VantagePoint May 2017 - Dorking & Leatherhead

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Dorking & Leatherhead • May 2017

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Extraordinary changes at

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Sales: 01306 776679 Editorial: 01483 421601 VantagePoint is published by Vantage Publishing, a Godalmingbased local magazine business which was first established in 2009 when we launched our first community magazine.

We publish five magazines which are delivered monthly by Royal Mail to over 117,500 homes across the Hampshire, Surrey and West Sussex, giving us the largest local circulation in the areas we cover.

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|| YOUR LOCAL TEAM We held our first wine festival at the Farnham Maltings last month and it was a great success.

With over 140 wines on offer, including a number from the local area, our visitors were spoilt for choice. Don’t take my word for it though. Kevin Rayner came with a group and sent us this email: “Just a quick note to say what a great evening we all had last night at the Farnham Maltings wine festival. All 17 of us loved it. We hope it becomes an annual event”.

We also had great feedback from the charities we supported at the event. Vanessa Beech from Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice Care said: “I just wanted to say a huge well done on the Wine Festival this weekend. Everyone was having a great time, especially in the Saturday evening

May 2017

Stefan Reynolds Editor & Publisher

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session which was positively buzzing. We were absolutely delighted with how much money we made on the three raffles, far more than I had hoped for”. If you want to come to one of our wine festivals, our next one is in Guildford on the 12th and 13th May and one in Dorking on the 22nd and 23rd September. More details at www.vantagepointevents.co.uk.

Last month, I promised to report back on Madeira, where I went on a walking holiday.

Well, 82 miles later, I can safely report that it is a great location for that sort of holiday. The people were very friendly, the organisation was excellent and the landscape quite stunning. And I lost weight – there aren’t many great holidays you can say that about!

Contact the editor: stefan@vantagepublishing.co.uk

Marcus Atkins, Sales Director 01483 420173 / 07702 132157 marcus@vantagepublishing.co.uk

Lauren Broughton, Sales 01483 661088 / 07852 041227 lauren@vantagepublishing.co.uk

Contributors: Andy Goundry, Dani Maimone, Beth Otway, Jack Sturgess

Jesse Boon, Sales 01483 418141 / 07542 710508 jesse@vantagepublishing.co.uk

Jane Gosnell, Jottings 01483 421601 jottings@vantagepublishing.co.uk

Print: Buxton Press

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|| CONTENTS The local magazine produced by local people for the local community

RUGMART Surrey’s Biggest Rug Shop www.rugmart.co.uk

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6 Jottings Your local community noticeboard

9 Motoring The latest motoring news from Andy Goundry

14 RHS Wisley Extraordinary changes are underway...

Visit us for a huge range of Modern, Contemporary & Bespoke rugs

21 Wildlife Photography A beginners guide

26 Local Good Story

33 Gardening In praise of pumpkins

37 Recipes Bake with Jack

42 Walk

Hand Woven Oriental Rugs Traditional & Antique Rugs Large and Over Size Rugs Persian & Afghan Rugs Handmade Tribal Kilims Hall Runners & Hearth Rugs

Newlands Corner to East Clandon

45 Profile Dorking Charity Cup

Come and visit our showroom: 2-3 Woodbridge Road, Guildford GU1 4PU Be inspired by our treasure trove of rugs over 4 floors and 7000 sq ft!

01483 578874 4

46 Business Cards Small ads for trades and services

47 Competitions Win one of three great prizes

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The contents of this magazine are protected by copyright and nothing can be reprinted without prior permission of the publisher. The publisher has tried to ensure that all information is accurate but does not take any responsibility for any mistakes or omissions. We take no responsibility for advertisments printed in the magazine or loose inserts that might be delivered alongside it. © Vantage Publishing Limited.

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Open Day Sunday 7th May

10.00am to 4.00pm

Whether you are new to the game, interested in returning to playing or looking for a new club to join then this will give you an ideal opportunity to sample what Betchworth Park Golf Club has to offer.

Programme for the day • A free golf assessment with one of our team of golf professionals • Use of our extensive practice range with free balls • Sample our swing room and play golf on our golf simulator • Putting competition • The opportunity to play selected holes on the course • Free snacks and drinks which will be served in the clubhouse

A team of members will be on hand to show you around and answer any questions you may have about the club and its activities.

For non-golfers looking for a function venue please feel free to drop in and check out our 120 seating Dining Room and Bar facilities

To register your interest please go to www.betchworthparkgc.co.uk or contact the club on 01306 882052 (option 2) Betchworth Park Golf Club, Reigate Road, Dorking RH4 1NZ

|| JOTTINGS YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

JOTTINGS

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Jottings is your community noticeboard for local events and information, compiled by Jane Gosnell. To feature here, please email us at jottings@vantagepublishing.co.uk by the copy date shown below. Please note that space is limited and inclusion cannot be guaranteed.

May - short in name, but long in days. With two bank holidays, plus half term at the end, unsurprisingly this month’s Jottings have plenty of events for you to join in with. Hopefully the weather will be kind to us all and the notorious British rainy bank holidays will stay away! It is also National Walking Month, so get those hiking boots on and join one of the many organised walks around Surrey and Hampshire, many of which we have detailed for you in this edition.

Leatherhead Drama Festival 1st to 12th May 7pm An amateur dramatic competition with 17 junior groups and 12 adult groups competing for the Sir Michael Caine Drama Awards, the Fire and Iron New Writing Awards and other individual awards. Leatherhead Theatre, KT22 8DN, tickets are £9. The Gala Awards Night is on Saturday 13th May, when the two winning groups will re-perform and Andrea McLean, of TV’s ‘Loose Women’, will present the prizes. All tickets £15. www.leatherheaddramafestival. co.uk.

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 (01737 767072) or David (01306 889308).

Mole Valley Ramblers Walk Festival Until Sunday 7th May You are invited to join the Ramblers for a free choice of walks every day - short walks, long walks, pubs, picnics, cream teas, a night walk and a Family Walk. No booking required, just turn up on the day. Take a look at the detailed programme at www.molevalleyramblers.org.uk/festival.

Dorking Museum: The Deepdene Trail Group bookings throughout May and virtual reality tour Dorking Museum walks team runs guided walks on the Deepdene Trail: the grotto, woodland walks, parterre and temples, spectacular views across the Weald and exclusive access to the grade II* listed family mausoleum. Tours last 90 minutes. Group tours can be arranged by appointment through the museum website, £4 per person. Visit www. dorkingmuseum.org.uk.

Colour at Cranleigh Arts Centre Every Tuesday 10am Did you know that colouring has been scientifically proven to calm the mind? If you enjoyed colouring in as a child, these drop-in sessions are the perfect opportunity to take a colourful break from the stresses of everyday life! Enjoy some ‘me’ time and meet new people with friendly chatter in a relaxed environment. No previous skills or experience required and it is free. For more information visit www. cranleighartscentre.org on this and many other community events or contact the Box office on 01483 278000.

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JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

The Teddy Bears Picnic at Abinger Hammer Monday 1st May 12 noon to 4pm.

There will be all of your favourite stalls with lots of attractions for the entire family, as well as a large range of refreshments including the ever growing BBQ stand, alcoholic beverages, gorgeous homemade teas, ice cream and popcorn. Teddy Bear Competition, Coconut Shy, Pooh Sticks & Duck Races, 2 bouncy castles.. For more information www.facebook.com/ teddybearspicnicabingerhammer. Don’t forget to bring a picnic blanket with you and make yourselves comfortable on the green. Most importantly remind your children to bring their teddies along! Entry to the event is free however there is a car parking charge of £3 per car on the day, this includes an events programme.

The David Tyson Memorial Fund Established in early 2017, the fund is a separate and bespoke Fund within The Community Foundation, which is inspiring a growing philanthropic movement in Surrey and generating significant new community resources to help people across the County. The Community Foundation has awarded over £6.8 million in grants to support individuals and grassroots voluntary organisations across Surrey. The fund will benefit from this grant-making experience and local expertise. The David Tyson Memorial Fund will support budding young rail engineers with grants covering many costs from course fees to resources and work based training costs. For details about this fund to make an individual application please visit www. cfsurrey.org.uk/fund/david-tyson-memorial-fund.

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Hatchlands Tree Walk Wednesday 3rd May 11am-1pm Enjoy a stroll through the park and garden with the senior gardener and discover more about Hatchlands’ collection of ancient and unusual trees. Admission is £5 for adults.

Hatchlands Park, East Clandon, Surrey, GU4 7RT. Booking essential on 01483 444334 or www.visitguildford.com.

Leatherhead Lunchtime Concerts Thursday 4th, 11th, and 25th May at 12.30pm ‘Music on Thursday’ lunchtime concerts are held in Leatherhead Methodist Church. Musicians include cellists Jacqueline Phillips and Julian Metzger, soprano Nicola Berg and Lithuanian accordion player Aurimas Goris. These concerts are free with a retiring collection. For full details on these concerts and other events visit www.musiconthursdays.org.

Walking in Dorking – historic guided walks Group bookings throughout May Take a trip into Dorking’s history with a guided walk of the town to see hidden Dorking. Your knowledgeable museum guide will reveal the forces, events and personalities that have shaped the town and its architecture and reveal the secrets that lie behind the streets of modern Dorking. Tours last 90 minutes.

For details, visit www.dorkingmuseum.org.uk/guided-walksaround-dorking or email admin@dorkingmuseum.org.uk.

Ridgeway Artist’s Art Exhibition at Leatherhead Theatre 4th May to 30th May 10am-5pm A local art group are hosting an Exhibition of their work in

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news

Accident records show that Level 1 autonomous emergency braking, already available on many cars, reduces front-to-rear end collisions by 45%.

MOTORING The motor show season is now in full swing, having kicked off with the Geneva show in early March, and Battersea Park hosting our own London Motor Show from 4th to 7th May. It’s clear from all the shows that after years of little real change, car technology is now developing very quickly, with just about every manufacturer proclaiming huge strides forward in self-driving, electrification, and connectivity. So let’s look at what’s happening in those three key areas: Self Driving Although some of the excited announcements from car makers could have you believe otherwise, a world where human drivers are totally unnecessary is still some years away. There are five

clearly-defined stages or levels before we arrive at fully autonomous, or self-driving cars which need no human driver, as the graphic shows.

Tesla are probably furthest down the path at present with their Models S and X ‘Autopilot’ feature, which allows the human driver, under certain circumstances, to hand over responsibility for steering, acceleration and braking completely to the car, but the driver must be ready to take over if necessary. Legislation means that the driver still needs to keep their hands on the steering wheel, however.

Interestingly though, whilst other manufacturers may not publicly be quite as advanced as Tesla, their latest models are increasingly quietly incorporating many of the elements which will make autonomous driving a reality for many of us in the not-too-distant future. It will be a close-run battle to see who is the first mainstream manufacturer to make Level 2/3 self-driving cars available to us all, however Nissan’s ‘ProPilot’ system which will be available on their latest Qashqai and Leaf models, due on sale from later this year, promises to provide full autonomous braking, steering and acceleration control on suitable roads, albeit without the lane-changing capabilities of Tesla models.

Looking further ahead, Tesla, Ford and Volkswagen are all promising full level 4/5 self-driving by around 2020, so the technology is clearly developing quickly.

Electrification Nissan’s Leaf, launched in 2011, was the first real usable electric car of recent times, with space for four people and their luggage, together with a usable range of up to 100 miles. Since then almost every manufacturer has jumped

May 2017

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on the electric car bandwagon, not least because of the ever-growing opposition to diesel power. Range capabilities of most models have however stayed stubbornly at the 100-mile maximum mark, again with the honourable exception of the two Tesla models, which achieve up to 250 miles range.

However, things are changing quickly, and a 200-mile range could soon be the norm. Why is this important?

Well, breaking that 200-mile barrier is believed to be a psychological turning point in the acceptability of electric cars, so electric car sales are likely to increase significantly, aided by the latest government road tax changes which further penalise all petrol (and diesel) powered cars.

As well as the forthcoming mid-priced Tesla model 3, several other new and updated models offering the magic 200-mile range are promised for late 2017 and beyond, including an updated Nissan Leaf, the car which started it all. Sadly, though, and particularly with the news that General Motors have sold off Vauxhall, the UK will almost certainly not receive a Vauxhall version of GM’s Chevrolet Bolt, an impressive 200-mile car already on sale in the USA. Connectivity The computing power of new models is increasing dramatically, meaning that a huge number of new features are becoming available. Many cars now offer Apple Carplay and/or Google Android, allowing you to play Apps direct from your smartphone. How useful this is depends on your needs, as not every App is compatible. CarPlay, for example, will not allow you to access Google Maps and

its useful live traffic information. Other features are of more clear-cut benefit, such as systems which detect that the vehicle has been in an accident and automatically alert the emergency services.

Overall, though, much of these muchvaunted connectivity features may be of limited value to many drivers… although manufacturers may in fact be the real beneficiaries by being able to access the masses of data generated by the average car. Be aware, as well, that many of these connected features rely on using data on your mobile phone, and you could easily inadvertently rack up a significant bill.

Self-driving, electrification, and connectivity - these are just a few of the changes currently taking place in the motoring world: we are indeed living in exciting times!

Image from top left: This Nissan IDS concept car could provide some clues to the styling of the next generation Nissan Leaf; this Nissan IDS concept car could provide some clues to the styling of the next generation Nissan Leaf; Apple Carplay, shown here, and Android Auto, are available on an increasing number of new models – but can be disappointingly limited in function; Tesla’s forthcoming Model 3, more affordable than their upmarket Model S but still offering a range of over 200 miles.

THE AUTHOR Andy Goundry spent his entire working career in vehicle design and development, and, since retirement has continued a close involvement with vehicles, writing for specialist magazines and websites, as well as producing his own motoring website www.autonews.uk.com

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That is why the 5 Day -Door to Design service has been launched. It offers a timely, efficient way to determine what your special space might look like and what it might cost….in just 5 days from an initial meeting” As more and more people aspire to work from home and manage their work-life balance, extra space is often top of the priority list. MiModula is an affordable’ modular build system’ designed for customers who wish to add an outdoor space, but not just any old space, a stylish, functional, costeffective solution for outdoor living.

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May 2017

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JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

the mediums of watercolour and acrylics. The subjects will include landscapes, still life and other subjects inspired by their tutor, Christopher Glanville RWA. Visit www. theleatherheadtheatre.org for details.

Five Newdigate Gardens Open to the Public Sunday 14th May 2pm and 5pm.

All profit will be donated to St. Catherine’s Hospice. Cost per ticket for all 5 gardens will be £8 for adults, children free, or £2 per garden. Tickets, maps, refreshments and all information will be available from Dean House Farm, Newdigate, RH5 5DL. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Whist Drive at Leigh Village Hall Held every Thursday at 7.30pm Join this fun, friendly and welcoming group who are looking for new members to boost their numbers. Admission is only £3 so why not pop along. For more information call 01306 631373.

Petworth Fine Art and Antique Fair Friday 5th to Sunday 7th May The famous National Trust property in the picturesque market town of Petworth has proven an ideal venue, attracting thousands of eager visitors. With approximately 50 exhibitors, the fair will offer a cornucopia of fine treasures from furniture, jewellery, sculpture, glass, lighting, watches and silver to paintings, drawings, antiquities and many other decorative and unique works of art. Contemporary sculpture is displayed in the park. Visit www.petworthparkfair.com for details.

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South Nutfield Choral Society Concert - Songs of Sea and Soul Saturday 6th May (South Nutfield) and Saturday 13th May (Bletchworth) 7.30pm The programme includes songs from the musical, Land of Dreams, classic swing songs such as Ain’t Misbehavin’, and Donald Fraser’s choral arrangement of Elgar’s Sea Pictures.

Tickets are £12, Students £6, under 10s free. For South Nutfield concert please contact sncscontact@gmail.com and the Betchworth concert, contact 01737 843498 or email betchworthchurchmusic@hotmail.co.uk.

Dorking Chamber Orchestra at St Martin’s Dorking Saturday 6th May 7.30pm The Dorking Chamber Orchestra’s concert will feature the leader, Clare Kennington, playing Beethoven’s violin concerto.

Their programme also includes Haydn and Rossini, along with the winning composition from the orchestra’s own Young Composer scheme. Tickets are £14 and can be booked by calling 01306 877176.

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.

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May 2017

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Extraordinary changes are underway at

RHS Garden Wisley For more than 200 years, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has been the force behind the nation’s love of gardening, backed up by its core vision to ‘enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place’. A shining example of this is the charity’s flagship garden, RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey, which is one of the UK’s most visited and best-loved gardens.

As both a hub of horticultural excellence and a top visitor attraction, the popularity of the garden has grown substantially over the past decade, with visits increasing from 750,000 to over one million per year.

Growing Wisley for Everyone Recognising the increasing popularity and horticultural significance of Wisley, the RHS made a commitment to enhance its future and secure its position as a centre for excellence through its Strategic Investment Programme.

As part of this commitment, some extraordinary plans are now in place at RHS Garden Wisley. These include the development of a new welcome building and bustling ‘village square’, revitalising the historic science laboratory, and creating a new dedicated Centre for Horticultural Science & Learning.

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Head of RHS Garden Wisley, Stephanie Fudge said: “We are thrilled to be able to share the vision for RHS Garden Wisley with our visitors as it sets a clear way forward for us to enhance our reputation as one of the most horticulturally-significant and welcoming gardens in the world. The developments at Wisley will enhance the facilities available, and enable visitors to experience world-class horticultural delights, advice and research findings.”

New Welcome Building In the stylish new entrance and courtyard, visitors can meet up with friends and family before enjoying the garden. A range of enhanced facilities will be included, such as a new shop, café, plant centre, and membership area. Once visitors have entered the garden, there will be a new restaurant and an enticing village square.

The square will also include dedicated space for specialist nurseries to promote plants and share expert advice through

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the garden’s regular flower shows, demonstrations and temporary displays.

The Laboratory Reborn By following the entry path, visitors will be greeted by a new vista of the iconic Arts and Crafts-style science Laboratory building and the gently-steeped lawns that will be in keeping with the building’s elegance and academic heritage.

Additionally, following the enhancements to the interior of the laboratory, it will be open to the public for the first time in over 100 years. Visitors will be able to step back in time and explore where and how scientists pioneered horticultural research, and where generations of students have learned their profession.

The remarkable building will become a hub for visitors to learn about the history of the RHS and discover many of the gardening and botanical heritage treasures from the historical library and collections held at Wisley.

New Centre for Horticultural Science & Learning RHS Garden Wisley has been home to RHS science and the School of Horticulture since 1904 but the current facilities require improvement to ensure modern scientific research and learning can flourish.

May 2017

Images from top left: RHS Garden Wisley new avenue of Cherries; RHS Garden Wisley Science and Discovery Centre, Wisley Hilltop (both © Forbes Massie); view of the Lab and Canal in summer at RHS Garden Wisley (© RHS).

The new Centre for Horticultural Science & Learning will be a state-of-the-art building that will inspire excellence in horticultural science and learning, enabling scientists and researchers to address some of the key horticultural challenges of the 21st century, and to share this expertise across the globe. The building will contain laboratories, exhibition space, teaching studios, and facilities for the charity’s nationally important Herbarium, science and library collections. This move will also open the extensive collections and research to the public, providing improved access to expertise and knowledge to allow for ‘better gardening’ for everyone.

Additionally, the new centre of excellence will be surrounded by three beautiful educational gardens where visitors will

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What’s On at RHS Garden Wisley May

11th May: Bat Walk Discover the secret world of bats at sunset, on a walk organised by the Surrey Bat Group.

6th May -11 June: Pelargonium Display With more than 100 cultivars of Pelargonium, this will be a vibrant display of beautiful pink and red blooms, and myriad different leaf shapes and textures.

be able to see how horticultural science has had an impact on our daily lives.

The Garden of Health and Wellbeing is a strikingly modern interpretation of Europe’s earliest physic gardens – will focus on the benefits of gardening and ‘green space’ for mental health and wellbeing.

The World Kitchen Garden will showcase edible plants and how best to cultivate and use them. It will be filled with fruit, vegetables, and culinary herbs from British staples to exotic crops, as well as heritage cultivars and novel ideas.

Finally, the Nature Garden will explore the natural processes and cycles that occur in gardens, and how cultivated gardening can work with and complement the wild. The garden will be an intriguing educational hub in natural history and in environmental sensitivity, to show just how beautiful a wild garden can be.

Timeline of Activity The exciting programme of developments is now underway at RHS Garden Wisley and the staggered schedule of work has commenced.

The first of the changes sees the Wisley Garden Library reopening in Gardiner’s House from 10th April 2017, and improvements to some paths around the garden are now being made. The new Welcome Building and surrounding area is set to open in summer 2018, and the Centre for Horticultural Science & Learning is due to be completed by summer 2020.

Watch this Space This spring, visitors will be able to see the planned improvements for RHS Garden Wisley in a new behind-the-scenes exhibition on Seven Acres.

Visitors can also access up-to-date information about the project at any time, by visiting the website at www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley.

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13th–14th May: Rhododendron, Magnolia and Camellia Show On top of a riot of colour in the competition classes, information on lime-tolerant rhododendrons, expert advice and free tours will fill this magnificent show.

20th May: Photography Morning Enjoy an early spring morning in the garden to take the perfect photograph of the spring colour. Open from 7.30am.

27th–28th May: Birds of Prey Bring the whole family to discover all about birds of prey. See the magnificent birds up close, with agility displays at 11am and 2pm.

27th May–4th June: Budding Gardeners As part of the RHS Campaign for School Gardening, local schools will build their own mini show garden, to be judged by the garden’s Curator. The gardens will be on show until 4th June and there will also be the chance for the public to vote for their favourite. Sponsored by Rotary.

27th May–4th June: May Half Term Join them for a week of exciting free activities, including sow and grow workshops, as well as arts and crafts sessions, all themed around the fascinating world of bugs and slugs.

June

1st–4th June: NEW Family Gardening Show Enjoy a fantastic family day out at their first family gardening show. Listen to fascinating talks, have a go at some workshops, and take part in our special In the Night Garden themed zone – including Upsy Daisy Yoga, flowerpot decorating, planting night-scented stocks, music and storytelling. Download and follow our free augmented reality trail. Learn more about where our food comes from and interesting ways to cook it. Be sure to visit our trade stands to browse a range of inspiring children’s gardening goodies.

All events are subject to normal garden admission. For RHS members, admission is free unless otherwise stated. Visit the website for details at www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley.

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JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Annual Plant Sale at The Dorking Christian Centre Saturday 6th May 10am to 12 noon Why go to the garden centre? Pop along to this sale to buy some plants for your garden. Lots of superb plants; bedding, herbaceous, tomatoes and other veg and also books CDs and Cakes at excellent prices at the Dorking Christian Centre next to St. Martin’s Church in the centre of Dorking.

Poetry in Music - An Evening of Italian Opera at St Paul’s Church Dorking Saturday 6th May 7.30pm Hear beautiful arias and ensembles by Mozart, Puccini, Handel and enjoy insights into the pieces, their lyrics and composers from Matteo Dalle Fratte, Coach at the Royal Opera House. With singers from the Melofonetica Academy.

There will be wine, refreshments and a raffle. All proceeds will go to charities supporting refugees including Migrant Offshore Aid Station. Tickets are £12 adults, £6 under 16s in advance.

Book tickets via www.ticketsource.co.uk/italian-opera.

Basketball for Learning disabled young people Every Monday 6pm to 7pm The Scorchers Foundation charity, who run alongside the Surrey Scorchers Pro Basketball team are running Basketball sessions for young adults 16+ with Intellectual (Learning) disabilities. The first session will always be free and then they will be at a reduced rate of £2 per person for the time being.

The basketball takes place at St Peter’s School, Merrow on Monday nights. They would be delighted to see more young people coming along to join in and have some fun. For more

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information please call 07810 122389 or email the foundation at foundation@surreyscorchers.co.uk.

Charity Garden Party at De Vere Wotton House, Dorking Sunday 7th May 2pm to 5pm The Brigitte Trust will be launching its Lavender flower pin and there will be a BBQ, cream teas and local craft stalls and suppliers, including artwork by Susie West, willow weaving master class, flower arranging demonstrations. Guided tours of the magnificent Grade II listed grounds will take place during the afternoon and Rampant Rooster Morris will be dancing.

Silent Pool Gin and Dorking Brewery will also be there. Entry is free. For more details visit www.brigittetrust.org.

Dorking Folk Club Meeting weekly on Wednesday nights from 8.30pm The weekly program alternates between booked guests and “Singers’ Nights”. The club’s “Singers’ Nights” showcase local non-professional musicians and performers who get together and perform in an informal, friendly and supportive atmosphere.

These evenings are open to all types of performance and acoustic music styles; musicians, singers, poems and monologues are all welcome. For further details please check out their website www.dorkingfolkclub.org.uk. Entrance is usually £9 for Guest Nights and £3 for Singers Nights. Dorking Golf Club, Deepdene Avenue, Dorking, RH5 4BX. Come for an evening of laughter at Oddfellows Hall Monday 8th May 7.30pm Brad Ashton will tell you of his backstage experiences with

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JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

the comedians he has written for, both on TV and radio. His talk entitled ‘The Job of a Lifetime’ will start about 8pm.

Refreshments will be available after his talk.

fee for the talk OR join the SGDG on the night. Cash or cheque on the door. Please contact Nancy 07713 669568 for any queries. Website: www.sgdg.org.uk

Dorking Branch of the Embroiderers’ Guild Monday 8th May 10am On May 8th the speaker is Anthea Vaal whose talk is entitled ‘Quilt While The Going’s Good’. Come along to the Friends’ Meeting House in Dorking and join them at 10am for a coffee before the talk. For more details contact jofreeborough@ hotmail.com.

Horsley Floral Decoration Group Tuesday 9th May 2pm This month’s demonstrator is Jennifer Thompson on the subject of ‘Greek Delights’ and the club competition this month is ‘Spring into Summer’. There will also be a bring and buy plant sale. Visitors and new members very welcome. Join them for fun, flowers and friendship - the first visit is free.

For more details please phone Beryl 01483 831422 or email bjg317@virginmedia.com.

Bookham Wine Club talk ‘Vine to Bottle’ with Keith Grainger Monday 8th May 7.30pm With a selection of wines to accompany his presentation, Keith will explain the processes, looking at key factors such as geography, wine making techniques, the impact of decisions made upon style and quality. Keith is an experienced and hugely popular wine tutor and presenter with a light-hearted style that is humorous and sometimes irreverent. Visit www.bookhamwineclub.org.uk for bookings.

Surrey Garden Design Tuesday 9th May 7.30pm The Surrey Garden Design Group meets monthly for either a talk or a garden outing. New members always very welcome.

The May talk is by designer Patricia Fox - ‘Small garden design and what to avoid’. It takes place at St Mary’s church hall, Church Road, Stoke D’abernon KT11 3PX. £10 visitor

Age Concern Free Computer Courses in Dorking and Leatherhead 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 and setting up and using your own email account. You must register your interest by telephoning 01306 899104 or by emailing info@ageconcernmolevalley. org.uk.

Summer Rock Concert at St John’s School Leatherhead Tuesday 9th May 6pm St John’s is privileged to have pupils in rock bands – just one more facet of the School’s diverse musical life. Many of the peripatetic staff, who have careers in professional bands

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JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD are involved in running these, and often perform alongside the pupils. Hear the bands go head-to-head on this exciting evening. Acoustic performances have become an increasingly important part of this event, so prepare yourself for a host of diverse performances! Please note this event will take place in the Old Chapel, and not the Performing Arts Centre.

Horsley Decorative and Fine Arts Society May Lecture Wednesday 10th May 10.30am The May lecture is by Diana Lloyd who will be talking about ’The Interiors of Jane Austen’s Heroines’. Lectures take place every second Wednesday of the month in East Horsley Village Hall, Kingston Avenue KT24 6QT at 10.30am (coffee 9.45am10.15am). Visitors £5 and new members welcome. For more information phone 01372 451015 or visit their website: www. horsleydfas.org.uk.

Leatherhead Museum - Cathy Brett Exhibition Open until December every Thursday/Friday from 1pm to 4pm and Saturdays 10am to 4pm Leatherhead Museum is open again after its annual refurbishment. Local artist Cathy Brett has created a stunning array of new exhibits to mark the 70th anniversary of the Leatherhead & District Local History Society. Topics covered range from flood to drought, to food tasting, pop music and the olympics, with the River Mole central to a new time-line display. Entrance is free. Hampton Cottage, 64 Church Street, Leatherhead. Visit www.leatherheadlocalhistory.org.uk for more information.

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Leith Hill Place Exhibition ‘Wedgwood at Home” Until Late October Friday to Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays from 11am-5pm.

A collection of Wedgwood ceramics will be on display at Leith Hill Place this year, returning to the house for the first time in over 50 years. The exhibition is being held in memory of the late Sir Martin Wedgwood. Entrance to the exhibition is free, but admission charges for Leith Hill Place will apply. National Trust members receive free entry. A series of special events will be held throughout the year and will be advertised on the National Trust website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/leith-hillplace.

Leatherhead Arts Society Talk on ‘The Art of the Poster’ Wednesday 10th May 7.15pm Andrew Davies, one of their most popular speakers, gives this May Talk. He will show examples such as ‘Your Country Needs You’, ‘Careless Talk Costs Lives’, the ‘Bisto Kids’ and many more. The society welcomes visitors for £5 at the door, at Leatherhead Parish Church Hall KT22 2BD, please make initial contact via email to info@ledfas.org.uk or call John Andrews on 01372 373083.

Fitness Challenges Fund Hospice Care If you’re looking for a new challenge this year, then look no further! Whether you’re a couch potato who won’t even run for the bus, or a gym bunny looking for a new high – Phyllis Tuckwell has a huge range of challenges, which will get your adrenaline pumping! Choose your challenge and show everyone what you’re made of. Visit www.pth.org.

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JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

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uk/getfit-for-phyllis to see the full range of challenges on offer or contact the Fundraising team on 01252 729446 / fundraising@pth.org.uk to sign up now.

Charity Bridge Lunch in Westcott Wednesday 10th May 10.30am to 3pm Supporting the charity Kids For Kids, please join this Bridge Lunch for a two course meal with a glass of wine in Westcott, Surrey. 10am for a 10.30am start. Prizes for winners of the Bridge Drive and spectacular raffle prizes. Entry is £80 per table (£20 per player minimum donation). For more details and bookings contact via email at caroline@kidsforkids.org. uk or call on 07810 353562.

Bookham Flower Club Floral Design Show Saturday 13th May 12.30pm-5.30pm Held at The Old Barn Hall, Church Road, Bookham, KT23 3PQ. Admission is £3 with children under 12 free. There will be parking and light refreshments. Bookham Flower Club meets at 2.15pm on the first Monday of the month, at the same venue. Visitors are most welcome to join them for a relaxing and enjoyable afternoon with wonderful flowers.

Workers’ Education Association (WEA) Courses Various dates throughout the year The WEA have courses running on International Affairs, followed by Grand Houses and Stately Homes, Astronomy - The Modern Universe, An Introduction to Dressmaking, First World Civilisation and the British Empire (Accident or Design?). In addition, for the Summer Term from the 4th

May Europe’s Royal Families. All courses are either held in the Barn Hall, Bookham or the Leatherhead Institute. For further information contact Joy Tapping on 01306 713355, www.weafetchamandbookham.org.uk or email enquiries@ weafetchamandbookham.org.uk.

Bookham Butterflies WI and West Horsley WI Saturday 13th May 10am to 12 noon Bookham Butterflies WI and West Horsley WI are hosting a coffee morning at The Pastoral Centre, St Nicolas Church, Church Road, Bookham. The event will raise funds to support Cherry Trees. Please do join them for coffee and tea, scrumptious home-made buns and cakes, as well as a raffle, with all profits going to this worthwhile cause.

Watermill Jazz at Betchworth Park Golf Club Dorking Events for May Celebrating their first anniversary at their new Reigate Road venue, Watermill Jazz present top quality jazz every Tuesday evening in May. The programme features The Printmakers, a solo piano performance by Zoe Rahman, John Donaldson’s Hexagonal Sextet, Simon Allen Quintet/Nonet and Chris Ingham’s Quartet with the Jazz of Dudley Moore. Visit www. watermilljazz.co.uk for full details and to book online or call Steve on 07415 815784.

Vintage Jive Lessons in Leatherhead Thursdays 8pm to 10pm Learn to Jive to the music of the era, authentic 40s and 50s style. No need to book, just turn up. North Leatherhead

Care for the next generation

To find out more: 01293 447333

andyperry@stch.org.uk www.stch.org.uk

Registered charity no: 281362

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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. vantagepointmag.co.uk

Let’s Take a Walk on the Wildside!

A beginners guide to wildlife photography

by Dani Maimone

My passion for wildlife began many years ago as a small child when I used to collect newts and lizards to take home to my mother, who was a little less enthusiastic about my collecting habit. It progressed from there into studying zoology as a degree after a spell of living and flying balloons over Kenya’s Masai Mara game reserve in East Africa.

It was there that my love of wildlife photography began but there’s plenty to photograph inKenya and much of it’s easy to spot. Surrey’s wildlife is bit less obvious and not quite so easy to get up-closeand-personal with but there’s plenty of it out there if you know where to look. I’m by no means an expert but I do have a few useful tips to pass on.

It’s not necessary to have the most expensive kit and longest lenses to get the best shots. Whilst May 2017

it’s possible to get some good results with a mobile phone or a compact camera, you definitely achieve better quality with a DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex Camera).

For a start, you have much more control over several vital factors, ISO, shutter speed and aperture, the photography triangle. It’s getting all of these elements right that help make a great picture, well that and the subject matter, composition, focus, light, colours, etc. I use a Nikon D7100 with a variety of lenses, such as a 70mm-300mm for photographing birds, a macro lens for close up pictures of flowers, insects and other small beasts and an 18mm-140mm for any landscape work.

There’s usually an option for the macro setting on all compact and DSLRs in the form of a flower symbol on your menu screen. Other useful items are a tripod and a pair of binoculars plus a good quality camera bag to carry everything around in, preferably something weatherproof. A tripod is pretty important for macro and landscape photography to help avoid camera shake and give you sharper images. If you don’t have a tripod, see

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batteries but where can you find some great wildlife to photograph in Surrey? In case you didn’t know Surrey is the most wooded county in the UK and has a wealth of nationally important species, some of it in your own garden or back yard. Gardens are a good starting point and a great place to practise. The right plants and food can entice a variety of birds and other creatures into your garden including bumble bees, butterflies, beetles, foxes and more. Learning a bit about your subject matter and its behaviour can really help you to get ‘the shot.’

if you can find something nearby to steady your camera on such as a fencepost, branch, rock or wall.

Make sure your subject is in focus and the exposure is correct; better still use a continuous shoot mode.

Many cameras these days have this option and can shoot up to 6 frames a second, this is especially useful for wildlife photography and capturing moving subjects.

Make sure you check your camera’s focus settings.

There are many tutorials available about all the basics and essentials of whatever make and model your camera is and its capabilities on YouTube, which is brilliant if like me, you hate reading manuals.

So you know how all your kit works, you’re dressed appropriately for a day outdoors, you’ve remembered your memory cards and your spare 22

Surrey Wildlife Trust www.surreywildifetrust.org manages 80 nature reserves around the county, perfect venues for taking your camera and capturing some wonderful photos. The river Wey is also a great place to find an assortment of bird life, from swans to kingfishers, ducks, coots, geese and a host of damselflies and dragonflies. Another excellent location is Bushy Park, located next to Hampton Court Palace. It’s the perfect venue for a day out with plenty of red deer who are fairly tame but don’t get too close to the stags during the mating season or the rut from early September to November. Remember they are wild animals and respect their space.

The best time of day for photographing wildlife is often what photographers refer to as the ‘Golden Hour,’ that time of day just after sunrise or an hour before sunset when the light is at it’s best.

Wildlife photography is a great hobby to get your kids involved with and an excellent way of teaching them about the natural world. It’s also fabulous to be so close to nature. So charge up your batteries, fire up your gear and get snapping!

THE AUTHOR Dani is a freelance writer and photographer with a passion for wildlife, and she loves hopping into hot air balloons whenever the opportunity arises. You can follow Dani on Twitter and Instagram as @MamaBalloon or check out her website at www.danipics.com or find her in facebook as Dani Maimone Photography.

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Community Centre, Kingston Road, Leatherhead KT22 7NX. £7 per session. All welcome, fun and friendly. Call 07854 621522 or email vintagejive@hotmail.co.uk.

Leatherhead Rotary Club Quiz Night Saturday 13th May 7pm This fun quiz night is £10 per person including cooked supper.

There will not be a bar, so please bring your own drinks.

Maximum 8 people per team, but smaller teams welcome.

Held at St Mary’s Church Hall, Fetcham KT22 9AZ. Tickets from Simon Edmands at leatherheadrotary@gmail.com.

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African Drumming class Every Thursday Evening 8pm to 9.30pm Jali Djembe runs weekly djembe drumming classes upstairs at the Dorking Christian Centre every Thursday evening. All ages and abilities welcome. The classes are fun and friendly, taught by Mod’lamine Cissokho, an experienced Senegalese djembe player. Cost is £8.50 per person (£1 drum hire) payable weekly. For information visit www.jali-djembe.com or email jalidjembe@ hotmail.com.

New Small-Grant Community Fund Open for Applications The Small-Grant Community Fund has been created to offer support to those groups that carry out valuable work within their communities boosting community resilience and selfreliance. Grants are allocated on a quarterly basis throughout the financial year. Amounts of up to £5,000 can be requested.

For more information see www.molevalley.gov.uk/grants, email grants@molevalley.gov.uk or call Adria Kinloch, Partnerships Support Officer on 01306 879338.

Local Charity Topic of Cancer is Moving The Bookham/Horsley Support Group is moving to The Old Barn Hall in Great Bookham from Monday 10th April from 7.30pm and will meet there every second Monday of each month afterwards. This Charity, founded in 2009, provide support groups for patients and their families experiencing cancer. They welcome anyone with an interest to call in and see what the group is about or contact Nigel Lewis-Baker on 01372 456025 or support.groups@ topicofcancer.org.uk.

Rotary Club of Dorking Deepdene: Jazz Cafe Saturday 13th May 7pm Two brilliant local jazz bands will be performing in a Jazz Café organised by the Rotary Club of Dorking Deepdene at the URC Hall, West Street, Dorking. Admission is £15 pp, including a two-course meal, with proceeds in aid of the Dorking Community Hospital. Fancy dress optional – anything jazzy!

BYO bottle and glasses. Email jeanpward@gmail.com.

Five Newdigate Gardens open to the Public Sunday 14th May 2pm to 5pm All profit will be donated to St. Catherine’s Hospice. Cost per ticket for all five gardens will be £8 for adults, children free, or £2 per garden. Tickets, maps, refreshments and all information will be available from Dean House Farm, Newdigate, RH5 5DL.

Muddy Mission 5K or 10K obstacle course Dorking, Surrey Saturday 17 June 2017 Go on a muddy mission to help find a cure for Parkinson’s. parkinsons.org.uk/muddymission

Registered charity in England and Wales (258197) and Scotland (SC037554). © Parkinson’s UK 02/17 (CS2653)

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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 with my mum or me, who will have designed their kitchen using a CAD planning software.”

Explains Emily. “And we also share with our clients a day-by-day schedule so that they know exactly what’s happening and when, so they can feel confident that the completion date will be adhered to.”

When undertaking substantial building work to your home, whether it’s a new kitchen or an extension, it’s important to know who exactly 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, or 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 Trish 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, it will be either my mum or me, and we’re passionate about what we do and we want to deliver the service we promise and 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 or Trish at their Ockley showroom call 01403 790 812 or email info@ phk.co.uk VantagePoint reader offer – Receive a free set of 4 Miele ‘ittala’ Induction Pans worth over £255 when you order your new kitchen by 31st May 2017.

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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In R c or duc ece lu d ti iv s Qu er yo on P e a ive ote ur an fre r Va new s w e se ea o nt ag kit rth t of de eP ch ov 4 M r oin en er ie off t w by £2 le e he 31 55 ‘itta r! n y st wh la ou Ma en ’ en y 2 yo qu 01 u ire 7. .

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LOCAL ||

Good Story Carolyn Peers, the locally-based manager of the charity Good Story tells us about their work Good Story was founded by Rory Watts in loving memory of his sister - talented young clothing designer Mimi Watts, who died in a snowboarding accident in France on the 8th December 2012. Mimi was dyslexic and struggled with the complexities of setting up her new business. Rory founded the charity to give young creative people the opportunities that Mimi missed out on.

Each year Good Story awards a select number of 18-30-year-old creative entrepreneurs with free expert business mentoring to help their businesses flourish. We support those who have a creative output, where something original and in some way valuable is made. Since the charity’s inception in 2013 we have helped a mural artist, fashion designers, sculptors, a musical instrument maker, jewellery makers; a huge variety of talented and unique people. Many applicants who approach us are dyslexic so we have a support programmes to offer specialist help to them.

We know that dyslexia affects 10% of the population nationally. Dyslexics are represented at an above average level in the creative sector. They are also more likely than the average worker in the sector to follow a career path that involves entrepreneurship.

We strive to celebrate and nurture their talents.

If you are a budding dyslexic entrepreneur you are in great company - Lord Sugar, Anita Roddick, Richard Branson, Jamie Oliver and Cath Kidson. Celebrate your difference, be aware of the things you find challenging, and develop strategies to overcome these. Dyslexia should not prevent someone from achieving their potential. With the right support and inner determination, success can be theirs.

Farncombe based Ceramist Katie Netley joined Good Story’s Dyslexia Support Programme and scooped the British Dyslexia Association’s Achiever of the Year 2016. Although Katie excelled creatively; she struggled running a business. Katie approached Good Story and with the help of her mentor Katie’s business is now thriving. She exhibited work in six major exhibitions last year and has more planned for 2017. She has a healthy order book of private commissions for ceramic sculptures and handmade ceramic wash basins. Katie runs pottery workshops for schools and community groups; teaching them 26

how to work with clay and build their own group sculptures. Visit www.katienetley.com for more information.

Good Story also welcomes applications from non-dyslexics. We have a database of business mentors who specialise in arts crafts and creative industries. We match talented young people who want guidance and perspective, with mentors who can help with planning, market research, product range, and finance.

Good Story covers the whole of the UK. If we can’t match applicants with someone geographically nearby we offer Skype or Facetime meet ups. We also hold networking and training events for our mentees. If you are a successful creative and would like to become a mentor, Good Story would love to hear from you too.

FIND OUT MORE For more information, please visit www.goodstory.org.uk.

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<23 JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD Box Hill Bugs outdoor pre-school group - Come and Play New term dates Join this popular and fun group for the summer term running from Monday 24th April to Monday 10th July or Tuesday 18th April to Tuesday 11th July. ½ termly options are available. To find out more or to register your interest, email learningboxhill@nationaltrust.org.uk or call 01306 878554.

South East Region Embroiderers’ Guild Exhibition at Denbies Vineyard Gallery Monday 15th to Sunday 28th May 9.30am-5.30pm An embroidery exhibition ‘Connected by Thread’ by the members of the 23 Branches in the South East Region of the Embroiderers’ Guild. Free entry. Denbies Vineyard Gallery, London Road, Dorking, RH5 6AA. Go to www.denbies.co.uk for more information.

Teas In Church Capel Village From March to November 3pm-5pm The tranquil village of Capel lies just off A24 between Dorking and Horsham. Join them for regular culinary delights on Sunday afternoons, including a huge array of locally baked cakes and delicacies.

Events at Polesden Lacey Dorking Various events throughout the year Polesden Lacey have a superb line up for you this spring and summer. From Lazy jazz Sundays, Pop-up Shakespeare, Summer Ranger Walks, Bat walks, Go wild summer crafts and a Donkey Derby! For full details on these events and more go

to www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesden-lacey or telephone 01372 452048.

Friends of the Dorking Community Hospital are looking for Volunteers If you can spare a morning or afternoon weekly, fortnightly or monthly to help run the coffee shop the would love to hear from you and it would be greatly appreciated. Please contact the Shop Manager Eileen Stanbridge 01306 884178 or make enquires at the coffee shop.

Box Hill’s New Riverside Walk Opens The National Trust at Box Hill is delighted to have opened up just over 80 acres of conservation-grade farmland for public access immediately below the famous viewpoint at Box Hill. Snaking its way down the hill, the new walk, called the Riverside Walk is a three mile route taking in some of the finest views and stretch of river that Box Hill has to offer.

There is also car parking, toilets and a café. Free copies of the walks leaflet and map can be picked up at the visitor centre, or downloaded at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/box-hill/trails/ box-hill-riverside-walk.

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 Roger Lindsay for details via email r.lindsay339@btinternet.com or Terry Lazenby via email terrylazenby@terrylazenby.plus.com.

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JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD Dorking Walkers Every Tuesday and Thursday How about walking regularly with a friendly local group. For more details on the walks please contact Ann on 01306 888745 or visit their website, www.surreycommunity.info/ dorkingwalkers.

Learn a New Skill at RHS Garden Wisley Various dates throughout the year Choose from more than 110 adult education courses and workshops, including 25 new courses. Learn new skills including garden design, photography, creative crafts and horticulture. Learn how to weave willow bird feeders, identify trees in summer and winter, or develop your photography skills in the beautiful surroundings of the RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey. Download a brochure from www.rhs.org.uk/wisley or email adult learning@rhs.org.uk. RHS Garden Wisley, GU23 6QB. Leatherhead Theatre Live Screening of Obsession Wednesday 17th May 7pm Jude Law stars in the stage production of Obsession, broadcast live from the Barbican Theatre in London.

Ivo van Hove directs this new stage adaptation of Luchino Visconti`s 1943 film. Tickets are £18 for Adults, Concessions £16. Leatherhead Theatre, 7 Church Street, Leatherhead KT22 8DN. Call the Box Office 01372 365141 or visit www.theleatherheadtheatre.org for details.

Muddy Mission - Saturday 17th June The Muddy Mission is held on the Nuts Challenge military assault course – one of the biggest obstacle courses in Europe.

Every penny you raise in sponsorship will help us find a cure and improve life for everyone affected

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Join our mission to bring forward the day when no one fears Parkinson’s.

Parkinson’s UK are organising a 5k and 10k obstacle course race on Saturday 17th June in Dorking – will you take on the challenge?

Sign up today at www.parkinsons.org.uk/ muddymission or call 020 7932 1314 if you have any questions.

Clamber, climb and crawl your way over walls, down slides, across cargo nets and through miles of MUD! Whether you tackle it as a team or go solo, this mission will show what you’re really made of!

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Probus social events for retired men Every first Tuesday Each month they meet at Tyrrells’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 & friends. If curious to learn more please contact Jon McCarthy on 07947 361 406 or membership@ probusclubleatherhead.org.uk, who will explain all and he will arrange for you to attend with member as their guest.

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Dorking Folk Club present Coope Boyes and Simpson Wednesday 7th May 8.30pm Don’t miss this world famous trio on their farewell tour of the UK. Their final album CODA, is a collection of songs, mainly self-penned or drawn from the tradition, covering issues such as refugees, Iraq and climate change. The tour is a celebration of their career, and will feature material from across their entire repertoire. Tickets are £15 /£13 for members. Call 01306 875653 for details.

Dorking Museum exhibition: ‘Medieval Betchworth’ Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays until 20th May A last chance to see the Museum’s Spring exhibition gives a flavour of life in a medieval village. Drawing from manorial records, the exhibition examines life on a medieval manor.

The Museum is open on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 10am to 4pm, at 62 West Street, Dorking RH4 1BS. For more details, visit www.dorkingmuseum.org.uk. Enquiries to admin@dorkingmuseum.org.uk.

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Surrey Artists’ Open Studios - 3rd to 18th June Other activities include the chance to try out family -friendly printmaking techniques with artist Kathy Adams while the Jeffreys Cottage group will be holding special demonstrations of work all day, with each artist talking about their inspiration and their working methods.

Clare Bowen

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For sixteen days in June Surrey artists will be welcoming the public into their studios for the annual Surrey Artists’ Open Studios (SAOS) event taking place in artist’s studios right across the county. There will be over 148 studios open across the 16 days.

As well as a chance to meet and talk to artists in their place of work, the summer open studios event offers visitors the opportunity to view demonstrations, buy artwork, enter a free prize draw and even get involved in creative workshops. Studio locations are throughout Surrey and its borders.

For the first time this year, Saturday 3rd June will see artists offering an array of activities exclusively to visitors on the first day of this popular countywide event.

“This unique event offers an exciting opportunity to meet artists and makers in Surrey, to hear about and see first-hand their practice and to admire their work,” says Jane McGibbon coordinator of SAOS. “The artists taking part also offer ample opportunity to take part in workshops, and to meet fellow enthusiasts en route. Whatever your interest, painting, printmaking, glass, ceramics, textiles, jewellery or sculpture, SAOS is a brilliant opportunity to discover creative people who live and work in Surrey.”

Some artists offer trails that help you to plan a full day out; just ask for details when you visit a studio, or check out the advertised trails on the SAOS website.

In 2016 over 16,000 people visited the studios of Surrey artists making this a highlight of the cultural year in the county. www.surreyopenstudios.org.uk

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<29 JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD Concerto Competition at St John’s School Leatherhead Thursday 18th May 7pm Following its hugely successful inauguration last year, the concerto competition is the last of three annual competitions to take place at St John’s. Offering pupils the chance to showcase with a professional orchestra in front of an appreciative audience. Seven competitors will go head to head for the unique and highly prized Concerto cup trophy.

Instruments featured will include the bassoon, piano, violin and flute. Expect an evening of dazzling virtuosity. Free Refreshments.

Voluntary Action South West Surrey Voluntary Action South West Surrey is a local support and development organisation working with the voluntary sector to provide advice, support and information. Volunteering not only helps the charities, organisations and community groups who depend on volunteers but it also greatly benefits the person giving their time. If you would like to find out more about what volunteer roles are available and how you can get involved, you can contact their volunteer centres on 01483 565456 or 01252 725961 or email guildfordvc@vasws.org. uk.

Leatherhead & District Local History Society Talk Friday 19th May 8pm Professor Peter Edwards will talk on the history of Eastwick, Bookham, at the next monthly lecture. Held in the Leatherhead Institute, High Street. Coffee will be available from 7.30pm and entrance costs just £2. Non-members of the Society are always welcome. For more information on this talk and the Society go to www.leatherheadlocalhistory.org.uk.

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.

Leatherhead Theatre Live Stage Show - Opera Brava present La Boheme Saturday 20th May 7.30pm La Boheme opera centres around the tragic love affair between the seamstress Mimi and Rodolfo, a poet.

Frivolity, joy, tenderness and sorrow are all expressed in the wonderful music of this most treasured of operas. Held at the Leatherhead Theatre, 7 Church Street, Leatherhead KT22 8DN. To book call 01372 365141 or email www. theleatherheadtheatre.org.

Thinkaction Surrey Mental Health Charity Commissioned by the NHS to offer free talking therapies to anyone over 18 years who has a Surrey GP. They offer 1:1 or group therapy and are currently running our ‘Mums in Mind’ May 2017

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and ‘Low self esteem’ courses throughout the year across surrey. If this is of interest to you and you feel that you could support Thinkaction further in raising awareness of mental health issues and the support available, please contact them call the office on 01737 225370.

Surrey Philharmonic Orchestra at Ashtead Peace Memorial Hall Saturday 20th May 7.30pm The Surrey Philharmonic Orchestra, which sadly we rarely hear in Dorking now, will be playing in Ashtead. Their programme includes Dvořák’s very popular New World symphony and Weber’s overture to his opera Der Freischütz, along with a rarity - the violin concerto by the English composer Gordon Jacob. Tickets are £14, for bookings please call 01372 275907.

The Ambassadors’ Charity Ball Saturday 20th May 6pm Join the Trustees and Ambassadors of Kids For Kids for Champagne Reception sponsored by Moet & Chandon, Gourmet Dinner and Fine Wines, Auction and Spectacular Raffle (TV Celebrity Auctioneer John Bly) and dancing to Funktonite at this exclusive event at The Churchill Hotel in London. £95 suggested donation per ticket, £925 for a table of 10. For bookings and information please email caroline@ kidsforkids.org.uk or call 07810353562.

Affinité the Surrey social club for active mature singles The club has a fantastic programme of lunches, Saturday

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<31 JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

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night dinners and informal club nights. Plus visits to the theatre, cinema, concerts and places of interest. If you would like to get yourself a social life and a bunch of new friends, contact the club via www.club-affinite.co.uk.

For the 8 years since starting publishing in 2009, our magazine VantagePoint continues to hold to its original values of being ‘the local magazine produced by local people for the local community’. Now delivered by the Royal Mail to over 117,500 homes in Surrey and West Sussex, we have an established reputation for excellent editorial and the successful development of our business customers and advertisers.

Fiona Harrison – Classical Guitar Recital Saturday 20th May 7.30pm Friends of St Mary Magdalene present a Classical Guitar Recital by local guitarist, Fiona Harrison. Fiona attended Ashcombe School, Dorking, graduated from the Royal College of Music and gained a Master of Music Degree in USA. Held at St Mary Magdalene Church, South Holmwood, RH5 4JX Tickets are £10, children under 12 free. Contact Pam Chiverton on 01306 888922 or email pam.chiverton@ btinternet.com for more details and bookings.

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Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance Book a talk about their life-saving work The Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance is inviting local groups, clubs, societies and other organisations to book a talk (free of charge) to find out more about their work. By inviting one of their volunteer speakers to your group, you will be helping to raise awareness of their work ensuring they can be there for those who need it, now and in the future. For more information or to book a talk, please contact us on 01622 833833 or email talks@kssairambulance.org.uk.

Horsley Garden Society Annual Plant Sale Saturday 20th May 2pm to 4pm Local plants grown by local gardeners. Entry 50p. In a world of increasing concern about the environment and movement towards home grown food and organic gardening why not join them and learn a bit more? New members welcome. Held at West Horsley Village Hall. Anyone interested in membership at the modest cost of £5 per annum should contact the Chairman, Roger Lindsay, email r.lindsay339@btinternet. com.

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.

St Catherine’s Hospice Memory Meadow Launch Saturday 20th May at 11am St Catherine’s Hospice is launching its brand new Memory Meadow with a special, opening celebration service in Reigate’s Priory Park, inviting its local community to join them at their Memory Meadow, to witness the first flush of flowering and remember someone they love and will include specially chosen readings and jazz music. For more information and details on making a dedication, visit www. stch.org.uk/memorymeadow, call Semeena Khan in St Catherine’s Individual Giving Team on 01293 583059 or email: remembering@stch.org.uk.

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GARDENING ||

With Beth Otway

In praise of pumpkins

Image by Beth Otway

The weather in May can take us by surprise - we might be basking in the heat of the sun, or we are equally as likely to be jolted, shocked and stopped in our tracks, as we turn to grab our coats to protect us during periods of rather bleak, chilly weather. It's the same for our plants. They won't enjoy a check in their growth if inclement weather strikes, so take care to protect any tender plants in your care this month.

Whatever the weather, summer isn't far away. There's a wide range of seeds you can sow this month in your garden or at your allotment.

Swede 'Magres' is a fully hardy variety of swede, which can be sown outside directly in the soil where it is to grow now.

'Magres' offers good mildew resistance, and produces tasty, purple topped, yellowfleshed swedes.

There are many wonderful varieties of beetroot that you can sow directly in the soil outside now. 'Chioggia' is a wonderful beetroot. When you slice it in half you'll be greeted with pretty concentric circles of pink and white beetroot flesh. 'Burpees May 2017

Golden', and 'Touchstone Gold' are lovely, yellow beetroot varieties, and 'White Detroit', 'Albino', and 'Albina Verduna' are beautiful, white varieties of beetroot.

Pumpkins are so much fun to grow! You can sow pumpkin and squash seeds in a greenhouse, on your windowsill, or outside but with protection from the elements. Pumpkins aren't fond of cold weather - they won't tolerate frost. So do ensure you wait for warm weather conditions, and harden your plants off, by gently acclimatising them to life outdoors during the daytime, and then bringing your plants back undercover for extra protection at night for two weeks or so prior to planting outside. Remember to protect your seedlings if cold weather is forecast.

Pumpkin and squash seeds germinate readily in the warmth.

Sow each pumpkin seed on its side or vertically - this will help water to run off and prevent the seed from rotting if it doesn't germinate right away. Pumpkin and squash plants resent having their roots disturbed, so if you're sowing your seeds in pots prior to planting in the soil outside, ensure your containers are large enough to contain the seedlings, and their roots, until you're able to plant

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Larger fruited varieties of pumpkin and squash require more space and will happily and rapidly advance onwards, taking over a vast area of ground in very little time.

The minimum space you should offer each pumpkin is 6ft by 6ft; more would be far better, but any less would be unkind, as these cucurbits don't grow well when faced with competition.

Pumpkins hate windy weather, so choose a sheltered spot, or if you garden on an exposed site, create a windbreak to protect your plants. Jerusalem artichokes grow to be tall plants, which provide a good windbreak, or you could make your own shelter using some fine mesh or netting if you prefer.

Image by Beth Otway

them outside - these are quickgrowing plants which need more room than you might expect at every stage of growth.

Pumpkins and squashes don't grow well in areas of compacted soil, so take time to dig your soil over and loosen any compaction.

Double-digging would be ideal, but you could find an alternative planting space where the soil isn't compacted and doesn't Beetroot 'Chioggia' require digging if you prefer.

Pumpkins and squash plants thrive in raised beds, but the plants will also take over these precious growing areas and any nearby ground very rapidly.

When planting out your pumpkin plants, or when sowing your seed directly in the soil, make a wide, shallow well in the soil for each pumpkin plant or seed you sow. The well doesn't need to be deep; just enough of a dip in the ground to provide some shelter for your pumpkin, and to provide a collection point for water when it rains, or when you water your plants.

Pumpkin plants can be surprisingly versatile and accommodating. Most of the varieties that produce small fruits, for example 'Munchkin', 'Jack Be Little', and 'Baby Boo', will happily scramble up tepees, arches, or homemade supports, where they create a beautiful and atmospheric sight as their fruits ripen in autumn. But do ensure that your pumpkin supports are strong and braced accordingly, in order to be sturdy enough to support the full weight of your growing plants and their harvest of pumpkins.

You don't need to grow these smaller pumpkin plants as climbers - they will happily scramble over the ground.

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One place that pumpkins will be very happy to be planted is on top of your compost heap - the warmth from the decomposing vegetable and plant matter below will aid and comfort your plants no end resulting in earlier fruit production. Consequently, the compost heap is an ideal place to sow seeds of your largest pumpkin varieties; this is the place to try to break the record for the largest pumpkin at your local show. You might opt for the readily available Pumpkin 'Atlantic Giant', or you might decide to spend a little more money on a few special, giant pumpkin seeds from a champion grower, the choice is yours!

Ideally your compost heap won't be overflowing and your plant waste and vegetable matter won't have yet reached the top of your compost heap, so that your pumpkin plants will have some shelter and protection from the surrounding wood, pallets, or whatever your compost heap is constructed or reined in by. Then tip a bucket or two of good-quality compost on top of your compost heap, make a shallow well to sow your seed directly into, or plant your pumpkin seedling into this compost if you've already started your plants off indoors. I love growing pumpkins, I am sure you will too. Good luck!

FIND OUT MORE For lovely gardening ideas, tips, and advice for the month ahead, a calendar of specialist plant fairs, and much more besides, visit Beth's website www.pumpkinbeth.com.

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JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Simply Scones Cream Teas at The Grange, Bookham Tuesday afternoons 2.15pm-3.30pm Simply Scones cream teas are back in the Victorian Conservatory of The Grange Centre for People with Disabilities. They have been closed for building work, but are back with delicious (not to mention huge) scones made and served by people they support as part of a mini catering business. To book, please call 01372 452608, £3.50 per person.

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Beautifully designed & crafted outdoor spaces for you to enjoy

Horsley U3A Monthly Meetings Wednesday 24th May 10.30am Meetings are at the East Horsley Village Hall on the fourth Wednesday of each month to hear interesting and entertaining speakers. Coffee is served from 9.45am. David Northcroft will be talking about Fruit and Flavour Development. New members are welcome, the only qualification being that you must no longer be in full time employment. The aim is to “Learn, Laugh and Live”. For information, please go to www. horsleyu3a.org.uk or contact Bill Hewlett on 01483 283635.

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 or leatherheadrotary@gmail. com.

Dorking Folk Club Welcomes James Hickman and Dan Cassidy Wednesday 24th May 8.30pm A welcome return for this transatlantic duo, James’ emotive vocals and driving guitar are complemented by Dan’s ingenious and virtuosic fiddling. The lively English wit of James is set against Dan’s bone-dry irony and American drawl as they take audiences on an unforgettable transatlantic journey. Tickets are £9. Please call 01306 875653 for more details on this and their other events.

Hatchlands Bat Walk Thursday 25th May 8pm-10pm Enjoy a twilight walk in the parkland and Hatchlands and see how many species of bats you can spot. Bat detectors are provided. Tickets for adults £7, Children £4. Booking is essential on 01483 444334 or online at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ hatchlands-park. Hatchlands Park, East Clandon, GU4 7RT. Dorking Museum exhibition: ‘Time Gentlemen Please!’

Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 25th May The story of the public houses of Dorking from the 13th century to their 19th century peak and to the present day, revealing their past and some of their stories. Maps plot locations, with old images of how they looked and modern photographs of what is there now. Families welcome – pub sign drawing competition and old pub games. Open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 10am to 4pm, at 62 West Street, Dorking RH4 1BS. For full details visit www. dorkingmuseum.org.uk.

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JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

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Leatherhead Theatre Live Stage Show - Production Exchange present Emma Friday 26th and Saturday 27th May 7.30pm Two hundred years after the much-loved author`s death, Jane Austen’s masterpiece, Emma, takes us on a joyful journey packed full of warmth and wit, romantic schemes and mistaken intentions. Adult tickets are £24, concession £20, Members £18. Leatherhead Theatre, 7 Church Street, Leatherhead KT22 8DN. Call the Box Office 01372 365141 or visit www.theleatherheadtheatre.org.

Hatchlands Tree Trail Saturday 27th May to Sunday 4th June 10am-5pm Discover the secret of the trees on a fun trail around Hatchlands parkland. Visit their website for more details www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hatchlands-park. Hatchlands Park, East Clandon GU4 7RT.

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walks team is running guided pub walks, taking in former and current town centre pub sites, relating their history and pointing out features. Tours last 90 minutes. Book via the website, £3 per person. Details can be found at www. dorkingmuseum.org.uk or email admin@dorkingmuseum. org.uk.

To Hire - Walliswood Village Hall, RH5 5RJ This 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.

Walking Basketball at St Peter’s School, Merrow Every Monday 7pm to 8pm Walking Basketball is a low impact but great cardio exercise suitable for all ages, sizes and abilities and for both men and women. Enjoy the camaraderie of being part of a team and meet new friends. For more information email bridget@ walkingbasketballuk.com or call 07810 122389. The first session is free and it’s a lot of fun!

Patchworking Garden Project Walled Garden at Box Hill Saturday 27th May from 12 noon to 4pm and Saturday 15th July from 12 noon to 4pm As part of the National Garden Scheme (NGS) the Garden will be open to the public. Sitting in a delightful setting at the bottom of Box Hill. Come and see their beautiful borders, live willow hut, bog garden, raised vegetable beds and much more – all created by the 70 + volunteers who work in the Garden.

There will be refreshments and a plant sale. Entrance is £4.

Aviva Sports Ground, Pixham Lane, Dorking RH4 1QA. For more details go to www.patchworkinggardenproject.co.uk.

Dorking Town Centre Pub Walks Open Days 27th and 28th May, Alongside Dorking Museum’s exhibition on Dorking pubs, the

Local History Society Monthly Meetings Third Friday of each month 8pm The society has a full programme of lectures held at the

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RECIPES ||

Bake with Jack

This month, we have a couple of recipes from Jack Sturgess, who runs Bake with Jack. He hosts private courses and also runs classes in Surrey. You can book him to entertain friends with an evening's bread making demonstration in your own home, or celebrate together with a bread making party with your friends and family. He has even developed his own range of Bake with Jack Bread Making kits so you can bake at home without Jack being present. Visit www.bakewithjack.co.uk for more information. SR

Sunfower Seed Plait

Ingredients: 200g wholemeal flour 175g strong white bread flour 7g salt 7g sachet of dry yeast, or 12g fresh yeast 250g room temperature water 20g soft butter 100g toasted sunflower seeds Serves 4-6

Method: 1. Weigh your two flours and salt into a large bowl.

Weigh the water into a jug. If you are using fresh yeast you'll need to dissolve it into the water before moving on to step 2. If you are using dry yeast, pop it into the flour bowl 2. Pour the liquid into the bowl and mix everything together until it comes together into a dough, turn it out onto the table 3. Knead the dough on a clean table for 8 minutes, without adding flour. After this time spread the dough out across the table and sprinkle over 75g of your toasted seeds. Continue kneading for a couple of minutes until the seeds are evenly dispersed throughout.

4. Shape the dough into a ball, using a light dusting of flour, and place it back into the bowl. Dust again, cover with a clean cloth, and leave to rest at room temperature for 60 minutes May 2017

5. When your dough has puffed up nicely, dust the table with a little flour and turn the dough out onto it. Flatten the dough slightly and cut it into three pieces. Roll each piece up into a sausage, about 40cm long. To make the plait, bring the three tips together. Fold the left sausage over the middle, then fold the right sausage over the new middle one. Continue all the way to the end of the loaf and pinch the ends together 6 Brush your plaited loaf all over with water, and sprinkle over the remaining 25g of seeds so they stick. Transfer the loaf to a parchment lined tray.

Allow 30-45 minutes for your shaped dough to prove up under a cloth. In the meantime, preheat the oven to 190°C fan/gas mark 7.

7. Slide the tray with the loaf on into the oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack.

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RECIPES ||

Grilled Asparagus and Ricotta Bruschetta This is an easy recipe using the pumpkin seed bread on the previous page. It uses lovely English asparagus which is now available to purchase in the shops - grab it while you can!

Ingredients: 10 aparagus spears 30g broad beans A handful of rocket leaves 150g ricotta A few sprigs of mint 1lemon 7 or 8 toasted almonds 1 garlic clove 3tbsp olive oil 1tsp Dijon mustard ½ tsp caster sugar 2 slices of pumpkin seed bread (recipe overleaf) Serves 2

Method: 1. Mix your ricotta with 2tbsp of chopped mint, a little finely grated lemon zest, and a teaspoon of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.

2. Next, heat a grill pan on the hob until it is nice and hot 3. Snap the woody stalk from the end of your asparagus and discard. Grill the asparagus spears on a high heat until charred on all sides, season with salt and pepper as it grills. Remove from the pan and place in a large bowl to cool 4. While the asparagus cools, you can make your lemon dressing by whisking together 1tsp Dijon 38

mustard, 1/2 tsp sugar, the juice of half a lemon and a pinch of salt. Slowly add 3tbsp of olive oil while whisking to emulsify 5. Pop your broad beans out of their skins and add them to the bowl with the cooled asparagus. Add the rocket, crush your almonds and add them too.

Dress everything nicely with your lemon dressing.

6. Toast 2 slices of your pumpkin seed bread. Rub with a cut clove of garlic and season with salt 7. Build up your salad onto each bruschetta, alternating with spoons of your minted ricotta 8. Drizzle with olive oil and serve

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<36 JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD 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.

Floral Fringe Saturday 3rd June to Sunday 4th June The Floral Fringe Fair is an eclectic and quirky event taking place at Knepp Castle, just south of Horsham. It features plants, wildlife stalls, street food, picnicking, classic cars and vintage stalls, arts and crafts, music and dancing. From 10.30 to 5pm each day. Adults £6.50, children under 14 £1.00, under 4s free. Ring 07939 272443 for more info or go to www.knepp.co.uk.

Dorking Local History Group Talk Monday 5th June 7.30pm This month Albert Bird will speak on “Brockham Park: Gentlemen’s Residence to Award Winning Laboratory”.

Tickets are £2 on the door or an annual membership fee of £8 for singles, £10 for couples. Held at Crossways Community Church, Junction Road, Dorking. Please contact John Patterson on 01306 888401 or email jhp3660@yahoo. co.uk for details.

Grange Park Opera Various dates throughout the summer The inaugural season at the Theatre in the Woods opens 8th Bourne Buildings May 14_Layout 1 11/05/2015 14:51 Page 1

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June 2017 but that first night is sold out. With productions of Tosca, featuring Joseph Calleja, Die Walküre and Jenufa, plus an evening with Bryn Terfel and Zenaida Yanowsky, Principal Artist with the Royal Ballet, it will be a very special summer. Booking are now open and you can see the 2017 Season Brochure, which includes a booking form, for dates, ticket prices and a seating plan at www.grangeparkopera. co.uk.

Pimm’s & Picnic Sunset Cruise with The Wey and Arun Canal Trust Friday 9th June 7.30pm to 10pm.

The first evening cruise of the season offers passengers the opportunity to experience a leisurely summer evening trip on the canal sipping a glass of punch and tucking into a delicious individual picnic. Tickets cost £20 per person. For information on this and many other of the fabulous events go to their website www.weyandarun.co.uk or call the Trust Office on 01403 752403.

Urgent call for volunteers to beat loneliness in Surrey 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.

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Brigitte Trust volunteers offer respite for a carer and the chance to share some of the many feelings and concerns serious illness brings. Volunteers visit weekly, helping people facing any life-threatening condition when it’s increasingly hard to cope at home. Sitting and listening can be the most valuable help of all.

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Newlands Corner to East Clandon This walk, through woods and fields, has some long but not very steep ups and downs. It starts at Newlands Corner which follows the trend of our recent walks by having yet another magnificent view. Be warned that Surrey County Council is soon to start charging people to park at Newlands Corner. We are told that this charge will cover the management of the site as well as improvements to the existing facilities. The walk description is provided by Guildford Rambling Club (guildfordramblingclub.org.uk).

The walk 1. Take the track running down past the righthand side of the toilet block which is behind the cafĂŠ. Ignore an immediate left and an unsigned right. Immediately reach a post and turn right at a bend and then go right again, off the track.

Ignore an immediate unsigned left. At a T-junction take a bridleway left and then fork right. Pass an amazing old yew tree. At a T-junction go right and immediately left. At a yellow arrow turn left. Quickly reach a T-junction with a wide track and turn right.

Ignore rights and lefts for about 250 yards then take a path right that has a grassy entrance and climbs a little.

2. At a tiny cross paths go straight on. At a T-junction turn left. Pass the fourth tee of Merrow Golf Course.

Fork right (where left would take you closer to the course) and continue to reach Todds Lane. Cross, go left for 50 yards and take an unsigned path right with the course on your right-hand side and trees on the left-hand. Very quickly follow a yellow arrow forking left and almost immediately follow an arrow

42

left past a 3-post barrier and into trees. Now follow yellow arrows, left alongside a split paling fence and around the edge of the course. Reach a line of houses and follow the path right and still alongside the fence. Ignore a gap through to the houses. A little further on the path forks off left and into trees then follows a wire fence and finally emerges on an access road by the cricket club, a gym and tennis courts.

3. Follow the road right, down to the main road.

Cross and take the footpath right, at the far side of the ornate entrance gates to Clandon Park. Head straight out across fields, initially on a narrow tarmac path and soon forking left at a 2-way signpost. Walk along by a fence and follow a yellow arrow right at the first corner. Again follow arrows along a track, across another track, along the outside edge of a field and on to another cross track, straight over and half-left across a field to trees. Pass a pond.

Cross two footbridges and continue on. Reach a T-junction with a wide vehicle track.

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WALK ||

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4. Turn right (you can see the shell of Clandon House off to your right) and go straight over a cross tracks.

Continue on to the main road. Turn right and walk along towards the church. Just before it, cross and take a lane, left, between cottages. This becomes a track and then a narrow path. Follow it for 1/3 mile to reach a T-junction with the East Clandon Golf Club’s access road. Turn left. Walk past the club house. Reach a bend where the road swings left and some signposts point left and there is a sign saying ‘to the car park’. Here turn right (unsigned) to cross a tiny footbridge on which there is a sign warning that the public footpath is about to cross the course. Walk straight out across the fairway to continue along a wide grassy track through trees.

5. Continue straight on past a 2-way signpost with a broken finger. Walk along the left-hand edge of a fairway. At the eighth tee, follow signposts forking left. Again walk along the left-hand edge of a fairway. After 150 yards the path forks left into the tree line. Reach a house and a T-junction with a road. Turn right and, ignoring an immediate footpath right, walk to another T-junction with a road. The Queens Head pub and the church are to your left. You could picnic in the churchyard.

6. After lunch, with your back to the church, go to the right along the road. Just before the A25, turn left into a section of dead end road. Exit its far end to cross the A25 into Blakes Lane. Follow this left for some ½ mile, passing some farm buildings. Turn right and walk up a track that climbs to a house at the end of a road. Follow this road over a rise and down to some houses at Hook Wood. Here, take a path off to the right and follow it through for over ½ mile to another road. Turn right and walk along this for 500 yards to reach a footpath left, starting by a concrete bowl sunk into the ground at the side

of the road. This footpath wends its way through trees and soon reaches another road. Go straight across, through a small car park and then continue straight on for 1¾ miles to reach Newlands Corner.

DISTANCE: 9 miles OS MAPS: Explorer 145 STARTING POINT: Park in the large car park at Newlands Corner (charges may apply).

Image: View from Newlands Corner across this valley that lies between North Downs and Greensand Ridge. © Copyright Colin Smith

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<40 JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer or would like to access the service should visit www.alzheimers.org.uk/ sidebysidevolunteer or call 0330 333 0804.

Local WaterAid Annual Walk for Water in the Beautiful Surrey Hills Saturday 10th June 9am-5pm Starting at Newlands Corner, choose from four signposted circular walks with something for everyone: wheelchair users, family groups to serious hikers (well behaved dogs welcome). There is no registration fee. You can get sponsors or simply make a donation. There is ample parking plus toilets and a snack bar. Find out more via www. wateraidwestsurrey.org.

Brockham Choral Society presents ‘In The Mood’, A Cafe Style Evening Concert Saturday 10th June at 7.30pm An evening of Swing and Jazz, including pieces by Jo Garland, Duke Ellington, George Gershwin, Cole Porter and many others. Make up a party with friends, bring a hamper and a bottle of wine. To recreate the Swinging 30’s why not dress in style? Held at St Paul’s Church Dorking RH4 2HT. Tables limited so please order your tickets in advance online at www. brockhamchoral.org/tickets.

Friends of Dorking Karaoke Night at Rialto Lounge Monday 19th June Karaoke Night is one of their most popular events … although not necessarily with the neighbours! Friends of Dorking events help to raise vital funds for the town’s Summer Hanging Baskets and Christmas Lights, so please do join them for this fun evening. For more information and bookings call 07753 821964, email info@friendsofdorking. org or visit www.friendsofdorking.org Shere Open Gardens Charity Event Sunday 25th June 2pm to 6pm Shere, one of the most picturesque villages in Surrey, nestling at the foot of the North Downs between Guildford and Dorking, will be opening about 25 garden gates and inviting the public to view a selection of beautiful private

FORTNIGHTLY NETWORKING MEETINGS HARTSFIELD MANOR, BETCHWORTH VISITORS WELCOME!

gardens, giving you a glimpse into quintessential England and offering an enjoyable afternoon wandering around gardens in full bloom. Pimms at the cricket club and afternoon tea in the village hall. All monies raised will go to local charities. For further information visit www. shereopengardens.co.uk.

2017 Shere Hill Climb; Open for Entry Sunday 3rd September Applications for entry are invited for the 5th running of the Shere Hill Climb, a charity event which is fast becoming one of the UK’s favourite and most eclectic hill climbs. Supercars, Classic cars, vintage cars, eclectic cars will all feature. Book early as the event is likely to be oversubscribed again and a ballot almost certain. Details of how to apply to enter are available at www.sherehillclimb.co.uk.

For All Golfing Enthusiasts - Save the Date!

Friday 25th August For those of you who enjoy a round of golf, please “save the date” for another great day out at Effingham, when Leatherhead Rotary Club will, this year, be raising funds primarily for The Children’s Trust, which is based at Tadworth. See www.thechildrenstrust.org.uk for more information about this charity. Full details will follow, but contact Gary for details garyzabel@ntlworld.com.

The Surrey Hills Challenge 2017 Sunday 24th September The series of running and walking challenges will return to the beautiful landscape of the Surrey Hills, raising awareness and funds for the Community Foundation for Surrey and the Surrey Hills Trust Fund. People of all ages and fitness can participate in four different running and walking challenges. All four routes encompass some of the most picturesque views across the Surrey Hills. As well as support from their dedicated Events Team before and during the event, participants will also receive a medal, chip timing, aid stations, professional first aid cover, car parking, WC facilities and sports massage. For more information visit www.surreyhillschallenge.com or call 01483 542221.

Volunteer Volunteer secretary required asap please, for a preservation society based in Leatherhead. Please contact brian. davis1947@btinternet.com for more information.

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PROFILE ||

Dorking Charity Cup

Charities which have benefited in recent years include St John Ambulance, St Catherines Hospice, The Royal Marsden Hospital, Friends of East Surrey Hospital, Friends of Dorking Hospital, Friends of Epsom General & West Park Hospitals, Diabetes UK Surrey, Surrey Air Ambulance Fund, and the Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund.

Since 1923, the Dorking Charity Cup has been competed for by teams in and around Dorking with just a brief break during World War II. It is actually designated the McComas Cup, that being the name of the doctor whose idea it was to raise funds in this way for local health charities. It’s still the case that every penny raised from the competition entrance fees, from ‘the gate’ at finals and a final raffle goes to the charities, given the non-existent administration costs.

The fact that the teams involved play in different leagues means that this is the only opportunity in each season for local rivals to play each other with the result that lively and competitive games are the norm. The final has long been the best attended football match in Mole Valley each season - with a great atmosphere to match.

That final has always been staged at Meadowbank through the generous co-operation of the Collins family, but there has been a break in tradition whilst the ground and facilities are renovated under the auspices of Mole Valley District Council. It will feature a great all-weather pitch alongside excellent changing facilities in addition to ‘fitness and social space’. Surrey County Football Association’s headquarters will also occupy a suite of offices.

The final will return there in 2018. In the meantime, Dorking Wanderers FC have generously hosted at their excellent Westhumble ground.

The actual amount of money raised each season does vary according to the effect of the weather (of course) over the season and on ‘final night’, plus the differing levels of support for teams. With some generous donations added in, the amount handed to charities each season is between £800 and £1000, better than the proverbial ‘kick in the teeth’, with or without football boots!

May 2017

The competition’s centenary in 2023 is eagerly anticipated. The enthusiasm of teams to lift the trophy ensures that Centenary Final will be a major event. Current holders of the trophy are Dorkinians AFC. Other winners in the last sixteen years have been: Brockham FC, Dorking Wanderers Vets FC, Mickleham Old Boxhillians FC, Newdigate F., Ockley FC and Westcott 1935 FC. It’s good to spread the success around.

The 2017 winners should emerge just at the time of publication. The semi-final stage has been reached with Westcott 1935 FC pitted against Dorkinians FC whilst Dorking FC play Old Reigatians. Both games should have been played early in April.

May the best team win - a number of health charities certainly will!

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COMPETITIONS & OFFERS ||

Please enter online unless otherwise stated. Postal entries can be sent to us at the address given on page three.

WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS TO SEE CLEAN BANDIT AND LOUISA JOHNSON

The Jockey Club Live and Sandown Park Racecourse are excited to reveal that Clean Bandit with Louisa Johnson will be headlining Sandown Park Racecourse on 8th June 2017.

Clean Bandit are a Grammy Award winning pop/classical fusion group and scored their first number one single with the massive hit ‘Rather Be’. Most recently, track ‘Rockabye’ spent a recording breaking nine weeks at the #1 spot, including the 2016 Christmas number one. They have sold over 14 million singles worldwide.

Joining Clean Bandit at Sandown Park will be pop starlet Louisa Johnson who won The X Factor in 2015. Her collaboration with Clean Bandit ‘Tears’ saw Louisa receive her first top 5 hit, and has since received over 90 million views on YouTube. Tickets are available at www.thejockeyclublive.co.uk.

To win one of two pairs of tickets, please answer the following question: Q: What award have Clean Bandit won?

Please enter online at www.vantagepointmag.co.uk by 19th May 2017.

WIN A TWO TICKETS TO JENUFA OR DIE WALKÜRE AT THEATRE IN THE WOODS West Horsley Place is a Surrey demi-Eden. Lying within a 350-acre estate, the glorious sprawling 15th century house is surrounded by formal gardens with secret corners, aged trees, box hedges and a majestic crinkle-crankle wall. Behind the house, an ancient orchard opens into a glade, the setting for our new opera house: The Theatre in the Woods.

There will undoubtedly be a great fanfare when the opera house opens on Thursday 8th June with Joseph Calleja in Tosca. The festival also presents an evening with Bryn Terfel and performances of Die Walküre and Jenufa.

For your chance to win a pair of tickets to Jenufa or Die Walküre (weekday or Sunday performance, subject to availability), simply answer this simple question: Q: Who is singing the role of Sieglinde in Die Walküre?

Please enter online at www.vantagepointmag.co.uk by 31st May 2017.

WIN TICKETS TO THE SURREY COUNTY SHOW AT STOKE PARK, GUILDFORD The Surrey County Show has been an annual fixture since the 1950s and the 2017 show is set Bank Holiday Monday to be the biggest and yet. Hosted at Stoke Park in Guildford, just a short walk from the 29th best May 2017 Park, Guildford town centre, the Stoke show has an abundance of attractions starting at 8am and continuing until 6pm. ThousandsFollow of us people will enjoy top class entertainment, acres of shopping, fabulous @SurreyShow food and drink and children’s activities. There is something for everyone – whether you are 5 Bringing the countryside to the town... or 105.

Over 1000 animals - showjumping Back by demand is Miller’s Ark Farm who will be bringing a range of small, friendly food popular theatre - petting farm - gun dogs duck racing - livechildren music - bees - heavy horses animals for to enjoy.

Youngsters will also be kept entertained by the Dinosaur acres of shopping - dinosaur invasion - giant games Invasion, giant games, Punch and Judy, The ever popular Sheep Show, donkey rides, a vintage classic cars - sheep dog trials - falconry - farmers’ market funfair and Wheels – amore! safe and exciting cycling activity aimed at children aged 2 and Punch & Judy - fun Action dog show - plus much, much upwards. www.surreycountyshow.co.uk www.surreycountyshow.co.uk Earlychance bird ticketsto available now! of two family tickets, simply answer this simple question: For your win one Q: What is the date of the Surrey County Show? r 5’s Unde e! e go fr

Please enter online at www.vantagepointmag.co.uk by 19th May 2017.

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