0 Who's Who in Your Parish

Home , Abinger, Abinger Hammer, Denbies Wine Estate

Who’s who in your Parish Rector: The Rev. Tony Berry, MA (737160) Licensed Lay Minister: Mrs Hilary Swift (730898). Parish Secretary: Sally McCance (737160) M, T, W, Th 9 -2 pm [email protected] Organist: Ed Sutton: [email protected] St. James’ website: www.stjameschurchabinger.org Webmaster: Phil Rawlings (730382) [email protected] Christ Church website: www.coldharbourchurch.org.uk Webmaster: Martin Richards (711885) [email protected] St Mary’s, Holmbury: churchwarden85.wixsite.com/stmaryschurch St John’s, Wotton: [email protected]

Abinger Coldharbour Churchwardens: Dominic Roberts (731734) John Anthony Simpson (712026) Mary Hustings (711846) PCC Secretary: Sally McCance (737160) Sally McCance (737160) Treasurer: Jim Hartley (07968 797578) Martin Neve, (713382) Gift Aid Secretary: Tim Prideaux (730730) Helen Potter ( 712214) Flowers Secretary: Kim Edwards (730809) Patsy Simpson (712026) Trish Syms (712100) Hall Bookings: Evelyn Hall (Kim Edwards) John Venus Hall (Su Jones) [email protected] [email protected] 01306 730809 07779 726930 Ab. Hammer Hall (730703) Village Pavilion (711754)

PARISH NEWS Editors: Liz Hamilton (730382) Jenny Parker (731851), [email protected] Coldharbour Reporter: Graham Mytton (712122) [email protected] Distribution: Kim Edwards (730809) Advertising: Sally McCance (737160), [email protected]

ABINGER ORGANISATIONS Church Choir: Lucy Harlow: [email protected] Fair Secretary: Liz Irvine: [email protected] Sports Club: John Philpin (883568) [email protected]; Booking Secretary: Anne Burge (730950) [email protected] Abinger Common & Wotton WI: President: Sally Frost (730923) Wotton & Abinger Flower Show: Trudie Bree (730976) [email protected]

COLDHARBOUR ORGANISATIONS Sports and Social Club/Village Society: Garath Symonds (713790) [email protected] Church Electoral Roll Officer: Helen Potter (712214) Cricket Club: John Hopper (711754) Golf Society: Stuart McLachlan (712009) Village Band and Ukulele Orchestra: Debby Chapman (711704) Book Club: Emma Moreno (710024) Women’s Gardening Group: Tiggs Morton (07825 138508)

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PARISH COUNCILS Abinger: [email protected] www.abinger-pc.gov.uk Coldharbour (Capel): Stuart McLachlan (712009) www.coldharbour.net

DISTRICT COUNCIL Councillor: Hazel Watson: [email protected] [for Surrey County Council matters: [email protected]]

SHERE SURGERY 01483 202066 / Fax 01483 202761 Dispensary 01483 209913* Monday: 8.30am – 6.30pm (Closed 1.00-2.00pm) Tuesday: 8.30am - 6.30pm (Closed 1.00-3.00pm) Wed, Thurs & Fri: 8.30am - 6.30pm (Closed 1.00-2.00pm) *Dispensary takes calls after 11.00am Dispensary is also open Saturday morning for prescription collection only

WESTCOTT SURGERY & DISPENSARY 01306 875577 Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri: 8.30am - 6.15pm (Closed 12.30 - 2.30pm) Wednesday: 8.30am - 12.30pm

CAPEL SURGERY 01306 711105 / DISPENSARY 713010 Monday to Friday: 8.30am - 6.30pm; www.leithhillpractice.co.uk

HOLMWOOD SURGERY 01306 889242 Monday to Friday: 8.00am - 1.00pm.

MEDWYN SURGERY 01306 883816 (PHARMACY 01306 740865) Mon, Thurs, Fri: 8.00am – 6.30pm Tues, Weds: 8.00am – 8.30pm Pharmacy, Mon – Sat: 8.00am – 11.00pm Pharmacy, Sun: 10.00am – 8.00pm

OUT OF HOURS EMERGENCY COVER - THAMESDOC Just call your surgery and you will be put through automatically

NHS DIRECT 111

POLICE Non-emergency: 101 or Emergency: 999

ELECTRICITY POWER CUTS – 0800 783 8866

WASP BUS - Soo Dean 07802 460069

COLDHARBOUR BUS SERVICES www.buses4U.org.uk

LOCAL SCHOOLS Abinger Common Nursery: Pre-School Leader: Louise Collins 07842978823 [email protected] Surrey Hills All Saints Primary School. Head: Jennie Ratcliff 730747 (A) 881136 (W) Scott-Broadwood School: Head: Susan Muat 01306 711181 Belmont, for boys and girls aged 2 to 16: 01306 730852

From the Editors Back from holidays and getting haircuts at last! Chloe Griffin cutting Jenny’s hair Summer holidays are over and schools are set to reopen. Pubs and Shops have reopened and as you can see, the editors have at last got haircuts. Keep fit classes have resumed in the open air – Matt Juby’s bootcamp class at the cricket pitch in Coldharbour was much enjoyed and Debbie Stafford resumed pilates classes in her garden in Abinger. Thank goodness the weather has been good enough for some open air events like the Bilberries concert. The Summer has been marked by some wonderful weather and here’s a poem by Eleanor (aged 7) which sums it up beautifully: Summer Holidays. Summer, summer, summer holidays, Summer is best, I really want to go on a quest, The Isle of Wight was fun this year, And the story ended in tears and tears, Now I'm back home I am better than ever, My water slide's great and also the weather, Welcome in summer holidays, it’s here better than ever, Wahoo!

NEXT ISSUE: October 2020 Closes 1pm Wednesday 16th September [email protected]

Tony’s Letter Normally the September Newsletter has a piece from me sort of setting our sights for the Autumn. We are used to the changes that the new season brings. First time at school, maybe a new school, or possibly college or university. These in turn bring changes to home and household. For others, of course, the changes are the changes that nature brings - the shorter days and longer nights, the cooling of the weather, the leaves changing colour and beginning to fall. But this year there is a different feel. Even things that are familiar, this year have an uncertainty about them. As I look forward there are all sorts of questions about the future and what it will look like. I am uncertain about when the familiar will be re-established. There are decisions to be made but I feel ill equipped to make them because it may all change again before we have a chance to implement any decision we come to. We have constructed a life for ourselves that has tried to eliminate risk and chance as much as possible, and with good reason; but in the doing we have lost touch a little bit with the world as it is for many people, and in some areas we are finding it hard to readjust. For me, it has been a challenge to go back to Jesus’ words in the sermon on the mount. His insistence that putting our trust in God, seeking His Kingdom, and living out that Kingdom's values should be our priority. The rest he says will follow on. That is the matrix we should use in trying to sort out how we move forward in these particular times, and not just for these times, but really for a lifetime. A big thank you for all the kind messages of care and concern people have sent following my knee surgery.

Our Churches In June we saw the church doors open for private worship and in July Christ Church and St James opened for socially distanced services. Here are St James’ on July 19th and Christ Church on 26th July. Organising these services to ensure compliance with Covi-19 requirements has been challenging with the congregation seated – and carefully controlled walking up to the communion rail to take the communion bread - to ensure social distancing, the celebrant drinking the communion wine by themselves, using printed service sheets, everyone wearing face masks and without any singing – although some services have enjoyed organ music by Ed Sutton. But it’s worked well and the congregations have enjoyed being back in the churches. There have also been Benefice services at Wotton and Holmbury. The Leith Hill Ministry team, David Grundy, Virginia Smith and lay readers Hilary Swift, Martha Golden and Mad Berry provide weekly prayers and thoughts on the websites. Church Services Sunday 6th September Live Holy Communion Service at St. James' Abinger starting at 10.30am Led by Rev Virginia Smith

Sunday 20th September Live Holy Communion at Christ Church Coldharbour starting at 10.00am Led by Rev Virginia Smith Details for the rest of the month may be found on the churches’ websites. 4

Sad Goodbyes Very sadly, three Coldharbour residents have died since we last went to press. Jenny Pilling who lived with her husband Norman in Spring Cottage. Gill Mills who lived in Mosses Wood Cottage. And Adrian Randag who lived at Kitlands. Jenny Pilling Jenny’s son Mark gave the tribute at the funeral service. He spoke very movingly on behalf of the family including his brother Dom, about his mother’s 35 year career as a teacher, a job she loved doing and cared very much about and also about her being a wonderful mother and grandmother. She was born in 1937 and after school she qualified as a teacher through studies at Royal Holloway and Oxford. Mark also spoke of something that all who met Jenny knew very well; her lovely, always cheerful manner and keen interest in people she met. She loved travel and also, evidently, liked to win battles with whatever bureaucracy she encountered. Mark also spoke about how Norman, who was also a teacher, had faithfully cared for her these past few years when she suffered from severe mobility problems. We will miss her cheerfulness and sense of fun.

Adrian Randag. Adrian was not often seen around the village, but those who knew him speak of a friendly and engaging man. Villagers have written and spoken about him and what a good and proud gardener he was. His garden was beautiful and very well maintained. I am trying to find out more about him and his life and will include something about him if I can in the October parish magazine. One thing I learned is that only a few days before his death he was showing two villagers around that lovely garden and seemed to be in good health.

Gill Mills The monthly coffee mornings which Jenny Pilling so enjoyed, had been revived and improved in 2005, by the intervention and actions of Gill Mills. Her model for this monthly event, was to have real filter coffee and freshly baked cakes, bringing together villagers of all ages, from the past and present, for coffee and chat, and raising money to support the JV Hall and sometimes charities such as Macmillan. Also Show and Tell mornings, like the March coffee morning this year which Gill attended, the last before the COVID lockdown, when her archive of Nellie Jelley photos was on display. Several villagers have written to say how much Gill meant to them. One wrote: ‘The village has lost a special lady and friend with Gill’s passing. We shared a few walking holidays over the years, with a few other village ladies. She was a lot of fun and knew so many local walks. She loved walking, dogs, red wine and cakes. When I told the boys the sad news Luke said “that’s that lovely lady who used to give me huge handfuls of sweets at Halloween when we went ‘trick or treating’! Many others have paid tribute to her always-smiling manner, even during the time when she was really suffering from her long illness as well as the painful and often wearying treatment she was receiving. Gill had an interesting career; first as a stewardess with British Caledonian Airways, then a spell teaching aerobics, and then becoming a manager for Mothercare. She came first to the village several years ago and lived in Rowemount Cottage with her children Clare and Tom. She returned in the early noughties and became very active again in village life. Aside from the revival of the coffee mornings, Gill had the idea of creating a Coldharbour Village History Society. It was very successful with many well-attended meetings and we learned a lot we did not know about this village. Our deepest sympathy and love go to Clare and Tom, and also to her wonderful, friendly, exuberant dog, Nukka. And now we can welcome daughter Clare Mayhook who has been staying with Gill for many months to look after her. Clare is to stay in Mosses Wood Cottage . Graham Mytton

Abinger Lane Speed Limit Confusion- In the July Parish News I mentioned that I had asked SCC about the 20 mph speed limit sign that had been put up at the south end of Abinger Lane, querying why there were no signs at other locations. As a result of my query they quickly whipped down the 20mph sign replacing it with the original derestricted sign, which is not what we wanted! About a month later I received the reply below from SCC. Needless to say I do not quite believe in the “persons unknown”. (Personally I think SCC got halfway through the job and never finished it). The other thing is that the sign at the top of Donkey Lane has been turned round by SCC, so that it now faces completely in the wrong direction rather than half! However, I have lost the energy to continue the battle and am encouraged by the fact that all the signage should be done properly by the end of this financial year. Until then we will have to put up with the confusion and occasional speeding cars through the village. Thank you for your enquiry received on 8 June 2020 regarding the speed limit on Abinger Lane. The speed limit on Abinger Lane is 60mph or derestricted. The 20mph sign was put up by persons unknown and has been removed. The 40mph sign you refer to relates to Donkey Lane which runs between Abinger Lane and Hollow Lane and has a speed limit of 40mph. This sign has been turned round so that it faces the correct direction. Mole Valley Local Committee has given authority to reduce the speed limit on part of Abinger Lane to 20mph and part to 30mph. These works will be carried out later this financial year. Once again thank you for contacting us. If you have any further queries or require additional information you may find the following page on our website www.surreycc.gov.uk/highwaysinfo Yours sincerely Philippa Gates Traffic Engineer Surrey Highways Liz Hamilton

The Pubs Reopen and the Shops are Back The Abinger Hatch and The Plough reopened in July. It is advisable to book ahead

On a visit to the Abinger Hatch everything ran very smoothly and the staff were really helpful and cheerful. You can’t go to the bar, everything has to be ordered at the table and there’s a strict in and out system so that people are kept apart. Here is Matt Appleton keeping his distance and serving drinks at The Abinger Hatch.

Sue Smith writes from the Plough and Village Shop in Coldharbour: “Our lovely staff are back, bringing a freshness to those of us who have slogged through from the start. Customers have come and gone, although some new faces are now favoured regulars and friendships formed in the sunny lockdown queue are still going strong. One delightful couple in their eighties arrived one day all dressed up for a day out, which at the time amounted to a trip to the Shop and a hard to find coffee. They run Trafalgar Televisions, a TV repair shop in Horsham, a family business for decades and one of the last who believe in repairing televisions and the like and who won't charge you a fortune. Local produce has been popular as always with Pam’s delicious Victoria plums always best sellers and courgettes in every colour and size, (substitute the carrot in your carrot cake recipe with grated, squeezed courgette for a fabulous variation). Milk from Dale's Farm in Capel is back in its lovely glass bottles and we now have skimmed in the Shop fridge as well. So, if it weren’t for the masks and the distancing and the genuine worry for some who are still vulnerable you could almost say it is almost over. Schools back next and Christmas orders due, where has this year gone? Don't forget that we will gladly deliver to you even if you are no longer shielding. Veg boxes, Sunday breakfast boxes and Gift hampers are always available to order.”

Welcome to New Residents in Coldharbour We welcome some newcomers to Coldharbour and say goodbye to some others. Oliver and Mel Clarry-Risk have moved out of Garden Cottage at Campfield Place and Jane and Raymon de Beneducci have moved in. And Audrey Jago, who lived in Old Cottage has moved out after more than 40 years to live near her daughter and in her place we welcome Kathryn Drew. We hope that when all the current health worries are a thing of the past we will get to know you and welcome you at village events. And we send good wishes to Audrey, Oliver and Mel. Graham Mytton 9

Keep Knitting – the shoebox Appeal Mad needs gloves, hats, scarves of all sizes and even small knitted toys for the Shoebox Appeal. Please leave them in the box in St James’ Porch. They will be packed into shoeboxes nearer Christmas and sent to needy families in other parts of the world.

Mary’s Meals and the BackpackProject Great news! Mary’s Meals (MM) re-opened its Glasgow warehouse in August ready for the collection of backpacks. So, all being well (e.g. no new lockdown), our team will be packing up bags at the end of September. We have already got 150 backpacks, but we need more clothes and items to go in them! We particularly need: Children’s shorts, skirts or dresses for ages 4-12,Children’s short-sleeved tops for ages 5-7,Flip flops/trainers sizes 12 (child) to 3 (adult)Towels – any size (larger ones can be cut down to small/hand size to fit in the packs);Toothbrushes, toothpastes, bars of soap. Notebooks, crayons (but not felt tips);Tennis balls (or other small soft balls);Metal spoons (MM tell us that the children love having their ‘shiny’ spoons)! These are what we particularly need, but if you have backpacks, children’s summer clothes/shoes or other items usually listed (see MM website above), we are happy to receive them. If you have any of the above or would like to make a monetary donation to help buy the items that are needed, please contact me (01483 202938, [email protected]). Caroline Evans Wintershall: The Stations of the Cross Join us on the 4th September for an early morning walk through Wintershall Estate, enjoying the outdoor Stations of the Cross. Booking essential [email protected], uk The Barn theatre, meeting room and chapel at Wintershall are available to hire and large enough for social distancing. Tel: 01483 892 167 www.wintershall.org.uk

Art and Music The Bilberries, An Open Air Event in Coldharbour

Patrick on fiddle, Bex the singer and Max on acoustic guitar

Peter Tindall writes: ‘Whilst the swallows swooped and the newly returned trails of the airplanes played noughts and crosses in the sky about 50 Coldharbour villagers picnicked in the warm evening air and listened to the very talented Bilberries performing their favourite songs. It was a BYO occasion, but AJ from the Village had a ‘roadside’ Chaat stall, which, judging by the queues, was a huge success. Patrick played the fiddle with dexterity and skill worthy of Vanessa Mai, Bex sang Corrs’ tunes better than Andrea did and Max sang amazing harmonies whilst playing acoustic guitar in the style of Julian Bream. The melodies and the harmonies drifted across the field in the evening sun like a dream. It was the thing that dreams are made of – a slow and steady fire that lasted from about 7.00 pm until it got too dark to see.’

Local alt-pop group ‘The Choco La’s’… have been spotted roaming around Abinger, dressed all in red. Rumour has it, it’s something to do with their new single ‘Love Talk’ (Out now). Here is the link: http://hyperurl.co/b3g6o.

We noticed a disturbance outside the phone box, and got a sneak preview of the new video.

The music video sees the band swathed in red under glorious sunshine. Filmed in front of a red backdrop, featuring a red electric guitar, red lipstick, a red classic Jaguar, a red beret, heart shaped sunglasses, an old fashioned red telephone and the infamous Abinger phone box. Here’s the link:

https://youtu.be/B6rv3QV61rc The band’s second single was recorded in the eaves of band member Bryony’s house, while the trio were fortuitously furloughed from their retail jobs. Chosen for BBC Surrey and Sussex ‘track of the day’ merely a week after recording, the song is a firework’s display of the group’s signature close harmony, catchy hooks and virtuosic musicianship creating a lighthearted dose of 70s pop flair that is so now. Pottery at Cranleigh Arts Centre Shelley Bock has been teaching pottery workshops at Cranleigh Arts Centre for the past 2 years. The Arts Centre closed its doors in March when the pandemic hit and remains closed for the time being. Undeterred Shelley has been running workshops from home this summer via Zoom. From October she will be offering places to anyone in the villages who would like to try their hand at pottery (all levels are welcome). It’s a relaxed and social environment and you’ll be surprised what you can create. Workshops are from 6.15pm to 8.00pm on Thursdays, beginning 1st October for 5 consecutive evenings. Cost is £60.00 which includes clay and a starter kit. A range of techniques will be demonstrated. We will start by making a soap dish for yourself and a friend using the slab technique. If you’d like to find out more, you can email [email protected] or ring Shelley on 07527 908065. 12

The Dorking Group of Artists – October Exhibition 2020 Exciting News! The partial lifting of lockdown and the re-opening of Denbies Wine Estate, albeit with restrictions and safety precautions has meant that the autumn exhibition is now planned to go ahead, but with an intriguing twist – what will be unique and unusual this year is that people will also be able to view and purchase from the exhibition concurrently online on a dedicated website www.DGA.gallery which will launch on 1st October 2020, whilst visitors to Denbies themselves will be able to view and purchase the actual paintings in the Denbies Gallery from Tuesday 6th – Sunday 11th October 2020, 10.00am – 4.00pm . You will find Denbies Wine Estate at London Road, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6AA. There is plenty of free parking. Visitors to both the virtual and the physical exhibition will be able to view, browse and choose from 100 original works of art – in addition, purchasing could not be easier with fast and secure online payment. With the focus this year on affordable art, we are also offering free local delivery. If we are be unable to exhibit at Denbies because Covid restrictions have changed, our exhibition will still be online to view and purchase. On a note of reassurance, there will be stringent precautions in place at Denbies with hand gel dispensers at various points of entry, including entry to the exhibition, social distancing, clear signage and the requirement to wear a face covering, to ensure everyone’s safety. Many thanks for your support Jacky Cowdrey Exhibitions Secretary. Tel: 01737 813942 Email: [email protected]

Richard Redgrave painter In 1851 Richard Redgrave, artist, designer of the V & A, Inspector General of Art and Surveyor of the Queen’s Pictures, first came to Abinger, decided he loved it and stayed. At first he rented Crossways and then in 1856 leased and subsequently bought Grove Dale Cottage. He wrote: “Delighted with the retirement to Abinger…I have bought a long(700 years) lease of a small adjoining property with two little cottages…the country is of a nature that no railway can come very near me, and as the soil is hardly worth cultivation, it may remain a few years longer unspoilt by modern agriculture.”

His initials are carved into the doorway of Grovedale and there is a plaque commemorating his life in St.James’Church. He had a deep attachment to Abinger and much of his work depicts our woodlands, homes, streams and pools. He is probably the most notable artist to have captured our environs in such breadth and detail. Many examples of his work can be found in the archives of the national art galleries.

This is The Emigrant’s Last Sight of Home painted in 1858

Redgrave must have walked down the well-worn path from Grovedale into Abinger Bottom and sat down behind St John’s and Green Pastures to paint this picture. At first glance the picture shows us an idyllic scene of the houses and hillside in Abinger Bottom. The view is much the same today, though the hillside is now overgrown with trees. We can see the chimney of Green Pastures where, the census tells us, the Tilley’s lived. Up the hill The Old Bakehouse where the Shuttleworth’s lived and Spring Cottage where The Bravery’s lived. The men were working as agricultural labourers at Longfield Farm which can be seen at the end of the path. It was called Sewers Farm then and the Sykes family had just taken it over. The figures in the foreground are fictional and tell the story of many poor families at the time. They are packed up and waving goodbye, on their way to Dover or perhaps Portsmouth. Like many others they were emigrating on an assisted passage as they could not get work. Most of the local men in this area worked as labourers as the census shows but in the 1830s the changes in agriculture, the enclosure acts and poor harvests meant that wages had fallen and jobs could no longer be relied on.

Look more closely at the picture. Are some of those figures we can see dotted around on the hillside the children of the Braverys, Shuttleworths or Sykes? Focus in on the little group on the road on the left of the painting. They have just come out to wave goodbye. I’ve drawn them as they are not easy to see. Here’s the man in the middle of this group with a little girl. Could this be Benjamin Tilley and his daughter Eliza? In 1858 Ben would have been about 54 years old, a similar age to Redgrave in fact. He was an agricultural labourer. He and his wife had 9 children- Ben born in 1834 and then, Esther, Anne, George, John and Jemima, Ruth, Eliza and Ginger. If this is Eliza she would be 10. On the left the little boy could be Ginger, the youngest son. Both children went to school. On the right this could be Ruth or Ann, one of the older daughters. It’s perhaps fanciful to wonder if Ben’s family inspired this little group, but they easily could have. They lived within a stone’s throw of the Redgrave’s and both men died within a few years of each other. Redgrave died in 1888 and Ben Tilley, who had been widowed in 1883 died in 1891. Maybe some of today’s families recognise their ancestors’ names. Do contact us if you do. By Jenny Parker Emma Desmier and Emma Madden

SALV OPEN EVENING AND AGM at 8pm on Monday, September 14 Doctors at Shere Surgery will give an account of how they have coped with the Covid-19 pandemic and discuss their plans for the autumn, including arrangements for flu vaccination clinics Friends and supporters of SALV will be able to access this meeting, and to contribute to a Q & A session, by clicking on the following link on an email sent out to you nearer the time: 852 8175 3169; Password 50735 16

Children Make a Model of the Mayflower for Dorking Museum The Museum are hoping that children will make a model from the template of the boat that they have put on line. You can download and print it at www.dorking museum.org.uk/mayflower model. For more information go to the Dorking Museum section of the News Shelley Blocks Pottery for children Shelley is offering an art/craft club for children aged 6 – 12 years (also via Zoom) on Saturday mornings beginning in October. Each session will be themed and run for an hour from 10.30 to 11.30 am. Cost is £5.00 per session. (Most materials can be found around the home). If you’d like further details please also contact Shelley. Leatherhead Theatre The Theatre is open for a small number of films, and theatre school classes (singing and dancing) for a limited number of children. Still no live performances are permitted. All of the summer theatre school classes are currently full but if any children would like to be added to our waiting list for September please contact Susy Puckett 07726 945444.

Write a poem! Thomas (aged 4) has written this poem in praise of chocolate! Chocolate. Chocolate bocolate in a little tocalate, You have to go to the moon, Go to see the chocolate man, The man in the moon, Making chocolate, eating chocolate, And fly all the way back home.

Schools

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Nursery School Kate Fairbrass writes: It’s the end of the summer holidays and for some of us a very long time spent at home. We really are thrilled to be returning to nursery to see our friends and are looking forward to the year ahead. Many fun things have been planned and we will continue to shape our learning each week as our nursery workers see what interests us and apply this accordingly. We know there will be lots of time spent outside whatever the weather and inspiring role play areas set up to encourage our imaginations. Playing, storytelling, creating, getting messy and whole heap of fun activities await us in a safe, nurturing environment. We said goodbye to our school leavers at the end of the Summer Term as they graduated in style. We will miss them and wish them all the best in their next step. Joining us there will be many new faces who we can’t wait to welcome and make friends with. There are still some spaces left for children looking to join this term and we’d be very happy to show you round our wonderful setting. If this is something you’d like to do please call 07842 978823 or email [email protected] We look forward to meeting you! We really hope you enjoy reading about what we get up to and if you’d be interested in helping to support us you can become a Friend of Abinger Nursery (FAN) by signing up to a monthly subscription of either £3 £5 or £10.

You will receive a 6 monthly newsletter to let you know how your wonderful contribution has helped the children and staff of the nursery to continue their high standard of early years care and learning. For more information please email [email protected]. Surrey Hills All Saints Primary School Headteacher, Mrs Ratcliffe writes: Welcome to the first article of the academic year. None of us could have predicted or envisaged what was to come when we started the Autumn term, in September 2019. Overnight, the school moved to an online learning platform which has changed our school forever. Teachers learnt how to record the learning to share with the children online and with the support of teaching assistants, each child was given regular feedback. At the same time, teachers and teaching assistants were also onsite providing childcare for vulnerable and key worker children, working through the holidays. You can see what school life was like during lockdown by looking at our website, Twitter @SurreyAllSaints, or Facebook Surrey All Saints. I just wanted to extend my thanks to you and all the staff at Surrey Hills School for the huge amount of work you have put in, to continue to engage and educate under such challenging circumstances. The girls miss school desperately which is a tribute to the caring and thriving school environment you have nurtured. They are coping fairly well under lockdown and have proven to be fairly resilient learners too! They have responded well to the online learning and they love the feedback comments and rewards from staff. I am so grateful for all that you do, it is very much appreciated. Mrs X Finally, I would like to thank the local communities and charities for their offers of support during this challenging time. The staff at Surrey Hills are looking forward to welcoming everyone back in September as we reopen to all children.

School Places for 2020/21 We still have some spaces for September 2020. Please do contact us if you are looking for a school place by emailing the school office at [email protected] or calling 01306 881136. You can look at the virtual tours of the Abinger and Westcott site on our school website (parent tab – new reception and year 3 information).

Spotlight on Forest School We are extremely fortunate to have our own beautiful copse, at the Abinger Site, where weekly Forest School sessions are run all year round by our qualified Forest School Practitioner. At the Westcott site, the children benefit from a Nature Garden and pond area where they experience their outdoor learning. Forest School offers children the opportunity to develop an inquisitive and positive relationship with the natural world as well as instilling a love of the great outdoors. We use our woodland setting to bring learning to life with real tools and natural resources which will create an understanding of the balance of nature and the finite resources around us. Children engage in motivating and achievable tasks and activities, at different times of the year and in almost all weathers! They work with tools, play, learn boundaries of behaviour; both physical and social, grow in confidence, self- esteem and motivation whilst developing an understanding of the natural world. Working through practical problems and challenges helps children build confidence in decision making and evaluating risk whether this be designing a den, lighting a fire or making blackberry jam! Forest School is all about developing the children’s characteristics of learning which are so vital for future success. Squidge and Splat – Toddler Group This year, we have enjoyed hosting 'Squidge and Splat' messy play sessions for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers. Parents and childminders have enjoyed leaving the tidying up to us whilst the children have explored their senses, been curious and creative! Each week was themed from pancakes and vegetables to fairy tales and farmyards. We hope to be able to invite the children back soon!Thank you and well done to everyone for your support during these unprecedented times. Keep safe and well.

Scouts

There has been a grand dispersal of all the badges for Beavers, Cubs and Scouts that have been secured over the last few months. From a Scout Parent :“We have just collected Wilf’s Badges and the planter kit from the back of the scout hut. In a challenging time for so many, I had deep joy when Wilf showed us his badges. A strong sense of achievement and pride was so evident in his face. I literally was welling up” What have we been up to for the last part of the Summer Term? BEAVERS: Went on a scavenger hunt in their gardens and then used the materials to make some wonderful pictures of animals and homes. They met with Christ Church Vicar, Tony Berry and became scientists by creating their own water filtration unit out of a drinks bottle and had a session of team games. James also harvested his peas from his families “Dig for Victory” CUBS: Took a cultural visit to Iceland to learn a little of the culture and language. We wrote our names in runes and tasted their food too. We had a lovely evening baking cakes and discovering what is healthy eating and what isn’t �. We also had an evening of team games and this week we are visiting the New London Synagogue. SCOUTS: We played a game of Cluedo together and had a very exciting session with St Saviours Scout Leader who runs “Clubminecraft” Minecraft Server – and played various Scout games with the St Saviours Scouts as well as being chased by an “abominable snowman” - a very enjoyable evening. Everyone made a tray or planter out of a pallet – The Scouts really enjoyed their achievement. Beavers, Cubs and Scouts join in the activities at The Great Indoors Weekender Camp from 11-12th July, which had over 100,000 camping for the weekend. They had a great time. We are now looking forward to the Winter Term and getting back together. The Scout Association have put procedures in place for a safe return and we are activity preparing towards a SAFE return to Scouting and the Great Outdoors. If you are interested in joining contact [email protected] for Beavers and [email protected] for cubs and scouts. Peter Drinkwater

Working from Home

Sam Rivett is a qualified hypnotherapist in Abinger Common.

Sam has recently set up her practice here. She’s passionate about Solution Focused Hypnotherapy (SFH) and its ability to help individuals make positive changes in their lives. Sam says, “I’m so inspired by SFH and delighted to be offering it to clients in my local area. It gives me confidence to offer something which is backed up by neuroscience.” Hypnotherapy offers you the chance to go into a deeply relaxed, natural state as a way of gaining control of thoughts, feelings and behaviours. It’s a transformational practice and I’ve seen at first-hand how it changes SFH is modern and evidence-based, combining psychotherapy, cognitive behavioural therapy and neuro-linguistic programming techniques with hypnosis to achieve positive changes quickly. Each session is tailored to every client’s exact needs and Sam has been receiving glowing feedback from current clients including: KW who says, “Sam is amazing and has helped me immensely during this time of change and uncertainty with my career. She has equipped me with the tools and confidence to start the next chapter of my life and help focus my mind and thoughts into what I can control…I really can’t recommend her enough.” Sam is offering ten free Initial Consultations for Parish News readers when they mention this article. For further information go to surreyhillshypnotherapy.co.uk

Outdoor Spaces Nicky Scott the Lead Ranger of Leith Hill and Holmwood Trust asks us to be vigilant about forest fires Summer is becoming hotter and longer and whilst that is an opportunity to enjoy heathland when it is at its absolute finest, it is also a time for care and vigilance in order to preserve this special place. Please help us by notifying of any camping or BBQs that you see and reporting this to the ranger team or via the Emergency Contact Number 01372 540221. Fires should be reported directly to the Surrey Fire Service. There is a tendency by some to assume that heathland fires are no bad thing (it will always grow back!), perhaps owing to the practice of controlled burning that has been a traditional form of management. This practice would encourage new plant growth for livestock, had the added benefit of creating new habitat and increasing diversity, and also reduced the risk of wildfires in the summer months; the latter because the build-up of ‘litter’ would be removed and also the taller, woodier heathers and other shrubs. Whereas controlled burns take place in small areas of a heath on rotation, creating a mosaic of vegetation of different age and structure, wildfires burn out of control and are devastating to vegetation and wildlife. Because heathlands are now few and fragmented it is no longer easy for heathland species from nearby areas to recolonise once the vegetation has started to grow back. There have been yet more incidents of careless behaviour and deliberate damage done on the Hill. You may have seen or read reports of illegal barbecues taking place, of people leaving large amounts of litter and other waste, and damage being caused by the misuse of vehicles along the Byways Open to All Traffic, or BOATs as we call them. We have two BOATs in the village. Both begin at the Plough, one going up the hill to the south west and almost reaches the top before turning left and down to Cockshot Farm. The other is Woolvens or Crockers Lane which runs east from the Plough towards Wotton. Nicky Scott 23

The Impact of Off Roaders on the area Neil Maltby, who has lived at Cockshot Farm in Coldharbour for many years has been a major supporter of conservation and protection of this Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Beauty. He was a major driver behind the creation of the Surrey Hills Society and he has been involved in initiatives to help mountain bikers enjoy riding on the hill but in ways that neither damage it nor adversely affect other visitors. Recent events have led him to write this to voice his alarm about the damage still being done, especially by users of the BOAT who attempt to drive off it and/or drive in ways that cause damage to it. He noticed a few days ago that where the National Trust had re-instated 5 posts to prevent 4 wheel vehicles from turning to the Tower at the corner known as Cockshot Hollow where the BOAT passes, he found one post had been completely removed and another nearly so. Furthermore, some drivers have been trying to go up or down the step bank at the top of the Hollow and the NT have dragged tree trunks across the top of the bank to prevent this, not completely successfully. There are areas designated inside the AONB that are also classified as 'Sites of Special Scientific Interest’ (SSSI) which enjoy special protection, with access by footpath only. No Cycling notices have been placed round some of these SSSIs and where some trails have appeared, the trails have been blocked off with fallen tree branches and further notices erected to explain the SSSI status. Yet still the signs and the obstructions are removed and new trails appear.

Peter’s Gardening Tips for September September is the time to divide perennials, tidy your greenhouse, plant spring-flowering bulbs and sow seeds for a colourful show next summer. Make the most of the remaining warmth while you can! Regularly dividing perennials in the autumn ensures strong, healthy plants that perform well year after year. It has the extra benefit of increasing your stock of plants. If you end up with too many, then share them with friends and neighbours! It’s a bit of a chore to clean out greenhouses and cold frames but it is an important task. It

lets in more light and helps control pests and diseases too. After brushing away the debris, structural parts should be washed down with a suitable hot detergent, or garden disinfectant. Glass will need washing both inside and out. Gutters and waterbutts need your attention too. Have you thought about ordering any bulbs for next year yet? September is the best time for planting daffodils, crocus and hyacinths. When naturalising in grass, scattering a few handfuls of bulbs achieves an attractively informal look. Most bulbs prefer a warm, sunny site with good drainage. Sowing seeds now for a larger, more robust and long-lived plant that will grow well established roots during winter. Autumn sowing will give a real boost for a head-start next spring. Foxgloves, aquilegia, myosotis (forget-me nots) and nigella will self-seed abundantly in situ. Why not try collecting some seed from your own garden too! Collect ripe seed on a dry day and lay out to dry on a greenhouse bench, warm windowsill or in an airing cupboard. Clean off any surrounding chaff as this may harbour pests and diseases. Place in a labelled paper bag, then store in an airtight container. Gertrude Jekyll, the famous Arts and Crafts gardener once said, ‘the love of gardening is a seed once sown that never dies.’ Peter Nutting of Leafhill Horticulture

Gardening Club in Abinger There has been much enthusiasm for the idea of forming an Abinger Gardeners Club. We have set a date for our first meeting which is Thursday 17th September at 11.00 in the garden of King George’s Cottage, Abinger Bottom. Our first session will focus on “Easy wins on Abinger soil and self-seeders”. Now is a great time to collect seed so please bring any extra you may have to share with others. The meeting will be held in the garden and there is outdoor shelter if we need it but please dress appropriately. Numbers are obviously restricted at the moment due to Covid so it will be strictly on a first come, first served basis. However, we are happy to do repeat sessions if required so please e-mail us [email protected] if you would like to come on 17th September or whether you would like to join but cannot make that slot, in which case please indicate your preferred time. Kim Clark & Caroline Williams

Directory of Local Businesses

BUILDERS etc. B A Gunter 01306 628291 Dorking Glass 01306 882971 RB Fencing 01306 640143 01483 414745 [email protected] LHP Groundwork and Drainage 01306 628412 [email protected] Lyne & Co Capel Building and 01293 871008 [email protected] Renovation Morley & Johnson Roofing Ben 07824861902 George 07710 503069 Morley- [email protected] CARE Assured Care Solutions 01483 548964 [email protected] CARPENTERS Tony Winch - Carpenter, Joiner 01306 742373 07969016924 www.tonywinch.com Cabinet Maker CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS Bullimores 01306 880880 [email protected] CHIMNEYS & CHIMNEY SWEEP Joe Lund 07930 507 115 and 01243 583430 COMPUTERS Surrey Hills PC MAC and PC 01483 608242 07771 665 863 [email protected] WMF-IT consultants 01306 731253 [email protected] DECORATORS David Skerritt 01306 711898 Dorking Decorators 01306 640418 www.dorkingdecorators.co.uk DOG BOARDING [email protected] Katy at Boarders ELECTRICAL Smithers & Co Electrical 01737 843844 07850 563091 FUNERALS Sherlock & Sons 01306 882266 GARDENS AND TREES EJM Garden Services 07766 081 557 [email protected] David Ford Tree Care 01306 611661 07940 197911 [email protected] Capel Tree Surgeons 01306 711124 07775 727121 www.capeltreesurgeons.co.uk Bury Hill Landscape Supplies 01306 877 540 www.buryhilllandscapesupplies.co.uk

Groundscapes JOBS IN 01306 711720 [email protected] GARDENING Scovell & Sons Horticultural 01306 611384 07597 946 240 Services [email protected] LEAFHILL Peter Nutting 07572 712 592 [email protected] Neil McCance; Down to Earth 01306 730259 evenings Garden Services [email protected] Osborne Landscapes & 07818 001840 01306 730090 construction. Mark Osborne Phil’s Mowing 07905 160 765 [email protected] SPORT, BEAUTY & WELLBEING Abinger Sports Club: Tennis [email protected] 07774 773 993 Dance a Ramix 01306 731182. 07899 842 727 [email protected] Dorking Lawn Tennis and 01306 889009 www.dltsc.co.uk Squash Club Peaslake Beauty Room. 01306 731182 Avril Munford [email protected] Revitalise Fitness Mobile 07858 731 [email protected] Personal Training and Coaching Hannah Schellander 07846 508 117 www.hannahschellander.com Hypnotherapy Jodechi (Tiggs) Morton 07825 138 508 Psychotherapy, CBT, TA, Life [email protected] Coaching HORSE LIVERY Crockers Farm Coldharbour 07584 624 990 [email protected] PEST CONTROL EMWOOD 0800 092 2277. 01306 501426 PROTECTA PEST CONTROL 01403 259972 07833 259972 www.protecta- pestcontrol.co.uk PRINTING Dyson printers 07850 518 948 [email protected] Mark Mitchell, M V Press [email protected] PUBS The Abinger Hatch 01306 730737 The Plough Inn, Coldharbour 01306 711793 REAL ESTATE Portcullis & Co 01483 283000 portcullisandco.com REMOVALS EDE BROS 01306 711293 edebros.co.uk SOFT FURNISHING

Gill Grist Designs 01737 842520 [email protected] SHOPS Coldharbour Village Shop 01306 711793 Kingfisher Farm Shop 01306 730703 Abinger Hammer Village Shop 01306 730701 SWIMMING POOLS Burgess Pools 01306 730952 [email protected] TAXI Dorking Taxis Ltd 01306 885533 [email protected] VETS The House Vet 01483 272999 [email protected]

PARISH NEWS DONATIONS REQUEST Thank you very much to all those who have recently made a donation to the Parish News. If you enjoy reading it, please consider donating online to the parish of your choice. Bank Details Abinger: 60-07-02; PCC Abinger; a/c no 39447332 Coldharbour: 20-23-97; Christchurch Coldharbour PCC; a/c no 40192422 If you would like to make a donation other than online or have any questions please contact Tony on 01306 737160 [email protected] or Martin on 01306 713382 [email protected] for Coldharbour. If you would like to advertise with us please contact Sally on [email protected] Many thanks for your support.