Surrey Hills Enterprises (SHE) is delighted to announce that Hedges & Hurdles Country Skills & Crafts has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Surrey Hills Trademark Gold Award, presented at the annual SHE Gala Dinner at the stunning De Vere Horsley Towers on July 2nd, 2025. 

 As proud members of Surrey Hills Enterprises for over a decade, Hedges & Hurdles Country Skills & Crafts has been at the heart of our community — showcasing sustainability, countryside craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to collaboration. 

Led by Lorraine Ellery Matthews and her husband Paul Matthews, the business has become synonymous with natural creativity, crafting beautiful willow art and delivering inspiring countryside workshops that reflect the very essence of the Surrey Hills. 

Lorraine is also the driving force behind the highly anticipated Sculpture & Soul Festival, taking place this year on July 26th & 27th, 2025. The festival is a shining example of collaboration in action, bringing together over 15 SHE members to celebrate art, nature, and community in the heart of the Surrey Hills. More information can be found here. 

Meanwhile, Paul Matthews, a Champion Hedge Layer, is widely respected for his live willow hedge demonstrations — a much-loved feature at flagship events such as the Surrey Hills Wood Fair, Spring Fair, and many more, inspiring audiences and keeping traditional country skills alive. 

“Hedges & Hurdles Countryside Skills & Crafts truly reflects what the Surrey Hills Trademark Gold Award stands for — sustainability, craftsmanship, collaboration, and community spirit,” said Maggie Howell, CEO of Surrey Hills Enterprises. “Their commitment to supporting fellow members, showcasing rural skills, and enriching our events makes them exceptional ambassadors for the Surrey Hills.” 

The Surrey Hills Trademark Gold Award is the highest accolade given to SHE members, recognising business excellence, sustainability, and active contributions to the Surrey Hills National Landscape. 

About Surrey Hills Enterprises: 

Surrey Hills Enterprises (SHE) is a not-for-profit organisation supporting sustainable businesses within the Surrey Hills National Landscape. Through collaboration, events, and recognition such as the Gold Award, SHE celebrates those who help our landscapes, communities, and local economy thrive. 

Celebrate Mothers Day with unique gifts and experiences from the Surrey Hills!

With Mother’s Day just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to show your appreciation with a thoughtful, locally sourced gift or experience.  

Our talented local artisans and producers are offering everything from handcrafted jewellery and unique homewares to delicious treats, with some unforgettable experiences also on offer around the Surrey Hills.  Whether it’s a relaxing afternoon tea or wine tasting, or a creative workshop, our members provide wonderful ways to celebrate Mother’s Day.  

Explore some of our members’ offerings below and find the perfect Mother’s Day treat, to not only delight the special women in your life, but also support local businesses that embody the beauty and spirit of the Surrey hills.  

Denbies Wine Estate

Celebrate Mum this Mother’s Day at Denbies!  Enjoy a fantastic brunch and outdoor train ride, a sparkling afternoon tea and more!  Visit the website for all forthcoming Mother’s Day events.

Find out more about Denbies Wine Estate.

 

Adam Aaronson Glass Studio

On Sunday March 30th, Adam Aaronson Glass Studio invites you to  spend a special Mother’s Day together with a memorable glassblowing experience.  Choose from a bud vase or small scent bottle  – a memory to treasure forever. Two exclusive sessions available. Use code MUM15 to get £15 off the total for two people or more. Children 9 years and upwards welcome.

 

Silent Pool Distillers

The perfect way to celebrate Mother’s Day; a thoughtful Happy Mother’s Day celebration bottle of luxury English gin, handcrafted with 24 botanicals in the Surrey Hills.  This elegant keepsake bottle to treasure is presented in a Silent Pool Gin Gift Tin.  Also available as a part of a special Mother’s Day bundle, which includes a beautiful botanical candle.  Visit the website for more Mother’s Day ideas, including tours and tasting experiences.

Find out more about Silent Pool Distillers.

 

Hedges & Hurdles 

In the lead-up to Mother’s Day, Hedges & Hurdles are offering a variety of willow craft workshops that make for thoughtful and sustainable gifts for mothers. These hands-on experiences not only provide a unique present but also create lasting memories.

 

Barnett Hill Hotel

Gather the family and treat the special women in your life to a delicious meal at the Oak Hall at Barnett Hill Hotel this Mother’s Day, with their special menu created by the new Head Chef, Steven Newton. ⁠⁠

 

Greyfriars Vineyard

Greyfriars Vineyard is hosting a unique wine tasting event in honour of Mother’s Day. Taste a selection of delightful sparkling and still wines from their collection and enjoy a variety of British cheeses during the evening.  The event will be held on 29 Mar 2025 from 6:30pm – 8:30pm.  Bookings can be made online.

 

Voco Lythe Hill Hotel and Spa

Create cherished memories this Mother’s Day with a Pottery & Sparkling Afternoon Tea! Treat Mum or a special someone to hands-on-pottery workshop followed by a delightful sparkling afternoon tea.
Sunday 30th March 2025 from 1pm – 5pm

Find out more about Coco Lythe Hill Hotel and Spa.

 

Sweet C’s Handcrafted Chocolates

Make Mum’s Day even sweeter with a luxurious ‘Best Mum Ever’ Chocolate Bar! Crafted from smooth Colombian milk chocolate, this sweet treat melts in the mouth and says it all with every bite.  Visit the website for more gift ideas including ‘I Love Chocolate’ mugs, Colombian double chocolate hot  chocolate powder, hot choc stirrers and gift boxes of assorted chocolates.  Order by March 27th for guaranteed delivery in time for Mother’s Day!

Find out more about Sweet C’s Handcrafted Chocolates.

 

The Candle Suite

Just in time for Mother’s Day, The Candle Suite is offering a luxurious, vegan, eco soy wax Mother’s Day candle.  This Peach Breeze scented candle is refillable and customisable, making it perfect for gifting.  Every candle  is meticulously handcrafted and truly one of a kind. Order by 24 March for dispatch in time Mother’s Day.

 

Batts Hill Distillers

Treat your mum to a truly special Mother’s Day experience at Batts Hill Distillers on 29 March from 2:00pm – 4:00pm, crafting a beautiful floral masterpiece, while sipping on a handcrafted Batts Hill Gin & Tonic, and soaking in the rustic surroundings of Brightleigh Farm, Outwood.

 

Amanda Weller Energy Alchemy

Experience an Energy Alchemy Session to de-stress, find calm & peacefulness, for the special Mother’s Day price of £80* (full price £125).  The session may be in person or remote via video.  (*to be used by 31st May, 2025)

Find out more about Amanda Weller Energy Alchemy.

 

Mandira’s Kitchen

This Mother’s Day celebrate the most extraordinary women in your life with an Indian-style High Chai at Mandira’s Kitchen. Reserve your seat now and make the day truly unforgettable.  Alternatively, treat Mum at home with a Family Feast – which contains everything for a delicious three course Indian Banquet – you can even add a bottle of the Albury Sparkling Cuvée to make it extra special.

 

Albury Organic Vineyard

Why not celebrate Mother’s Day with a tasting of Albury Estate sparkling wines led by a member of the Albury team, followed by a glass of your choice accompanied by a selection of English cheese.  Admire views from the tasting room over the vineyard or take a stroll through the vines before or after your tasting.

Find out more about Albury Organic Vineyard.

 

Joyful Outdoors

For the perfect way to celebrate Mother’s Day together, come and explore the world of wild spring edibles! Join Elspeth, a forager, ethnobotanist, and wild food lover, for a small-group Mother’s Day foraging walk designed for beginners looking to build confidence in nature.  Enjoy delicious wild tasters, including a foraged greens pesto, and leave inspired with new knowledge and ideas.  This event will be held March 30th from 10:00am – 12:30pm.

Find out more about Joyful Outdoors.

 

Winterfold Candle Co

Just in time for Mother’s Day, Winterfold have launched their new spring/summer collection of  mindfully made, seasonally-scented candles.  These candles are hand poured in small batches using a blend of coconut & rapeseed wax, and would make a perfect gift for someone special.

Find out more about Winterfold Candle Co.

 

Back on Track

A hike and cake? This Mothers Day Walk provides the perfect combination for outdoor enthusiasts and cake lovers.  Join this guided walk into Mother Nature’s expressive scenes across Elstead Common reserve and Thursley Common.  29th March 10:45am – 1:15pm
Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
Duration: 2.5h plus time in cafe

Find out more about Back on Track.

 

Nicci Fairbank Creative Works

This Mothers’ Day, spoil your lovely mum with flowers.  Flowers that will last all year round.  Inspired by my garden and designed from my original artworks I have produced a range of botanically inspired homeware products.  With four collections, Tulips, Echinacea, Dandelion Field and Dandelion Clocks you have the choice of teatowels, aprons, decorative trays and fine bone chine mugs as a lovely unique gift to choose for her. Say it with ‘Flowers’.

Find out more about Nicci Fairbank Creative Works.

Harbour Kitchens

Mother’s Day Offer – 10% off a Brand New Bespoke Kitchen
Details: Start your new kitchen journey within the next 4 weeks by booking a consultation and quote “mothers day” to get 10% off your quote for bespoke hardwood kitchen cabinetry. We’ve never run a sale before but we think that mothers deserve their dream kitchen!

Find out more about Harbour Kitchens.

Surrey Distillery Featured on Alan Titchmarsh’s Love Your Weekend

Crafted in the heart of Surrey’s idyllic countryside, Copperfield London Dry Gin Volume Three Orange Spice took centre stage on ITV’s Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh on Sunday, 19th January 2025.

During the programme, Food & Drink Writer and Broadcaster Andy Clarke paired Copperfield London Dry Gin Volume Three with Afon Mêl Apricot Mead and Amaretto to create ‘Fireside Finisher’, which he describes as “The perfect end to an evening by the fire”.

The cocktail contains:
• 4 parts (200ml) Copperfield London Dry Gin Volume Three Orange Spice
• 2 parts (100ml) Afon Mel Apricot Mead
• 2 parts (100ml) Amaretto
• 1 part (50ml) Lemon Juice
• Glass: Rocks / Lowball
• Garnish: Orange rind

Inspired by a 18th-century recipe discovered in a historic bookshop near to the British Library, Copperfield Gin volumes 1-3 are the flagship creation of the Surrey Copper Distillery. Founded in 2017 by Dr Chris Smart and Professor Katherine Smart, and relaunched in 2024 with a new team at the helm, the distillery blends expert craftsmanship with a rich literary and historical narrative.

The gin’s recipe, adapted from The Complete Distiller (published in 1757), was unearthed by Katherine Smart amidst Charles Dickens’ Collected Works. This serendipitous find not only shaped the recipe but also inspired the gin’s Dickensian name, a tribute to the author’s legacy.

The Copperfield spirit library celebrates this literary heritage, with volume three aiming to bottle the feeling of warmth and togetherness. Located near The White Horse in Dorking, where Dickens penned parts of The Pickwick Papers, the distillery continues the tradition of crafting exceptional spirits with a story.

Mike Grieshaber, Director of Surrey Copper Gin Distillery, comments: “Copperfield London Dry Gin Volume Three Orange Spice is just the blanket of flavour we need as we curl up against the darkness of winter. Infused with winter herbs and spices, including sage, cinnamon, orange peel, coriander and cloves it tastes like winter. We’re proud to be featured on a fantastic show like Alan Titchmarsh’s Love Your Weekend and have Food and Drink Writer Andy Clarke work his magic to create such a perfect cocktail for January’s gloomy weather. We’re flying the flag for small manufacturers and producers in Surrey and it’s a great testament to what our community is producing too.”

To find out more about Copperfield London Dry Gin Volume Three Orange Spice and the story of the distillery visit the Surrey Copper Gin Distillery website.

Surrey Hills Enterprises (SHE) is delighted to announce a significant leadership milestone as we bid a heartfelt farewell to Simon Whalley, who retires as Chair after an incredible 12 years of dedicated service. At the same time, we are thrilled to welcome Michael Coughlin as our new Chair, bringing with him a wealth of experience and vision for the future.

 

Celebrating Simon Whalley’s Legacy

Simon Whalley has been at the helm of Surrey Hills Enterprises since its inception, playing a pivotal role in shaping the organisation into what it is today. Under Simon’s stewardship, SHE has grown into a thriving community that supports over 240 local organisations, champions sustainability, and celebrates the rich heritage of the Surrey Hills National Landscape.

Simon’s passion and commitment have been instrumental in fostering collaborations, enhancing the profile of the Surrey Hills brand, and creating countless opportunities for our members. His legacy includes not only the successful events and initiatives but also the strong foundation he has laid for future growth. We extend our deepest gratitude to Simon for his leadership and unwavering dedication over the past 12 years.

Welcoming Michael Coughlin

As we look to the future, we are delighted to announce that Michael Coughlin will take on the role of Chair of Surrey Hills Enterprises. Michael has been a valued Director of SHE for the past three years and has brought fresh perspectives and strategic insights to our board. His distinguished career at Surrey County Council, where he held key leadership roles, highlights his ability to deliver impactful initiatives and foster meaningful partnerships.

Michael’s expertise in public service and community engagement, combined with his deep understanding of Surrey Hills Enterprises, positions him perfectly to lead us into the next phase of our journey. We are excited to see how Michael’s leadership will help SHE continue to grow and thrive, supporting our members and promoting the values that make the Surrey Hills unique.

 Looking Ahead

This transition marks an exciting new chapter for Surrey Hills Enterprises. With Simon’s remarkable legacy as our foundation and Michael’s leadership guiding our future, we are confident in our ability to continue delivering value to our members, creating new opportunities, and championing the sustainability and beauty of the Surrey Hills.

We invite our members, partners, and the wider community to join us in thanking Simon for his extraordinary service and welcoming Michael into his new role. Together, we will build on our successes and work toward an even brighter future for Surrey Hills Enterprises

As we close the chapter on an incredible 2024, we’re reflecting on last year’s milestones and sharing a sneak peek at the opportunities 2025 has in store!

We also take a moment to bid a heartfelt farewell to our Chair, Simon Whalley, whose leadership has been truly inspiring. At the same time, we extend a warm welcome to his successor, Michael Coughlin, as he steps into this pivotal role.

 

What we achieved in 2024

Member Engagement:

• Launched the Lunch Hour Link-up for networking and support.
• Introduced the Summer Gala Dinner and hosted 3 new Netwalks.
• Ran sell-out masterclasses and unique member-led workshops like glass-making and chocolate tasting.
• Regular networking events, including the popular Watts Gallery gathering, sold out.
• Ran an impactful Sustainability conference

Marketing & Visibility:

• SEO-optimised members’ web pages and launched a weekly Member Spotlight on social media.
• Delivered 10,000 copies of the “Guide to the Surrey Hills” and created PR opportunities through local media.

Public Events:

• Hosted 12 events, featuring over 90 stallholders and attracting 15,000 visitors despite weather challenges.

Collaboration:

• Built partnerships with hotels, corporate buyers, and organisations like Surrey Chambers of Commerce.
• Supported pop-ups and markets with Denbies, Hall Hunter, and Squire’s.

 

Some of the things we can look forward to in 2025:

🌟 New Member Services: Free and upgraded listings in the new “Guide to the Surrey Hills.”

🌟 Exciting Events: Launching the Surrey Hills Country Fair, Fire and Food Fair, and the Power of Place conference.

🌟 Stronger Partnerships: Collaborating with Denbies, Merrist Wood, and the Hogs Back Brewery.

🌟 Operational Growth: Expanding team capacity and improving communications and events.

🌟 Sustainability Leadership: Rolling out tailored B Corp support and ESG packages.

🌟 New member Referral Scheme: exciting new initiative designed to grow and strengthen our network.

 

A Heartfelt Thank you to Simon Whalley:

On behalf of the Board of Directors, all the team, and our members, we’d like to say a heartfelt thank you to Simon Whalley, as he steps down from his post as Chair of Surrey Hills Enterprises.

His unwavering support, boundless enthusiasm, and remarkable dedication have been the cornerstone of Surrey Hills Enterprises since he founded it in 2012. Simon’s vision and steadfast commitment to supporting businesses in the Surrey Hills have made a lasting impact, creating a thriving community we are all so proud to be part of.

Welcoming our new Chair:

We are delighted to welcome Michael Coughlin to success Simon as Chair, from January. With over 20 years of senior experience across local government, the charitable sector, and private industry, Michael brings a wealth of expertise in leadership development, transformation, and culture change. As a Director at SHE for the past two years, Michael has demonstrated his passion for driving impactful initiatives. His strategic approach and background in fostering partnerships will help guide Surrey Hills Enterprises into an exciting new phase of growth and innovation.

Here’s to celebrating the past and embracing an even brighter future together!

Dorking Brewery has announced the acquisition of The Dolphin, a historic pub located in the heart of Betchworth. This marks the brewery’s fourth pub and its first freehold, representing a significant step in its growth and commitment to the Surrey community.

The Dolphin, a beloved local institution, was recently acquired from Young’s, and Dorking Brewery intends to preserve the pub’s heritage while introducing exciting new offerings. The pub will continue to serve the community as a hub for social gatherings and quality food and drink, with plans to feature Dorking Brewery’s renowned ales alongside a refreshed menu and a calendar of events.

Guests can expect a renewed focus on local produce, an improved beer garden, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. This acquisition reflects Dorking Brewery’s dedication to providing exceptional experiences and solidifying its position as a leading brewery and pub company in Surrey.

“We’re thrilled to welcome The Dolphin to the Dorking Brewery family,” says Neel Singh, Managing Director. “Being Surrey’s best brewery and pub company is important to us, and that means creating welcoming spaces with exceptional ales, quality food, and a genuine community atmosphere. This pub holds a special place in the community, and we’re committed to preserving its charm while adding our own unique touch.”

This acquisition marks an exciting new chapter for both Dorking Brewery and The Dolphin, promising a vibrant future for this cherished community pub. With a focus on quality, community, and exceptional experiences, Dorking Brewery invites everyone to raise a glass and celebrate this new beginning.

The Dolphin is located in Betchworth at RH3 7DW, The Street and is open now.

About Dorking Brewery

Dorking Brewery is a leading Surrey-based brewery dedicated to producing high-quality ales and craft beers. With a vision to be the best brewery in the county, they are committed to using the finest ingredients and traditional brewing methods to deliver exceptional taste and quality. Dorking Brewery prides itself on its strong community ties and dedication to providing customers with an unforgettable drinking experience.

Celebrate a Joyful and Sustainable Christmas with Surrey Hills

 As Christmas draws closer and shopping lists grow, it can be a challenge to find thoughtful gifts that bring that extra touch of magic. This year, why not make things simpler by choosing beautiful, locally crafted gifts from Surrey Hills? Not only will you discover unique presents that stand out, but you’ll also be supporting small businesses and contributing to protecting the environment.

Shopping local is about more than convenience; it’s about making a positive impact. Surrey Hills is home to an incredible variety of artisans and independent businesses, offering everything from handcrafted jewellery to gourmet treats. Buying locally ensures your gifts are filled with heart and purpose. Plus, it reduces your environmental footprint—fewer miles travelled and less wasteful packaging. Many local businesses also use sustainable materials, so you can enjoy a Christmas that’s eco-conscious and joyful.

Extra special gifts

When it comes to truly special gifts, nothing beats locally crafted items. Take Silver Anvil Jewellery, for example, which offers stunning bespoke pieces made from sterling silver and semi-precious gemstones. These are ideal for anyone who appreciates timeless, handmade elegance. For the gin lovers in your life, Batts Hill creates beautifully curated gift boxes that bring a hint of luxury to the festive season. And for coffee enthusiasts, Chimney Fire Coffee offers responsibly crafted, sustainable coffee, roasted right here in Surrey Hills. Their Bean to Cup Coffee Experience makes an unforgettable gift for those who are passionate about their morning brew.

For those seeking something eco-conscious, Mamas Bees Wax has a delightful range of handmade beeswax candles, soaps, and lip balms. Each product supports the vital care of bees and is created with sustainability in mind, making it a perfect gift for anyone wanting to give back to the environment this Christmas.

 

For food and drink lovers

 

Surrey Hills is brimming with gourmet delights. RoniB’s Kitchen offers artisanal, Philippine-inspired sauces, perfect for adding a unique twist to festive meals. For something heartier, you could fill your Christmas table with prime beef and wild venison from Hampton Estate, where you can also enjoy mulled wine and shop for locally produced treats at their Christmas collection day. And for a sweet indulgence, Sweet C’s handcrafted chocolates, made with single-origin cocoa and natural ingredients, are a luxurious and thoughtful gift. For wine connoisseurs, the vineyards of the Surrey Hills offer a tantalising selection of English wines, ideal for adding a festive sparkle to your celebrations.

Experiences

 

If you’re looking for more than just material gifts, experience-based presents are a wonderful way to create memories. Sian T. Photography is offering special gift vouchers that can be used for family portrait sessions or to capture those cherished moments—perfect for those who value experiences over possessions. Alternatively, for nature lovers, Joy Farm Crafts offers outdoor workshops, like greenwood spoon carving, basket weaving, and woodturning, all held under cover and often around a cosy campfire.

Even when it comes to decking your halls, Surrey Hills has eco-friendly options. You can adorn your tree with beautiful recycled silver decorations from Oddie and Hope, or choose unique glass ornaments from Made By Gina. These pieces not only add a personal touch to your home but also ensure your decorations are sustainably sourced.

Surrey Hills Enterprises

 

Surrey Hills Enterprises (SHE) is at the heart of this movement to buy local. As a Community Interest Company, we work to support and promote the local businesses that make Surrey Hills such a special place to live and shop. Our mission is to develop a thriving rural economy by helping our members grow, encouraging people to buy local, and fostering sustainability across the region. Through our network of independent businesses and artisans, we’re proud to champion local entrepreneurs who are deeply committed to creating high-quality, sustainable products.

SHE also promotes buying local through events and Artisan markets that showcase our talented members. One such event is the West Horsley Place Christmas Fair, taking place from 22–24 November. This fair is an ideal opportunity to discover beautifully crafted gifts, locally sourced food, and festive treats while supporting Surrey Hills’ small businesses. These events not only make shopping more enjoyable but also connect customers with the people behind the products, adding a personal touch to every purchase.

At SHE, we understand that sustainability is a priority for many consumers today, especially during the festive season. That’s why we actively promote businesses that are committed to eco-conscious practices through our Trade Mark Surrey Hills. This mark is a symbol of quality, sustainability, and local provenance, giving customers the confidence that they’re purchasing from a business that shares their values. Whether you’re buying handmade jewellery, artisan gin, or locally grown produce, when you see the Trade Mark Surrey Hills, you know you’re supporting a business that’s making a positive impact.As you make your gift list this year, consider the joy that comes from finding something both unique and eco-conscious. Look out for the Trade Mark Surrey Hills, which guarantees you’re supporting businesses committed to sustainability, quality, and the local community. Whether you’re giving a handcrafted piece of jewellery, a bottle of artisan gin, or an experience that connects your loved ones with nature, Surrey Hills has everything you need to make this Christmas special.

Let’s celebrate a festive season filled with joy, meaningful gifts, and a commitment to sustainability. We look forward to seeing you at our markets, including the West Horsley Place Christmas Fair, where you can experience the magic of local shopping first-hand. Happy shopping!

Surrey Hills Enterprises is delighted to announce Lavender Catering as the recipient of the prestigious Gold Trademark Award for 2024. The announcement was made at last week’s highly successful Summer Gala event at the Voco Lythe Hill Hotel, a glittering evening that brought together members and partners of Surrey Hills Enterprises to celebrate excellence in sustainability, collaboration, and community engagement.

Melanie Williams, founder of Lavender Catering, has been a shining example of what it means to be an active and dedicated member of Surrey Hills Enterprises. Lavender Catering, is renowned for its commitment to local producers and sustainable practices. The ‘25 Mile Radius Challenge,’ an initiative that focuses on sourcing produce within a 25-mile range of their Surrey Hills kitchen, underscores her dedication to supporting local suppliers. Melanie’s comprehensive sustainability policy, including zero food wastage and the use of sustainable and reusable products, has set a benchmark for other businesses to follow.

In addition to her business acumen, Melanie has demonstrated unwavering support for the community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she cooked thousands of meals for NHS staff, showcasing her commitment to helping others during challenging times. Her active engagement in royal visits and recent work with the Harry Edwards Foundation further highlight her invaluable contributions to Surrey Hills.

Melanie’s willingness to share her expertise and mentor other members, combined with her efforts to foster a collaborative spirit among local businesses, has been instrumental in promoting mutual growth and a sense of community within Surrey Hills Enterprises.

The Summer Gala also marked a new chapter for Surrey Hills Enterprises with the introduction of Maggie Howell as the new CEO. Maggie brings a new energy and drive to the organisation, focused on continuing to promote sustainability, support local businesses, and enhance community engagement. Under her leadership, Surrey Hills Enterprises is poised to reach new heights, building on the strong foundation laid by Maggie’s predecessor, Wendy Varcoe and of course its members.

Maggie Howell, CEO of Surrey Hills Enterprises, stated, “The coveted Gold Award is bestowed upon those Surrey Hills Enterprises members that have made a significant impact in relation to environmental sustainability, the inspiration they provide to others and their work to connect with the local community and other members.

Melanie’s dedication to sustainability, her active community involvement, and her exemplary business practices make her a truly deserving winner of this year’s Gold Trademark Award. Her contributions embody the values and mission of Surrey Hills Enterprises. We are thrilled to have her as part of our community and look forward to continuing to support her and other members in their endeavours.”

The Summer Gala was a resounding success, bringing together members and partners to celebrate and recognise the outstanding achievements within the Surrey Hills community. The event was a testament to the vibrant and collaborative spirit that defines Surrey Hills Enterprises.

 

Many thanks to Alex Orrow for the photos and the Voco Lythe Hill Hotel for hosting the event

PEER-reviewed author, Co-Founder of The Forest Bathing Institute, and champion for connecting children and adults with nature, Olga Terebenina, has been nominated as a global leader to follow over the coming decade.

Olga’s drive and passion for the environment and individual health and well-being are at the heart of the ethos of The Forest Bathing Institute. Commenting on the Global Woman nomination as a Top 100 Global Woman Entrepreneur to be inspired by, Olga says: ‘I am absolutely delighted to have been nominated and to be part of such an esteemed network, it is a real honour. I appreciate each of us is dedicated to our personal cause with a vision to improve the welfare of others, and to be an inspiration to the next generation.’

Motivated by a fascination for the environment in her teens, Olga’s focus is to introduce the benefits of spending time in nature to old and young alike. Having experienced the drain on her own energy whilst studying at Kings College and living in Central London in her early 20’s, Olga explains how nature became her salvation.

Commenting on what transpired to be a demanding and stressful time in her life, Olga says: ‘City life is fast-paced, with constant stimulation, which is great, however it can also impact in a negative way and can be draining and cause anxiety and depression – which is what happened to me.

‘It was the introduction by my husband and TFBI Co-Founder, Gary Evans, who had been researching Forest Bathing, a form of eco-therapy underpinned by a mindfulness practice, that I realised how important it was to me to spend regular time in a natural setting, be that a park, garden or the countryside. This helped to recharge my batteries and ground me too.’

Inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku and the many years of scientific evidence citing the physiological and mental health benefits of spending mindful time in nature, The Forest Bathing Institute was founded in 2016. At its core is a vision to replicate and expand the Japanese research in the UK and to present the findings to government organisations, including the Department of Health and Social Care, with the aim of establishing the practice of Forest Bathing within the social prescribing initiative.

Ground-breaking UK research has been conducted in the UK in partnership with numerous universities, including the University of Derby, the University of Sheffield and the University of Birmingham, with the published papers detailing the findings, which have been presented to various government departments. There are ongoing discussions with governmental departmental bodies, local councils, charities, and medical professionals.

Currently, the Institute is in contact with circa 100 universities worldwide who are keen to work on new areas of research to evidence nature’s health and well-being benefits. The aim is to integrate this practice into the green social prescribing agenda across the globe. The Forest Bathing Institute regularly receive international delegations interested in launching country-specific projects with the assistance of Olga and Gary.

Reflecting on the journey of The Forest Bathing Institute and her own, Olga comments: ‘As an organisation, one of our goals is to spread awareness about the health and wellbeing benefits of spending time in nature, as well as nature protection. Our founders’ mission is to make nature available to all people from all backgrounds and walks of life.’

My nature journey continues to deepen, and I am always amazed at how enriching an experience it is. Eleven years on, I now live on a 400-acre farm in West Sussex, a beautiful part of Southeast England – a far cry from London!’

If you are interested in finding out more about Forest Bathing and the science behind it, you can read the published scientific papers. Visit our website to find out more about The Forest Bathing Institute, its founders and vision for the future.

Co-Founder, The Forest Bathing Institute, Olga Terebenina

 

In Spring 2020 The Forest Bathing Institute (TFBI) were thrilled to announce that Dame Judi Dench is now a Patron of the TFBI. Full information is available on the website: https://tfb.institute/blog/

 

TFBI have developed a unique form of forest bathing called Forest Bathing+ (FB+) which is now being widely adopted across England. FB+ is a more comprehensive therapeutic form of forest bathing developed in cooperation with numerous universities, professors, doctors, and scientists.

 

During 2019, ground breaking UK pilot scientific studies and research took place with the TFBI at the University of Derby, measuring the health benefits of FB+. The research revealed improvements across 12 areas of well-being. Alongside psychometric testing, heart rate monitors (HRV) were worn by participants to measure changes in the nervous systems relaxation response. The initial analysis of the HRV data highlighted increased activity in the parasympathetic nervous system.

 

Since its inception, Gary Evans Co-Founder and Director of TFBI has been fostering close working relationships with numerous major landowners, including the NHS, Guildford Council, and various universities including the University of Surrey and the University of Derby to advance and promote the health benefits of forest bathing.

 

Indeed, those of us at TFBI have seen first-hand how adopting a mindful state helps to stay present and connected, especially when spending time in woodland and in nature. This in turn helps to quieten the mind and switch the body’s nervous system to that of the parasympathetic, which is the more recuperative healing system.

 

Full information relating to the training offered by TFBI is available on the website.