The Epsom and Ewell Talking Newspaper local audio news for the two weeks ending 30 May 2024 begins with a farewell from local MP Chris Grayling and the launch of the General Election. We have transport news and a the opening of Epsom Picturehouse with our regular What’s On programme of events.
To listen to this week’s audio news click the Play button
General Election Announced in Epsom
The general election has been announced for July 4, 2024. Chris Grayling, the MP for Epsom, has confirmed he will not be standing for re-election. Constituents can contact him for urgent matters until polling day, email chris.grayling.mp@parliament.uk. Other prominent Conservative MPs, including Michael Gove and Dominic Raab, are also stepping down. Various candidates from different parties have shared their commitments and campaign promises, highlighting issues from tackling crime to improving public services. More details at Epsom and Ewell Times.
Education Funding Boost in Surrey
Surrey County Council has been awarded £1.2 million from the Department of Education to enhance music education for all children, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. An additional £469,000 will be invested in new musical instruments and technology. This initiative aims to provide high-quality education and create new career opportunities in the music industry. Learn more at the Surrey Music Hub.
Fire and Rescue Service Changes
The Fire Brigades Union has raised concerns about potential increases in response times due to a proposed move of the Banstead fire crew to Godstone. The service plans to invest £800,000 in the Godstone site to make it fit for purpose. Response times are a key concern, with the service aiming to ensure efficient coverage across the county. Details available on the Surrey Fire and Rescue Service website.
Transport News
Cyclist Safety and Infrastructure
A review has been conducted following the death of a cyclist in Tadworth due to overgrown vegetation encroaching on the cycle path. The coroner has urged Surrey County Council to improve maintenance of public highways and to provide clear guidance on managing vegetation. The council has until July 3 to respond to the report. Read more at Epsom and Ewell Times.
Superloop Bus Route Launch
The new Superloop express bus routes aim to improve connections and journey times between outer London town centres and transport hubs. With a fare of £1.75, these low-emission buses will offer a fast and convenient alternative to private cars. Check out the routes and schedules on the Transport for London website.
Heritage Bus Day
On June 9, heritage buses from the London Bus Museum will be running free rides between Kingston and Redhill. These iconic buses from the 1950s and 1960s will provide a nostalgic experience for passengers. . No need to book just turn up a 406 bus stop and put your hand. It’s completely free and you can ride with us all day. This special service is not part of transport for London but will run alongside the regular TFL 406 bus on which normal fares apply. Please support volunteers by visiting the Bus museum open daily at the Brooklyn Museum Weybridge. Find more information on the London Bus Museum website.
Broadband Upgrades in Surrey
By 2026, around 50,000 homes and businesses in Surrey will have access to full fibre broadband, part of a £15 billion investment to upgrade the UK’s broadband infrastructure. Towns such as Ashtead and Tadworth are included in the rollout. Details available on the Openreach website.
Free Boiler Upgrade Scheme
Epsom Council, in partnership with Action Surrey, is launching a free boiler upgrade scheme for eligible residents. The scheme targets owner-occupiers with old, inefficient boilers and provides new, energy-efficient replacements. Contact Action Surrey by calling 0800 783 2503 or Register your interest on Action Surrey’s website.
Epsom Picturehouse
Epsom Picturehouse is set to open soon. The Picturehouse will feature a cinema with a bar and restaurant, and will have screenings where well-behaved dogs are welcome. Additionally, a pop-up outdoor cinema will be hosted at Bourne Hall from 5-7 July. Mamma Mia, Twilight and Back to the Future will be screened. Drinks, snacks and delicious hot food on offer and tasty treats are included so grab your pillows and blankets for a perfect summer evening under the stars. Visit Picturehouse’s website for more information.
What’s On in May-June!
A selection of What’s On locally from this and previous editions:
Epsom Playhouse
Some of the events taking place at Epsom Playhouse in June:
“I Am Caroline” on July 11 and “The Ultimate Tribute to Neil Diamond” featuring Garry Ryan.
For more information and to book tickets visit Epsom Playhouse or Telephone: 01372 742555 / 742227
Beacon lighting ceremony
The event will take place on the evening of 6 June on the Epsom Downs. The meeting was warned the some areas would be fenced off due to the racehorse event. Fish and chips will be available to buy at the racecourse, with National Fish and Chip Day moving from its traditional Friday slot to coincide with the D-Day celebrations.
Epsom Male Voice Choir Concert
For more information and to book tickets for the Epsom Male Voice Choir concertt visit EMVC at Banstead.
Music in the Park
Music in the Park, Alexander Recreation Ground Epsom 9 June 2pm near the cafe bring chairs or a blanket to sit on.
10th Birthday Party Celebration
Join Ewell Court Library in celebrating the 10th anniversary of their volunteer services on Saturday, June 8th, from 11 AM to 2 PM. The family-themed party will feature various crafts, a tombola, a bumper book sale, and delicious cakes from the Women’s Institute at reasonable prices. Activities will include braille printing and much more. Come along and join the fun! Event Details
Fundraising Charity Dinner at the Secret Garden Courthouse
Age Concern Epsom and Ewell invites you to a wonderful summer evening at The Secret Garden at Ewell Court for a fundraising charity dinner. This event will be held on Friday, June 28th (from 7pm), with a cost of £30 per person for a three-course meal, including tea or coffee. For more information, visit the Jumblebee website or call (01372) 732451.
Upcoming Shows at Epsom Playhouse
- “I Caroline”: Direct from London’s West End, this ultimate tribute to Neil Diamond will take place on Thursday, July 11, 2024. Starring Garry Ryan, as seen on Stars in Their Eyes, the show will feature 50 years of Neil Diamond’s greatest hits, including “Forever in Blue Jeans,” “America,” “Love on the Rocks,” “Song Sung Blue,” “Hello Again,” “Cracklin’ Rosie,” “I Am…I Said,” “Beautiful Noise,” and “Sweet Caroline.” Tickets are £30 each, plus a £2 booking fee. Purchase Tickets
- Rat Pack Live: Experience the cool vibe of the Rat Pack on Thursday, July 18, 2024, with a ticket price of £30, plus a £2 booking fee. This show features all the charisma, panache, and swagger of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr., combined with the full sound of big band swing. The production revives all-time favourites such as “New York, New York,” “My Way,” “Mr. Bojangles,” and “That’s Life.” Tickets are selling fast, so secure yours soon. Purchase Tickets
Listen for details of all these and many more news stories.
Sources
Many of this fortnight’s news articles come from the Epsom and Ewell Times and Surrey Live
Community information is available from the websites: Surrey County Council, Epsom and Ewell Borough Council and Epsom and Ewell Families.
The Go Epsom website has a calendar of What’s On featuring local events which you can add to.
The local news is just one of three sections of the Epsom and Ewell as described on the About Us page.