Welcome to issue number 2399 of the Epsom and Ewell Talking Newspaper, packed full with a wide range of interesting articles:

Epsom railway station has emerged as one of Surrey’s most reliable stations for punctuality and service, faring significantly better than many other locations across the county. Despite serving three major London terminals, Epsom’s train services remain relatively efficient, avoiding severe delays and cancellations plaguing other areas. The government has announced plans to improve transparency in railway punctuality by introducing live data screens at major stations across the country, including in Surrey.

Sutton residents will soon be returning to the ballot box after former deputy council leader David Bartolucci stepped down last week, triggering a by-election for his former Sutton Central ward. Bartolucci’s absence from council business since September last year led to his disqualification under Sutton Council rules. The by-election will take place on 10th April.

A man accused of killing devoted teacher Gemma Devenish in Carshalton has appeared in court. Gemma Devenish was found with stab wounds in Nutfield Close, Carshalton, on 19^th December 2024. Her long-term boyfriend, James Madden, is charged with her murder. The trial is expected to last around two weeks and will begin in October.

Rebecca Paul, Conservative MP for Reigate, expressed concern over the number of assaults on officers at a women’s prison in Surrey. Downview prison in Banstead saw a significant increase in prisoner-on-staff assaults between 2023 and 2024. The Justice Minister assured that prison officers are being properly supported and protected.

A substantial fire erupted at an unused building on Richmond Road in Kingston on Sunday, the 16^th March. Around 150 firefighters and 25 fire engines were dispatched to tackle the blaze. The fire was under control four hours later, and there were no reports of injuries.

Figures released by Surrey County Council suggest that state secondary school admissions have not been overrun with private school pupils after VAT was added to fees by the Labour government. Despite predictions of a significant influx, the rise in applications has been minimal.

The 135 Geographic Squadron Royal Engineers commemorated their 70^th anniversary at Mercator House in Ewell by unveiling the first Ordnance Survey benchmark in over 25 years. The event highlighted the squadron’s long-standing presence and historic ties with the Ordnance Survey.

The M25 will be closed again this weekend from 21^st to 24^th March, marking the last closure as part of the Junction 10 Project. The closure will allow workers to demolish a second bridge as part of improvement work.

Epsom and Ewell Borough Council’s Crime and Disorder Committee has voted to recommend the adoption of a borough-wide public spaces protection order (PSPO) following overwhelming community support. The new PSPO aims to tackle antisocial behaviour by prohibiting a range of activities in public spaces.

A teenager was arrested after armed police reacted to reports of a group of youths with weapons in Epsom town centre. Despite the reports, no weapons were found by the police after thorough searches. A dispersal order was put in place to ensure public safety.

The latest on the chalk pit saga is that two outstanding planning applications are likely to come to the Surrey County Council Planning Committee in April this year. Works on the site have ramped up, causing increased noise and disturbance to neighbours.

Epsom and Ewell Silver Band will perform at Alexander Recreation Ground on the 29^th June 2025. The event is free, and attendees are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets, and tables to enjoy the atmosphere and music.

Epsom Downs welcomed George Baker into the newly refurbished Downs House training facility in February this year. Baker and his team have brought several new horses into training on the grounds.

The BT digital switchover completion deadline has been delayed until January 2027 due to the oversight of the needs of older people and those who are disabled. The switch aims to provide a better service by transitioning from an analogue system to a new digital service.

Sight for Surrey’s community hubs meet on a monthly basis, providing a relaxed atmosphere for people with sight and hearing impairments to get together. The nearest meet-up in this area is at Epsom Social Food Hall on the third Tuesday of the month.

MCR Pathways is an award-winning charity that provides one-to-one mentoring to vulnerable young people in schools across Surrey. They are searching for more volunteer mentors to support young people facing challenges.

Epsom Choral Society performed at Saint Martin’s Church on the 15^th March with a programme of two favourite pieces from the classical period. The concert featured Haydn’s Mass in Time of Troubles and Mozart’s Solemn Vespers.

Epsom Jazz Club is selling tickets for their upcoming show at the Comrades Club on the 27th of March. The show will feature Sharp Little Bones with Tony Coffey on saxophone.

The Rotary Club of Ewell is hosting a charity race night on the 29th March to raise funds for Epsom Riding for the Disabled Association and the Sunnybank Trust.

Epsom Rotary is also holding a centenary spring ball on the 26th April to celebrate 100 years of service to the community.