details visit www.dorkingurc.org.uk. Held at Dorking URC, 53 West Street, Dorking. ‘Into The December Darkness’ with Dorking URC Sunday 3rd December from 4.30pm They are very aware that not everyone appreciates the mood of celebration that predominates at Christmas. Indeed, for many it is a time when grief and loneliness is brought into sharp focus. Sadness and emptiness, loneliness and pain wrap around the hearts of many and some struggle to put into words that which causes them to feel blue rather than joyful. Join them for tea and cakes and a tour of the Christmas Tree Festival. This will be followed by a short service at 6pm with an opportunity to light a candle to remember somebody or something special to you. All are welcome whether you are a regular church-goer or not. Please feel free to bring a friend. Visit www.dorkingurc.org. uk for details. Horsley Garden Society They hold flower and produce shows, meetings, lectures and visits to bring together those with an interest in gardening, from beginners to experts. New members and visitors are always welcome. Membership is only £5 per annum, contact the Chairman, Roger Lindsay r.lindsay339@btinternet.com or Terry Lazenby terrylazenby@terrylazenby.plus.com. Fetcham U3A Fourth Tuesday of each month 2.30pm When you retire or semi retire, very often there is a void in your life. Why don’t you join in so they can help fill that unwanted gap? Their activities are varied and broadly educational but mainly about having fun, covering subjects from art appreciation, beer appreciation, aviation, motor sport, pilates, bridge, walking, wine appreciation to name but a few. Held at St. Mary’s Church Hall, off The Ridgeway, Fetcham KT22 9AZ. For further details contact Mrs Ann Chance on ann.chance76@gmail.com.
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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 on 8th January 2018, new members very welcome. East Horsley Village Hall 8pm to 10pm every Monday. Drop in and try a free taster rehearsal. For more details visit www.horsleychoralsociety.com. Read My Lips - Leatherhead Tuesday afternoons 1.30pm-3.30pm Part of the Diocese of Guildford Hear Here Project. Held at the Fairfield Centre, 34 Swan Court, Leatherhead, KT22 8AH. £5 per session, first class free. Contact Tracey Wade, Sensory Inclusion Adviser, on 01483 790327. Email tracey. wade@cofeguildford.org.uk. ‘Christmas Sheep Trail’ with Dorking United Reformed Church Monday 4th until Friday 22nd December Inviting you to find the lost sheep in the shop windows around Dorking. The knitted sheep will be on display in shop windows. All you need do is find the sheep and write down their names on your leaflet. A sweet treat will be available for all forms returned by Sat 23rd December. You can pick up a leaflet outside the United Reformed Church, from the Library and on their website. Forms should be returned to the Church Hall or brought to their 'Nativitingle' Service at 4.30pm on Christmas Eve. Visit www.dorkingurc.org.uk for details. Age Concern Will Writing Service Once a month by appointment If you are over 50 and live in the Mole Valley area, you can use Age Concern Mole Valley’s Will Writing Service. Once a month local solicitors, Hart Scales & Hodges are taking appointments for Will Writing at the Age Concern Mole Valley offices in Dorking. (A suggested donation of £50 can be given to Age Concern Mole Valley for the service. A solicitor would charge over £200). To book an appointment call 01306 899104/07442 017169 or email info@ ageconcernmolevalley.org.uk. 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. Christmas Door Wreath/Swag Workshop Wednesday 6th December 1.30pm-4.30pm or 6pm-9pm Make a splendid seasonal decoration to hang on your front door or give as gift, using moss, blue pine, pine cones, lotus heads, cinnamon sticks and ribbon. Price £75 per person,
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YOUR COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD • all materials included along with tuition and refreshments. NeilBainFloristry at Eden, 43 High Street, Leatherhead, KT22 8AE. Contact Neil on 07899 994393 or email wentworthfoxlane@talktalk.net for more information and bookings. Dorking Folk Club Singers’ Night and Christmas Party Wednesday 6th December A small buffet of seasonal snacks will be provided in the interval. The club's famous annual Christmas raffle will take place - please bring one or more wrapped prizes to donate to the raffle. See their website for details: www. dorkingfolkclub.org.uk. If you don't have a prize to donate you can make a donation to the golf club's charity collection instead. The club is closed for Christmas and New Year, reopening on Wednesday 10th January 2018. 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. Chair Exercise at the Christian Centre, Dorking Every Tuesday at 11am Seated exercise to music designed for the more mature person to increase strength and flexibility. Why not join this fun and friendly group - it will do you a lot of good, everyone is welcome. For more information please call Jasmin 07584 861802. Dorking and District RSPB Group Walks and Meetings Walks 10.30am, indoor meetings 8pm On December 8th at Dorking Christian Centre, a Christmas Social and Members Evening. Members will show photographs of birding holidays. Visitors welcome. Wednesday 13th December group walk at Wisley and Boldermere. Meet at far end of Wisley car park. Follow signs from A3. Visitors, beginners or more experienced, very welcome. Small charge for non-members, refundable if you join the group. Details of walks and indoor meetings can be found at www.rspb.org.uk/groups/dorkinganddistrictor email theputlands@aol.com. Christmas Tree Festival Friday 8th to Sunday 10th December This will be their fourth annual Christmas Tree Festival. See their magnificent eight foot knitted tree and vote for your favourite three foot tree. There will be at least 22 trees decorated by our participating schools, clubs, societies, families and individuals. On Friday at 7pm there will be a tree viewing followed by a Concert at 7.30pm and a Cheese and Wine Party afterwards. Tickets £5.You can view the trees and vote for your favourite, enter their competitions, have tea, December 2017
Christmas Charity Quiz 2017
SeeAbility has a Christmas cracker of a charity quiz for all you smart cookies – get your family and friends to take a bite out our ‘biscuit, cakes and treats’ themed challenge this Christmas and have the chance to win £250. You can download the quiz at seeability.org/quiz for a suggested donation of £2. If you would prefer, we can send you a hardcopy of the quiz and take your donation by phone; call Supporter Care 01372 755042. All funds raised will go to SeeAbility. It’s a great way to support a charity in your local community this Christmas and makes a great stocking filler too! Registered as The Royal School for the Blind, SeeAbility is one of the oldest disability charities in the UK and has pioneered specialist support for over 200 years.
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Registered Charity Number 255913
VANTAGEPOINT 29
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YOUR COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD •
Christmas at Leith Hill Place Visit Leith Hill Place for a festive weekend of Christmas bakes, seasonal music and a creative art installation by local artist Louise Scillitoe-Brown. Friday 8 December—Morrigan, folk group Saturday 9 December—Leith Hill Timeline Choir Sun 10 December– Simply Music Community Band & Riverside Quartet The house will be open from 11am-3:30pm and the music groups will be performing at 12pm, 1pm & 2pm. Normal admission charges apply, free entry for National Trust members. Leith Hill Place, Nr. Dorking, RH5 6LU. Tel. 01306 711685
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/leith-hill-place and visit the festive stalls - Entrance Free. St John’s Church, North Holmwood, RH5 4JH.
the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Box Office on 01483 440000 or at www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk.
The Royal British Legion Women's Section Every Second Monday 7pm Their meetings cover interesting speakers, members nights, raising funds for the Poppy Appeal and a lot more. If you feel this group is something you would like to try please go along. For further information please phone Jane on 01372 811422. Held at North Leatherhead Community Centre, Kingston Road, Leatherhead.
Age Concern Free Computer Courses Once a week for 6-8 weeks If you are over 55 and live in the Mole Valley area, you can use Age Concern’s free computer courses. Topics covered will include: browsing on the internet, basic keyboard and mouse skills, using an iPad/Tablet, setting up and using your own email or skype accounts and how to shop on the internet as well. Before coming to the course, you must register your interest by telephoning 07442 017169/01306 899104 or by emailing info@ageconcernmolevalley.org.uk.
Beginners Ballroom / Latin Dance Classes Every Wednesday 7.30pm Strictly Beginners is a fun, friendly and easy Ballroom and Latin dance classes held at West Horsley Village Hall on Wednesday evenings. Phone Sue on 01483 282431 or email courtdancingwh@outlook.com for more details. 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. Book by calling December 2017
Cranleigh Folk Christmas Special Friday 8th December 8.30pm Hosting a Christmas Special of acoustic music and song at The Punchbowl Inn in Okewood Hill RH5 5PU, just south of Ockley, in the upstairs room. Music from talented local singers and musicians ranging from folk to popular and will include Christmas songs both Victorian and traditional. Admission is free and all are welcome, whether performers or listeners. If you need more information, email cranleighfolkclub@gmail.com. Dorking Messy Church celebrates a landmark In December they are celebrating their 100th monthly session of Dorking Messy Church. They have welcomed on average 50 people every month onto the premises at the United Reformed
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Church in West Street, to share in fellowship, food, fun and friendship. Messy Church is open to all, so please feel free to join them, they welcome all ages, with children under 12 needing to bring an adult. Activities begin at 4pm, but doors are open for refreshments from 3.30pm. For further details visit www.dorkingurc.org.uk. Winter Wonders Weekend on the Deepdene Trail 9th and 10th December from 10am-3pm Dorking is set for a wintery Christmas delight this December as the Deepdene Trail's historic gardens host their first 'Winter Wonders Weekend'. Visitors are invited to wrap up warm and enjoy the winter wonders of Deepdene's atmospheric gardens in the company of real reindeer, live festive music, enthralling children's storytelling, Christmas crafts and of course Father Christmas himself. Tickets are £5 per adult and £3 per child. Car parking tickets can be pre-booked at £2 per car and Santa's Grotto tickets are an additional £3 per child. These are all available in advance from Dorking Halls, on 01306 881717. For more information on the trail see www. deepdenetrail.co.uk. Brockham Choral Society Christmas Concert Saturday 9th December 5.30pm. Joining with St. John's C of E Primary School Dorking Brockham Choral Society are holding a Christmas Concert with audience participation at St. Martin's Church Dorking, RH4 1UX. Musical Director is Patrick Barrett and Organist, 32 VANTAGEPOINT
Ben Giddens. Tickets £4 per adult under 18s free. Tickets from Pauline Whitehead 01306 881821, Maria Chadwick 01306 882728 or online www.brockhamchoral.org/tickets. Head2Head Theatre presents Aladdin in Great Brookham Sunday 10th December 11.15am or 2pm A multi-sensory pantomime for families of children/young people with a wide range of disabilities. A sensory room will allow children to chill out before, during or after the performance. £5 per person aged 2+. For bookings call 01372 278021 or email office@head2headtheatre.co.uk. 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. Dorking Scrabble Club Every Wednesday at 7.30pm For a friendly game of Scrabble, pop along to The Roy Currie Room, United Reformed Church, West Street, Dorking. You will be welcomed whether you are a beginner or an expert. For more details ring Priscilla on 01737 767072 or David on 01306 889308.
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YOUR COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD • Serendipity at St Mary Magdalene Church Sunday 10th December 3pm The Friends of St Mary Magdalene present a Christmas Concert performed by Serendipity at the church. Tickets are £12 (children under 12 free). Contact Virginia Smith on 01306 885349, email rev.virginia.smith@talktalk.net or Pam Chiverton on 01306 888922, email pam.chiverton@ btinternet.com for tickets or further information. St Mary Magdalene Church, South Holmwood, RH5 4JX Capel Choral Society Christmas Concert Monday 11th December 7.30pm Having spent September learning some of the set works for the 2018 Leith Hill Musical Festival, Capel Choral Society has now turned its attention to its Christmas Concert. This will take place in the Church of St Margaret, Warnham. The programme includes three pieces by local composer Mark Browse, together with extracts from two Cantatas by J S Bach and traditional carols for choir and audience. Tickets are £12.50, including mulled wine and nibbles, from yvonneallmond@aol.com/01403 269884, or from choir members. For more information about the choir visit www. capelchoralsociety.com. Whist Drive at Leigh Village Hall Held every Thursday 7.30pm Join this fun, friendly and welcoming group who are are looking for new members to boost their numbers. Admission is only £3 so why not pop along. For more information contact 01306 631373.
Dance Shows and Gym Displays Nativities and Pantomimes Music and Choir concerts GCSE exam recordings Plays and Musicals Prizegivings and Award Ceremonies
www.wizardvideo.co.uk/school-show-filming
Join the Oddfellows for a Christmas Gathering Monday 11th December 8pm All welcome. Please join in and bring a plate of food to share. Held in at the Oddfellows Lounge (Oddfellows Hall) Dorking High Street. Turn left at the top of the stairs (there is a stair lift), through the door and turn left again you will find the lounge and a warm welcome. Contact Cynthia 01306 500140 or Jenny at the office on 01306 877792 for details. Western Front Association Surrey Branch Wednesday 11th 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. Arts Society Dorking Every second Tuesday They have a wonderful series of lectures and visits arranged for 2017/18 and meet in the Dorking Halls on the second Tuesday of the month. Lectures begin at 10.30am, coffee is available from 9.30am. Forthcoming: ‘Uncovering the Nations Hidden Oil Painting Collection’; ‘The Making of Venice from Swamp to Serenissima’; ‘Pop Art in the Swinging Sixties’. Visits planned for 2018 include a trip to Laverstock Mill and the Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery. Further information on the website: www.theartssocietydorking.org.uk. December 2017
• Caring Independent Practice • Advice on all aspects of Pet care • Discounted Health Plan available • Consultations by appointment
Out-of-hours services from Monday to Friday until 10pm on weekends/bank holidays 9am-6pm. Covered by Vets Now Guildford weekdays after 10pm and weekends/bank holidays after 6pm.
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Opening hours: Monday – Friday 0830 – 1830 hours, Saturday 0900 - 1100 hours Sunday emergency Clinic 1000 – 1100 hours 20 Knoll Road, Dorking RH4 3EP - 01306 883086 Rothwell House, Church Road, Bookham KT23 3JP - 01372 452531 Station Road, Gomshall GU5 9LE - 01483 205066
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Jottings 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, their website is www. nomadtheatre.com.
Dorking And District U3A Wednesday 13th December 2.30pm You are invited to get in the mood for Christmas with a talk by Bill Hill on Christmas in Art. They continue the artistic and seasonal theme with a recital from their Handbells and Singing for Pleasure groups. It’s at the Christian Centre, next to St Martin’s Church, Dorking. Non-members are very welcome. Entrance is free with free tea and biscuits afterwards. Find out more about the U3A from www. dorkingu3a.org.uk.
Local History Society Monthly Meetings Third Friday of each month 8pm The society has a full programme of lectures held at the Leatherhead Institute's Dixon Hall. Every talk starts at 8pm, with coffee served from 7.30pm. Admission costs just £2. Guests are always welcome. For more information go to www.leatherheadlocalhistory.org.uk.
Dorking Business Breakfast Group Every Thursday from 7am This is Dorking's oldest and largest business networking group with members from over thirty local businesses. They meet at Betchworth Park Golf Club near Dorking, to exchange business referrals and discuss matters affecting the town. For further information about Dorking Business Breakfast Group, please visit www.dorkingbbg.com or follow @DorkingBBG on Twitter.
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. Christmas Table Decoration Workshop 13th, 19th and 20th December 1.30pm-4.30pm or 6pm9pm Make a luxurious seasonal table decoration to adorn your table, using floral foam, blue pine, eucalyptus, pine cones, Ilex, amaryllis, roses, eryngium and alstroemeria. Price £85 per person, all materials included along with tuition and refreshments. Neil Bain Floristry at Eden, 43 High Street, Leatherhead, KT22 8AE. Contact Neil on 07899 994393 or email wentworthfoxlane@talktalk.net for more information and bookings. Leatherhead Community Association Various dates There are many events planned over the coming months at the Leatherhead Institute including a visit to the Garden Museum London, a tour of Westminster Abbey and to the Music Museum with a Christmas concert and tea. There is a very varied walks programme take in an Ashtead Park Circular, the Denbies Estate, Painshill and a Downside Circular. Social Bridge has become so popular that it can now be played on two days, there is Scrabble on every other Friday and Table Tennis and Snooker every Monday afternoon. Membership of the institute is only £5 a year and most of the activities in the institute are free to members, but non-members are always welcome for a small charge. Call 01372 360508, email lca2@btconnect.com or go to the website www.leatherheadca.org.uk for full details. 34 VANTAGEPOINT
Mole Valley Speakers’ Club Wednesday 13th December They are a friendly group that meet every second and fourth Wednesday of the month at the Marshall Room, Ashtead Peace Memorial Hall KT21 2BE. Toastmasters International, to which Mole Valley Speakers’ Club belongs, is a nonprofit educational organization that helps members improve their communication, public speaking and leadership skills. Newcomers welcome to join them for a meeting, free of charge to find out more. Please contact Pauline on 01372 817129 or email: paulineyw19@hotmail.com for details. Dorking Walkers Every Tuesday and Thursday Would you like to try walking with a friendly local group? Two hour walks (4-5 miles) within ten miles of Dorking. Check out their website www.surreycommunity.info/ dorkingwalkers, email dorkingwalkers@gmail.com or contact Ann on 01306 888745. 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, 12 noon 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. Parkrun Coming to Mole Valley Residents can look forward to putting their running shoes to good use at Denbies Wine Estate from the New Year. A planning application has been approved by Mole Valley District Council to create a separate parkrun car park at the wine estate. Mole Valley District Council (MVDC) began its search for a suitable site to host the popular parkrun
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YOUR COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD • event in the district two years ago. parkrun is a free and inclusive run, jog or walk that takes place on Saturday mornings between 9am-10am in over 400 locations across the country. Until Denbies came forward, no suitable site had been identified in Mole Valley. Each one of the MVDC-owned parks were too small to accommodate parkrun, which requires the 5km distance to be covered in one, two or three laps. When details have been confirmed, further information about future parkruns at Denbies will be available by visiting www.molevalley.gov.uk. Wintershall Nativity Play 13th to 17th December 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 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. Ashtead Bowling Club Free Indoor Coaching Session Wednesdays and Thursdays Sessions are tailored for beginners and provide an excellent introduction to the sport of bowling. A £1 fee is required to cover temporary membership for the day. You would then be eligible for full membership of the club with use of all its facilities. Please contact Mike Bradford on 01372 273142 to book a session. Leatherhead U3A Thursday 14th December 2017 Leatherhead U3A meets in the United Reformed Church Hall, Epsom Road, Leatherhead when their own singing group ‘Let’s Sing’ will entertain you with festive songs and carols. The U3A welcomes anyone no longer in full time employment or raising a family. For more information contact lhdu3amembers@gmail.com or check out the website www.leatherheadu3a.org.uk to find out more and to make new friends. Woodfield Entertainers Presents Hansel and Gretel 14th, 15th and 16th December Ashtead’s very own pantomime group, The Woodfield Entertainers, returns this December to put you in the festive spirit with their production of Hansel and Gretel. Can Hansel and Gretel defeat their Evil Stepmother and the Wicked Witch? Joining them on stage this year is Amica Dance, tripping the light fantastic front of stage and providing a truly entertaining dance spectacle. Tickets: Adults £10, under December 2017
Curtains, Blinds and Soft Furnishings Friendly advice, competitive prices, lots of different fabrics to choose from. Full Interior Design service also available Book an appointment by calling Cheryl or Julie on 01483 282 600 info@bodeinteriors.co.uk | www.bodeinteriors.co.uk
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VANTAGEPOINT 35
Jottings 16s £5. Box Office: 07941 105612. Held at Ashtead Peace Memorial Hall, Woodfield Lane, KT21 2BE. For bookings and more information visit www.woodfieldentertainers.co.uk. Make Life Sweeter For A Child In Your Area Form a new volunteer support group for the NSPCC or join an existing one! Get together with friends, have fun and raise vital funds for children. Perhaps you could arrange a coffee morning, golf day, dog walk or cake sale? Or come up with your own fundraising ideas – it’s a great way to meet new people and help vulnerable local children. On behalf of them all – thank you. Please contact Sarah Ferris, Community Fundraising Manager on 07769 301528 or sarah.ferris@ nspcc.org.uk.
The Arts Society Leatherhead Tuesday 19th December 7.30pm You are invited to celebrate Christmas by Candlelight in the beautiful surroundings of the medieval Church of St Mary and St Nicholas, Leatherhead KT22 8BD. The concert will feature music by the Brandenburg Singers and Brass Ensemble and includes some seldom-performed gems as well as readings and many old favourites. Please join them after in the Parish Church Hall for wine, soft drinks and mince pies. Tickets are £15 which includes a programme and a donation to the Friends of Leatherhead Parish Church. Tickets available from Jackie Hampton by email info@ jackiehampton.com or on 01372 376640.
To Hire - Walliswood Village Hall, RH5 5RJ The recently refurbished hall is ideal for holding birthday parties, family gatherings and business meetings. For further information or to arrange to view the hall please contact Valerie Miles on 01306 627248, Moira Cassidy on 01306 627786 or email valerie@fivemiles.co.uk. Alternatively visit the website www.walliswood.org.
The Dorking Group of Artists Tuesday afternoons through to Easter Membership is open to artists of all abilities, from beginner to professional and costs just £20 per calendar year. The activities programme is varied and includes workshops and demonstrations. Held at Beare Green Village Hall. Visit www. dga.org.uk for more information or contact Jane Anderson Wood, 01372 375123, andersonwood@gmail.com.
Beat Loneliness in Surrey The Alzheimer’s Society in Surrey urgently needs volunteers to enjoy hobbies with people with dementia. The UK’s leading dementia charity is launching its innovative Side by Side service in a bid to reconnect people with dementia with their communities and favourite pastimes. From joining a local club or just going for a stroll in the park, this service, pairs people with dementia and volunteers with shared interests. Anyone interested in becoming a Side by Side volunteer or would like to access the service should visit www.alzheimers.org.uk/sidebysidevolunteer or call 0330 333 0804.
Volunteers needed for Youth Football League The South Surrey Youth Football League provides a unique, rapidly growing framework within which young people of all skill levels in South Surrey can gain maximum enjoyment and benefit from playing football. Run entirely by volunteers, we urgently need to add to our management and admin team in a variety of roles to help cope with our continued growth. If you are willing and able to give a few hours a week to assist them in providing this invaluable service for local youth they would love to hear from you. For more information, please call Vincent Wells, League Chairman, on 07802 777418 or email vmbwells@gmail.com.
Bookham Choral Society Christmas Carol Concert Wednesday 20th December 8pm Bookham Choral Society conducted by Lewis Gaston will be presenting their annual Carol Concert in St Nicolas Church, Bookham. As well as carols sung by the choir there will be a number of chances for audience participation. Tickets are £12 (£6 for under 18s) and include refreshments after the concert. Available from Cascade, High Street, Bookham, the BCS Box Office on 01372 375644 or visit bcsboxoffice@ gmail.com.
Beare Green and Newdigate Choral Society Wednesday 20th December 7.30pm Please join the Choral Society for their Christmas Concert in Newdigate Village Hall. Free mince pies and mulled wine will be served in the interval, free entrance with retiring collection in aid of charity. On 1st December they will be singing carols outside the Surrey Oaks, Newdigate at 7pm for the switching on of the Christmas tree lights and on 12th December they will be singing inside the Surrey Oaks in aid of charity. BGN always welcome new singers, no experience necessary. Ring the secretary for details on 01306 631115.
The Unattached Group (TUG) TUG have planned countryside and London walks, local music events, theatre events, a river trip and are making arrangements for the annual summer party. A Surrey based group of about 70 single professional people aged 55 - 69 who enjoy times together including informal weekly pub meets as well as meals out, theatre and cinema trips, walks, quizzes, bridge, opera and book clubs and the occasional leisure weekend away. New members are most welcome and information can be obtained at www.theunattachedgroup.co.uk or Maggie on 07855 008897. 36 VANTAGEPOINT
Probus social events for retired men Every first Tuesday Each month they meet at Tyrrell’s Wood Golf Course for lunch followed by a speaker of note, covering subjects such as ‘Brooklands Past and Present’ and 'Drones Uses and Abuses’. Also, mid-month social lunches, theatre visits, and outings for family and friends. If curious to learn more please contact Jon McCarthy on 07947 361406 or membership@ probusclubleatherhead.org.uk, who will explain all and arrange for you to attend with a member as their guest.
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YOUR COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD • Effingham's Living Nativity Thursday 21st December 6pm Get into the Christmas spirit with Mary, Joseph and the donkeys as the nativity story is reenacted on a short walk around Effingham village. On the way meet the shepherds, angels and wise men and sing along to some favourite Christmas carols. The story starts at the inn (Sir Douglas Haig pub) at 6pm and finishes there at 7.30pm. All ages are welcome for a fun festive evening, no tickets required. See www.st-lawrence-church-effingham.org.uk for info. Leatherhead Rotary Club Meetings Wednesday evenings 7pm Meeting at the Police Federation Headquarters in Highbury Drive, Leatherhead. For further information about the club and its wide range of community, fundraising and social activities please visit www.leatherheadrotary.org.uk or contact Simon Edmands on 07753 821964. Chasamba Dance Fitness Every Thursday evening 6pm-7pm This is a partner free fitness class using Ballroom and Latin dance steps. No previous dance experience required. Just a desire to get fit in a fun way! Classes held at Capel Village Hall, 55 The Street, Capel RH5 5LD. Drop in price £7, first two classes half price. Optional five week block £25. For more details see Facebook Chasambafitness with Sheila Chamberlain, or email sheila.chamberlain@btinternet.com for more information. Watermill Jazz at Betchworth Park Golf Club Returning on the 9th January Dorking's Watermill Jazz, shortlisted as one the nominees in the Venue of the Year category in the prestigious All Party Parliamentary Jazz Awards in October, take their usual annual break during December. Their 2018 programme starts on Tuesday 9th January with vocalist/pianist Liane Carroll. Visit www.watermilljazz.co.uk for their full programme. The Golden Age of Song Wednhesday 31st January 7.30pm In conjunction with the Friends of Leatherhead Parish Church. Celebrating the lives and work of the four greatest songwriters who ever lived. Pip Burley pays tribute to the lives, words and music of Jerome Kern, Irving Berlin, Cole Porter and George Gershwin - four men who defined popular music during the first half of the last century. Held at the Parish Church Hall, Leatherhead. Tickets: £15 for each performance. Wine or soft drinks included in the ticket price. Further details/tickets from Jackie Hampton at info@ jackiehampton.com. Coffee Morning - Dorking Friends of Cancer Research UK Wednesday 7th February 2018 9.30am-11.30am Please join Dorking Friends of Cancer Research UK for a Coffee Morning at Betchworth Park Golf Club in support of Cancer Research UK for coffees, teas, Danish pastries and a raffle with fabulous prizes. There will be local artisan stalls selling handmade gifts and cards. Tickets £10. December 2017
PLANNING & DESIGN SERVICE Architectural drawings for Extensions, Alterations & New Build Free No Obligation Quotations
Tel: 01483 417555 Mob: 07818 014357
www.architecturesurrey.co.uk www.architecturesurrey.co.uk simonplanning.design@btinternet.com
Betchworth Park Golf Club, Reigate Road, Dorking RH4 1NZ. For tickets call 01306 711688 or 01737 842084 or email dfcancerresearchuk@btinternet.com. Brave the fire for St Catherine's Hospice Firewalk Friday 2nd March 2018 8pm St Catherine's Hospice is heating up Crawley town centre with a brand new Firewalk! Now, the local hospice is calling on brave soles to come forward and face the flames to raise funds for local terminally ill people and their family and friends. They are looking for 100 fearless fundraisers to put their bravery to the ultimate test as they walk barefoot across 15 foot of red hot embers. No previous experience is needed as UK Firewalk's expert staff will share the secrets of successful firewalking with everyone who takes part before they face the flames. Think you can take the heat? Places are limited to 100 so get in early. Fire up and register before Thursday 18th January to quality for an early bird registration of £20. You will also need to raise a minimum of £150 sponsorship. Sign up at www.stch.org.uk/firewalk.
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• BUSINESS CARDS To advertise here from just £25 per month, please call 01483 661088 or email lauren@vantagepublishing.co.uk.
Nicola Jane Shiers Upholstery Traditional and Contemporary Based in Dorking Phone: 07855 686751 / 01306 898126 Email: nickyshiers@gmail.com
SASCHA MEDING
Master Chimney Sweep Call us FREE on 0808 1646030 “KEEPING YOU SAFE AND WARM” DO NOT PUT YOUR HOME AT RISK WE ARE EXPERTS IN CHIMNEY SWEEPING, SAFETY INSPECTIONS AND CHIMNEY MAINTENANCE. FREE CCTV INSPECTION WITH EVERY SWEEP
Paul’s Plumbing
Reliable, local plumber. No job too small. 24 hour call out.
info@stova.co.uk
Call Paul Buckland on 07751 538694/01306 500219
Abee Pest Control
Your local service for wasps, hornets, mice, moles, squirrels etc. For advice or a quote, phone Graham in Dorking on 01306 631656
You can tell VantagePoint is being delivered because our phones start ringing... Patricia Ellis, Wizard Video YOUR LOCAL AERIAL COMPANY
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THE COOMBE, BETCHWORTH, SURREY RH3 7BT
HARRHY UPHOLSTERY
07584 223025
www.harrhyupholstery.co.uk Email harrhy@btinternet.com Unit 7, Home Farm, Rad Lane, Abinger Hammer,
Dorking RH5 6RA
APEX AERIALS
Southern Ltd
New Aerials Supplied - Existing Aerials Serviced TV, DAB, FM Aerials - Digital Aerial Upgrades Extra TV, Satellite, Telephone Points Satellite Dish Install & Repair Est. 1985
Call Graham on 01306 741491 07442 509598 T: 01306 400 121 M: 07771 665 863
apexaerials@aol.com
www.surreyhillspc.co.uk
Building Plot Wanted
JLK Heating Ltd
Do you have spare building land? Is your garden too big and do you want to make some money?
Looking for a plot around a quarter acre (or larger) to build a private dwelling house.
david@surreyhillspc.co.uk
Plumbing & Heating Solutions • Plumbing & boiler breakdowns • Servicing all gas appliances • New installations & updates • Landlord gas certificates
T: 01306 710175 M: 07834 471810 E: jlkheating@hotmail.co.uk
Please call 07545 243746 or email brooklandsrhl@gmail.com
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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 facial with celebrity facialist Penny McQue worth £100 Penny McQue is the manager for Beautique Medispa which has branches in Dorking and Reigate. For more information, visit www.bmedispa.com.
Says Panny: "I believe we must all try and look after our skin as much as possible by having fantastic cleansing routine and using products which work for you, using SPF having a healthy balanced diet, lots of water, exercise and regular beauty treatments to help purify, detoxify and balance the skin. It is important to educate clients on how to look after their skin. There are so many people that still don’t know how to look after their skin. My clients always receive a little skin education at each appointment and thank me when they see visible results". For a chance to win, please answer this question: Q: Name one of the branches of Beautique Medispa. Please enter online at www.vantagepointmag.co.uk by 31st December 2017.
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- 39 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.
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LIGHTING VISIT OUR SHOWROOM TO TRY OUR NEW DECORATIVE LIGHTING ADVISORY SERVICE Our 10,000ft2 showroom is open 9:00am - 5:30pm Monday - Saturday Tel: 01420 590510 www.elsteadlighting.com Elstead House, Mill Lane, Alton, Hampshire, GU34 2QJ