Quantcast
Channel: Surrey Mirror Latest Stories Feed
Viewing all 6099 articles
Browse latest View live

Oxted Pram Race attracts thousands - in pictures

0
0

SPECTATORS lined the streets on Sunday to cheer on competitors at this year's Oxted Pram Race, as fine weather brought out the crowds.

Colourful competitors abounded, with the likes of Wonder Woman running side-by-side with Spongebob Squarepants as racers romped across the town, raising money for Oxted and Limpsfield Rotary Club.

Clearly, the warm weather made many of those taking part more than a little parched, which led many to revel even more than usual in the traditional drink at pubs en route, with watering holes The Wheatsheaf, The Crown Inn, The George Inn and Old Bell proving particularly popular.

Sue Wallace, from the pram race committee, said: "It was just an absolutely fantastic day. It was great to see children getting involved.

"All in all, it was a great family day."

The race concluded at the fairground at Master Park. A fairground was also organised for Old Oxted, and 20 per cent of the proceeds from both went to the rotary club.

All told, around 3,000 spectators cheered on the racing prams all around the impromptu "track".

"We are all so happy with the race," added Mrs Wallace. "Everyone was in good spirits.

"We have not hyped up the pram race because it is the first time we have held it on a Sunday instead of a Friday, but it was such a success that we shall do it again."

There were 25 prams in this year's race and the winners of the male race were Les Miserables Gits, coming in at 8 minutes and 23 seconds.

The winner of the female race was Where's Wally Wander, in 10 minutes and 5 seconds.

Bromley Rugby Club under 16s came in at 8 minutes and 26 seconds, and Tandridge Heights were the first mixed team to pass the finish line at 18 minutes and 25 seconds.

Oxted Tea Party were given the crown for the best fancy dress, and the Ice Makers won the youth fancy dress competition.

Oxted Pram Race attracts thousands - in pictures


Mole Valley rotary club presidents forge a new friendship

0
0

A NEW Mole Valley tradition was born when the presidents of the five Rotary Clubs in the district came together for the first meeting of its kind.

The newly inducted presidents of the Ashtead, Bookham and Horsley, Dorking, Dorking Deepdene and Leatherhead clubs met on July 5 to form plans for the coming year, and talked about the ways in which they might be able to work together for the greater good of the community.

Between the five clubs, there are around 150 Rotary members involved in a wide variety of fundraising activities – from organising Christmas collections, race nights and quiz nights, to larger events such as Dorking Deepdene's annual Swimarathon and Ashtead Village Day, which celebrated its 30th anniversary last month.

For information about any of the clubs, contact Simon Edmands on 07753 821964 or simon.edmands@ukipme.com

Mole Valley rotary club presidents forge a new friendship

Holmwood Village Produce Association Summer show: Pictures

0
0

SCORCHIO! This was the only (slightly made-up) word to describe this year's Holmwood Village Produce Association's summer show weekend, writes Ros Treliving.

Right through from the erection of the marquees on Friday evening to the final pant of the dogs and parp of the band on Sunday afternoon, the hot sun prevailed.

On the Saturday morning of the summer show, the villagers of Holmwood turned out in force to set up their exhibits in the grand marquee. Oasis was watered, gooseberries were re-aligned, patchwork cushions were plumped, and photos were twizzled. "It's meant to be that way up", the exhibiting photographers insisted as they prepared for judging to commence.

As always, competition was stiff, and even the daring decision to crack open a new pack of doilies did not elevate my Victoria sponge to prizewinning heights (although I think all was probably lost on the presentation front when my top slid off my bottom on the way to the field).

The worthy winners in each class received a cash prize and those gaining most points in each division, or judged the best in show, were also presented with a trophy – upon which their names will be engraved.

At 1pm the show opened, with side shows and entertainment galore. With the temperature soaring well above a thousand degrees [well, 31.4c at nearby Mickleham] a brisk trade was carried out in the beer and Pimms tent, with the faces of the people manning the barbecue progressing from moderately flushed through to puce, beetroot, and finally lobster. It was only then that they were allowed to put down their tongs and retire to the shade of the bushes.

The audience of the Punch and Judy were pleased to be in a shady spot under a large oak tree, whilst the tug of war, which took place in the blazing sun, was pulled off in record quick time so people could once again dive for cover.

There was no let up from the heat on Sunday, with lashings of extra water and shade provided for Holmwood's most handsome hounds and prettiest bitches.

All the dogs were on their best behaviour, with the "tarts and vicars" best dressed dog class providing a particularly fascinating insight into the contents of the Harding-Rolls wardrobe.

Although not triumphant in that particular category, our very own BSA did win overall best in show with Barley, and executed a triumphant lap of the show ring with her cup held aloft. Once she'd wrestled her shirt back down off her head, she led a cheery al fresco songs of praise to round off the weekend, with a group of local musicians accompanying the assembled congregation.

As always, the whole show weekend provided a great community event – for once, without a single wellie boot in sight. Thanks to all who came and supported the show – hope to see you again next year on our 70th anniversary!

RESULTS

Cup prize winners Silver Cup – highest points in Division 1 A and B, Sarah Hornsey. Silver Cup – Division 1A, fruit and vegetables, Les White. Silver Cup – Division 1B, flowers, Sarah Hornsey. Silver Challenge Trophy – best exhibit, fruit and vegetables, Les White. Silver Challenge Trophy – best exhibit, flowers, Richard Paine. Womersley Cup – best specimen bloom, Sally Blunt. Kathleen Bray Rose Bowl – Judge's Choice of Best Rose Exhibit, Michael Blunt. Holmwood VPA Top Tray – Division 1A, Class 1, no award. Holmwood VPA Top Vase – Division 1B, Class 34, Sarah Hornsey. RHS Banksian Medal – highest points in Division 1A and 1B (last two years' winners not eligible), Sarah Hornsey. Myra Wainwright Trophy – best floral arrangement, Mary Scutt. WI Challenge Cup – highest points in Division V, home produce, Sarah Hornsey Trophy, best exhibit in Division III – photography, Mark Treliving McTigue Trophy – best exhibit in Division VI, handicrafts, Bob Christmas. Silver Challenge Cup – highest points in Division IV, children, Jazmin Griffin. Welton Cup – best children's exhibit, Rufus Mansfield. Stanford Cup – best pensioner's entry, John Sutton. Hilda Stannard Trophy for Endeavour – best non-trophy winner, Brenda Bartlett.

Vegetables. Garden News Top Tray – 2nd Sarah Hornsey. Mini collection of three vegetables, 1st Les White, 2nd John Thom, and 3rd, Sarah Hornsey.

Four tomatoes, Andrew Mansfield. Two cucumbers, Les White, 2nd Andrew Mansfield, 3rdGraham Greenough. Two lettuces,1st, Brenda Bartlett, 2nd Les White, 3rd David Lloyd. 12 broad beans, 1st John Thom, 2nd Sally Blunt, 3rd Nick Tanton. Four long pointed carrots, 2nd Sarah Hornsey. Four carrots (other than long-pointed) 1st Les White. One cabbage, 1st Les White, 2nd Sarah Hornsey. Three globe beets, 1st Brenda Bartlett, 2nd Sarah Hornsey, 3rd Victoria Harding-Rolls. 12 pods of green peas, 1st Les White, 2nd Sarah Hornsey, 3rd Brenda Bartlett. Four white potatoes, 1st John Thom, 2nd Sarah Hornsey, 3rd Les White. Four coloured potatoes, 1st Les White. Four onions – 8oz and under, on collars, 1st Les White, 2nd Bob Christmas, 3rd Crispin Harding-Rolls.

Six shallots, 1st Sarah Hornsey, 2nd Bob Christmas. A marrow – not exceeding 12", 1st Les White. Four courgettes, 1st Les White, 3rd Sarah Hornsey. Six salad onions in a bunch, 1st Les White, 2nd Bob Christmas. Three garlic bulbs, 1st Sarah Hornsey, 2nd Sally Blunt, 3rd Andrew Mansfield. Any other vegetable, John Thom, 2nd Brenda Bartlett, 3rd Victoria Harding-Rolls. Collection of six herbs, 1st Sally Blunt, 2nd Sarah Hornsey, 3rd Pat Goldhawk. Dish of one dozen raspberries, 1st Martin Thomas, 2nd Les White. Dish of one dozen dessert gooseberries, 1st Nick Tanton, 2nd Les White, 3rd David Lloyd. Dish of blackcurrants on strings, 1st Richard Paine, 2nd Debs Mansfield, 3rd Les White. Three sticks of rhubarb, 1st Les White, 2nd Sally Blunt, 3rd Mary Lindon. Any other fruit, Debs Mansfield , 2nd David Lloyd, 3rd Les White. The largest gooseberry, Nicki Tanton.

Flowers. Garden News Top Vase, 1st Sarah Hornsey, 2nd John Thom, 3rd Brenda Bartlett. Jug of sweet peas, 1st Richard Paine, 2nd Brenda Bartlett, 3rd Sarah Hornsey. 12 sweet peas, 1st Richard Paine, 2nd Brenda Bartlett, 3rd Sally Blunt. Cycle of the rose, 1st Abigail Verge, 2nd Harlod Herbert, 3rd Nikki Edwards. Collection of roses 1st Michael Blunt, 2nd John Thom, 3rd Mary Lindon. Six pansies, own foliage, V. Philips, 2nd John Thom. Six French marigolds, 1st Sarah Hornsey, 2nd Mary Lindon . Six calendulas 1st Sarah Hornsey, 2nd Chris Bartlett. Three stems of pelargoniums (geraniums) 1st Sarah Hornsey, 2nd Martin Thomas, 3rd Sally Blunt. Six dahlias, 1st Sarah Hornsey, 2nd Martin Thomas 3rd V. Phillips. Five carnations or pinks, 1st Sarah Hornsey Three clematis florets, no foliage, on damp sand, 1st Brenda Bartlett 2nd V. Phillips, 3rd Martin Thomas. Six fuschia blooms on damp sand, 1st Martin Thomas, 2nd Sarah Hornsey, 3rd Harold Herbert. One specimen bloom (any kind) Sally Blunt Sarah Jackson Chris Bartlett. One specimen Stem (any kind), 1st Sarah Hornsey, 2nd Chris Bartlett. Collection of perennials, four kinds, 1st Sarah Hornsey, 2nd John Thom. Collection of annuals or bi-annuals (four kinds) 1st Sarah Hornsey. Three branches of flowering shrubs (three varieties), 1st Mary Lindon, 2nd Joan Lampen, 3rd John Thom. Collection of mixed flowers (at least six kinds), 1st Sarah Hornsey, 2nd John Thom, 3rd Debs Mansfield. An African violet 1st Sarah Hornsey. An orchid, 1st Brenda Bartlett, 2nd Martin Thomas. Any other flowering pot plant, 1st Sarah Hornsey, 2nd Brenda Bartlett. A foliage pot plant, 1st Sarah Hornsey. A fuchsia, pot grown, 1st Sarah Hornsey. A hanging container, 1st Sarah Hornsey 2nd Brenda Bartlett. A planted patio container, 1st Sarah Hornsey, 2nd Chris Bartlett.

Floral arrangements. "On the Seashore" – using foliage and flowers, 1st Ray White, 2nd Eileen Daulman. "Riotous Basket" – flowers and foliage in a basket, 1st Sally Blunt, 2nd Mary Scutt, Eileen Daulman. "A Pink Circle" – an all-round arrangement using pink flowers and foliage, 1st Eileen Daulman, 2nd Mary Scutt. "A scent of summer" – a miniature arrangement using scented flowers, 2nd Abigail Verge, 3rd Mary Scutt. Men Only – "The Orient" – using flowers and foliage, 1st Ray White, 2nd John Daulman.

Photography. Monochrome. 1st Mark Treliving, 2nd Sian Reed, 3rd Abigail Verge. Set of three photographs on a theme, 1st Mark Treliving, 2nd Sian Reed. A colour photo – "view from a window", 1st Stephen Verge, 2nd Abigail Verge, 3rd Alice Verge. "Faster, higher, stronger", 1st Alice Verge, 2nd Sally Blunt, 3rd Mark Treliving. Any other subject. 1st Abigail Verge, 2nd Maureen Collinge, 3rd Robert Cowan.

Children under 16: A colour photo – "Friends", 1st Lydia Reed, 2nd Alexia Beale. A photo taken on Holmwood Common – "dusk" – 1st David Gilbert, 2nd Sally Blunt.

Children under five:

Children under five. Best dressed teddy, 1st Heidi Mbabele. Picture of a tree, Charlotte Worral', 2nd Grace Pearson, 3rd Ethan Smith. A decorated flowerpot, 1st Heidi Mbabele. Children five to eight.Best dressed teddy. 1st Rufus Mansfield, 2nd Jack Griffin, 3rd Lydia Reed. Picture of a tree, 1st Lydia Reed, 2nd Jack Griffin, 3rd Theo Mbabele. A decorated flowerpot, 1st Rufus Mansfield, 2nd Jack Griffin, 3rd Emily Buttle.

Children 9-12. Three banana muffins, 1st Jazmin Griffin. An illustrated poem, 1st Madeline Brown, 2nd Jazmin Griffin. A string of summer bunting, 1st Jazmin Griffin.

Teenagers aged 13 to 16 years. An illustrated poem, 1st Alexia Beale. A string of summer bunting, 1st Alexia Beale.

All children up to 16 years. Colouring – 5 to 8 years, Holly Bell Alexia Beale and Jazmin Griffin.

Jams, etc. Home produce – open to all. Jar of jelly, 1st Kate Fryer, 2nd Sally Blunt. Jar of raspberry jam, 1st Sarah Hornsey, 2nd Edward Blunt. Jar of strawberry jam, 1st Kate Fryer, 2nd Sarah Hornsey, 3rd Ruth Paine. Jar of marmalade, 1st Sue Tanton, 2nd Sarah Hornsey, 3rd Sally Blunt.Jar of any other jam, 1st Liz Buttle, 2nd Sarah Hornsey. Jar of lemon curd, 1st Christine Thom, 2nd Sarah Hornsey. Jar of chutney, 1st Sally Blunt, 2nd Liz Buttle. Six chickens' eggs – large fowl or bantam, 1st Lorraine High, 2nd Mary Lindon, 3rd Brenda Bartlett. Six eggs, other than chickens'. 1st Alexia Beale.

Cakes, etc, home produce – open to all A Victoria sponge, 1st Sarah Hornsey, 2nd Stephen Edwards, 3rd Debs Mansfield. Six cheese scones, 1st Sarah Hornsey, 2nd Sylvia Melchonie, 3rd Rachel Verge. A light fruit cake – 7" or 8" cake tin, 1st Alice Verge, 2nd Sarah Hornsey, 3rd Debs Mansfield. A seeded brown loaf, 1st Stephen Verge, 2nd Sarah Hornsey, 3rd Sally Blunt. Three vegetable pasties, using homemade shortcrust pastry, 1st Sally Blunt, 2nd Liz Buttle, 3rd Sarah Hornsey. Traditional Bakewell tart, 1st Ruth Paine, 2nd Sarah Hornsey, 3rd Christine Cantello. Raspberry and amareti crunch cake – recipe from show schedule, 1st Sarah Hornsey, 2nd Tammy Barnes, 3rd Liz Buttle. Jam biscuit sandwiches, 1st Liz Buttle, 2nd Kate Fryer, 3rd Abigail Verge. Men only: Fruit upside-down cake, 1st Chris Bartlett, 2nd Stephen Verge, 3rd Daniel Gilbert. A jug of lemonade, 1st Sarah Hornsey, 2nd Debs Mansfleld, 3rd Chris Bartlett. A fruit-flavoured spirit, 1st Sarah Hornsey, 2nd Ruth Paine, 3rd Mary Scutt. A bottle of any other home-made wine, 1st Bob Christmas. A jug of elderflower cordial, ready for drinking, 1st Chris Bartlett, 2nd Liz Buttle, 3rd Debs Mansfield.

Handicrafts – open to all.A cushion, 1st Mary Scutt. A piece of cross stitch, 2nd Kimberley Oakley. A hand-knitted garment 1st P. Christmas. 2nd Mary Scut. A sewn garment, 1st Harriet Fryer. A knitted toy. Any other toy, 1st Des Scutt. A piece of patchwork, 1st Christine Cantello. 2nd Tammy Barnes. A piece of embroidery, Pauline Sutton. A painting or drawing of a rural scene, 1st Liz Buttle, 2nd Anne Greenough. Any other painting or drawing – any medium, 1st Anne Greenough, 2nd Maureen Collinge, 3rd Alice Verge. Woodwork, 1st Bob Christmas, 2nd Des Scutt, 3rd John Sutton. Any other craft, 1st Mary Lindon, 2nd Pauline Sutton, 3rd Alice Verge. Pensioner's entry – any craft, 1st John Sutton, 2nd Mary Lindon

Special classes. One gallon bucket of compost, 1st Les White, 2nd Mark Treliving, 3rd David Lloyd. Most fragrant exhibit, 3rd Andrew Mansfield.

Holmwood Village Produce Association Summer show: Pictures

Magic Leatherhead swimmers conjure medals

0
0

LEATHERHEAD Swimming Club had one more meet before the National Championships and the club put on a great performance finishing on a resounding high at the Staines Black Swan Summer event.

They raced to 18 golds, 16 silvers and nine bronze medals, with multiple personal bests over the weekend. Star of the show was nine-year-old Holly Cottam, who won the nine-year-old top girl category with a perfect nine golds.

Holly picked up gold medals in all strokes in the 50m and 200m events as well as the 200IM.

Holly's big sister Rheanna, 14 celebrated her birthday in style coming second in the 14-year-old category. She picked up three gold medals in the 50fly, 200free and 100fly, five silver medals in 200 breaststroke and IM, 100 breaststroke and 50 free and breaststroke, as well as two bronze medals in 100 free and 50 breaststroke. In the same age group Emma Brown, 14, finished in third place, picking up an impressive five gold medals in 200 back, 100 back and free as well as 50 back and free. She also took two bronze medals in the 200 free and 50 breaststroke.

Lydia Room, 13, placed third in her age group with a gold medal in the 200 IM and four silver medals in the 100 free and fly and the 200 free. Other medal winners included Jocelyn Cosmatos, 11, with a silver in the 50 back and a bronze in the 50 free, with nine-year-old Helena Bednall picking up a silver in the 50 back and nine-year-old Jemima Potter a bronze in the 200 breaststroke.

Strong swims also came from the Weeks sisters Ella and Georgia, Francesca Beech and Abigail Cosmatos, all of whom put in strong personal best times.

The Leatherhead boys were not to be outdone and 12-year-old Ben Simpson led the way with second place in the 12-year-old age category, picking up gold in the 200 IM and four silver medals in 200 back, 100 free and breaststroke and 50 back, as well as a bronze in the 200 breaststroke.

Matthew Ussher, 11, picked up three medals, a silver in the 200 free and two bronzes in the 200 IM and 100 free. Robert King, 13, swam a strong 200 IM to pick up a silver medal. Other fine performances came from Thomas Proudfoot and Jacob Hickey, both of whom put in personal best times.

Leatherhead regional squad coach Stuart McCrea said: "It is great to see all the swimmers swimming so strongly at the end of a long season.

"Holly has had a hugely successful first season and fully deserved her first top girl award. She is a successful product of the LSC Swim Academy and her progression has seen her placed in the top three in 50 of her 71 open gala races this year, including two meet records and 36 first places."

If you would be interested in a free trial at Leatherhead Swimming Club visit the club website www.leatherheadsc.co.uk.

Magic Leatherhead swimmers conjure medals

Fetcham school are rounders county champions

0
0

A FETCHAM school has become the Surrey champions at rounders after a thrilling win in the final against St Lawrence.

Having won the District Rounders Competition, the Oakfield Junior School team progressed to the P&G Surrey Schools Games Summer Festival County Finals held at the Surrey Sports Park in Guildford.

In the first round group, Oakfield played Holland, St Lawrence Primary (Cobham) and Southfields and comfortably beat them all. In the semi-finals there was another win over St Polycarps, aided by magnificent performances from the girls.

The final against St Lawrence Junior School in Molesey was very exciting with everyone giving 100 per cent effort.

The game ended in a draw and to resolve the deadlock, both sides put forward just two batters. Amazingly, there was another draw. So two more batters came forward.

St Lawrence's boys scored a half rounder between them. Oakfield's first boy made a good hit and with a sliding finish just scraped in to beat the fielders with a full rounder to become the Surrey champions.

St Lawrence took the silver medal and St Polycarps the Bronze. Special mention should be made of Hannah Payne (bowler) and Harvey Harrington (backstop) who performed consistently well throughout the tournament.

Fetcham school are rounders county champions

Newdigate paralympic star set for world championships

0
0

SOPHIA WARNER is preparing to compete at the IPC Athletics World Championships this week.

The Newdigate Paralympics star will compete for Great Britain at the competition in Lyon, France, which is the first major international gathering since London 2012, with more than 1300 athletes expected from more than 90 countries.

Warner will be running in the T35 100m semi-finals on Sunday as she aims to qualify for the final on Monday, while next Friday she will be in action in the T35 200m semi-finals, with the final taking place next day.

However, Warner will not just be competing at the championships, as she will join a team of experts in the commentary team on Channel 4 for the event, for which there will be daily coverage of the Championships on More 4.

And she says she is excited at the prospect of commentating on some of the stars of the Paralympic world.

Meanwhile, Warner will be back at the Olympic Stadium in London on Sunday, July 28, to compete in the T35 100m in the Sainsbury's Anniversary Games.

The games will also be televised live on Channel 4, the first time this has happened outside of the Paralympic Games.

Buckland runner makes international debut

0
0

DORKING and Mole Valley Athletic Club were delighted with the recent selection of runner Luke Caldwell for the British team, who made his international debut at the European U23 championships in Tampere, Finland, this week.

Caldwell, who joined DMV at the age of 13, was selected to run for the British team in the 5000m – becoming one of only two British men selected in the four middle distance races.

The 21-year-old from Buckland, who is currently ranked the number four senior in the UK for 5000m, some 15 seconds behind double Olympic champion Mo Farah, started the race among the favourites, having clocked the fastest time by any of the finalists this year.

However, in unseasonably hot weather, the race was a slow, tactical affair and Caldwell finished fifth in a time of 14.23.74.

The pace slowed to less than 75 seconds per lap as no athletes were willing to take the pace on.

With four laps to go, the pace started to pick up and 12 athletes were left in the lead group.

Just before the bell, Luke hit the front and stretched the lead pack out.

Down the back straight he was passed by some of the fast finishers in the field, including the Norwegian, Henrik Ingebritsen, who had finished fourth in the Olympic 1500m last year.

The race was won by Ingebritsen, in a comparatively slow time of 14.19.39, while Caldwell hung on for a creditable fifth place in his international debut.

Caldwell, has however, enjoyed a good recent run of form prior to the Championships, warming up for his international bow with a good performance at Watford.

In the 1500m, he recorded a new personal best of 3:42.14 and having now had a taste of the international arena, Caldwell will be keen to impress selectors again in the future.

Buckland  runner makes international debut

Leatherhead recorded ninth win of season against Farnham

0
0

AN EXCITING chase saw Leatherhead record their ninth win of the season with victory against Farnham on Saturday.

Going into the game, Leatherhead were determined to avenge their only defeat of the season, which came against the Surrey Championship Division One's bottom side earlier this summer.

And the league leaders started well, reducing Farnham to 58-4 early on after the visitors opted to bat first.

But Tom Hicks (62) and Angus Boobbyer (143) shared a superb 155-run stand for the fifth wicket, taking Farnham past 200 before Hicks eventually fell to Adam Dyson (2-50).

Jonathan Tribe (3-43) eventually got the crucial wicket of Boobbyer, while Mike Nicol (2-68) and Matthew Roberts (1-49) were also among the wickets as Farnham closed on 281-9 from 66 overs.

In reply, Dyson (39) and Nicol (29) started well for Leatherhead, before both fell with the score on 71.

Joe Peak (18) and skipper Matt Joblin (13) helped to keep the score ticking over, while Adrian Kritzinger was settling into a steady rhythm at the other end.

He helped push Leatherhead towards 200 with Michael Wakefield (27), before Shaun Udal (5) and Kritzinger (76) fell in quick succession, leaving Russell Coombes and Matt Roberts to chase 70 runs in 11 overs.

But the duo soon settled into the roles and together knocked off the remaining runs with 11 balls to spare, with Roberts scoring a quickfire 49 not out and Coombes playing the supporting role with an unbeaten 20.

The result keeps Leatherhead top of the division – 19 points clear of Valley End in second.

Leatherhead recorded ninth win of season against Farnham


Glenn Maxwell admits Australia call-up is a long shot

0
0

GLENN MAXWELL believes only something out of the blue will see him called up for Australia against England in the Ashes this winter.

The Surrey star signed off after Monday night's eight-wicket defeat to Essex at the Oval but he is now looking forward to watching the national side try to reclaim the urn in England.

And reflecting on England's victory in the first Test match last week, Maxwell isn't holding too much hope of receiving a call just yet and spoke about training with teenage star Ashton Agar.

"I think I need the side to get some disease [for me] to get some sort of call-up," he said.

"I'm only a spectator at the moment and it's nice to watch. From everyone's perspective it was a good Test last week.

"Obviously, the result went England's way but Australia probably deserved to win.

"I used to train with Ashton in the academy in Victoria but then he moved states because he wasn't getting any games in our second XI.

"He went to play for Western Australia and a few months later he's playing for Australia."

Monday's game was Maxwell's last for Surrey before he heads off to Zimbabwe on tour with Australia A and he truly savoured the last time he'll ever share the batting stage with the legendary Ricky Ponting.

"Unfortunately, the last time we batted, we lasted around three balls together," he said.

"It was nice to spend a bit more time with him this time and we put on 40 through the middle.

"That was the last time I'm ever going to get to play with him so to go out and have a hit with him was pretty awesome.

"I'm heading off to Zimbabwe now with Australia A. We've got a game starting Thursday for three-day cricket, so I'm looking forward to playing some red-ball.

"I haven't played red-ball since the Test series in India, which was a pretty upsetting time, so I'm looking forward to pushing my name towards a Test series for Australia for the Ashes – there's a lot of cricket coming up.

"I wish all the boys (at Surrey) the best in the last four games.

"They've got an extremely talented squad for sure. It's amazing they haven't even reached their potential and to still be four and two after six games is a great effort."

And the 24-year-old felt Surrey needed another 15-20 runs against Essex, while he admitted it took him some time to get going at in the bat.

"The last few games we've defended 150 here and we had done it pretty well, but fortunately we weren't able to contain Essex's bowling at the start," said Maxwell.

"Looking back on it, we were probably 15-20 runs short as well. It's a funny game because if you get a few wickets early you can say we'd probably have enough but they batted well, Essex.

"They just took us on and I think when Jason Roy went out that sort of stalled our momentum because it meant I had to take my time to get in with Ricky.

"We've now got Hampshire this Friday. They're extremely skilled in this competition and they've been very successful over the last few years.

"They will be a tough opponent but hopefully we can get something and give them payback for the last game."

Glenn Maxwell admits Australia call-up is a long shot

Respects paid to WWII hero pilot's bravery

0
0

A SOLITARY note was last week placed on the Banstead grave of the English pilot who shot down the German plane thought to be responsible for a bombing raid 70 years ago which killed 108 people and left 235 injured.

Aviation historian Tim Richardson, of Tadworth, bowed his head in respect to both the young English and German crew members who perished following the devastating raid on the Whitehall Cinema at East Grinstead on July 9, 1943. Mr Richardson placed a rest in peace note at the foot of the tombstone at All Saints' Church, High Street, Banstead.

Ten years ago, on the 60th anniversary of the tragedy, three dozen people gathered at All Saints' Church, to commemorate the life of pilot John Lintott, of Woodmansterne Lane, Banstead.

At the age of 22, Flight Lieutenant Lintott was killed when he chased one of the German planes believed to have been involved in the East Grinstead raid – one of the most deadly in the south east during the Second World War.

His two-seater twin-engined Mosquito, dispatched from RAF West Malling, Kent, in appalling weather, set off to attack a Dornier 217k German aircraft – one of a group thought responsible for the East Grinstead disaster.

Both the Mosquito and the Dornier crashed to earth in cloud and driving rain at Court Farm, Bicknor, near Detling, Kent, killing the crews.

Also in the mark-two Mosquito from 85 Squadron was Graham G Gilling-Lax, 34, radar navigator, whose father was vicar of St Paul's Church, Rusthall, Kent, for more than 20 years. Father, mother and son – a former housemaster at the prestigious Stowe school in Bucks – are buried at the church.

Among those at the commemoration service in 2003 was Muriel Tate, then Walker, who recalled the young man who lived in the same road as her.

Mrs Tate recalled that her airman neighbour dipped his plane as he flew over the Banstead area as a greeting to friends and family below.

The pilot's father, Percy, took news of his only child's death badly, she said.

"He was ill afterwards and he was never really the same. He used to look up at the sky as if he was expecting to see his son fly over the gardens. He went to pieces."

Percy Lintott died in the late 1940s. His wife, John's mother, is believed to have died in the 1960s. John Lintott had a baby daughter at the time of the tragic event.

On Tuesday last week Mr Richardson visited the grave to pay his respects and place an RIP note and a photograph at the foot of the tombstone. He remembered not just the Mosquito crew, but the young German crew, too.

For many years, it was said that the Dornier 217E from 5KG2 squadron, which crashed at White Hill, Bletchingley, in the wake of the East Grinstead bombing, was the German plane responsible for dropping the bombs on the town. But more recent excavations at the crash site appeared to reveal that it was still carrying bombs when it hurtled to earth.

Mr Richardson said that just two Dorniers were involved in the East Grinstead raid.

The other was the Dornier that crashed with the Mosquito while attacking each other at near Detling.

Hence, it is presumed that this was the plane and crew thought responsible for the atrocity at East Grinstead.

Council has to be more transparent

0
0

Comment on Council closes ranks over Gloria's death, page 13

HOW long can it take to get justice for a woman who died in the most dire conditions? That's the question Surrey County Council needs to answer after nearly six months of silence following the death of Gloria Foster.

Ms Foster died in February after she was abandoned for nine days by the authority after someone failed to realise she had been placed in its care. Since then a police report has concluded that no criminal charges will be brought, but the council has remained silent – claiming not to be responsible for the mistakes that cost this poor woman her life.

At the time councillors claimed silence from a legal standpoint, saying they could be questioned by police. That may have been good enough before but not anymore.

Someone at the council made a mistake and someone needs to be held accountable for what happened.

It is claimed the expected Safeguarding Adults Board will merely report on "lessons learned", but for a council that claims openness and transparency as its motto, it has so far been anything but.

Open garden tribute boosts hospice funds

0
0

A GARDEN opening in memory of its former owner raised more than £1,000 for St Catherine's Hospice.

Newdigate resident Doreen Hall died on February 28 and her daughter Penny Graepel decided to open her mother's garden at Green Lane Farm to the public as a venue for a bring-and-buy sale on July 7.

The oak framed barns at Gildings Farm, built by Mrs Hall's husband, were also hired out for the fundraising day.

The event took place from 2pm to 5pm and visitors participated in a bring-and-buy plant and cake sale to raise money for the Crawley hospice where Mrs Hall died.

Mrs Hall often gave money to St Catherine's Hospice herself, as well as to a wide range of other charities over the years.

Mrs Graepel said: "My brother, Chris Hall, and I would like to thank everyone for their exceptional generosity. We know that our mum would have been thrilled at the turnout."

Open garden tribute boosts hospice funds

Man is arrested following hammer assault

0
0

A MAN was hit over the head with a hammer during a serious assault in Merstham.

Police were called to a house in Bletchingley Road at around 9.15pm on Tuesday.

The victim was taken to East Surrey Hospital for treatment but has since been discharged.

A Merstham man in his 50s has been arrested on suspicion of assault and was in custody as the Mirror went to press.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Errol Chetty from East Surrey CID said: "I would appeal to anyone who witnessed this incident or the events leading up to it to contact officers with information.

"We are still in the early stages of this investigation but we do believe the victim and the offender are known to each other.

"This was a frightening ordeal for those who witnessed it and I hope the quick arrest will go some way in reassuring the community that Surrey Police will not tolerate this kind of behaviour and that we will do all we can to bring those responsible to justice."

Call Surrey Police on 101 quoting reference RB/13/5719 with information or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Water bombs "banned" from Oxted Pram Race

0
0

YOUNGSTERS are threatening to boycott the Oxted Pram Race next year, after organisers "broke with tradition" and "removed all the fun".

Critics of the popular event, which this year was held for the first time on a Sunday afternoon rather than the traditional Friday night, say banning water balloons and threatening to confiscate items on the day was heavy handed.

The move to a Sunday has also been criticised. Traditionally the event has continued late into Friday evening, when revellers had no need to worry about work or college the following day.

One critic branded the decision "madness" and said the committee should "just cancel the race".

But organisers have hit back, saying they have simply made the event safer and more family-friendly.

Before the race, it was suggested that water bombs would be confiscated by stewards, and alleged that in the past people had filled them with tomato sauce, fairy liquid, and even stones.

Jenifer Comeau, 26 of Warren Lane in Hurst Green, whose partner's grandparents were the founders of the original pram race, said: "I don't see water balloons as a problem as long as they are not thrown in faces – they are just a bit of fun, as are the water pistols. Even I was squirted in the back, which in Sunday's heat was refreshing.

"We were really disappointed with this year as there wasn't an atmosphere or as many people participating like there usually is, which we found quite sad."

"I didn't know people were stopping water balloons being thrown, but I had noticed there were only a couple of people with them."

Terry Frances, 54, of Bluehouse Lane in Oxted, said he was annoyed at the changes.

He said: "There was nothing wrong with the pram race, so why change it? I know everyone needs to be safe, but banning water balloons? Is that really necessary?

"I have been going for years and I was open to giving it a go again this year, but I am not sure I will want to go next year."

Comments on Facebook also suggest there may be a backlash against the race next year.

Chris Baete posted on the Oxted Facebook page and said: "Seems a shame to ruin a tradition," while Toni Mercer said: "They might as well just cancel the race day change, pubs closing early and now a ban on the water bombs."

Poster Paul Smith added: "Just madness, everyone has lost a sense of fun in Oxted."

Despite the changes, around 3,000 people attended the event, with 25 prams running to pubs around the town and concluding at Master Park – and all present looked to have had a thoroughly enjoyable day.

One reveller from Hurst Green, who did not want to be named said: "I think it was better than last year – it has become much more of a family event. The last couple of years have been carnage."

Sue Wallace, from the organising committee, told the Mirror: "We know things have changed this year, but it is just to keep people as safe as possible.

"We want it to be more of a family event and it was. There were lots of children and their families in Master Park after the race enjoying the day and lots dotted along the race route."

Pram race committee member Nicola Roberts added: "They can't ban everyone fetching water bombs because some people don't even get seen by marshals and may have them in bags.

"What we have said is if you have water bombs please use them safely and be careful where you throw them. It is impossible to stop them."

More pictures pages 6 and 7.

Water bombs

New boules club opens in Godstone thanks to volunteers

0
0

A TOUCH of "je ne sais quoi" came to Godstone on Sunday, as the boules pitches demanded by hundreds of Godstone residents opened.

More than 250 people turned out on the village green to enjoy the celebrations on Bastille Day, and were treated to Pastis – a liquorice flavoured drink – wine, cheese and crepes, while French music played throughout the afternoon.

Last year Gael Bozec, chairman of Godstone Boules Group, collected more than 200 signatures from residents in favour of the pitches.

Boules is a traditional French game in which players try to throw or roll heavy balls close to a small target.

Building work was carried out at the end of June and beginning of July by a team of village volunteers.

More than 60 tonnes of soil were removed and two boules courts were built, each 10 metres long by four metres wide.

Mr Bozec thanked everyone involved in the project, saying: "The green is the heart of the village.

"It has been a dream to have these boules pitches built and I am delighted they will be enjoyed by all ages for many years to come."

A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the opening of the pitches, located between the tennis courts and the children's playground area.

The pitches are open for use by the public and are free to use.

For anyone who wishes to play regularly and as part of a team, membership is available at Godstone Boules Group.

For more information e-mail Mr Bozec at bozec@gmail.com

New boules club opens in Godstone thanks to volunteers


Royal Mail launches Andy Murray stamps

0
0
ROYAL Mail is celebrating Oxshott resident Andy Murray's historic win in the Gentlemen's Singles final at Wimbledon by issuing special stamps. The stamps, which will be on sale from August 8, have been designed to mark Murray's fantastic achievement in becoming the first Briton to win the Gentlemen's Championship in 77 years, after beating number one seed Novak Djokovic in three straight sets. The issue features different images of Murray on four stamps, all printed within a miniature sheet. Two stamps show him with the trophy and two are action shots from the final. The sheet will retail at £3.76. Andrew Hammond, managing director of stamps and collectibles at Royal Mail, said: "We are thrilled for Andy and are delighted to mark his wonderful achievement by issuing a set of Special Stamps. His historic win at Wimbledon has made the nation proud, and we can now celebrate his success with this new stamp issue. "Andy's stamp joins just a handful of special stamps we have issued to mark unique moments in British sporting history, including the next day Gold Medal stamps for London 2012, England's Ashes and football and rugby World Cup wins." This is the second time Murray's achievements have been marked by a Royal Mail stamp. Royal Mail issued a Gold Medal stamp to mark his win in the Tennis Men's Singles at the London 2012 Olympic Games last summer. Fred Perry was the last Briton to win the Gentlemen's Singles title, in 1936. The stamps can be pre-ordered online at www.royalmail.com/tennis and by phone on 08457 641 641. They will be available in over 10,000 Post Office Branches across the UK from August 8.

Royal Mail launches Andy Murray stamps

Surrey pensioner jailed for abusing young girls

0
0
A PENSIONER from Cranleigh who sexually abused two young girls has been jailed for his crimes. Robert Arklie, 66, of Glebe Road, was sentenced to five years after a five-day trial at Hove Crown Court on Friday (July 12). He was convicted of two counts of sexually assaulting one girl and two counts of sexual assault and one of sexual penetration on another. The assaults took place at his former home in Seaford Road, Broadfield, Crawley, between 2004 and 2006 when they were aged between seven and nine. Arklie was also ordered to register as a sex offender for life on his release from prison. Detective Constable Dani Flude said: "The victims were very brave to come forward. They had to overcome a very natural human barrier to disclosing what had happened to them, and we ensured they received proper welfare and support so that they could give evidence in court and help ensure that justice was done. "It is another example of the way in which the criminal justice system will support victims of such offences however long ago they happened."

Surrey pensioner jailed for abusing young girls

Fun in the sun at 104th Chipstead Village Fair

0
0

WHAT a difference a year makes.

The Chipstead Village Fair and Flower Show returned with a vengeance at the weekend, 12 months after it was washed out for the first time in more than a century.

The 104th event went ahead on Saturday, this time blessed with glorious sunshine. Thousands headed to the High Road show grounds for all the fun of the fair, to sweat it out competing in the Elmore 7 charity run, or to admire entries in the flower and produce competitions.

As ever, growers, bottlers and bakers vied for victory in an almost unending list of classes, from "twenty raspberries with stalks on a plate" to "one potted hosta" and "six new-laid eggs".

Steven Gilburt, a member of the organising committee, said: "It was unbelievable that last year was so wet we had to cancel and this year was so hot we were worried about people getting sunstroke. Those are the vagaries of the English summer.

"It went very well, we had lots of families coming through the gates and they all seemed to enjoy themselves. We had so many visitors we actually sold out of some food and drinks.

"I think what makes our event unique is that we have a high quality flower show, although the growers did find it difficult this year with our cold wet spring.

"We also have a fair that is fairly traditional – we try to not have big companies and keep everything associated with the village – and we have the seven-mile run, so it's three events in one really.

"It really is something for everybody. I am very proud of it, because all the people who run it are volunteers."

It is also the flagship event in the village's social calendar.

"Because we didn't hold it last year, it's been two years since some of us saw friends from the village," added Mr Gilburt. "It is such an important event that brings everyone together."

Profits made at this year's fair will go towards putting on 2014's show.

Fun in the sun at 104th Chipstead Village Fair

Reigate Relay for Life raises £30,000 for cancer research

0
0

WALKERS paraded around Reigate's Priory Park for 24 hours in searing heat to raise £30,000 for research into cancer.

Hundreds came out to take part in the town's first Relay for Life event in aid of Cancer Research UK, which kicked off at noon on Saturday.

Led off on the first lap by about 40 cancer survivors, teams of walkers took it in turns to lap the park.

Mike Grey, 21, on the HSBC team, was dressed as Woody from Toy Story and impressively walked the course for the full 24 hours. He completed the first few laps with his trusty steed Bullseye. By the end he was being bought drinks by members of all teams.

Speaking about four hours in, he commented: "It's going alright, the legs are a bit achy. I think about 4am is going to be the really difficult bit. My manager challenged me to do the whole thing and I'm not one to refuse a challenge. It's an amazing cause and we have raised so much money so it's going to be fun."

Amy Tucker, 25, from the Pipe Dreams team, said: "Some of our team have done this for five or six years, it is a really good cause.

"I did it last year but it was pouring with rain so hopefully the sun will last this time, it's really hot but it is better than rain."

Lorraine Cohen, 65, from the Sainsbury's team, My Big Fat Greek Wedding, said: "There is a lovely party atmosphere."

Her teammate Chris Spencer, 65, added: "It is for such a big cause; everyone has been touched by cancer."

Sam Causon, 27, from No Pain, No Pole, was running a pole-dancing stall as well as taking part. She said: "It's good fun, everyone is really happy. We have had quite a few guys joining us on the course and on the pole."

The event was held in Reigate for the first time after five years in Crawley.

Event organiser Laura Senekal said: "It went really well. We could have done with a few more people coming down to the park but I think it was just too hot. There was lots of water and sunscreen for the walkers but actually after doing it in a swamp last year it was quite a pleasant difference.

"We have raised £30,000 with more to come in so I am delighted."

Mrs Senekal is already planning for the event's return to Priory Park next year.

Reigate Relay for Life raises £30,000 for cancer research

Made in Chelsea's Oliver Proudlock parties in Reigate

0
0
MADE In Chelsea's Oliver Proudlock hit the town in Reigate last night. The reality TV star appeared at JJ Whispers, Church Street, to join party goers for Thursday night drinks. The 26-year-old former Eton student, who has launched his own fashion label Serge DeNimes, took photos with fans during the night. He has appeared in the hit reality TV show Made In Chelsea since the second season. Other revellers posted their excitement on Twitter.‏@charleaax posted: "Cannot get over how hot proudlock is." @kyrinagrindley said: "Me and my sister are stood next to proudlock from made in Chelsea and my sister is having a heart attack." Some even got a special message from the star.‏@CattonChar said: "So cute of the twins to tell Proudlock it was my bday #specialcongratulations #cheersmate" After the event, Proudlock posted on his own Twitter account: "Homeward bound. Thanks for having me JJ Whisper!! #reigate"

Made in Chelsea's Oliver Proudlock parties in Reigate

Viewing all 6099 articles
Browse latest View live




Latest Images