VantagePoint Magazine October 2016 - Dorking & Leatherhead

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Dorking & Leatherhead • October 2016

VANTAGEPOINT YO U R B E ST V IEW OF W H AT ’S GO ING O N LO C ALLY

Denbies Wine Estate

celebrates its 30th anniversary

Inside: OCTOBER IS TYRE SAFETY MONTH BETH OTWAY TAKES A LOOK AT SWEET PEAS PLANNING FOR CARE HOME FEES IN LATER LIFE PUMPKIN RECIPES FROM SECRETTS FARMSHOP WIN TICKETS TO RHS WISLEY’S A TASTE OF AUTUMN The local magazine produced by local people for the local community, delivered by your local postman

King William IV, Mickleham

Book now for your Christmas Lunch Christmas parties - 2 courses, £20 per head. Call 01372 372590.

Free crackers with your party

The historic building was built in 1790 as an ale house for workers at Cherkley Court. Its stunning views have been enjoyed for over 200 years.

We strive to give our customers quality products and courteous service. All our food is prepared from scratch inhouse by our professional chefs.

All our ingredients are locally sourced wherever possible – meats from Nash Farm, breads from Westcott Bakery, and fruit and vegetables come directly from Covent Garden.

Eamonn and Anne wish you a pleasant visit and both hope that you agree that the King William IV is Surrey’s best kept secret!

Telephone: 01372 372590 Web: www.thekingwilliamiv.com The King William IV is situated directly behind Frascati Restaurant, 25 yards up Byttom Hill on the A24 between Leatherhead and Dorking

YOUR LOCAL MAGAZINE Vantage Publishing Limited 9 Chestnut Suite, Guardian House, Borough Road, Godalming, Surrey GU7 2AE.

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

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

Each of our magazines is specifically localised and tailored to its geographical area and hand-delivered by your postman.

Please visit www.vantagepointmag.co.uk or contact any of us below if you need any more information.

CONNECTSURREY

M e d i a supporter of:

Surrey and Sussex

YOUR LOCAL TEAM This month we offer a warm welcome to readers from the Leatherhead area, which has been added to the Dorking edition of VantagePoint. We hope you enjoy reading this magazine and do please get involved in helping us promote local charities, events and organsiations through these pages.

We have also made a slight tweak to our Guildford edition, which will now go to residents in East and West Horsley and Effingham, who tend to gravitate more towards Guildford than Dorking. These changes increase our circulation to 117,500, which makes us the largest Royal Mail delivered free monthly community magazine in the areas we cover, shown on the map above.

Stefan Reynolds Editor & Publisher

THE ONLY ROYAL MAIL DELIVERED

MAGAZINE PRODUCED by

LOCAL PEOPLE

for

THE LOCAL

COMMUNITY WWW.VANTAGEPOINTMAG.CO.UK

We have also now launched our brand new website, which we think is a big improvement on the previous one. There will be more features through our blog, more competitons, online events information and more. You can also submit late Jottings if you have missed our print copy deadlines.

Please take a look and let me know what you think or if there is anything else we should be covering online. And it also works on mobiles and tablets.

Finally, we welcome Jesse Boon who joins us as a Sales Executive, completing the advertising team. Jesse lives in Guildford and is as excited to join us as we are to have her on board!

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: Martin Bamford, Andy Goundry, Beth Otway, the Secretts team

Liz Godfrey, Sales 01483 661089 / 07788 748826 liz@vantagepublishing.co.uk

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

Print: Buxton Press

October 2016

To advertise, please call 01483 420173

Cover: Denbies Vineyard by Helen Dixon

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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 Seniors Planning for care fees in later life

12 Local Community Foundation for Surrey

14 Denbies Wine Estate

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

Celebrating 30 years

21 Motoring October is Tyre Safety Month

25 Gardening Sweet Peas

28 Recipes Pumpkins are not just for Halloween

31 Sandhurst A brief history of the Military Academy Hand Woven Oriental Rugs Traditional & Antique Rugs Large and Over Size Rugs Persian & Afgham Rugs Handmade Tribal Kilims Hall Runners & Hearth Rugs

34 Walk Lurgashall and Lickfold

36 Profile

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!

In Accord

37 Business Cards Small ads for trades and services

39 Competitions Win one of three great prizes

VANTAGEPOINT YOUR B E S T V I E W OF W H AT ’S G OI N G ON L OC AL LY

01483 578874 4

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.

To advertise, please call 01483 420173

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Horsley & Bookham Riding for the Disabled Association Reg. charity 1073648

Volunteer Fundraiser Wanted • Caring Independent Practice • Advice on all aspects of Pet care • Discounted Health Plan available • Consultations by appointment • 24 hour emergency service

www.breladesvets.com

Opening hours: Monday – Friday 0830 – 1830 hours, Saturday 0900 - 1100 hours Sunday emergency Clinic 1000 – 1100 hours 20 Knoll Road, Dorking RH4 3EP - 01306 883086 Rothwell House, Church Road, Bookham KT23 3JP - 01372 452531 Station Road, Gomshall GU5 9LE - 01483 205066

Are you enthusiastic, good with people, enjoy organising, up for a new challenge, possibly recently retired?

We are looking someone who fits this description to join our team to plan and organise fundraising events, generate donations and sponsorship and generally raise our profile in the local community.

A knowledge of horses and previous fundraising experience are not essential.

With a team of over 100 volunteers we operate under the auspices of the national RDA organisation but have to raise all our own funds to give over 1000 rides every year to disabled children and adults from the local community.

If this could be you call Colin Sandford, 01483-280870, email 1colinsandford@gmail.com, or Sheri Johnson, 07990-971123, email sheri@swjcons.com

Our specialist team of family law solicitors can advise and guide you through: Divorce • Civil Partnership Dissolution • Children-related issues Matrimonial Finances • Co-habitation Agreements/Issues Pre and Post Nuptial Agreements

30 MINUTES LEGAL ADVICE FOR ONLY £60

SOLICITORS & NOTARIES

*

Please contact Nicola Conley for an appointment on 01306 502293 or n.conley@downslaw.co.uk *New appointments only. We reserve the right to charge our current normal hourly rate if the initial appointment exceeds 30 minutes. Includes VAT. Please mention Vantage Point.

156 High Street • Dorking • Surrey • RH4 1BQ • 01306 880110 • www.downslaw.co.uk New Ad Nicola Conley.indd 1

October 2016

8/6/15 10:34 AM

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JOTTINGS YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

JOTTINGS

Jottings is your community noticeboard for local events and information, this month edited by the editor Stefan Reynolds. 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.

It’s all change this month as we welcome readers from Leatherhead to their new free monthly community magazine. This magazine now goes out to 24,826 homes in the Dorking & Leatherhead area and we invite new readers to send in their submissions for our Jottings pages, which promote local community events free of charge. We need these sent to us by email the first week of the month prior to the month of your event. If you send us your email address, we can send you a schedule of copy dates for the next 12 months and we can also add your name to receive a reminder email once a month so you don’t miss out on your chance to get your event in front of almost 25,000 homes. The email address is jottings@vantagepublishing. co.uk and we look forward to hearing from you.

Mole Valley Arts Alive Festival October sees the 22nd annual Mole Valley Arts Alive Festival. This celebration of the arts has, over the years, gone from strength to strength and it now offers a very impressive range of activities. There are a good number of musical events - too many to describe each one in full detail. The Dorking Chamber Orchestra will be playing Beethoven’s second symphony and Schumann’s piano concerto, while the Dorking Camerata will be singing music by Bach and Bruckner. There is a special concert at Leith Hill Place to mark the day of Ralph Vaughan Williams’ birthday, when the music will include his lovely Lark Ascending. There are two opportunities to take part in a ‘come and sing’ - first with the Dorking Choral Society (singing Will Todd’s Mass in Blue) and then with the Leith Hill Musical Festival and their new conductor Jonathan Willcocks. The Dorking Concertgoers launch their new season with a very special concert of Indian classical music - ‘Sublime Sitar’. The monthly recital at St Martin’s church will be given by Helen Wharmby (piano) and Zoe

Eborn (violin). The Performing Arts Library is hosting two events, including an afternoon exploring the harp and its music. The Dorking Halls will be screening Mozart’s opera Cosi fan tutte live from the Royal Opera House. And there is a Roald Dahl concert with music specially for the children.

In addition to all the music, the festival includes numerous events celebrating the other arts - drama, literature, dance, painting, photography - not only in Dorking, but in many venues throughout Mole Valley. We are lucky to have such a wide range of events in our home area, so please do support as many of them as you can. Full details are in the festival brochure, available free from the Dorking Halls, council offices, libraries and shops, and on the website.

Face to Face with Shakespeare at Hatchlands Park Until 16th October The Face to Face with Shakespeare display is available to view when the house is open, every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday afternoon from 2pm until 5.30pm.

This display is free for all visitors but normal property admission fee still applies. The Cobbe portrait is displayed together with a youthful portrait of his only known literary patron, Henry Wriothesley, 3rd Earl of Southampton, to whom the Bard dedicated his two great poems (Venus and Adonis and The Rape of Lucrece) and possibly some of the Sonnets. The two portraits were inherited by Archbishop Cobbe in the early 18th century and have been together through centuries in the same family ownership. Also on display are portraits of various members of the Wriothesley and Cobbe families, a letter from the Earl of Southampton whilst he was imprisoned in the Tower of London and a Fourth Folio containing 43 plays. Evidence uncovered by researchers at the Shakepeare Birthplace Trust in 2009 led to the claim that the Cobbe Shakespeare portrait is the only portrait of Shakespeare painted during his lifetime. It has

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JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD already been the centrepiece of two exhibitions dedicated to it at the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, Stratford-upon-Avon and at the Morgan Library and Museum, New York. As with all things Shakespeare, since the discovery of the Cobbe portrait, some scholars have celebrated and others disputed the identification, which contributes to a healthy debate.

Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk for more information.

DDOS production of ‘I Am My Own Wife’ Wednesday 5th to Saturday 8th October, 7.45 pm DDOS is proud to present again the hugely acclaimed and award winning play ‘I Am My Own Wife’ as part of the Mole Valley Arts Alive Festival, taking place at the Green Room Theatre, Dorking (behind Dorking Halls). The fascinating true story of Charlotte Von Mahrlsdorf - celebrated museum curator, survivor of a brutal childhood and successful navigator of both Nazi and Communist regimes – spans 50 years of the most difficult and shameful periods in 20th Century Europe. Her survival is a complex saga of courage, self-discovery, dedication and heartbreak made even more remarkable as Charlotte was born a man. Her steadfast refusal to compromise her values is what made her an inspiration for many and a target for vilification for others.

The role of Charlotte is brought stunningly to life by Steven Mann’s mesmeric performance. Steven also plays a host of other parts, German, American, Russian, male and female roles. To quote the NODA reviewer “Rarely, very rarely, one sees a play that is sheer perfection both in direction and

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performance. If you like theatre drop everything else and be there to see it”. Tickets from £10 available now at The Dorking Halls Box Office on 01306 881717.

Music on Thursdays at Leatherhead Methodist Church Thursday 6th October and Thursday 27th October, 12.30pm Music on Thursdays at LMC (Leatherhead Methodist Church) presents mostly chamber concerts performed by students of the Royal Academy of Music, recent graduates of London’s internationally renowned music conservatoires, and local musicians of similar professional standard. On Thursday 6th October, Clare Tunney (soprano) will be performing and on Thursday 27th October it is the turn of the Amici Trio. Entry is free with a retiring collection.

Tea and coffee are available after the performance. More information at www.musiconthursdays.org.

Jazz at Surrey Performing Arts Library Thursdays 6th and 27th October at 7.30pm Surrey Performing Arts Library on the Denbies Wine Estate in Dorking is going crazy about jazz during Black History Month in October. With a talk by the author Duncan Heining (6th October) on the contribution of Black and Asian musicians to British Jazz and a talk by the multitalented Peter Edwards about his life as a jazz pianist, composer and conductor (27th October). There will also be an opportunity to view a special exhibition of materials from the National

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patients’ care is funded thanks to gifts in wills Every gift, in every will, makes a difference to the care we provide.

TO FIND OUT MORE: t: 01293 447369 e: andyperry@stch.org.uk w: www.stch.org.uk Registered Charity No. 281362

October 2016

To advertise, please call 01483 420173

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JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

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Jazz Archive and explore the Library’s extensive jazz collection before each of the talks as the library is open until 7pm both evenings. For more details about the talks (and a link to the online booking form) please see Surrey Performing Arts Library’s website www.surreycc.gov.uk/ performingartslibrary or call 01306 875453.

Leatherhead Theatre Book Club Thursday 6th October 11am-12.30pm Join them to discuss this month’s book Alan Bennett’s ‘The Uncommon Reader’. Leatherhead Theatre Book Club will run every first Thursday of the month. Free but please let them know you’re coming by calling or emailing the Box Office in advance on 01372 365141 or email boxoffice@ the-theatre.org.

Recruiting Home Carers in your local area

Bookham and Horsley Rotary Club Bridge Night Friday 7th October, 6.45pm Their regular Bridge Night to support local Rotary charities. If you have been before, you know you won’t be disappointed! Friday 7th October 6.45pm, Old Barn Hall Bookham. £60 a table of 4 including a hot supper. Please support this annual sell-out evening. Tickets from Nick Garrett 01372 458918 or Bengt Magnuson 01483 282008.

“Based Carers in West Clandon, Guildford we are a family run Horsley & Clandon Society of Arts ng Home Friday 7th October and Saturday 8th October Live businessin thatcare is committed to The providing people Horsley & Clandon Society of with Arts (HCA) is celebrating ocal “Based area its 50th Anniversary this year by extending their Annual friendly & reliable genuinely care” in Guildford we are a Carers family runwho Exhibition of members’ work to two days, instead of the one-day event. This ‘Golden’ year Exhibition takes “care Based in Guildford we are familyusual run home care business business that provides friendly,

Lucinda Kalupka, & Registered Manager place on Friday 7th October and Saturday 8th October in landon,reliable, Guildford we areNurse a family run trustworthy and competent East Horsley Village Hall, Kingston Avenue from 10am-4pm that provides friendly, reliable, trustworthy and competent committed providing people on both days. All work displayed is for sale. Admission is carerstowho genuinely care” with free, refreshments will be available and there is ample carers who Lucinda Kalupka, Nurse & Registered Manager From just an genuinely hour a day tocare" 24 hour support le Carers who genuinely care” free parking. The HCSA has earned an excellent reputation

Live in care

• • • • • • • •• •• • •For further information please call Matthew.

Call us224 today on 01483 224 98501483 224 985 ay on 01483 985

for producing high standard paintings in different media e & Registered Manager Lucinda Kalupka, Nurse & Registered Manager and styles.

Unlike many art societies, Good hourly rates + paidnon-painters holidayare career A fullyRewarding managed live in care solution providing: “Based in Guildford we are family run home care business also welcome to become members if they share the provides friendly, reliable, trustworthy and competent Paid same mileage enthusiasm and interest in the many aspects of day to 24that hour support Flexible •carers vetted,hours trained and proven team of whomanaged genuinely care" art. The HCSA started 50 years ago with a small group AFriendly, fully live in care solution providing: carersGood of 5 people meeting in their own homes and over the Lucinda Kalupka, Nurse & Registered Manager hourly rates support + paid holiday er Work your local community Comprehensive years theinmembership has grown to a little over 100. This • 24/7 office support throughout the care Friendly, vetted, trained and proven team of carers Paid mileage necessitated many changes of venue until 1990 when A fully managed live in care solution providing: & training package East Horsley Village Hall with its excellent facilities became Friendly,Work vetted, trained and proven team of carers in your local community support•• Companionship, 24/7 office support throughout thetheir care personal care, cooking, base.package Meetings are held on the fourth Wednesday of 24/7 office support throughout the care package • trips out, shopping each month in the Village Hall at 8pm for demonstrations Companionship, personal care, cooking, trips out, shopping •• Experienced and/or talks by esteemed artists and lecturers. It is also Companionship, personal care, cooking, trips out, shopping in caring for those withMSdementia, for those with dementia, & Parkinsons • Experienced in caring an ideal opportunity to meet up and make new friends.

MSExperienced & Parkinsons in caring for those withGuests are always MS welcome (only £4). Annual Subscriptions dementia, & Parkinsons for membership are £20 single, £30 a couple. For further information about the Society or events please contact: The mation please call Matthew.

For further information please call Matthew.

Secretary, Mrs Robyn Cormack 01483 224063.

Call us today on

info@homecountiescarers.co.uk www.homecountiescarers.co.uk escarers.co.uk

info@homecountiescarers.co.uk For further information please call

escarers.co.uk www.homecountiescarers.co.uk 8

The Esher Hall Antiques & Fine Art Fair Friday 7th to Sunday 9th October This fair showcases some 35 leading specialist dealers, Matthew. and takes place for the ninth consecutive year in the Esher

Call us today on 01483 224 985 To advertise, please call 01483 420173

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PLANNING for Care Fees in later life One of the biggest challenges of the 21st century is Britain’s ageing population.

Improvements in health, diet and preventative care mean we are living for longer. In 2012, the number of over 65’s in the UK surpassed 10 million for the first time.

The ‘oldest old’, which describes those aged 85 or over, has also risen sharply. During the 2011 Census, there were 1.25 million over 85’s in England and Wales, up by 30% from a decade earlier.

and local authorities have scaled back their funding for social care.

There has been a big increase in the number of older people using residential nursing homes, around 21% higher at 164,000 according to the most recent figures. The number of older people using nursing care has also risen, to around 79,000 people today.

With greater demand for care and less publicly available funding, the expensive cost of later-life care will often fall on individuals and families.

As a result of this ageing population, one in three women over age 65 will need residential care at some point in their lives. For those women who do not require residential care in later life, there is a 50% chance they will need some form of care at home.

In the South East, the average cost of a residential care home is £669 a week. This rises to an average of £920 a week if nursing care is required. Those who prefer to receive care in their home in later life face average costs of £248 a week in Surrey, and they also need to meet the cost of utilities and maintenance for their property.

These changing demographics have implications for our care in later life.

These are big numbers and can seem daunting for families who need to make important decisions about care packages for elderly relatives.

At the same time as our population ages, funding for older people’s social care has stagnated.

Public funding for later life care has been cut by 10% in real terms October 2016

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A means testing system is in place in England, which determines if any financial assistance is available from your local authority. This means test considers the income and capital assets of the person needing care.

To advertise, please call 01483 420173

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and the other takes care of health or care decisions.

You can only set up a lasting power of attorney if you have the mental capacity to make decisions, so putting this in place early is important. The document must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before it can be used.

If you have assets or savings of less than ÂŁ23,250, the local authority will help to pay for your care costs. You pay your own care costs if you have more than this.

The value of your home is often excluded from this means testing process; it will not be counted as capital if certain people, such as your husband or wife, still live in the property.

Recognising the financial and social challenges prompted by an ageing population, the government instigated a formal review of care funding, which was started by the Dilnot Commission in July 2010. This resulted in a new Care Act in 2014, which came into force last year, although some key aspects of the legislation have been deferred until 2020.

If the government decides it is affordable, we could see the introduction of a cap on how much you have to spend on your care needs. Once this cap reaches ÂŁ72,000, the local authority will then pay for your eligible needs. The cap does however exclude daily living costs, such as food and accommodation in a care home, and critics have warned that once introduced the cap is likely to benefit few individuals.

When an elderly parent or relative needs care, either in a residential care home or within their own home, it can be a worrying and stressful time for their families. Understanding the various costs of care and any benefits available to help with these costs can quickly become a full time job.

There are some simple steps families can take before the need for care arises, to make things less stressful in the future.

Putting in place a lasting power of attorney is a must. These legal documents are a way of giving someone you trust the legal authority to make decisions on your behalf if you lack mental capacity at some time in the future. There are two types and both should be considered. One covers financial decisions

Another simple step to consider is discussing future care needs for elderly parents or relatives. The best prepared families will go as far as visiting residential care homes, making a choice before the need for care arises. This can put minds at rest when health does decline, with families safe in the knowledge that the choice of home was made jointly.

Care fees planning can be a complex area of financial advice, which is recognised by the requirement from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for advisers to hold a specialist qualification.

A handful of professional advisers who choose to work in this area of advice go a step further, completing the Later Life Adviser Accreditation.

This accreditation from the Society of Later Life Advisers (SOLLA) is the recognised benchmark for advice skills of those advisers who specialise in the older client market. It represents a real endorsement of their skills and experience in working with, and understanding the needs of, older people and their families and carers.

With an ageing population and many older people living with dementia, there is a good chance you or someone close to you will need to address later-life care planning at some stage in your life. Making good decisions based on a full understanding of the various costs, rules and benefits is easily achieved by working with an experienced independent financial adviser.

Martin Bamford is a Chartered Financial Planner, Chartered Wealth Manager and Accredited Later Life Adviser. He is managing director of Informed Choice, an award-winning ďŹ rm of Chartered Financial Planners based in Cranleigh, Surrey.

VantagePoint Offer If you want to have a conversation about care fees planning for you, a friend or relative, you can call Martin on 01483 274566 or email martin@icfp.co.uk. Martin offers a first meeting at his expense and without any obligation to proceed.

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To advertise, please call 01483 420173

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JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Hall at Sandown Park Racecourse, Portsmouth Road, Esher, Surrey KT10 9AJ from Friday 7th to Sunday 9th October.

Organised by The Antiques Dealers Fair Limited, the fair has earned itself a reputation for its commitment to the highest standards: beautifully appointed roomsets sit alongside stands of glittering jewellery and walls hung with antique and contemporary paintings, creating an enviable look far removed from the day to day sporting activities normally associated with Sandown Park’s Esher Hall. Everything is for sale with prices from £100 to upwards of £50,000.

Wine & Cheese Tasting - England vs Europe!

Saturday 8th October, 6.30pm-8.30pm Due to the massive popularity of last year’s event, Albury Vineyard is co-hosting another cheese and wine event with The Surrey Wine School and Flavour Tastings on Saturday 8th October. They will be matching three of our award-winning wines, including two sparklings and a still rosé, with some of the best similar styles from Europe. You will also be tasting each wine with a different sumptuous cheese expertly chosen to match the wines. The event will begin with a welcome from vineyard owner Nick Wenman, after which you will try 6 great cheeses matched perfectly with the following wines: Albury Estate Classic Cuvée and Blanc de Blancs vs 2 European traditional method sparklers including a Champagne, and Silent Pool Rosé vs European Rosé. They’ll carefully nurture your tasting skills and combine that with detailed knowledge of local wines. And

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even better you can buy the cheese and local wine on the night. £35.00, tickets available at www.surreywineschool. com. (10% discount for wine club members - contact lucy@alburyvineyard.com if you are a wine club member.)

Albury Vineyard, Silent Pool, Shere Road, Albury GU5 9BW. Autumn Wood Fest at RHS Wisley Saturday 8th to Sunday 9th October, garden opening times Admire the traditional skills on display at their artisan woodcraft demonstrations and take part in family activities, all inspired by the natural beauty of wood. Don’t miss out on the rip-roaring carving displays from Stihl! Check their website for details. Normal garden admission applies. RHS Garden Wisley, Woking GU23 6QB, 0845 260 9000. Email wisley@rhs.org.uk or visit www.rhs.org.uk/wisley.

Come and SIng Saturday 8th October, 10am-5.30pm Dorking Choral Society will be hosting a ‘Come and Sing’ event as part of the Mole Valley Arts Alive Festival in October, and invites anyone with an interest in choral singing to come along, regardless of experience. The singers will be tackling MASS IN BLUE, the exhilarating Jazz Mass by Will Todd. Richard Wilberforce will lead the group through this exciting piece, supported by a jazz accompanist and a soprano soloist, culminating in an informal sing-through at the end of the day. Venue: United

刀攀最愀椀渀 琀栀攀 甀猀攀 漀昀 琀栀椀猀 瘀愀氀甀愀戀氀攀 猀瀀愀挀攀 愀渀搀 猀琀愀爀琀 攀渀樀漀礀椀渀最 礀漀甀爀 挀漀渀猀攀爀瘀愀琀漀爀礀 愀最愀椀渀 戀礀 挀漀渀琀愀挀挀渀最 甀猀 琀漀搀愀礀 昀漀爀 愀 昀爀攀攀Ⰰ 渀漀 漀戀氀椀最愀愀漀渀 焀甀漀琀愀愀漀渀⸀ October 2016

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LOCAL We’ve gone sailing - Frensham Pond Sailability

Changing Lives with the Power of Philanthropy There is a growing philanthropic movement in Surrey inspired by the local charitable Trust, the Community Foundation for Surrey. Whilst many give nationally and internationally, many are now also looking to support the needs within their own local communities.

Although Surrey is an affluent county, there are surprising high levels of local need which are only set to increase in the current climate. Through its family of donors, the Community Foundation is able to provide local, direct and simple access to funding for inspiring community projects that are supporting people in need across the county. Based on detailed knowledge of local needs, the Community Foundation makes effective grants by investing in local solutions delivered by local people.

Projects such as reducing isolation for older people, supporting children living in poverty, providing training and skills for disadvantaged young people, purchasing equipment and much needed help for children and adults with disabilities, reducing homelessness and providing care for those suffering from mental ill health. It also includes projects that bring the community together such good neighbourhood schemes, local festivals, community gardens or facilities for community centres. These are all local projects delivering support where it is needed, at the right time helping to create life time changes.

This tapestry of extraordinary grants supporting local communities has been possible because of the generous and increasing support of the Foundation’s donors. Wendy Varcoe, Executive Director for the Community Foundation for Surrey said, “This is about local people supporting other local people and helping to build thriving communities that are so vital to the quality of people’s lives. The funding so generously

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given by our donors supports projects at the very local level across the width of need and ensures funding gets right where it is needed to help those in most need and to change lives”.

The Community Foundation is a Charitable Trust inspiring philanthropy and providing an exciting and bespoke service to donors enabling them to establish their own named fund or to give collectively with other donors for a specific area or theme such as the Surrey Young People’s Fund or the Surrey Sports Fund. In this way donors are actively involved and see the very real changes their funding makes.

Over the past 10 years the Foundation has inspired Surrey families, businesses, trusts and individuals to come together and invest in their local communities now and for generations to come. Since it was established in 2005, the Community Foundation has awarded over £6 million in grants to local voluntary groups, community projects and individuals across the width of community need in Surrey and has built permanent community resources which generates ongoing funding in perpetuity.

Last year alone, the Community Foundation awarded over £1 million in grants to local communities across the county.

FIND OUT MORE If you would like to be involved in supporting a themed Fund or local Fund for your area or set up your own bespoke Fund, contact the Community Foundation for Surrey on 01483 478093 or find out more visit www.cfsurrrey.org.uk

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JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Reformed Church, West Street, Dorking. Bring your own lunch; tea/coffee and biscuits/cake provided. Cost: £15. For further information see dorkingchoralsociety.org.

Dorking Museum: The Deepdene Trail Group and individual walking tours and virtual reality tour Dorking Museum is very pleased to have worked alongside the MVDC Hope Springs Eternal team to bring the revitalised landscape of the Deepdene alive. The Museum walks team now runs guided walks on the Deepdene Trail. Tours last for an hour and a half and take in the grotto, woodland walks, parterre and temples, featuring spectacular views across the Weald. But the real highlight is exclusive access to the grade II* listed family mausoleum, constructed by Thomas Hope on the death of his young son. Group tours can be arranged by appointment through the Museum website, where we will also be announcing special dates for individual bookings, £4 per person. For details, visit www.dorkingmuseum.org.uk/the-deepdene-trail/ or email admin@dorkingmuseum.org.uk. Visitors to the Museum itself can also take a Virtual Tour of the Deepdene estate in 1825, from the lodges to the mansion and out around the gardens and Betchworth Castle, controlling the screen by means of a games controller.

Dorking Choral Society Dorking Choral Society invite you to join them at the start of what promises to be an exciting new season. The new term started on Wednesday 7th September. They rehearse at Powell Corderoy School, Longfield Rd, Dorking from 7.45pm to 9.45pm. This is a non-auditioned choir; all you need to join is a love of singing and a commitment to practising for improvement. There will always be someone ready to help you if you need it.The choir’s new musical director, Richard Wilberforce, brings a wonderful sense of enjoyment to rehearsals. He comes with a wealth of experience as a conductor. Richard is a natural teacher, patient and encouraging with just the right degree of challenge. He has high aspirations for Dorking Choral Society, and the choir is confident that it will go from strength to strength under his expert guidance.

Dads and Babies Rhymetime at Leatherhead Library Saturday 8th and Saturday 29th October, 11am-11.30am Rhymetime session for dads and babies - other family members welcome. First come first served on the day. No tickets but maximum of 16 per session owing to limited space. Two sessions per month, taking place Saturdays from 11am–11.30am.

Leith Hill Fungus Festival Sunday 9th October 11am-3pm Have a fun day finding out everything there is to know about this most autumnal plant – the fungus. Meet at Leith Hill Tower for children’s trails (last trail 2pm), guided walks and craft activities. Suitable for all ages. £6 adult, £4 child (includes entry to tower). www.nationaltrust.org.uk/leithhill or 01306 712711.

October 2016

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Dorking & District Model Railway Club Saturday 9th-Sunday 10th October The Dorking & District Model Railway Club is holding its annual exhibition this year on Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th October at the Oddfellows Hall, 270 High Street, Dorking RH4 1QT. Opening times will be 10am-5pm on Saturday and 10am-4pm on Sunday. Entrance fee will be £4, with reductions for seniors, children and family groups. Geoff Burch, a former locoman from Guildford shed and noted local author has been invited to open the exhibition, which will showcase the skills and activities of the club as well as exhibit visiting model railway layouts in a variety of scales and gauges. Refreshments will be available at the show.

See the club’s website for further details of the exhibition and for further information about the club.

Horsley Decorative & Fine Arts Society Wednesday 12th October, 10.30am The new season of lectures starts on Wednesday 12th October with a talk on British Railway Posters by Charles Harris in East Horsley Village Hall, Kingston Avenue KT24 6QT at 10.30am (coffee available 9.45am-10.15am).

Visitors (£5) and new members welcome. For more information and the full programme phone 01372 451015 or visit their website: www.horsleydfas.org.uk.

Dorking Scrabble Club Every Thursday at 7.30 pm SPELLBOUND! Are you? If so play the spelling game

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Helen Dixon

Denbies Wine Estate celebrates its 30th anniversary Denbies Wine Estate, England’s largest vineyard, is situated on the outskirts of Dorking in the heart of the Surrey Hills. Approaching the expansive Denbies Estate, for a moment, one could really be anywhere in the world, with acres and acres of vineyard rolling into the distant hills. A captivating sight – in the middle of Surrey.

Established in 1986, Denbies Wine Estate has become a benchmark of wine making excellence in this growth industry. Just over 30 years ago the new owners of the Denbies estate recognised the unique characteristics of the North Downs landscape. Its south facing slopes, chalky soil and micro-climate made it ideal for creating England’s largest vineyard.

The 265 acre vineyard was planted in 1986, a bold move taken by Sir Adrian White, who, with his family moved to the estate in 1984.

The impressive chateau style winery was completed in 1993.

The estate is now one of the largest most visited attractions in the south-east, offering

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daily indoor and outdoor wine experience tours. The working winery has two restaurants, wine and gift shop, conference and banqueting, micro-brewery and an adjacent farm shop.

The Conservatory Atrium by day is a light airy self-service restaurant, serving refreshments, light lunches and afternoon teas. The Gallery Restaurant is located on the third floor with beautiful panoramic views over the vineyard, serving original dishes in contemporary surroundings. The original Farmhouse, overlooking the vineyard, was converted into bed and breakfast accommodation with seven en-suite double rooms.

Wine making is Denbies core business and the vineyard is a key contributor to the development of English wine in the UK. As England’s largest single estate vineyard, Denbies has gained benefit from maximising the economies of scale. By continually investing in the growth of the vineyard and winery Denbies is at the forefront of development and innovation.

Denbies produces internationally award-winning cool climate sparkling wines using the traditional grape varieties, grown on chalky soil. It also has an excellent reputation for producing premium still wines. The winery produces these from the noble varieties, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and now Sauvignon Blanc.

This is achieved by a combination of warmer growing seasons producing riper fruit, and a great deal of expertise in the

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winemaking process. This year, Denbies Greenfields Sparkling Cuvee was awarded a gold in the International Wine Challenge.

In fact, Denbies received a total of 29 international awards for their range of wines.

In 2014 Denbies experienced the best vintage in its history, both quality and quantity. This has enabled the winery team to produce, in addition to Denbies core range, limited release varietals, including Pinot Gris, and for the third consecutive year, a Noble Harvest dessert wine. The 2014 Pinot Gris, which was released in March 2016, is currently showing some wonderfully complex flavours, as is the Sauvignon Blanc and the Bacchus.

The newly released 2014 Red Pinot Noir, only ever produced in an exceptional year, has been eagerly awaited. This wine experienced perfect flowering conditions followed by August rains and a warm September. It is medium red cherry in colour, the wine is brimming with fresh raspberry and plum balanced with lightly earthy notes.

“

”

As England’s largest single estate vineyard, Denbies has gained benefit from maximising the economies of scale. By continually investing in the growth of the vineyard and winery Denbies is at the forefront of development and innovation.

The scale of Denbies lends itself to both wine making excellence and the opportunity to trial new styles of wine making. Recent winery and vineyard investments include the installation of a disgorging line in 2010. This has enabled the Surrey winery to monitor sparkling wine production, expand its range to five sparkling wines and develop wines for the off-trade. Denbies is one of the only UK wineries to supply most major supermarkets in the UK with both a range of still and sparkling wines to suit all tastes and price range.

The harvest is the most critical part of the wine maker’s year and as with any agricultural business, can have a long term impact on production. With three consecutive years of excellent harvest and the prospect of 2016 delivering both quantity and quality, Denbies is well placed to maximise production and continue to champion English wine production on both a national and international level. Denbies currently has a range of 17 wines, including sparkling, still, red, white and rosé.

Denbies Wine Estate is family owned and run by the White family. As custodians of this magnificent 600 acre estate, they are committed to maintaining the estate so all can benefit from the beautiful surroundings. Resources are continually invested and the family is currently working on a replanting programme with Natural England and the Forestry Commission. Together with extended vine planting Denbies are increasing the woodland area, planting 1,600 oak and hazel trees.

October 2016

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Denbies work closely with Surrey Wildlife Trust and the reintroduction of bee keeping to the estate is part of Denbies long term investment to wider countryside issues, including leaving dedicated areas of vineyard to natural wild flower growth and further development of woods. In 2015, bee keeping was reintroduced onto the Estate. The aim is to scale up to twelve hives over the next three years.

On a longer-term project, the beekeepers will use this opportunity to help educate people about bees through their blog and news feeds.

This would include presentation and a view setting up video monitoring of a hive interior so that schools can see the bees at work. In 2016, Leatherhead Bee Keepers introduced an additional apiary into another secluded area of the estate, with five hives already comfortably established.

In 2016 Denbies became the first vineyard members of the Bat Conservation Trust (BCT). Recent research studies have shown that bats play an integral part in pest management. Denbies, with advice from the BCT, have installed bat boxes in the woodland surrounding the vineyard.

between the vineyard and winery with this real ‘hands-on’ experience. Visitors from all over the UK have enjoyed a visit to the vineyard and surrounding areas to enjoy the harvest which takes place during October.

To coincide with its 30th anniversary, Denbies have launched a brand new cinema experience. Denbies feature style film has been over a year in the making, a fascinating insight into the workings of the vineyard and English wine production, set to a brand new sound track commissioned to accompany the film for Denbies.

To conclude the end of the 30th anniversary celebrations, Denbies are holding a couple of special featured events. On Friday 21st October at 7.30pm Denbies will be hosting its annual ‘Strictly’ Denbies Dancing Ball, a celebration of ball room dancing. A delightful evening choreographed and led by Dance Professionals Viktoriya Wilton and partner, followed by music from the fabulous Ross Mitchell Combo.

The Denbies celebration collection culminates in November, with Denbies presenting an ‘Evening in Paris with Gabrielle Ducomble’. Denbies vaulted cellar will be transformed into an atmospheric cabaret style night club, in the classic French tradition, taking place on Friday 25th November at 7.30pm.

Denbies were honoured this year to be the recipient of the 2016 Gatwick Diamond ‘Green Business of the Year’ and ‘Business of the Year’. This was a wonderful achievement for all the Denbies team, who continually strive for excellence in all aspects of this diversified business. The Gatwick Diamond Awards celebrate the achievements of companies and individuals who have shown innovation and inspiration in their work and made a commitment to the region. The Gatwick Diamond membership includes a vast range of businesses, which span all sectors of the economy, from multinational corporations to sole traders.

As well as producing internationally award winning wines, Denbies offers a range of events throughout the year, enabling visitors from all of the country to enjoy this spectacular location in the heart of the Surrey Hills. With harvest fast approaching, Denbies will also be offering its annual ‘Vine and Dine’ grape picking experience. Introduced in 2006, the grape picking event has been a great way for visitors to understand and appreciate the relationship

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FIND OUT MORE Denbies is open seven days a week from 9.30am-5.30pm (5pm from November to March). It offers a wide range of events to suit its wide range of visitors throughout the year. For full details please visit www.denbies.co.uk or call 01306 876616.

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JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Scrabble. The Dorking Scrabblers are a friendly group and will make you welcome whether you are a beginner or an expert. For details and where to meet ring Priscilla (01737 767072) or David (01306 889308).

Newdigate Arts Festival Weekend Friday 14th-Sunday 16th October The programme takes place in and around St Peter’s Church. It includes an art exhibition which runs throughout the weekend and there will be various workshops and activities, drama, tea and coffee and creative contemporary worship. The programme is as follows: Art Exhibition – 14th-16th October in the Church. Opening (with refreshments) Friday 14th October 6pm-8pm, Saturday 15th October 10am-4pm and Sunday 16th October 12noon-4pm. Workshops on Saturday 15th October 12noon-2pm: Book discussions, poetry readings, bell ringing. Drama on Saturday 15th October in St Peter’s 7.30pm drinks, 8pm-10pm drama with interval to view exhibition. For info email tina.callcut@btinternet. com. Worship: Sunday 16th at 10am: Elaine and Alan Storkey explore creativity plus contemporary worship. For bookings and information please email parishoffice@ stpetersnewdigate.org.uk.

RocknRoller Disco at Leatherhead Leisure Centre Saturday 15th October RocknRoller provide a fun, safe environment for the whole

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family. With an amazing sound and light system and their DJ’s playing the most up to date chart hits and a bit of ‘cheese’ thrown in for good measure, everyone (young and old) will enjoy the RocknRoller experience. The friendly team of hire desk staff and marshals are on hand to help even the most wobbly of skaters find their feet. The Roller Discos take place on the first and third Saturday of the month at Leatherhead Leisure Centre, Leatherhead. Session times: Mini Rollers (families with under 11’s) 4pm-5pm (doors open 3.45pm) Main Event (open skate for all ages and abilities) 6pm-7.30pm (doors open 5.45pm). Guildford Rd, Leatherhead KT22 9BL. Call 0208 656 0513 or visit www. rocknrollerdisco.com for more information.

‘Fred and Georgie’ Saturday 15th October 7.30pm until 10pm ‘Fred and Georgie’ is a new play by Tony Earnshaw with songs by Simon Egerton which will take place at Betchworth Village War Memorial Hall, Station Road, Betchworth RH3 7DF. A professional company perform a rehearsed reading of ‘Fred and Georgie’ by Mole Valley scriptwriter Tony Earnshaw with songs by Simon Egerton.

‘Fred and Georgie’ is a modern take on the romance between Frederick Chopin and French romantic novelist George Sand and their famous ‘Winter in Majorca’. You are invited to stay after the reading for a Q&A session and to enjoy a complimentary glass of wine in convivial company.

Be part of the creative process by giving your feedback,

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October 2016

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Do you need more space? what you want so often the easiest option is to create it from your existing house”.

So, if this is the option you want to go for, we asked Simon where should you start? “I would advise talking to an Architectural company with planning policy experience, they can advise you from the beginning, find out exactly what you want and take you through the complete planning and design process.

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JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

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and help us to shape the final piece. This is an Arts Alive event. Admission: £10. Box Office: 01737 843258 or email sheilagray@talktalk.net. Website: www.earnshawplays. co.uk/plays/fred-and-georgie.

The World of the Harp - recital and talk Saturday 15th October, 2.30pm Well known local harp virtuoso Margaret Watson will be playing the harp and talking about the instrument and its place in the world of music in the lovely setting of the Vaughan-Williams Room at the Surrey Performing Arts Library (in Denbies Winery Building near Dorking). There will be an opportunity to ask Margaret questions and the event will end at approximately 4pm. The event is organised by the Friends of Surrey Performing Arts Library (FOSPAL). Tickets are free and can be obtained from the FOSPAL Tickets Secretary,13 Norwood Road, Effingham Surrey KT24 5NT (tel: 01372 453638). Please send a stamped addressed envelope and state the number of tickets you require and give a contact telephone number/ email address (which will only be used if there is any change in the arrangements). Alternatively, tickets can be requested from the Performing Arts Library. For more information, visit www.fospal.org.uk.

Old Herbaceous, Nomad Theatre, Leatherhead Saturday 15th October, 7.30pm and Sunday 16th October, 2.30pm “One very talented actor, Giles Shenton as Herbert Pinnegar (Old Herbaceous), keeps us engrossed, entertained, amused and emotionally engaged for an hour and a half as a gardener in a potting shed… who knew that would work? A wonderful production: funny, emotional, touching, instructive: as it’s been dubbed : ‘Downton Abbey with gardening tips’ ( and some cookery ones too!)…and an acute and sometimes hilarious observation of relationships between the classes in a gentler, simpler age. As the song goes, ‘Sometimes life can taste so sweet, when you slow it down’. Tickets: adults £14, children/students £10. Visit www.nomadtheatre.com for more information and to book.

Leith Hill Musical Festival ‘Come and Sing’.

Saturday 15th October, 11am to 5pm Now is the final chance to buy tickets for the Leith Hill Musical Festival Come and Sing Day, on 15th October at Dorking Halls.

Part of Mole Valley Arts Alive, it is an opportunity for singers to work with the new Festival Conductor, Jonathan Willcocks. As well as the Fauré Requiem, they will be working on Jonathan’s own composition, ’Sing Africa’. Soloists and African drums will join them for the informal sing through at the end of the day.

The day is open to anyone with an interest in choral singing.

Tickets are £21.75 which includes music hire, tea and coffee.

They can be bought through the websites lhmf.org.uk or Eventbrite.co.uk. It takes place at Dorking Halls, Reigate Road, Dorking.

October 2016

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Royal Marines Band Concert - Guildford GLive Saturday 15th October, 7.30pm Music lovers are in for a treat when the Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines Portsmouth perform in a charity concert, at GLive on Saturday 15th October, in aid of Seafarers UK. The Royal Marines Bands contain some really talented musicians who always deliver a lively, entertaining programme including classical pieces and band numbers as well as the military music for which they are famous.

Guildford is fortunate to enjoy an annual concert and every year we are very well entertained to a wide variety of music. The Corps of Drums is always popular. Seafarers UK was founded in 1917 as King George’s Fund for Sailors.

It is the main UK maritime charity, supporting those who are, or once were, in the Royal Navy and Royal Marines, the Merchant Navy or fishing fleets and their families including widows and children. Concert tickets are available at £24, £21 and £18 and all proceeds go to Seafarers UK. Concessions are less £1. Groups of ten or more save 10%.

Tickets are available from the GLive Box Office, London Road, Guildford, at glive.co.uk or on 0844 770 1797.

Taste of Autumn at RHS Wisley Wednesday 19th-Sunday 23rd October, garden opening times Celebrate the sights, sounds and tastes of the season with 30 exhibitors and their delicious produce – including Wisley apple tastings, apple pressing and apple identification, kids’ cookery workshops and a tractor display. Check the website

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Don’t chance it...

Check it!

October is Tyre Safety Month. Our motoring writer Andy Goundry looks at the importance of your car’s tyres...

Do you, like most people, consider that the round black rubber things at each corner of your car are no more than mundane objects which cost you hard-earned money and yet let you down from time to time?

Yes? Then consider this: almost every single day, the life of at least one family in Britain is changed forever by a knock on the door from a Police Officer imparting the sad news that someone close to them has lost their life or has received life-changing injuries as a result of a tyre-related road traffic incident.

What is a dangerous tyre? Excessive wear is one problem. The minimum legal tread depth for a car or van tyre is 1.6 millimetres (mm).

Yet a survey of over 300,000 tyres replaced last year showed that almost 30% had less than the legal minimum tread depth - so their owners had clearly been driving around for some time on illegal tyres. Another 40% were borderline, with no more than 2mm of tread remaining – that’s less than half the thickness of a credit card away from being illegal.

An illegal tyre can land you with a big fine if you are caught – up to £2,500 per tyre, not to mention a minimum of three points on your licence. And that’s for every tyre, so four illegal tyres can earn you a £10,000 fine and lose you your driving licence!

October 2016

If you think that the legal standard for minimum tyre tread depth is unreasonable, bear in mind that, according to Michelin, on a wet road at 50 mph each of your tyres needs to shift a bucketful of water every few seconds, before it can make safe contact with the road surface. And that’s with a new tread depth of typically 7 mm, so you can imagine how the ability of your tyres to shift that amount of water is dramatically reduced when they are so worn that they have only a couple of millimetres of tread left.

Excessive wear is not the only tyre hazard: low pressure can be equally dangerous. Yet many people never, or very rarely, check their tyres for either pressure or wear. In fact, during one recent tyre safety event a worrying 58% of people admitted to never, ever, checking their tyres!

And that is why the Tyresafe organisation was founded ten years ago to spread the message that unsafe tyres cost lives.

Every year in October, Tyresafe promotes Tyre Safety Month, to raise the profile of the need to check your tyres regularly.

Tyresafe members include most tyre manufacturers and retailers, and the more cynical amongst us could be forgiven for thinking that Tyre Safety Month publicity is simply an attempt by them to separate us from our hard-earned cash. However, Tyresafe members also include the emergency services, Highways England and many other companies.

Why? As one firefighter put it at a briefing recently – because anything which reduces the number of times they have the harrowing task of pulling mangled bodies from wrecked vehicles is worthwhile.

He went on to describe one fatal incident they had recently

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filler flap, around the inner edge of the driver’s door, or on a label in the glove compartment.

Tyres heat up when driving, resulting in the pressure inside increasing, so it’s best to check the pressures when the vehicle has not been driven for several hours and the tyres have cooled down.

Tyre pressure is easy to check, either with your own gauge or with a filling station air pump

attended which resulted directly from a car going out of control simply as the result of one tyre being 15psi down on pressure – unnoticeable from a quick visual check, yet lethal.

As Supt. Paul Keasey, Chairman of the National Roads Policing Intelligence Forum said recently: “most tyre issues are the result of non-intentional behaviour rather than wilful neglect”.

He went on to outline how, in the light of the high level of tyre issues, Police forces nationally are embarking on a programme of informing and educating road users to the hidden dangers of lack of tyre maintenance. In particular, if you are ever stopped by a Police Officer, for whatever reason, expect a tyre check as part of the process. In a hint of the iron fist in a velvet glove, Supt. Keasey did however make it very clear that if such checks found illegal tread depths below 1.6mm, Police tolerance of such law-breaking would be “dramatically reduced”.

And don’t gamble on there being fewer traffic cops around to catch you, either. True, most Police forces have seen significant budget cuts and consequent reductions in roads policing, however many forces are successfully getting assistance from members of the public in identifying illegal vehicles.

For example, West Sussex Police tell us that their ‘Operation Crackdown’ has been highly effective.

So how should you check your tyres? Well, a decent tyre pressure gauge can be bought for a few pounds from somewhere like Halfords. The air pressure in each tyre should follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended settings, and these can be found in the owner’s manual, and usually also either on the fuel 20p tread depth check – simple, quick and effective

Tread depth gauges can also be bought quite cheaply. However, you probably have a readymade tread depth gauge in your pocket or purse already, in the form of a humble 20p coin. To use this, just pop the coin into the tread of your tyre in a few places across its width, ensuring that the rim of the coin is completely covered each time. If it isn’t, then your tyre is at or below 2mm and almost certainly needs replacing.

Also be concerned if the tread depth appears uneven across the surface of the tyre, as this could indicate damaged or misaligned suspension, which is unfortunately all too frequent given the state of Britain’s roads today. If you do spot uneven wear, or any other problems such as cuts or bulges, get professional advice as soon as possible.

Most important of all, get into the habit of checking your tyres for wear, pressure and condition at least monthly and always before any long journeys.

If nothing else, regular tyre checks could save you an inconvenient breakdown. In 2015 alone, Highways England Traffic Officers were called out to deal with 34,000 tyre-related incidents on our motorways, which was 27% of all reported breakdowns.

And if during October’s Tyre Safety Month you see your local tyre dealer or perhaps the Police or Fire Service offering free tyre checks, maybe in your local supermarket car park, don’t pass them by, get your tyres checked by the professionals. It will only take seconds but could save your life, or the life of someone close to you.

Remember – don’t chance it – check it!

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 © Andy Goundry July 2016

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<19 JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

for details. Normal Garden admission applies. RHS Garden Wisley, Woking GU23 6QB, 0845 260 9000. Email wisley@ rhs.org.uk or visit www.rhs.org.uk/wisley.

Wednesdays at Christ Church Wednesday 19th October, 12.30pm One week each month Wednesdays at Christ Church offers a series of lunchtime organ concerts played by guest organists from across the South-east of England. Each season brings excellent performances of the familiar, the contemporary, and some lovely rare finds. On Wednesday 19th October, the guest organist is John Sharples, Director of Music at St Nicholas Church, Charlwood. Entry is free and there will be a retiring collection. Tea and coffee available after the concert. More at www.musiconthursdays.org.

‘If words be made of breath’ Thursday 20th October 7.30pm until 10pm An Arts Alive showcase event featuring plays, poems and story from Mole Valley Scriptwriters and Phoenix Writers, two of Mole Valley’s leading writing groups, with music from the Greensand Trio. This takes place at Leatherhead Theatre, 7 Church Street, Leatherhead KT22 8DN. Admission: £7. Information: Pay at the door. Details from tonyearnshaw@me.com.

The West Horsley Independent Players (The WHIPS) Friday 21st and Saturday 22nd October The WHIPS are staging two one-act plays with supper.

These will take the form of costumed rehearsed readings . ‘Say Something Happened ‘ by Alan Bennett and ‘Last Panto in Little Grimley ‘ by David Tristram. Tickets from www.horsleyamdram.ticketsource.co.uk or from Wills and Smerdon. Rehearsals are also underway for the Panto ‘Treasure Island’ which will be staged in January.

Animals of the Night – October Half Term activities Saturday 22nd-Sunday 30th October, 10.30am – 3.30pm RHS Wisley have teamed up with the Wildlife Trust to create a ‘batty’ neighbourhood that encourages bats all year round. Join them for fun family activities to learn all about bats; plant flowers to encourage bats; and get busy carving pumpkins! (£4 per pumpkin, bookable in advance.) RHS Garden Wisley, Woking GU23 6QB, 0845 260 9000. Email wisley@rhs.org.uk or visit www.rhs.org.uk/wisley.

Scary Shakespeare Halloween trail at Polesden Lacey Saturday 22nd October to Monday 31st October Some dastardly devil has pushed the bookcase in the library over! There are books scattered hither and thither, spines have been broken, and pages have been ruthlessly ripped and torn. But the broken books aren’t the worst part! Some of Shakespeare’s most famous and feared villains have escaped from the pages of their plays to wreak havoc on the kind folk of Polesden Lacey. The bloodthirsty crooks have stolen a spell that lay hidden amongst the pages of one of the books, forgotten for years on the very gloomiest shelf of the bookcase. The spell would banish these October 2016

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vagabonds and rogues back to the books from whence they came, which they’re determined not to do. They’ve hidden the spell in the dark depths of Nun’s Walk, hoping that no one will find it so they can continue to terrorise Polesden Lacey’s visitors forevermore. Only the most courageous explorers should attempt this trail – they must brave the journey down Nun’s Walk to find the parts of the spell that each villain has hidden. But these scoundrels will do anything they can to stay in our world, so the valiant explorers must chant the spell as soon as they can, or they too could meet a sticky Shakespearean end. What toil and trouble could the three witches lead you into? Will mischievous Puck cast a spell on you before you can cast one on him? Could backstabbing Brutus turn his traitors eye on you next? Polesden Lacey’s Halloween trail will run every day from 22nd-31st October. Normal admission applies, plus £3 per explorer. More at www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Spooky ‘Create & Grow’ Monday 24th-Monday 31st October Bring the children along to Squire’s this Half-Term and they can paint a terracotta pumpkin, complete with a fun LED blow out battery operated tea-light (£5.50), or go batty by creating their very own bat ‘Trick or Treat’ bucket (£3.50).

Or why not make both! There’s no need to book, simply turn up on the day. There are also FREE activities including a creepy colouring competition and a ghost hunt. Find your nearest Squire’s at www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk.

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GARDENING

With Beth Otway

Sweet Peas For me, sweet peas are one of the real joys of summer.

The sweet pea’s frilly flowers have a powerful yet serene fragrance, which gently envelops the garden in its loveliness. The scent of sweet peas can fill your home too; they’re very floriferous plants that produce excellent cut flowers.

and in these cases, I have found scarification necessary to artificially break the seed’s dormancy. But I have always had concerns about damaging my sweet pea seeds using scarification, and having achieved high rates of germination without any prior seed treatment, I have never felt the need.

Sweet peas, also known by their botanical name of Lathyrus odoratus, are very accommodating - you can sow their seeds in September, though better still sow in late October, and at any time up until March, or even April at a push. Sweet pea growers can look forward to enjoying bunches of sweet pea flowers from May until October, depending on their sowing time and the weather conditions.

I also don’t find it necessary to soak sweet pea seeds in water prior to sowing. I have steeped my sweet pea seeds in liquid paraffin, for a few moments prior to sowing, to deter mice from taking the seeds. But other than this, I have not found it necessary to pre-soak sweet pea seeds.

In 2015 I ran a Sweet Pea Trial to try to establish when the best time was to sow sweet peas, to achieve the most flowers, and the longest length of flower stems.

My 2016 Sweet Pea Trial evaluates the time of sowing, the number of flowers produced, and the stem length of the flowers.

In my 2016 trial I have also compared different methods of growing sweet peas.

It is not necessary to use compost that includes peat to grow sweet peas. I have always achieved excellent results, growing my sweet peas in peat free compost.

For my 2016 Sweet Pea Trial I used Dalefoot Potting Compost, a peat free compost made from natural ingredients, including sheep’s wool. The wool’s natural absorbency provides beneficial water retention, meaning this compost doesn’t need watering as frequently - which is great if, like me, you find watering hard work.

I don’t scarify my sweet pea seeds before sowing. I have never felt the need to chip, nick, scratch, or abrade the sweet pea seed’s outer coating. I have scarified other seeds that have very hard outer casings with success, Sweet Pea ‘Earl Grey’ October 2016

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I grow my sweet peas in Deep Rootrainers - deep seed trays, which feature ridged cells, which have been specially designed to encourage the formation of strong, healthy roots.

Each section of a Rootrainers tray is removable. The sections unfold

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sections unfold and open out like a book, allowing easy examination of the plant’s root system as it develops, and ensuring the straightforward removal of your seedlings when it comes to planting.

Seedlings grown in Rootrainers have their roots directed to grow vertically, meaning that Rootrainers seedlings are never pot bound.

As there is no need to tease out or separate the plant’s roots prior to planting, the roots remain intact and the plants establish readily when planted.

I use the Rootrainers Racking Station, which is a great space saver - it holds eight packs of Deep Rootrainers over two levels. The Rootrainers Racking Station holds the Rootrainers off the ground, allowing air circulation under the roots of the seedlings, which further encourages the natural air pruning of the roots that all plants grown in Rootrainers benefit from.

If you’re looking for something a bit different, L. odoratus ‘Earl Grey’ is a maroon and violet bicolour flaked over a white ground. L. odoratus ‘Earl Grey’ flowers prolifically, producing a large number of striking flowers throughout the summer, which you cannot fail to notice!

Lathyrus odoratus ‘Windsor’ is another floriferous sweet pea. Its large, rich, maroon-chocolate coloured flowers have enchanted many hearts.

Lathyrus odoratus ‘Susan Burgess’ produces deep, blush pink coloured flowers that enrich to salmon pink if grown under glass. I grow L. odoratus ‘Susan Burgess’ outdoors, where I also find that the weather and temperature affect the flower colour, resulting in a pleasing variety of flowers, in subtle, differing tones of blush pink.

Lathyrus odoratus ‘Aphrodite’ is very vigorous white flowered sweet pea, which can produce up to fifteen flowers on each stem! This year L. odoratus ‘Aphrodite’ hasn’t produced as many flowers per stem for me, but I have still found it to be a floriferous and longstemmed variety.

I found 2016 to be a difficult year for growing sweet peas. Despite featuring a greater number of sweet pea plants in my 2016 trial, my plants have produced far fewer flowers than I harvested during 2015 - a real shame. Still, I am sure that 2017 will be a great year, with better weather conditions to grow sweet peas! I am looking forward to sowing my sweet pea seeds, and enjoying their elegant and charming flowers once again in 2017.

There is a huge array of sweet pea varieties to choose from, in a vast range of colours, from pretty pastels to vibrant reds, blues and pink coloured flowers, so whatever your style or colour scheme, whether you look through seed catalogues or online, you’re bound to find a new favourite sweet pea to grow.

Lathyrus odoratus ‘Naomi Nazareth’ has consistently been one of the best performing sweet pea varieties in my trials. I am not usually a fan of blue coloured flowers, but L. odoratus ‘Naomi Nazareth’ has touched my heart with its dusky, pale blue flowers, which would combine perfectly in any vintage-themed arrangement. L. odoratus ‘Naomi Nazareth’ was raised

by Roger Parsons, this sweet pea blooms early in the season, readily producing beautiful, pale blue, sweetly scented, ruffled flowers.

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Left: Beth’s sweet peas grown in Rootrainers, using the Rootrainers Racking Station. Above from left: Sweet Peas ‘Naomi Nazareth’ and ‘Windsor’. All images

by Beth Otway.

FIND OUT MORE You can see more details on Sweet Pea growing methods, and the full results of my 2015 and 2016 Sweet Pea Trials on my website www.pumpkinbeth.com where you’ll also find gardening advice for the month ahead, and much more besides.

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Transform your garden into an amazing outdoor space

Goodbye Summer... Hello Autumn Autumn’s arrival signals time for some garden TLC. You can give your garden a seasonal spruce up by following the advice of garden design experts Boardman Gelly & Co. Love your lawn - remove old grass cuttings and moss. Make holes 10cm apart with a garden fork to improve drainage and aeration in areas where the soil is compacted. Brush in a sandy top dressing and treat your turf to an autumn lawn feed. You can also lay new turf in the autumn. The climate is cooler and soil conditions are still good, giving your new lawn time to get established before the Summer.

Border control - remove weeds and cut back faded perennials before spreading a thick layer of compost, bark chips or well-rotted manure.

Don’t worry too much about digging it in, worms will work their wonder!

Mind the gap - use evergreens to fill holes in your borders, they will add structure and interest and look good all year too.

Pond life - protect ponds and pumps from falling leaves by covering the surface with a fine mesh net, pinned down with stones.

We plan, design & construct stunning garden landscapes & outdoor areas. Let us create something special for you & your family to enjoy.

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October 2016

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ADVERTORIAL 27

Pumpkins are not just for Halloween...

Every year at Secretts they grow a range of different varieties of squash and pumpkin which are prized for their use in all sorts of culinary preparations. They also grow a field of pumpkins for their famous tractors rides to pick a pumpkin too. These are mostly used for carving for Halloween celebrations.

Here are three great recipes from members of the team. Dawn, the farm shop manager, has shared her fabulous Asian Pumpkin Soup recipe. It is smooth, spicy and delicious and you can use pumpkin or butternut squash here, both give a great result. Nicola Secrett, a brilliant cook, has given us her spicy pumpkin cake recipe. It is moist, spicy and packed with this versatile veg. To complete the trio, there is Kathy’s pecan and pumpkin tart. This wonderful tart goes really well with our raw Jersey cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Dawn’s Asian Style Pumpkin Soup

soup to cool slightly and then blend (a stick blender, liquidiser or food processor will work here) until smooth.

6. Return the soup to the pan and heat through. Season with lime juice and a little sugar to taste.

7. Serve garnished with chopped chili, coconut chips and coriander.

Kathy’s Pecan & Pumpkin Tart

Ingredients 1.5kg pumpkin or butternut squash (peeled and roughly chopped); 2 dessertspoons of sunflower or coconut oil; salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1 large onion, peeled and roughly diced; 1 tablespoon grated fresh or lazy ginger; 1 lemon grass stalk, bent in a couple of places to release flavour; 3 tbsps red Thai curry paste; 400ml can coconut milk; 800ml vegetable stock; juice of I lime; sugar to taste (optional).

To garnish: fresh red chili and a few coriander leaves Serves 6-8 Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 200C. 2. Toss the pumpkin in half the oil and season well.

Transfer to a large roasting tin and place in the oven for 40 minutes until golden and tender.

3. While the pumpkin is cooking heat the remaining oil and gently sauté the onion,ginger and lemon grass for 8-10 minutes until softened.

4. Stir in the curry paste and stir-fry for a further minute or so. Add the roasted pumpkin to the pan then stir in the coconut milk and vegetable stock. Bring to the boil then reduce and simmer gently for 10 minutes.

5. Remove the lemon grass and discard. Allow the 28

This delicious seasonal recipe was given to us by our friend Kathy Lockett who worked in the farm office for many years. Roasting the pumpkin first gives the finished tart a lovely caramel note.

Ingredients 550g of pumpkin, peeled and cut into small chunks; 25g melted butter; 1 dessertspoon light muscovado sugar; 500g pack of short crust pastry; 175g light muscovado sugar; 2 eggs; 150ml double cream; 1tsp ground cinnamon; 1tsp ground ginger; 1 large pinch of grated nutmeg; 25g pecan nuts Serves 6-8 Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 180C/fan, 160C/Gas Mark 4 and grease a 25cm diameter loose bottom flan tin.

2. Place the pumpkin in a mixing bowl with the butter and 1 dessertspoon sugar and stir with a metal spoon to evenly coat the pumpkin.

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RECIPES 3. Tip into a roasting tin and bake until tender (approx 30 minutes) remove from the oven and cool.

4. While the pumpkin is cooking, roll out the pastry on a floured surface and line the tin, surplus pastry can be left and trimmed later. Chill for 30 minutes.

5. Place some baking parchment in the pastry case, fill with baking beans and bake blind for 10 minutes.

Remove the paper and beans, trim off any excess pastry and cook for a further 5 minutes.

6. Whilst the pastry is cooking prepare the filling by placing the cooled roasted pumpkin, sugar, cream, eggs and spices into the bowl of a food processor.

7. Process until the mixture is smooth. Pour the filling into the prepared pastry case and place pecans nuts around diameter of the tart face side down.

8. Bake the tart for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is firm to the touch.

9. Remove from the oven and serve warm or cold with a drizzle of cream.

Other ideas: Pumpkins are not just good for sweet recipes or soups. They can be used in chillis, curries, stews, quiches, pasta bakes and much more.

Try spicy oven baked pumpkin chips or add cubes to oven roasted vegetables to accompany your next roast.

Roast Pumpkin Hummus

Nicolaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Spicy Pumpkin Cake

Nicola Secrett our farm sales manager, has a reputation for being a very fine cook! Here is her recipe for spicy pumpkin cake, lovely with a cuppa!

Ingredients 250mls vegetable oil; 3 eggs, beaten; 400g pumpkin puree, fresh or tinned; 1tsp vanilla extract; 425g caster sugar; 300g plain flour; 1tsp bicarbonate of soda; 1tsp ground nutmeg; 1tsp ground cinnamon; 1tsp ground allspice; 1tsp ground cloves; pinch of salt; 4tbs chopped nuts (optional) Icing sugar to serve.

Makes 8-10 squares

Chop 250g of pumpkin and roast in a 180C oven for 25 minutes. Mix together with 400g can of rinsed and drained chickpeas, 2tbsp tahini, 1tbsp lemon juice, 1stp ground cumin, 1 crushed garlic clove, salt and pepper and blend together. Add 2 tbsp chopped fresh coriander and serve.

Taken from taste.com.au. Recipe by Chrissy Freer, photo by Al Richardson

October 2016

Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 180C/fan, 160C/Gas Mark 4 and grease or line a 25cm square cake tin.

2. Cream together the oil, eggs, pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.

3. Mix the flour, sugar, bicarbonate of soda and spices together and sieve into a mixing bowl. Combine the wet and dry ingredients and fold in the nuts (reserving a few for the topping).

4. Pour the cake mixture into the prepared cake tin and sprinkle the reserved nuts on top and bake on the centre shelf of the oven for 1 hour.

5. Test the middle of the cake with a skewer and if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clean on removal the cake is cooked. If not return and bake until cooked through.

6. Allow the cake to cool in the tin then turn out and sprinkle with icing sugar (optional) and serve.

This cake will keep for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

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JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Sharp Shots Kids’ Photo Club Monday 24th and Tuesday 25th October Dorking based Sharp Shots are running two kids’ photo clubs this half-term. They take place as follows: Monday 24th October - 10.30am to 1pm at Brookland Museum, Brooklands Rd, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 0QN and Tuesday 25th October – 10am to 2pm at the Treacle Gallery, Beaufield Mews, 2 Middle Street, Shere, Guildford GU5 9HF. More information is available at: http:// sharpshotsphotoclub.co.uk/kids-photography-courses.

Horsley Garden Society Wednesday 26th October Horsley Garden Society and its predecessors have encouraged the gardeners of the Horsleys and surrounding villages since 1924. They hold flower and produce shows, meetings, lectures and visits to bring together those with an interest in gardening - from beginners to experts. Their next talk on Wednesday 26th October is by the head of Franchi Seeds, Paolo Arrigo on the journey of traditional food from Italy to the UK from Roman times to the present day which should be both informative and entertaining, with the opportunity to purchase seeds. The venue is at West Horsley Village Hall at 8 pm. Visitors are welcome, entry £2, members free. Anyone interested in membership at the modest cost of £5.00 per annum should contact the Chairman, Roger Lindsay, email r.lindsay339@btinternet. com or the Membership Secretary, Terry Lazenby, email terrylazenby@terrylazenby.plus.com.

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The Dorking Group of Artists – Annual Exhibition Friday 28th October to Sunday 30th October, 10am-5.30 pm (4pm on Sunday) The Dorking Group of Artists, one of the largest art groups in Surrey, will be holding their popular Annual Exhibition at Denbies Wine Estate this October. Exhibiting members, many professionals among them, will be displaying over 250 pieces of new and original art, all for sale at affordable prices. The paintings will appeal to all tastes, featuring different subjects and styles and a wide variety of prices and media. There will be large selection of unframed paintings for sale too. Entrance to the exhibition is free and Denbies has a good café, and restaurant, sells beers and cheeses, runs tours of the vineyard and has an excellent shop, so go and make a day of it! There is plenty of free parking. The exhibition, at Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking Surrey RH5 6AA. The Dorking Group of Artists meets on Tuesday afternoons at Beare Green Village Hall from September through to Easter. Membership is open to artists of all abilities, from beginner to professional and costs just £20 per calendar year. The activities programme is varied and includes workshops and demonstrations.

Outdoor painting and sketching during the summer months. For more information contact Jane Anderson Wood (Chairman), tel: 01372 375123 or email j.andersonwood@ gmail.com.

An Evening With Phillip Dyson Saturday 28th October International Concert Pianist Phillip Dyson has been described as simply “brilliant”, with a “wonderfully dry, very British sense of humour” and a recent recital in New York City accredited him as nothing less than “magnificent”. A world class pianist and great entertainer performing to ‘sellout’ audiences around the world. He broadcasts regularly for the BBC and Classic FM, tours constantly throughout the UK and has a great international reputation in Europe and America, gaining enormous popularity in both the classical and light music repertoires. Phillip Dyson is a Decca Classics recording Artist. Direct from Concerts in New York City and Washington DC, the charismatic Phillip Dyson returns to The Leatherhead Theatre with a sensational show featuring some of the world’s most popular and best loved Piano Classics; including Beethoven ‘Moonlight’ Sonata, Chopin Nocturne in E flat major and Fantaisie-Impromptu, Scott Joplin’s The Entertainer and Maple Leaf Rag, Debussy Clair de Lune, Rachmaninov Prelude in G minor and George Gershwin Rhapsody in Blue.”Dyson’s performance brought a prolonged standing ovation” - West Coast Ragtime Festival, California. All proceeds from this concert are going to the Theatre’s charitable trust, Leatherhead Revival Trust.

Visit www.theleatherheadtheatre.org for more information.

Home & Vintage at Guildford Cathedral Saturday 29th October, 11am-4pm Join them in the gorgeous grounds of Guildford Cathedral in a heated marquee filled with beautiful stalls selling everything for the home and garden including textiles, soft

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Sandhurst

Many people have heard of Sandhurst but do not know much about the Military Academy. Here is a potted history and information about its role today.

Over 200 years it has built an unrivalled reputation as a world class centre of excellence in the theory and practice of leadership. It is particularly renowned for its standards and admired for its expertise in training leaders the values of moral, physical and intellectual courage. Its mission is to develop the qualities of leadership, character and intellect which are demanded of an Army officer on first appointment.

experience in Flanders, Le Marchant is quoted as saying that “enthusiastic amateurs are not necessarily leaders of men and they are most certainly lacking professional skills.

The founder was John Gaspard Le Marchant who, in 1793, was fighting against Napoleon as a cavalry officer. He was not happy with the ability of some of the other officers. The Army was not doing well and his view was that the soldiers were brilliant but their officers were awful and they needed training.

The Duke of York took the details to his father, King George III, and gained Royal Assent so that the College could be called the Royal Military College. It was agreed with certain provisions: 1. the first 100 cadets were to be orphans of officers killed in service

Le Marchant drew up his plans for consideration by the Army Commander, the Duke of York, who was the son of King George III. Le Marchant recommended a training college with three departments:• staff training for officers with at least four years commissioned experience so they were already aware of the problems of the battlefield.

• junior cadets of 13 to 14 years old • senior cadets of 15 to18 years old who at the age of 18, providing they pass all their exams, would be commissioned “without purchase”.

It was customary in those days to buy a commission but based on his October 2016

The Duke of York accepted the project and staff training began with 30 officers at High Wycombe and soon after with 16 cadets in temporary accommodation in Marlow. After one year, the 16 had increased to 42 but more had to be done as the Army was short of officers facing the French in campaigns in India, Egypt, Europe and the Caribbean.

2. the next 80 cadets were to be sons of serving officers 3. the next 100 cadets were to be sons of Gentlemen.

The designation Gentlemen Cadet was used until 1940. Winston Churchill was a Gentleman Cadet in 1893. The orphans were to receive their training free of charge but all the others had to pay a fee of up to £90.00 per year.

With the Royal approval in place, the Treasury purchased 450 acres on which to build the Royal Military College at Sandhurst. Work started in 1803 but it was not finished until 1812 due to the slow release of money by the Treasury. The original budget, using today’s values, went from £9 m to £23 m. From 1939 to 1945, it became the Officer Cadet Training Unit for the Royal Tank Corp and the Infantry.

In 1947, the Royal Military College, Sandhurst amalgamated with the Royal Military Academy at Woolwich, which had been founded in 1741 to train cadets for service in the Artillery and Engineers, and

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31

then became The Royal Military Academy, giving officer training to all who serve in the Army.

What is the RMA now as it starts its third century?

But first, how does a cadet arrive at Sandhurst? Over 3,000 young men and women apply for Sandhurst each year. They have to pass a challenging selection process starting with the basic criteria of a good education, being physically fit and being sponsored. Those who are considered suitable are invited for a two day test which includes a mental aptitude test, group activities and discussions, planning exercises and a series of interviews. Those considered suitable go forward to a four day Army Officer Selection Board. The tests are physical, general and service knowledge, tests involving the application of rules, general motivation and preparedness.

The examination is in motivation, moral compass, values and standards, background and the taking of opportunities in the acceptance of responsibilities. Candidates will be graded: 1. pass 2. they have potential but need to develop and may return for a further Army Officer Selection Board process within one year 3. fail.

Those who pass attend RMAS for one week for a full briefing prior to joining. This consists of a comprehensive briefing on what happens at Sandhurst, attention to clothing and physical military and academic expectations of cadets, together with the standards behaviour required and a medical inspection. They are also issued with their boots to ensure they are well ‘broken in’ before they start their training.

Up to 700 Cadets attend the commissioning course each year.

In addition, Sandhurst trains some 140 Reserve Army Officers and another 140 Regular and Reserve professionally qualified, these are Doctors, Dentists, Nurses, Vets, Lawyers and Clergy.

Courses are run for officers commissioned from the ranks of the Army’s senior non commissioned officers, so everyone who holds the Queen’s Commission is now trained at Sandhurst.

The average age of Cadets on the regular Commissioning Course is 23 and 15% come from overseas, whilst 13% are women and over 80% of all cadets have a University Degree before coming to Sandhurst.

The one year commissioning course has a military emphasis but 51% of the work is academic with such subjects as Behavioural

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Science, Communications, Management Studies, Defence and International Affairs.

Demanding military exercises are continuous and often held in the Brecon Beacons, Scotland, France or Bavaria. These exercises reflect what might be expected in a battle situation or a public order encounter. They bring together experiences encountered in Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan. In all the exercises, the “opposition” is usually provided by a company of the Ghurkhas.

Sandhurst is more than a Military Academy.

Over the last 200 years, it has acquired a worldwide reputation of excellence with high personal standards achieved by the graduates. To maintain these achievements, the RMA has set up the charitable Sandhurst Trust to foster and preserve links between serving and retired officers to support the cadets undergoing training and continues to promote the understanding and development of leadership.

The Trust also acts as hosts to RMA guests and arranges visits, functions and tours for groups who wish to learn more about the Academy, its history and how Army officers are trained. A tour would begin with a short historical background, followed by a visit to the Royal Military Chapel and Roman Catholic Chapel of Christ the King. The tour includes an explanation of the Grand Entrance and descriptions of the Sovereign’s Parade and the Indian Army Memorial Room, together with stories of Academy traditions and humour.

The tour would not be complete without knowing how a cadet is selected to come to Sandhurst and what happens to him / her once they are there. A visit to the History Room showing Sandhurst since 1812 in pictures, photographs and documents completes the tour after visiting the shop. If parties come by coach, then they may wish to proceed on a tour of the grounds and see the many fine facilities that make up the Academy.

Sandhurst is very much part of our national fabric and being world famous attracts cadets from over 100 countries around the world.

FIND OUT MORE If you wish to consider visiting Sandhurst, then the contact is Jenny Richards at The Sandhurst Trust, telephone 01276 412000. Email Jenny Richards at finance@sandhursttrust.org.

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furnishings, bric-a-brac, antiques, furniture, handmade ceramics, handmade gifts, jewellery, pots, plants and beautiful seasonal flowers. Perfect location for shoppers, with plenty of free parking and Guildford town centre just 5 minutes drive away. It’s a lovely day out for all. There will be a Lovely tea room serving light lunches, teas and cakes too so will keep you refreshed whilst you shop. £2 entry - under 10’s free.

Hallowe’en Storytelling and Spooky Walk at Claremont Landscape Gardens Monday 31st October at 4pm, 4.30pm and 5pm.

Enter Claremont if you dare this Hallowe’een! Spooky stories and spine-chilling tales with professional storyteller Patrick Buckingham set the scene for a horrifying Hallowe’en walk around the lake. Listen to spooky stories in the play area, then steel your nerves for a sinister saunter around the lake as darkness falls. Don’t forget your costume for free entry to the garden (event charge still applies).

Suitable for children of all ages. Bring a torch - the garden will be very dark! Dress warmly as the event takes place outdoors. Cost is £1.50. Other activities will be available, check out www.nationaltrust.org.uk for full details.

Friends of Dorking Quiz Night Monday 7th November The must-be-at quiz of the season. Book your team NOW for a great night of fun and feasting! £12.50 per head including buffet supper Maximum team size of 6. Proceeds go to Friends of Dorking Christmas Lights Fund. Further info and tickets from info@friendsofdorking.org or contact Wendy Saunders, tel: 01306 876070 or Simon Edmands, tel: 07753 821964. More at www.friendsofdorking.org.

Beare Green and Newdigate Choral Society Saturday 19th November – Quiz Night Wednesday 14th December – Christmas Concert Beare Green and Newdigate Choral Society (BGN) recently held a very successful social evening when they invited prospective new singers to meet the choir and conductor and see how really relaxed and friendly they all are. They are now settling down to learn their Christmas music for their Christmas Concert on 14th December in Newdigate Village Hall, when free mulled wine and mince pies will

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08.30 - 10.15

October 2016

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be served in the interval. There will be a retiring collection in aid of charity. They would really like to welcome more new singers to join them for this festive period, so if you are interested in joining them please come along on any Wednesday evening at 7.45pm in Newdigate Village Hall.

No audition or ability to read music is necessary. BGN will also be hosting a quiz evening in Newdigate Hall on 19th November at 7pm for 7.30pm. Details of all of the above from the choir secretary on 01306 631115.

Wey & Arun Canal Talks Fascinating insights into a historic canal and its restoration are revealed in talks on offer to clubs and organisations.

They are disclosed by speakers from the Wey & Arun Canal Trust (WACT), which is bringing a 19th century waterway through Surrey and Sussex back to life. The Trust has a panel of volunteers available to give presentations about the history and restoration of what has been described as ‘London’s Lost Route to the Sea’. This is the name given in recent years to the Wey & Arun Canal, which once enabled cargo to be taken from the capital to the South Coast.

Goods ranging from gold bullion to gunpowder were carried to destinations such as Littlehampton and Portsmouth.

WACT speakers give illustrated talks on the canal’s history and the Trust’s restoration projects. They are experts in the history of the waterway, which ran 23 miles from Shalford in Surrey to Pallingham, West Sussex. They explain what is happening at restoration projects along the route, more than half of which has been worked on by volunteer working parties. Bridges have been rebuilt, locks constructed and towpaths resurrected for use by walkers, cyclists and riders.

So far, more than three miles of canal, at Loxwood in West Sussex, have been brought back to full navigation, with public boat trips and special cruises run from April to the end of October and at Christmas. “We can adapt the content and length of our talks to suit individual requirements,” said WACT Chairman Sally Schupke. “We have had a lot of interest from many types of clubs and societies. “Everyone is surprised by the huge number of elements involved in our work to create a green corridor for the benefit of people and wildlife.” The Trust welcomes requests for speakers from Surrey, Sussex and Kent. To arrange a talk, email events@ weyandarun.co.uk or call 01483 505566.

Dorking choral society presents “The Viennese Connection” Sunday 20th November, 7.30pm For their first concert with new Musical Director Richard Wilberforce, the choir invite you to spend a mellow Autumn Evening enjoying the glorious music of classical / romantic giants Schubert, Mozart and Bruckner. Vienna was the birthplace of classical music; Mozart hails from the first Viennese school and Schubert was the only major composer to be born in the city. Bruckner was organist at the monastery of St Florian and moved to Vienna in 1868 – hence ‘The Viennese Connection’. The choir will sing Schubert’s Mass No 2 in G, a selection of Bruckner Motets, Bruckner’s Magnificat and various pieces by Mozart. They

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WALK - Lurgashall and Lickfold This is a gentle walk through the open pastures and woodland of this lesser-known part of West Sussex. The centre point of this walk is one of the best gastropubs in West Sussex which charges Mayfair prices but will be happy to pull you a pint when you relax on their comfortable sofas. At the start and finish is a typical (and excellent) village pub by a cricket green. Provided by www.fancyfreewalks.org.

The walk

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1. Starting in Lurgashall, go to the south side of the green where there is a red phone box and the village shop. Pass them on your left to reach a four-way junction by the aptly named Signpost Cottage. Fork left here in the direction of Village Hall, Mill Farm. 250m after passing the last house, as the lane curves left under great oaks, go right at a fingerpost, up steps and left along the left-hand side of a field, on a generous grassy verge. There are fine views right to Bexleyhill and its aerial. Your path goes under wires and comes through a gap in the hedge. Turn left here into another crop field which also has a good grassy border. In the next corner, turn right with the same field still on your right. Go through a gap into the next field and continue as before. In the next corner, go over a stile (which can be squeezed past) to a tarmac lane near a road junction.

2. Turn right on the lane to reach, on your right, the Mill Pond in 150m. The lane is a causeway across the side of the pond, going over a sluice, running between the buildings of Mill Farm. The farm specialises in rare pig breeds and you may see free-range piglets along the way. Continue ahead to a large metal gate by a

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3-way  fingerpost. Do not go through the metal gate  but, immediately before it, turn right on a footpath and  follow a wide sandy track across the field. The stone  lined  surface suggests that you are on an old roadway.  3. When you reach the end of the field, bear right on   a wide farmer’s path, avoiding a path beside the field   on your left but, in just 20m, go left through a gap into  a large field (care! some walkers go wrong here as   ploughing may obscure the paths) and take a diagonal  path  across it. In the far corner, go through a gap and   take a diagonal path across the next field (possibly a  fainter path following a vehicle track). In the far corner,    go down the grass and through a large metal gate into  a luscious green space.

Immediately turn right at a    rather decrepit 4-way sign on a path through bushes, winding across an open area where springs erupt and where the best blackberries are to be found. Go up and over a stile and along the right-hand side of an attractive meadow, crossing under wires. Continue through a gap in the corner and similarly beside the next meadow, passing a tile-hung cottage on your right. Your path takes you over a stile, on a narrow path between fences and down steps to a road. Turn left on the road, immediately reaching the Lickfold Inn. 4. After a possible break, take the lane beside the pub, signposted Fernhurst, passing the old barns of Gentils Farm. The broad crest of Blackdown is in full view on your right. The road curves right and passes Lickfold House on your left. Just after the house, at a small fingerpost, go left on a wide grassy path running beside a lush meadow on your right. There is a small herd of noisy cattle corralled here in one of the fields

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The Noah’s Ark, Lurgashall (www.westsussex.info)

but sometimes they may be in the field on this route, as when the author arrived, walking past them without any problems. But if you believe this might be a snag, simply stay on the lane, re-joining the walk after 750m at Hoewyck Farm. As you enter woodland, at a fingerpost, keep straight ahead, ignoring a left turn.

The path crosses a deep stream and approaches a large old wooden gate. Go over a stile beside the gate and follow the right-hand side of a pasture. The edge curves left and reaches a large metal gate. Go through this gate (releasing a clasp on the chain) and continue similarly in the next pasture. Near the top right-hand corner, go right over a stile and go diagonally up the grass and through a large wooden gate, out to the lane.

5. Turn left on the lane, passing the old barn of Hoewyck Farm. Stay on the road as it bends right, ignoring a footpath on your left. Where the road bends left, leave it by turning right on a signposted bridleway. Continue through a (usually open) metal gate and follow the sandy path, gradually rising under hollies. After 300m on this path, go through a small wooden gate and, in 10m, go left through a large wooden gate into a sloping sheep pasture. (This tactic avoids the stile.) Go up the left-hand side of the pasture and veer right to cut the top left-hand corner. As you approach woodland, avoid a large wooden gate and go left over a stile just 10m after it.

6. Follow a clear path through Gentles Copse. The path goes over a 2-plank bridge and a stile into a large grassy meadow. Follow the left-hand edge and, after 300m, at a 4-way fingerpost, keep straight on, staying in the meadow. Shortly, go over a stile in the corner onto a woodland path. The path soon executes a rightleft double bend and takes you over a 2-plank bridge with a rail. It meets a stony track with the gatehouse to the Black Down Park Estate on your left. Turn right on this track. The track comes out to a road. Your route is

left on the road but first, just on your right, is a rather eccentric building.

7. Having turned left on the road, in 100m turn right on a rough tarmac lane. In 100m, opposite Guardian Cottage, turn right at a fingerpost into woodland. follow the path through bracken to a marker post where your path bends left. At a 3-way fingerpost, turn left. Your path emerges from the wood, across grass to a tarmac drive. Turn right on the drive and immediately left at a fingerpost on a woodland path and quickly bear left at another fingerpost. You meet the corner of a field by a bank, next to a stile, an old gate and a fence. Avoid the wide path straight ahead and instead go left over the bank and veer right on another good path.

8. Follow this woodland path for nearly 800m. On your left, the wood falls away quite steeply in places. Finally, you come through a swing-gate into an open meadow.

Keep to the right-hand side of the first small meadow, leading to a small gate into another meadow. The spire of St Laurence Church is visible ahead. A swing-gate takes you into an orchard, followed by another swinggate where your path veers a fraction left. You cannot help but notice, if you have a backpack, how tight these gates are! Two more swing gates, with an orchard in between, lead out to a tarmac lane. Turn left, leading immediately back to the village green where the walk began.

DISTANCE: 5½ miles OS MAPS: Explorer 133 (Haslemere and Petersfield) STARTING POINT: Lurgashall - car park or park in road REFRESHMENTS: Lickfold Inn 01789 532535 Noah’s Ark 01428 707346

Neither the publisher nor the author can accept any responsibility for any changes, errors or omissions in this route. Diversion orders can be made and permissions withdrawn at any time.

October 2016

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PROFILE In Accord aligned! When it works, it creates ‘overtones’ (harmonics) that make the sound ‘ring’ (i.e. much fuller). It often also has the effect of making the back of your neck tingle! The extra coaching sessions enable members to learn individual vocal technique which helps them to blend with the rest to create that aspirational ‘one voice’ sound.

Most people have heard the term ‘a capella’ and will know it means ‘without accompaniment’. Those involved in a Capella groups would say that it can be one of the most challenging but rewarding ways to sing. A Capella singing can boast a long history as it was no doubt in existence before instruments were invented! The rich cultures of Africa, Australasia, Gospel and American Barbershop (to name but a few) have all played in to the influences of 21st Century a Capella singing.

In Accord is a local ladies a Capella group. Formed in 2004, it currently has 13 singers who mainly live in West Surrey.

Since its inception the group has developed its own identity with the vocal arrangements written by chorus members.

Arrangements are generally written for five parts – Bass, Baritone, Alto, Mezzo and Soprano. No single part always sings ‘the tune’ – this is shared between each part depending on the song (and often requests from members!). This means that all In Accord members must be able to hold a harmony without being distracted by the others!

The In Accord repertoire is varied and has mainly been developed through suggestions from members. Over the years numbers have also been included as a result of special requests from customers, such as for weddings and anniversaries. Songs often have words re-written to perform as a one-off surprise tailored for individuals or groups. The repertoire currently includes songs from The Beatles, James Bond film themes, Duffy, Queen, West End/Broadway shows and much more.

In addition to their weekly rehearsal, members enjoy (if that’s the right word!) regular half-day coaching sessions and an annual jaunt to Littlehampton where a full day’s coaching and plenty of socialising is enjoyed. At any one time In Accord has twenty songs in the main repertoire, and about ten Christmas numbers. Learning notes and words to this many songs is challenging as many members also have full time jobs and/or families to focus on.

The secret to a Capella singing is to sing ‘as one voice’ by getting the intonation, timing, vowels and consonants all perfectly

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Over the twelve years In Accord performances have been many and varied. Most notable was probably at the House of Lords, but at the other extreme they’ve been known to ‘warm up’ in toilets with leaky roofs, so it’s not always so glamourous! Many performances include engagement with the audience. To announce to the audience at the start that they will be singing harmony by the end generally fills the room with a sense of fear and dread. However, they always join in and learn some harmony – generally smiling as they do so!

In Accord would love to hear from anyone who might be interested in joining. Being a member requires commitment to learning the songs, attending rehearsals, coaching and performances. The ability to read music is helpful, but not required. The main thing is to be able to sing in tune and hold a harmony!

If you would like to book In Accord to perform (with or without audience participation!) they would be happy to discuss any specific requirements or special requests. (If this includes arranging your favourite song, plenty of notice will be needed!)

FIND OUT MORE

Please contact Sue Lampard, the Musical Director: Tel: 01252 725685 Website: www.inaccordsingers.co.uk Email: inaccord-1@inaccordsingers.co.uk

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JOTTINGS - YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

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will be accompanied by the Zeitgeist Chamber Orchestra and joined by soloists. It takes place at St Martin’s Church, Dorking RH4 1UX. Tickets cost £15 and can be purchased from any choir member or by ringing Lisa Kicinski on 07484840955 or 01306 887946. Tickets will also be available on the door.

Norbury Park Woodland Walk Sunday 20th November, 1.30pm-4pm Join Ranger Andrea Neal for a walk across Norbury Park, visiting some of the variety of woodlands on this site and looking at their management – past, present and future.

Distance: 3 miles. Not suitable for people with limited mobility. Not suitable for wheelchair users. £4 per adult, children £1. Venue: Fetcham car park (off roundabout on A246 at the entrance to Bocketts Farm), Norbury Park, Fetcham, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 9BS. The Heath Players Thursday 24th and Friday 25th November 2016, 7.30pm The Heath Players present their Autumn 2016 production What’s Cooking? – two comedy plays at Box Hill Village Hall, KT20 7JT. Meat & Two Veg by Paul Beard : Home grown vegetables and bone fertilizer – but what’s really buried in the garden… What’s for Pudding? by David Tristram: A dull evening is interrupted by unexpected guests and dissolves into a drunken gathering. Tickets: £14 including fish and chip supper (a vegetarian option will be available, please advise when booking). Box Office: 01306 887159 or by email to destination.caroline@btinternet.com.

Capel Choral Society Concert Monday 5th December It may only be October, but Capel Choral Society is already looking forward to the Christmas season and has started rehearsing the music for its concert on 5th December. The concert, in Capel’s Memorial Hall, will include performances of music by Mendelssohn and Buxtehude, together with seasonal music and carols. To help the Christmas spirit there will be mulled wine and mince pies. More details about the concert next month. Although the music for this concert will be occupying a lot of Monday evening rehearsal time until December, the Choir will not be losing sight of its main musical target of the 2016/17 Season, the Leith Hill Musical Festival next April. The set work for the Festival is Mendelssohn’s great oratorio Elijah, a work so large

that some cuts have to be made to keep a concert to an acceptable length! The Choir will therefore also be spending some time learning a few choruses of this work alongside the Christmas music, before concentrating solely on Elijah in the New Year. The popularity of the Mendelssohn has already attracted some new singers to the Choir, so why not join them? – there will be plenty of time to ‘catch up’.

No audition is involved in joining the Choir, just go along and give it a try! For more information about Capel Choral Society and how to join, contact the Secretary, Ian Moir at ianmoir20@yahoo.com or phone him on 01306 889817.

See also the choir’s website, www.capelchoralsociety.com.

Festive Cruises On The Wey & Arun Canal From Friday 11th December Bookings are already being taken for the extremely popular Santa Cruises which will be running on 11th, 18th, 21st, 22nd and 23rd December. Trips depart at 11am, 12noon and 2pm and cost £10 per person to include festive refreshments and a gift from Santa for all children under 12 years of age. New for 2016: a Santa Cruise for the Grown-ups on Friday 16th December, 7.30pm-9pm. Santa tells us that Christmas is not just for the children and invites adults to join him for a 90 minute trip along the canal whilst enjoying a glass of mulled wine with snacks, and seasonal sing-along music. Santa will also have a small gift for everyone! Tickets cost £15 per person. On Boxing Day and New Year’s Day festive trips depart at 11am, 12noon and 2.00pm. Tickets: £5 for adults; £2.50 for children. Booking in advance is essential for all the trips. Full details are available on the website and bookings can be made online.

Alternatively please call The Wey & Arun Canal Trust Office on 01403 752403 or email office@weyandarun.co.uk. Visit www.weyandarun.co.uk for more information.

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RHS Garden Wisley is offering a family ticket to their Taste of Autumn event which runs from 19th–23rd October. This five day event celebrates the sights, sounds and tastes of the season and features tours of the Fruit and Vegetable Garden and vintage tractor displays. The award winning RHS Plant Centre has also created a stunning hamper which includes food and drink products made from produce grown at RHS Garden Wisley. More at www.rhs.org.uk.

Hamper includes: RHS Wisley Wine, RHS Wisley Medium Cider, RHS Wisley Apple Juice, RHS Wisley Clotted Cream Shortbread, RHS Wisley Raspberry, Gooseberry and Spiced Pumpkin Jam and a beautifully designed cushion that portrays Wisley, presented in a wicker basket.

To win a family ticket (2 adults and 2 children), please answer the following: Q: Name another of the RHS’s gardens in the UK Please enter online at www.vantagepointmag.co.uk by 14th October 2016.

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Jeremy Paxman and Mark Austin will be appearing at Guildford Book Festival on Thursday 13th October at 7.30pm, at the Marquee at Guildford Cathedral. For more information and to book tickets, visit www.guildfordbookfestival.co.uk.

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