Pilot partnership will connect Surrey Hills organisations with training, research, student talent and innovation.
Surrey, 04/08/2026 – Surrey Hills Enterprises (SHE) is proud to announce that the University of Surrey has become its first Education Partner through a new nine-month pilot partnership that brings university training, research and student talent directly to SHE’s 240+ member organisations.
For SHE, this partnership sits at the heart of its wider mission and growth strategy: connecting people, expertise and opportunity across the Surrey Hills.
Running until March 2027, the pilot gives SHE members real, practical opportunities, including:
Funded and discounted places on University short courses, including UN-affiliated sustainability training and certification through CIFAL Surrey
The chance to connect with students on placements and internships tackling real commercial challenges, from food systems to AI to marketing
Closer ties to Surrey Research Park, a 70-acre hub of innovation on SHE members’ doorstep
A joint producer and supplier showcase, connecting SHE members directly with University teams and wider Surrey stakeholders
Both organisations will also explore wider research collaborations throughout the pilot.
Maggie Howell, Chief Executive Officer of Surrey Hills Enterprises, said:
“One of Surrey Hills Enterprises’ greatest strengths is bringing people together. This partnership creates exciting new opportunities for our members to connect with the University’s expertise, students and innovation, while giving the University a closer understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing local organisations. Together, we can create relationships that benefit organisations, students and the wider Surrey economy.”
For SHE, the partnership also reflects a broader belief: that supporting local organisations isn’t just about footfall and sales, it’s about building the infrastructure for long-term resilience, sustainability, and opportunity, right here in the Surrey Hills.
Professor Amelia Hadfield, Director of CIFAL Surrey and Associate Vice-President for External Engagement at the University of Surrey, added:
“The University of Surrey is an anchor institution for the county of Surrey, and that should mean something concrete to the organisations around us. A student who spends time solving a real problem for a local producer gains vital insights that bring their in-classroom learning to life, and comes away with experience that employers actually value.”
SHE members or local organisations interested in finding out more or getting involved are encouraged to get in touch via SHE.
Surrey Hills Enterprises is a Community Interest Company supporting more than 240 organisations across the region through networking, collaboration, marketing, training and business development.
Glow Network Reigate brings together homeowners, businesses and charities to create stronger, more connected and future-ready communities.
Reigate, Surrey – Five respected local charities have joined forces with local businesses and homeowners to launch Glow Network Reigate, a new community-led initiative designed to strengthen local connections, support charitable organisations and help create a cleaner, more
sustainable future for the town. Created by Reigate-based Glow Homes, Glow Network Reigate has a simple ambition: bringing
people together around a shared purpose. At its heart, Glow Network Reigate is built on one simple idea: When neighbours, businesses and charities work together, everyone benefits. By encouraging neighbours to work together as they future-proof their homes, connecting local
businesses, and creating meaningful partnerships with local charities, the initiative aims to build stronger, more resilient communities while helping homes become more energy-efficient, less reliant on the national grid, and better prepared for the future.
As more homes generate and store their own renewable energy, the wider community benefits too, through lower carbon emissions, improved energy resilience and the opportunity to support local causes through the newly established Glow Energy Impact Fund.
The Fund has been created to ensure that the efficiencies generated through neighbourhood collaboration can be reinvested back into the local community, helping support charities and community initiatives as Glow Networks continues to grow.
Launching alongside Glow Network Reigate are five Founding Charity Partners:
● Reigate & Banstead Community Fund
● Dylan Strong Foundation
● PSDS
● Renewed Hope
● Stripey Stork
Collectively, these organisations support thousands of people across Surrey every year, from families with young children and individuals with Down syndrome to people experiencing hardship, homelessness and wider community need.
As part of the initiative, Glow Homes has also launched a new Founding Charity Partner Spotlight series, celebrating the remarkable organisations helping shape Glow Network Reigate. Each feature shines a light on the charity’s story, the people behind it, and the incredible work they do every day, with the first spotlight featuring the Dylan Strong Foundation.
Jon Skinner, Founder of Glow Homes, said:
“I’ve lived in Reigate and Redhill for more than twenty-five years and, if I’m honest, starting Glow Homes has reconnected me with my own community in a way I never expected. Over the last year, I’ve met some incredible people, business owners, volunteers, and charities
quietly doing amazing work every single day. The more conversations I had, the more I realised there was an opportunity to bring everyone together. Glow Network Reigate isn’t really about solar panels. They’re simply the catalyst. This is about neighbours helping neighbours, local businesses supporting local charities and creating something that’s genuinely good for the place we all call home. I’m no eco warrior by any stretch of the imagination, but I do care about the world we’re leaving behind. If we can help families reduce their energy bills, make our homes more resilient, become less reliant on the grid, and at the same time create lasting support for local charities, that feels like common sense to me. Every great idea has to start somewhere. For us, that somewhere is Reigate. Our hope is that what begins here inspires other communities to come together in exactly the same way, creating stronger, more connected and future-ready neighbourhoods across Surrey and, one day, far beyond.”
Louise Long, Founder of the Dylan Strong Foundation, said: “The Dylan Strong Foundation was created from the hardest chapter of our lives, but it has become a way of carrying Dylan’s name and legacy forward by helping other families through theirs. Community is at the heart of everything we do, and partnerships like this allow us to reach more families and remind them that they are not facing this alone.”
Glow Network Reigate marks the beginning of what Glow Homes hopes will become a long-term community movement, one that celebrates collaboration, supports local causes and demonstrates how neighbourhoods can work together to build a stronger and more sustainable
future. Rather than viewing renewable energy as simply a home improvement, Glow Network Reigate encourages communities to see it as an opportunity to strengthen local connections, support local charities and leave a lasting positive legacy for future generations.
Every great idea has to start somewhere. For us, that somewhere is Reigate.
https://glow.homes/reigate
Surrey Hills Enterprises (SHE) is delighted to announce that De Vere Horsley Estate has been named the recipient of the 2026 Surrey Hills Gold Award, the organisation’s highest accolade recognising a member business that has demonstrated outstanding collaboration, sustainability and commitment to supporting the Surrey Hills business community.
Over the past year, De Vere Horsley Estate has become a shining example of what collaboration can achieve. Through an impressive programme of partnerships with fellow Surrey Hills Enterprises members, local producers, charities and industry organisations, the venue has consistently brought businesses together to create memorable experiences while championing the Surrey Hills as a destination.
From hosting networking events and industry showcases to supporting local suppliers through innovative food experiences, wellbeing activities and destination marketing initiatives, De Vere Horsley Estate has demonstrated that collaboration is at the heart of everything it does.
Some of the year’s highlights include collaborative wellbeing experiences, networking events for SHE members, fam visits introducing event professionals to the Surrey Hills, and creative partnerships showcasing the very best of the local area.
“De Vere Horsley Estate truly embodies everything the Surrey Hills Gold Award represents,” said Maggie Howell, CEO of Surrey Hills Enterprises. “Throughout the past year, they have consistently gone above and beyond to bring people together, champion fellow members and showcase the Surrey Hills through meaningful partnerships. Their commitment to collaboration has strengthened our business community and created opportunities that benefit not only individual businesses but the wider Surrey Hills economy. We are absolutely delighted to recognise their outstanding contribution with this year’s Gold Award.”
Alongside the Gold Award, Surrey Hills Enterprises also celebrated a number of members whose collaborations have made a significant impact over the past year through the presentation of the Collaboration Hero Awards.
The 2026 Collaboration Heroes are:
Shooting Star Children’s Hospices
Porky Whites
Vineyards of the Surrey Hills
Mandira’s Kitchen
Silent Pool Distillers
Squire’s Garden Centres
Hall Hunter
Hogs Back Brewery
The Boathouse Café
Hurtwood Inn
Each award recognised businesses that have embraced the Surrey Hills Enterprises ethos of working together, supporting one another and creating opportunities that benefit both members and the wider community.
The awards formed part of the annual Surrey Hills Enterprises Summer Party, hosted this year at the beautiful Gate Street Barn, where members came together to celebrate another successful year of collaboration, networking and business growth across the Surrey Hills.
Squire’s Garden Centres is inviting customers to celebrate the beauty of summer and 90 years of gardening heritage with two special events this June – a Flowers & Fizz Evening taking place (all centres, excluding Chertsey) and the much-loved annual Rose Festival Weekend at Squire’s Shepperton.
FLOWERS & FIZZ EVENING
Date/time: Thursday 18 June, 5-8pm
Visit your local Squire’s on the evening of 18 June for a special summer evening of flowers, celebration and exclusive plant offers to mark the family garden centre business’ 90th anniversary.
Guests will receive a warm welcome with a complimentary glass of fizz on arrival, while enjoying live music in a relaxed and sociable setting.
Browse the beautiful Plant Area in centres and take advantage of exclusive discounts across the stunning plant collection – perfect for adding colour, texture and seasonal interest to a garden. OFriendly and knowledgeable Plant Experts will be on hand throughout the evening to share practical planting advice and inspiration.
Seek inspiration from each centre’s Anniversary Show Garden display, thoughtfully created by the resident plant team at centre’s to celebrate 90 years of gardening heritage.
Squire’s Café Bars will be open from 5pm to 7pm, serving a delicious selection of new summer salads and flatbreads, perfect for a light bite during the relaxing evening. It’s the perfect way to spend a summer evening – celebrating, shopping and surrounded by beautiful flowers. No booking required, excludes Chertsey.
Location: Squire’s Garden Centre, Halliford Road, Shepperton TW17 8SG
Entry: Free event – no booking required, everyone welcome.
Squire’s Shepperton will once again host a spectacular celebration of Britain’s favourite flower at the Rose Festival Weekend, taking place on the weekend of 27-28 June.
Held in partnership with The Rose Society UK, the festival features the prestigious National Rose Show, now in its 49th year, showcasing exceptional blooms from expert growers across the country. The show promises to be a real treat for the eyes with sublime displays and heady fragrance.
Visitors can enjoy stunning displays of roses in all their forms, from perfect single stems to elaborate arrangements. In addition, there will be floral art installations created by Walton & Weybridge Flower Club.
Adding to the festival atmosphere, there will be live music, BBQ demonstrations and sampling to be enjoyed over the weekend.
Colin Squire OBE, Chairman Emeritus of Squire’s Garden Centres and President of The Rose Society UK, comments: “We’re proud to host the Rose Festival Weekend as part of our 90th anniversary celebrations. It’s a true celebration of the rose, its growers and the joy it brings – and a fantastic weekend for everyone to come and enjoy – from those who enjoy browsing plants to expert gardeners alike – there is something for everyone.”
Expert rose growers from The Rose Society will be on hand on Saturday afternoon, following judging, and throughout Sunday to share advice, tips and inspiration with visitors.
Evelyn Gardens, located within Albury Park in Surrey, will extend its public opening programme in 2026, welcoming visitors across 28 selected days from May to September in an expansion of its usual schedule.
Traditionally open to the public twice a year in support of the National Garden Scheme, the gardens will this year offer increased access while continuing to support the scheme. The extended programme provides a rare opportunity to explore this historic landscape throughout the changing seasons.
Evelyn Gardens is a rare and beautifully preserved example of 17th-century formal garden design. Set within a secluded landscape, it is renowned for its quarter-mile-long terraces and distinguished collection of mature trees.
By spreading opening dates across the summer months, visitors will be able to experience the gardens at different stages of the season — from the fresh growth of late spring to the colour of late summer.
Due to the limited number of opening dates, visitors are encouraged to plan ahead.
Event Details
Opening period: Selected dates from May to September 2026
(Wednesdays from 6 May to 16 September, plus every third Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday)
Total days open: 28
Location: Evelyn Gardens, Albury Park
Further information, including opening dates, times and ticket prices, is available at here.
Behind every independent enterprise, creative studio, and local artist in the Surrey Hills is a person with a story, a passion and a deep connection to this extraordinary landscape. This month, we celebrate some of the inspiring individuals shaping our community.
Inspired by Nature
The women helping others reconnect with nature, movement, and wellbeing.
Joyful Outdoors
Elspeth has designed warm, welcoming outdoor experiences to bring people back to nature and rediscover simple joy. Through gentle foraging walks, bushcraft, laughter yoga, and mindful time in the woods, she creates space for people to slow down, connect with others, and feel more grounded in the natural world. Her sessions are relaxed, playful, and uplifting, with a focus on wellbeing, connection, and joy in the outdoors.
Surrey Striders
Passionate advocate for outdoor fitness and wellbeing in the Surrey Hills, Vicky is an accredited instructor offering guided Nordic Walking sessions that help people of all ages and abilities get active in nature. She strongly believes in the many benefits that Nordic Walking can offer, both physically and mentally, and wants to share that feeling with everyone!
Surrey Hills Qigong
Sue Llewellyn, a former BBC journalist retrained as a Qigong instructor after experiencing burnout and seeking a more balanced way of life. Sue now teaches gentle, flowing Qigong sessions, combining breath, movement, and mindfulness to help people reduce stress, restore energy, and reconnect with themselves and nature. Her approach is calm, accessible, and rooted in both ancient Chinese practice and lived experience of wellbeing and recovery.
Amanda Weller Energy Alchemy
With over 15 years’ experience in energy therapies, Amanda offers intuitive wellbeing sessions designed to support balance, clarity, and emotional release. Her approach focuses on helping people move through stress, emotional blocks, and life challenges by reconnecting with their natural sense of calm and wellbeing.
HINOKI Forest Bathing
Lisa leads immersive forest bathing experiences inspired by the Japanese tradition of shinrin-yoku.
Through gentle, guided sessions in nature, Lisa encourages people to slow down, reconnect with their senses, and experience the calming benefits of the forest. Her work focuses on wellbeing, mindfulness, and helping people reduce stress through time spent in natural surroundings.
🌿Tip: These experiences aren’t about performance or doing it “right”, the benefit comes from switching off autopilot, noticing your senses, and letting the landscape do the work. A walk, a breath, a pause in the trees is often more powerful than it sounds!
Made by Hand & Heart
The artists, designers and makers keeping craftsmanship alive in the Surrey Hills.
Ruth Wheeler
As a local artist, sculptor and wellbeing practitioner Ruth’s work is deeply inspired by the natural world. Working from her woodland studio, she creates expressive wood sculptures, pyrography art and mixed media pieces using locally sourced materials and traditional techniques. and also runs creative workshops, retreats and yoga experiences.
RoniBs Kitchen
Award-winning artisan food producer, creating bold, flavour-packed sauces, condiments and preserves inspired by traditional Filipino recipes. Founded by Roni Bandong, the business combines heritage, creativity and high-quality ingredients to produce small-batch products that bring vibrant, authentic flavours into everyday cooking.
Amanda Winfield- Abinger Stained Glass
With nearly 40 years of experience, Amanda is a highly skilled stained glass artist passionate about preserving the traditional craftsmanship of medieval stained glass. Working from her Surrey Hills workshop, she creates bespoke pieces for homes, businesses and places of worship, combining time-honoured techniques with exceptional artistry and attention to detail. Her work reflects a deep respect for heritage, craftsmanship and the enduring beauty of handmade design.
Gianna’s Art Creations
Gianna creates expressive, contemporary artworks inspired by nature, colour and emotion. Working across a range of mediums, she produces original paintings and bespoke pieces designed to bring vibrancy and individuality into any space, all beautifully framed by her husband Kevin.
JK Forges
Jack Kerr is a talented young blacksmith and fabricator whose passion for traditional metalworking began at just 10 years old. Based in the Surrey Hills, he creates everything from handcrafted Japanese kitchen knives and garden pieces to bespoke gates and large-scale commissions, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern creativity. As one of the few traditional blacksmiths working locally today, Jack is helping keep this historic rural craft alive for a new generation.
Nicky Chubb Art
Originally trained in fashion design at Central Saint Martins, Nicky Chubb is a mixed media artist whose uplifting work is inspired by colour, light and the changing landscapes around her home in the Surrey Hills. Her distinctive tree paintings, vibrant florals and expressive figurative pieces combine collage, texture and layered materials to create artwork full of movement, optimism and emotion.
KL Scarves
Kate Lloyd creates luxurious silk scarves from her own original photographs, transforming fine art imagery into elegant, wearable pieces. Based in the Surrey Hills, she works with a long-established family silk mill in England to produce beautifully printed scarves, each carefully designed to capture moments from nature, landscapes and travel in rich, expressive detail.
Nicola Antsey Design
Nicola sources unique pieces from markets in the UK and France – sofas, cabinets, tables, and chairs- and transforms them into bold, one-off designs using traditional upholstery and restoration techniques. Her work blends craftsmanship with a modern aesthetic, giving old furniture a new lease of life.
JK Enterprises
Joseph Kennedy started making rustic wooden gifts from fallen wood at just 13. Now a small workshop business creating bespoke handmade pieces for homes and local clients, and in 2023 received the Surrey Hills Enterprises “Young Entrepreneur Award” in recognition of his craftsmanship, sustainability, and entrepreneurial drive.
🎨Tip: Look out for local artisans and independent makers at markets, studios, or small workshops. Buying directly from them not only gets you something truly unique, but also helps keep traditional skills alive and supports sustainable, community-based creativity.
Driven by Passion
Founder-led businesses built on expertise, relationships and trusted local knowledge.
Martin Bamford Photography
Martin helps founders, consultants and creatives look credible and confident through relaxed, natural portrait photography designed to reflect who they really are on a good day. His sessions are guided and approachable, focused on removing awkwardness and capturing authentic, professional images that work across websites, social media, and press.
Helen Clifford Law
Helen founded her specialist personal injury law firm dedicated to helping people injured at work and their families secure justice.
With over 25 years’ experience, she focuses on complex, high-value cases, including serious brain and spinal injuries, often where liability is disputed. Her commitment is rooted in a strong family legacy of campaigning for safer working conditions.
Phil Howell – Intuition Un Ltd.
With over 30 years’ experience across global corporations, SMEs, and consulting projects, Phil mentors business owners and helps them turn complex challenges into clear strategy and practical action. His work focuses on leadership development, business growth, and helping people move from feeling stuck to making measurable progress.
Ide&s
Ian Jones is an experienced event producer and moderator with over 25 years in hospitality and events. Through Ide&s, he creates and moderates food and drink events, helping connect people with great food, brands, and producers. His work spans product launches, brand activations, employee engagement events, and festivals.
Hampton Digital Services Ltd.
Originally from New Zealand and now based in Surrey, Tracy Hampton brings a strong background in IT and web development, alongside a clear focus on simplicity, sustainability, and honest communication. She specialises in creating WordPress websites and digital systems that are easy to use, easy to maintain, and designed to help clients be found online and win work
The Queen’s Head in Weybridge has officially reopened its doors following a transformative refurbishment, as part of Heartwood Collection’s recently announced £1.5 million investment across five of its much-loved pubs.
Having closed on 16 March 2026, The Queen’s Head welcomed guests back on 1 April, unveiling refreshed interiors and a revitalised outdoor terrace designed to enhance the pub’s role as a cherished local destination, now led by a new management team including General Manager Manoj Parkale, who joins from the Group’s successful site, The King’s Arms in Prestbury, after four years with the company.
Guests can now enjoy a beautifully updated setting featuring refreshed décor, new soft furnishings, updated signage that offers an affectionate nod to Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and a reimagined garden complete with new furniture and thoughtful planting. While the pub retains its distinctive character and heritage features, the enhancements reflect Heartwood Collection’s signature style, warm, welcoming, and full of personality.
The reopening also coincides with Heartwood’s new “Reasons to Visit” campaign, launched at the start of the year, which introduced an expanded programme of events and experiences throughout the week. From steak nights and quiz evenings to seasonal celebrations and games nights, The Queen’s Head is now set to offer even more reasons for the community to come together.
Guests can once again enjoy Heartwood’s seasonally changing menus, including Heartwood’s brand-new Spring menu, created using ethically sourced ingredients and aligned with the group’s three-star Sustainable Restaurant Association rating.
Manoj Parkale, General Manager of The Queen’s Head, said:
“It’s been incredibly rewarding to be part of The Queen’s Head reopening and to welcome guests back through the doors. The refurbishment has created a space that feels both fresh and familiar, whilst injecting our usual quirky style back into the pub. I’m thrilled to be taking on a new challenge here in Weybridge and can’t wait to get stuck into the local community. ”
The Queen’s Head now stands ready to continue its role as a vibrant hub for Weybridge, bringing people together over great food, drink and memorable experiences in a beautifully renewed setting.
The Vineyards of the Surrey Hills are delighted to announce the launch of the very first Surrey Hills Wine Week, taking place from Saturday May 30 to Sunday June 7, 2026.
Celebrating the Vineyards of the Surrey Hills collective – comprising Albury Organic Vineyard, Chilworth Manor Vineyard, Denbies Wine Estate, Greyfriars Vineyard, High Clandon Estate Vineyard, Soloms Court Wine Estate and Tanhurst Estate Vineyard – Surrey Hills Wine Week will showcase the very best of English wine through a unique programme of events.
Throughout the week, visitors will have the opportunity to explore multiple vineyards across the North Downs, each offering its own distinctive experiences –
from relaxed tastings and behind-the-scenes tours to full-blown wine festivals. All set against the stunning backdrop of the Surrey Hills National Landscape.
“Surrey Hills Wine Week is a fantastic opportunity to bring together our vineyards and celebrate the quality, diversity and accessibility of English wine,” says Vineyards of the Surrey Hills’ Lucy Letley, general manager at Albury Organic Vineyard.
“Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable day out, this series of events invites visitors to discover the unique character of our vineyards and the landscape that shapes them.”
The launch of Surrey Hills Wine Week marks an exciting new chapter for the region’s wine tourism offering, building on the success of previous collaborative events and reinforcing the Surrey Hills’ position as a must-visit destination for wine lovers.
Visitors can expect not only exceptional wines – from elegant sparkling cuvées and crisp whites to fragrant rosés and fruity reds – but also breathtaking views, warm hospitality and a chance to experience one of England’s most picturesque and dynamic wine regions.
There are also plenty of extra-special reasons to celebrate: Tanhurst Estate Vineyard will be joining the festivities for the first time, Soloms Court Wine Estate will unveil its very first wine, and Denbies Wine Estate marks an impressive 40 years since planting its first vines.
With chalk soils mirroring those of the Champagne region and a growing international reputation for quality sparkling wines, Vineyards of the Surrey Hills offers a unique and accessible wine route just a short distance from London.
Experience a new level of relaxation as The Waggon Sauna at the Hampton Estate officially opens its doors on April 2nd!
Perfectly timed for an Easter reset, this off-grid, wood-fired sanctuary in Seale, offers a unique connection to the landscape. Crafted from the estate’s own timber and the historic Old Hops Barn, The Waggon is steeped in local heritage, providing a deeply grounding atmosphere to enjoy solo or with friends.
Guests can enjoy high-heat sessions paired with rejuvenating cold-water therapies, all while overlooking one of the most breathtaking views in the Surrey Hills. It is an invitation to step into the heat, breathe in the forest air, and let the stresses of modern life melt away in the heart of nature.
To book your place please visit www.thewaggonsauna.co.uk and follow our journey on social media: @thewaggonsauna on Instagramand Facebook. We look forward to welcoming you at The Waggon soon!
Squire’s Garden Centres, member of Surrey Hills Enterprises, is delighted to announce the launch of its 2026 ‘Love Where You Live’ community gardening programme, inviting local groups to apply for funding to support projects that use gardening to bring people together, improve wellbeing and enhance shared spaces.
*** APPLICATIONS ARE NOW EXTENDED UNTIL MIDNIGHT, SUNDAY 8th FEBRUARY ***
As Squire’s looks ahead to 2026 – its 90th anniversary year – the programme reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to giving back to the communities it has proudly served since 1936. ‘Love Where You Live’ is designed to support grassroots gardening projects close to Squire’s centres, helping local ideas grow into lasting community assets.
The programme offers a total fund of £5,000, with individual awards of up to £500, provided in the form of Squire’s vouchers. These can be redeemed for plants, tools and essential gardening supplies to help projects take shape and flourish. Successful applicants will be announced in mid-March. Applications need to ensure that proposed projects can be fulfilled within the programme period of April-July 2026.
Community groups located within a 10-mile radius of a Squire’s Garden Centre are invited to apply via the Squire’s website. Projects should demonstrate clear community benefit, show how gardening will be used to make a positive impact between April and July, and outline how the project will be sustained beyond the award period. Accessible, inclusive initiatives and those supporting people with specific needs are particularly encouraged. *Entry criteria applies – see website for more details.
Sarah Squire, Chairman of Squire’s Garden Centres, comments: “As we approach our 90th anniversary, it feels especially important to celebrate and support the communities around our centres. The ‘Love Where You Live’ programme is one of the ways we can give something back – helping local groups create welcoming green spaces that bring people together and make a real difference.”
Demonstrating the benefits of being a successful recipient of an award in 2025, Melissa Salisbury, Centre Manager, at Hale Community Garden, comments: “Receiving a Love Where You Live award made a real difference to our project. The support from Squire’s enabled us to buy plants, tools and materials we simply wouldn’t have been able to afford, helping us turn ideas into a thriving space the whole community can enjoy. It’s been wonderful to see people come together through gardening.”
The ‘Love Where You Live’ awards sit alongside Squire’s long-running Charity of the Year programme, reinforcing the business’s commitment to building strong, meaningful relationships within local communities.
Applications are open and extended to close on 8 February 2026. Full details and application forms can be found at squiresgardencentres.co.uk.
• The ‘Love Where You Live’ programme offers a total fund of £5,000, with individual awards of up to £500 in Squire’s vouchers.
Surrey Hills Enterprises member Cherry Trees has announced that it will be running a second short break respite home for children with complex disabilities.
Ofsted has approved the charity’s registration to manage Goldcrest Lodge in Liphook, Hampshire, a six-bed home set in the beautiful surroundings of Passfield Common.
The charity recognises the significant need to support families of children with complex disabilities and to help them lead happy and fulfilling lives. Each year, the impact of its existing home in East Clandon highlights just how vital this support is, and the positive difference it makes to many families.
Reaching more familes
Cherry Trees is also aware that many more families, children and young adults need access to high quality, outcome focused, outstanding provision. Following a detailed review of need across Surrey and neighbouring counties, the board of trustees has agreed a five-year growth plan, due to launch soon, to extend the charity’s reach and impact. The acquisition of Goldcrest Lodge marks the first step in this new phase of growth.
There will be a short closure period at the new home while it is transformed into an inspiring home from home, in line with the ethos of the East Clandon provision. The home is expected to reopen shortly under the name Cherry Trees – Goldcrest Lodge.
Cherry Trees making a real difference
Cherry Trees CEO Claire Bryantsaid: “We are delighted to be able to share this news which will see Cherry Trees take a big step forward as we embark on our much-needed growth plan.
“We are very proud of what we do and the difference we make to the lives of the children and families we support, so we are thrilled that we can bring our model of outstanding care into another county to help more families.
“We had a wonderful year at Cherry Trees in 2025 as we celebrated our 45th anniversary, as well as our third Ofsted Outstanding rating – something only 13% of short-break children’s homes in England achieve.
“We are now very much looking forward to the future and the next steps in our journey.”
They would love to hear from you
Anyone interested in finding out more about Cherry Trees – Goldcrest Lodge, or in getting involved to support the charity as it expands its work, is encouraged to get in touch. Cherry Trees welcomes contact from individuals, organisations and community groups interested in volunteering or offering support in other ways.
Enquiries can be directed to the Head of Fundraising and Communications, Mike Hey, by emailing fundraising@cherrytrees.org.uk or calling 01483 222507.
Civic guests and the local community gathered in the Hurtwood yesterday to mark the 90th anniversary of YHA Holmbury St Mary Youth Hostel—the first purpose-built youth hostel in England—and to celebrate its exciting new chapter as the Hurtwood Hideout. The hostel has long been a symbol of affordable access to nature, and thanks to recent investment, it is set to continue that legacy for generations to come.
Phil Maddock, Head of Partnerships at the YHA said.
“The YHA is delighted to partner with organisations such as the Hurtwood Hideout as it enables the long-term future of some amazing buildings and to deliver experiences to those who need it most. It is estimated that this hostel has provided half a million people with an overnight stay in the heart of nature since it opened in 1935, and we look forward to seeing the hostel flourish for the next 90 years and beyond.”
The new owners of the Hurtwood Hideout, Matt Morris and Tim Metson shared.
“We are delighted to safeguard the heritage of such a fantastic facility that has touched the lives of so many. The Hurtwood Hideout will continue to welcome visitors from the UK and the far corners of the world for hopefully many generations to come. The investment that has been made has positioned the site as the perfect central Surrey Hills location for activity, health and wellbeing generally. Everyone is welcome at the hideout!”
Tim Hall, Chair of Surrey County Council said.
“I am delighted to visit this fantastic facility and see the investment that secures its future. Huge thanks to the Youth Hostel Association for safeguarding the site, and to Tim and Matt for taking it forward. Most of all, thanks to the community—including Shere Manor Estate and Friends of the Hurtwood—for ensuring access for all to this wonderful countryside in the Surrey Hills.”
Michael Coughlin, Chair of Surrey Hills Enterprises said.
“Working with sustainable, community-driven businesses is at the heart of delivering exceptional visitor experiences in the Surrey Hills. This investment provides a hub for local businesses to come together to create new opportunities for adventure and overnight stays in this glorious part of the Surrey Hills.”
This project has been supported by the Surrey Hills National Landscape Access Fund and the Rural England Prosperity Fund, the site has undergone improvements to ensure better access and maintain its role as a gateway to the Surrey Hills landscape. This includes a bike hire hub, new kitchens, resurfaced paths, toilet block (including a disabled toilet), perimeter fencing, and firepits. Partnerships with local groups now enhance the hostel’s offering for cyclists, horse riders, and walkers, while off-road wheelchairs are available free of charge to open more of the countryside up for everyone.
Squire’s Shepperton will once again host a spectacular celebration of Britain’s favourite flower at the Rose Festival Weekend, taking place on the weekend of 27-28 June.
