This Bike Week (09 – 15 June) Surrey Hills Society is calling on all budding bikers who want to give something back to the landscape they enjoy riding through.
It is now looking for volunteers to help with this work around Puttenham, Elstead, Thursley, Frensham and the Devil’s Punch Bowl.
Totalling just under 55 miles, these loop routes are all largely off-road or use quiet roads and are perfect for those keen to escape the traffic and explore nature. Each route is individually waymarked with distinctive colouring, but riders are also able to use Komoot (an app like Google maps but for where the roads end) to guide them along the trails.
The Society is keen to identify people who would be interested in riding the routes and assisting with a variety of tasks including litter picking, waymarking and reporting of any issues on the route, such as fallen trees, flooding or erosion.
Kate Bannister, Surrey Hills Society Volunteer Coordinator said:
“If you’re someone who loves riding off-road and always wanted to learn more about how routes are put together using rights of way and what goes on behind the scenes, then this is the opportunity for you!
Knowing how busy everyone is day to day; these roles are designed to be flexible and fit around our volunteers’ schedules. Whatever help we receive will go a long way to ensuring more people can explore the countryside, while also helping in our conservation efforts by keeping riders on the right path.”
These volunteer roles are designed to be done at a time most suited to the individual riders, with a set schedule of tasks being provided over time. Committed volunteers will also be able to receive mentoring and training from the Society, making it an ideal role for people looking to develop the skills for countryside management jobs.
Rob Fairbanks, Surrey Hills National Landscape Director said:
“One of the overwhelming bits of feedback we received in our recent management plan survey was the importance Surrey residents put on both conservation and access to the Surrey Hills.
This volunteering opportunity is great example of balancing both aspects, and we look forward to sharing our commitment to enhancing visitor experiences whilst making space for nature with our passionate volunteers.”
BBC article regarding our Surrey Hills Society’s Care Farm project:
On a farm nestled in the Surrey Hills, young people are helping herd cows and build pens so they can be wormed.
They are spending time on Pondtail Farm in Brockham, near Box Hill, to help boost their mental health as part of the Care Farm project.
Katie Daw, the Surrey Hills Society Care Farm co-ordinator, said the scheme was boosting young people’s confidence and wellbeing, and reducing anxiety.
Ronnie, aged 17, said helping out on the farm was “like heaven on earth to me”.
“People are sleeping better, eating better, wanting to actually get up and get out of the house, which a lot of them really can’t because their mental health is so bad,” said Ms Daw.
“We take anybody that’s suffering from mental health or needs a boost with their health and wellbeing and we take them out to working farms.”
She said that sessions involve farm jobs such as “collecting eggs or tagging cattle”, depending on “what they need for their mental health”.
“It’s been really impactful, there has been a couple of participants that have looked into doing agriculture as a career,” she added.
She said it also had a knock-on effect for families and carers and could make a “massive difference”.
Getting outdoors can boost wellbeing said Ronnie, who has helped out on the farm
Ronnie, 17, has found solace on the farm and learnt new skills.
She said: “Just being around nature makes me quite a lot happier and just being here is like heaven on earth to me.
“It means quite a lot to me just being around the animals.”
Peter, who is 16, said he enjoyed “just getting away from everything” and found the farm peaceful.
Peter helped herd the cows and recommended the Farm Care project
Nellie Budd, from Pondtail Farm, said: “There’s always something different to do and for them to come and have a look at.
“I’ve definitely seen quite a few of them change and feel more confident with and around the animals.”
One young person would not go near the animals on their first day but “they won’t even hesitate” now, she said.
“It’s given them the confidence they need to realise that they can achieve things.”
The project opened Thea’s eyes to a range of outdoors careers
Thea, 14, has now gained a place at agricultural college to study horticulture.
She said Care Farm had given her “a lot more confidence with people and animals”.
Bethany, who is 17, added: “I really enjoy spending time with the cows and all the different animals around.
“It’s just a good way to get out to the house and spend time in the countryside.”
The pilot scheme is backed by a £65,900 award from the Mental Health Investment Fund and the Surrey Hills Farming in Protected Landscapes programme.
The Surrey Hills Society are very proud to announce the completion of our collaborative project to create a book entitled ‘The Thousand Year Tree’ that tells the story through time of Surrey’s ancient trees. It is the culmination of a year-long project to bring a bud of an idea to maturity working with local author, Lucy Reynolds and Katie Hickey, illustrator.
The Society successfully sought funding from Defra’s Access for All fund with the help of the Surrey Hills National Landscape Board and we have been involved at every step of the creative process to bring this book to publication.
One of our core aims is conservation. A mature tree may look majestic and strong but it is fragile if not cared for in the right way. This book seeks to highlight that. We brought a local Guildford school, Weyfield Primary Academy, to visit and learn about the ancient yews at Newlands Corner and how we need to look after them to ensure their future. This was followed up by a series of workshops where the children’s amazing creativity inspired most of the illustrations and words to co-create the book.
Luke, aged 9, one of the pupils involved at Weyfield Primary Academy said: “I liked when we looked at the yew trees, described them and all the great work everyone did at the workshops.”
A competition was then launched through Surrey Libraries’ network to engage all young people aged 4 to 11 across Surrey to submit a design for the endpapers of the book. The four winners have received a copy of the printed book.
Old Dungate Press have generously printed 1,000 copies of the book that are on sale at Haslemere Bookshop, please follow the link to order online. Any profits from sales will come back to the Surrey Hills Society for future conservation work and ‘Access for All’ projects. Copies will be given to local Surrey schools and each of Surrey’s 52 libraries will have a copy to borrow. Each child in Pine Class at Weyfield Primary Academy received a copy as well as a Certificate of Achievement to mark their involvement at the launch event held at Newlands Corner on 2 December.
Gordon Jackson, Chair of the Surrey Hills Society adds: “This project has exceeded our expectations. Not only have the children produced a stunning book but we have been able to reach a diverse group of children who were excited to explore some of our most important ancient trees and develop their understanding of how long the trees have been alive set against a historic timeline. I would like to express my thanks to Lucy Reynolds and Katie Hickey for the inspiration behind this project and Old Dungate Press and Guildford Book Festival for helping the book come to fruition. This project was a real collaboration and I must also thank Surrey County Council’s Countryside and Libraries teams for their assistance with the competition and of course the Surrey Hills Access for All Fund which has enabled
the whole project to happen.”
A new initiative is taking flight in the Surrey Hills, aimed at drawing attention to the remarkable world of invertebrates. In a collaborative effort with local farmers and landowners, new educational signs are being installed across the National Landscape to engage the community with the extraordinary and essential roles these tiny creatures play in our ecosystem.
Invertebrates, which include all insects and spiders, make up an astonishing 73% of all organisms on our planet. In stark contrast, vertebrates (creatures with backbones) constitute a mere 0.4% of global species, with humans being a minuscule part of this category. Despite our small numbers, human impact on the environment is disproportionately large. This project aims to shift the focus towards protecting invertebrates, as safeguarding these species helps to protect the broader ecosystem.
The new signs, which will be prominently placed along popular trails and scenic spots, feature vibrant illustrations and compelling facts about various invertebrate species. Visitors can learn about the critical roles these “minibeasts” play, from pollination to decomposition, and how they support the entire food web.
“We’re excited to launch this initiative,” said Catherine McCusker from the National Trust who has led this project alongside Christa Emmett from the Surrey Hills Society. She added “By highlighting the importance of invertebrates, we hope to inspire a sense of wonder and responsibility in everyone who visits the landscape. Protecting these creatures is essential for the health of our environment.”
Rob Fairbanks, Surrey Hills National Landscape Director said “The signs are a result of a concerted community effort, with input from farmers, landowners, and conservationists. This collaboration underscores the shared commitment to preserving Surrey Hills’ natural heritage and fostering a greater understanding of the intricate web of life that sustains us all.”
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply enjoying a walk in the hills, these signs will offer valuable insights and encourage a deeper connection to the natural beauty of the Surrey Hills.
An exciting competition kicked off across Surrey on the 1st June to encourage young people to celebrate ancient trees and have their artwork featured in a new children’s book, ‘The Thousand Year Tree’. Children aged between 4 and 11 years are encouraged to head to their local Surrey library to pick up a template and create artwork for the inside covers, known as ‘end papers’ of the new book. Any art medium can be used, and artwork should be themed around trees and nature.
As England’s most wooded county, Surrey is home to some of our nation’s oldest trees, many are over one thousand years old. To celebrate these trees, local author Lucy Reynolds and illustrator Katie Hickey, are working with a group of children from Weyfield Primary Academy in Guildford. They have already been involved in a series of creative workshops, school assemblies and educational visits to Newlands Corner in the Surrey Hills National Landscape, to see the ancient yew trees. The children, guided by the experts will create poems and timelines charting the history of ancient trees which will culminate in the creation of a captivating Children’s Book. The book will be distributed across all 52 of Surrey’s libraries as well as through additional local schools, inviting readers of all ages to learn about ancient trees and how to safeguard their future.
Gordon Jackson, Chairman of the Surrey Hills Society said: “The Surrey Hills Society is delighted to be involved in this project, supported by a grant from the Surrey Hills Access for All fund. We are extremely grateful for the promotional support of the Surrey Library network. Being a part of the process of creating the book with both Lucy and Katie is inspirational and we very much look forward to seeing the final literary masterpiece. The Society is committed to encouraging people of all ages and abilities to discover and enjoy the Surrey Hills and we are proud to help Surrey’s children learn so much about our ancient trees and surrounding countryside.”
Carolyn McKenzie, Director of Environment at Surrey County Council said: “With creativity, education, and community spirit at its core, this project not only celebrates Surrey’s ancient trees but also fosters a deeper connection between young minds and the natural world, paving the way for a future generation of environmental stewards. This project highlights even more the importance of Surrey’s tree planting scheme, which will plant 1.2 million trees by 2030, the trees of today will become the ancient trees of the future leaving a lasting legacy.”
Susan Wills MBE Assistant Director Arts, Culture, Heritage and Libraries at Surrey County Council said: “What a wonderful opportunity for children to take part in a creative reading project that encourages learning about nature and Surrey’s ancient trees. Surrey is England’s most wooded county and this project is a wonderful opportunity to educate children in the vital role trees play, from providing habitats for wildlife to absorbing carbon dioxide! All fifty-two of our Surrey Libraries are taking part so wish all the participants the best of luck!”.
The competition runs from 1 June to 4 September and templates can be collected and returned to any Surrey Library. Further details and terms and conditions are available on the Surrey Hills Society website, click here to find out how you can get involved..
The project is a collaborative effort between the Surrey Hills Society, Surrey Hills National Landscape, Surrey County Council, author Lucy Reynolds, illustrator Katie Hickey, Guildford Book Festival and The Old Dungate Press. With thanks to funding from the Surrey Hills Access for All fund, enabling everyone to love and protect Surrey’s National Landscape.
To celebrate Community Rail Network’s Community Rail Week, customers from Surrey Choices Vocational Projects Team (an organisation providing support to adults with learning disabilities) embarked on an immersive journey through two picturesque landscapes, courtesy of the North Downs railway line. This year focuses on ‘More than a Railway’, and with thanks to Great Western Railway’s funding, the Surrey Choices team had the opportunity to experience both the Surrey Hills National Landscape and Blackwater Valley whilst gaining valuable insights into safe and efficient travel on the train.
Aboard the train, the group took part in a creative session inspired by the landscape of the Surrey Hills. Upon reaching Farnborough North in the heart of the Blackwater Valley, they explored tranquil fishing lakes and regenerated gravel pits, offering a striking contrast to the chalk hills of Surrey. There was also a visit to Reg’s Garden, a beautiful community garden looked after by dedicated volunteers from Farnborough Street Resident’s Association.
This initiative embodies inclusivity, aiming to help communities feel confident using the train, as well as experiencing it as a new way to visit neighboring countryside. It is exemplary of how Community Rail Partnerships not only connect people to the railway, but also to the surrounding history, heritage, and nature. This pilot project is a collaborative effort between Surrey Hills National Landscape, Surrey Hills Society, Southeast Communities Rail Partnership, and the Blackwater Valley Countryside Trust.
Our Surrey Hills needs everyone’s help to keep it special for the future
Surrey Hills Society are thrilled to announce that they have received a grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund of just under £145,000 for their project ‘Growing Together: Inclusion and Conservation in the Surrey Hills’. A big thank you to all National Lottery players for helping to make this happen.
The core objective of ‘Growing Together’ is to establish a legacy into the future for inclusive environmental conservation. The Society is employing a dedicated project officer, who will seek out, encourage and nurture a diverse community of environmental champions to actively participate in conservation projects. We are committed to engaging with the community and believe that everyone should have a chance to learn about, care for and preserve our special Surrey Hills National Landscape for the future.
In 1949 the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act stated that protected landscapes should be preserved as spaces for physical and mental wellbeing for all. However, a 2023 survey of green volunteering opportunities for disabled people in Surrey concluded that they face significant barriers to being able to participate in activities. Our project is a proactive step towards bridging these gaps.
Gordon Jackson, Chairman of the Society says: “Over the last couple of years, The Society has developed an extensive programme of local conservation and countryside activities, aiming to inspire people of all abilities and backgrounds to learn about the environment and help to conserve our varied habitats. ‘Growing Together’ is a natural extension of this work and we are delighted, thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery players, to be able to work alongside our new partners to promote accessible countryside pursuits and to increase confidence in being outdoors.”
We already work closely with a number of charitable organisations in the sector. Representatives from Surrey Minority Ethnic Forum, Surrey Coalition of Disabled People and Surrey Choices have made the following statement: “We are delighted to be partners in a project that holds inclusion at its very core. ‘Growing Together’ will provide important opportunities for those who traditionally face barriers when accessing the countryside. We believe this project will help the people we support to enjoy new experiences, learn new skills, build relationships and connect with the heritage of the Surrey Hills National Landscape.”
The project will run for 18 months and will be monitored for success by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The Surrey Hills Society is delighted to have received a grant from the Mental Health Investment Fund (MHIF) a joint fund from Surrey Heartlands and Surrey County Council to implement an East Surrey Care Farm Pilot Project. This funding will enable the implementation of the care farming programme, an initiative aimed at enhancing mental well-being through farm visits.
In collaboration with Growing Health Together and the Surrey Hills National Landscape, the Surrey Hills Society has appointed Katie Daws as the Project Officer. Katie will work closely with local farmers to orchestrate farm visits designed to promote therapeutic care for individuals facing physical, mental, and emotional challenges. This not only includes farming activities, but also nurturing the special relationship that artistic activities can bring during visits to the farms.
Katie Daws, Project Officer for the East Surrey Care Farm Project said. “This project is a unique opportunity to develop a new, supportive environment on local farms. I have seen from my previous experiences on farms supporting vulnerable people with mental health needs that the impact goes beyond a sense of comfort for the participants. The positive impact extends to the farmers in regard to their well-being and a new source of income.”
These sessions are tailored to support the mental health of people across all ages and backgrounds. The project recognises the profound benefits of connecting with nature and farming practices, particularly for groups that have been underserved by conventional services. It seeks to engage individuals currently struggling to access support for their mental well-being, offering a new approach for mental health and social prescribing in Surrey.
Dr Gillian Orrow, GP, Co-founder and Director of Growing Health Together said. “I am excited for the launch of the Care Farm Pilot in East Surrey, which will offer children, young people and adults with a range of health and care support needs, opportunities to connect with nature and animals on local working farms. The initiative responds to calls from our patients and their families for a more diversified local offer to support mental health and wellbeing, one that centres nature connection and the active role people can play in their own recovery. I am excited to see the impact this project will bring”.
This grant marks a significant milestone in the Surrey Hills Society’s commitment in fostering improved well-being through connection to nature.
Rob Fairbanks, Director of the Surrey Hills National Landscape said. “Farmers in Surrey are the custodians of our countryside, helping to maintain our landscape, provide food and create space for nature. This project pilots the health benefits for some of the most vulnerable members of society through therapeutic contact with farm animals. We are grateful for the funding from the Mental Health Investment Fund for our Surrey Hills Society to pilot this approach. It is an opportunity to evidence the impact so that we can work with the farming community and partners to extend the programme in future years.”
Surrey Hills team awarded with the ‘Working in Partnership and Communities’ Award
A huge thank you to Surrey Choices for awarding our Surrey Hills Society and wider team with their ‘Working in Partnership and Communities’ award at Denbies Wine Estate! We have delivered some fantastic projects to help make space for nature with the Surrey Choices Growth Team including dead hedging and tree popping. We look forward to many more projects to come to help enhance and support the species and habitat in the Surrey Hills.
Discover some of the projects we have delivered with the Surrey Choices Growth Team here.
On Wednesday 27 July, Surrey Hills Arts celebrated their launch of ‘HABITAT’ at the University of Surrey. ‘HABITAT’ is an Arts Council funded project working collaboratively with the University of Surrey and Surrey Wildlife Trust, exploring how artists can positively contribute to increasing biodiversity in urban spaces.
As an experimental pilot project, a built-up space at the University of Surrey was selected. Working with the University’s Horticultural and Landscape Manager and Archives and Special Collections Manager, the Surrey Wildlife Trust and four artists, the project set out to transform the area with planting and sculptures created specially to attract and support local wildlife. The artists worked collectively as well as independently researching local declining species and experimenting with designs and maquettes towards their final artworks.
This project has been a wonderful collaboration across campus teams, with local organisations and artists, and a range of community groups. The launch event was attended by representatives from arts, environment, community and civic organisations and the lively discussions revealed the potential of this project, and the creative way it addressed environmental issues, as a springboard for further initiatives across the area.
Helen Roberts, Archives and Special Collections Manager, University of Surrey
HABITAT team with the Mayor of Guildford during the project launch evening at the University of Surrey. Image by Paul Stead
Supporting species at the base of the food chain was the focus for artist Livia Spinolo. By increasing the population of slugs and snails this will attract birds such as the Song Thrush and Bull Finch. Her artwork ‘Vertical Undergrowth’ is a tower of repurposed concrete slabs planted with natural elements such as soil, moss, and native plants. Situated in a shady location, this feature will attract invertebrates whilst providing ledges for the birds.
Nearby to ‘Vertical Undergrowth’, lies a sculpture housing discarded branches. Over 50% of insects that rely on deadwood are threatened in Surrey. Creatures such as beetles, bees, butterflies, wasps, wood boring insects and in turn, their predators, are at risk. ‘Benjes Ark’ by Russell Jakubowski is able to be regularly restocked as the wood breaks down and in creating two ‘arks’ of different scales and locations, we are able to monitor the species attracted to different conditions. The Arks provide a hiding place and a micro-climate. Their densely packed enclosures also act as a refuge for reptiles such as toads, lizards and hedgehogs.
Livia Spinolo with her artwork Vertical Undergrowth Image by Paul SteadRussell Jakubowski with his artwork Benjes Ark Image by Paul Stead
Artist Amy Haigh has created a ‘Reconfigured Cycle Rack’ that was no longer needed by the University. She cut this into 600 pieces and reassembled it to create a dome structure with a log pile at its centre. Amy’s research for the piece focused on slow worms and stag beetles as protected species present in the area. She found that decaying logs are fundamental for stag beetles as a food source and by planting them deep in the ground, the beetle larvae are able to migrate between the soil and wood. The shade helps to create damper conditions and therefore softer soil, required by stag beetles and other invertebrate species, some of which slow worms feed on. Amy embedded the lowest ring of pipes in the soil, forming tunnels in every direction creating safe terrain for slow worms.
‘HexB’ by Will Nash utilises his fascination with natural geometry and sequences to develop new sculptural ideas for solitary bee architecture using 3D printing, silicone moulding, and cast Jesmonite. Will invented a prototype system of nest holes that can be easily disassembled for the annual harvesting of the bee cocoons then cleaned for reuse. As a legacy to this project, Will plans to work with solitary bee enthusiasts to trial the HexB system alongside their other bee nests.
Amy Haigh with her artwork Reconfigured Cycle Rack Image by Paul SteadWill Nash with his artwork HexB Image by Paul Stead
The artworks will be monitored over the seasons to assess which species are benefitting and to help us to plan further eco spaces across the county. The artists also came up with some simple sculptural habitat ideas that everyone can make from a willow nest ball to a bird feeder. They ran workshops with local community groups including Halow, The Hive and Kings College secondary school. In all, 400 people learned about their local species and created artworks to support them. An additional benefit of this reconfigured space and the sculptural habitats within it, is that it provides a much-improved area for students of the University to take a break, be more mindful of wildlife and, hopefully, positively impact their wellbeing.
Artists want to make a difference to our biodiversity crisis, and this project has given them time to create pieces that help support the many species sadly in decline in the county. This much needed experimental project provides a positive starting point towards greener Surrey communities.
Ali Clarke, Programme Manager, Surrey Hills Arts
Surrey Hills Arts are working with Surrey Hills Society to fundraise for Part 2 of the project. You can support their Your Fund Surrey application by agreeing and commenting on the proposal here.
A special event was held last night (21 June) at the Grade II listed Fetcham Park, Surrey to mark the 10th anniversary of Community Interest Company Surrey Hills Enterprises and to celebrate the outstanding successes of some of the very best local Surrey Hills’ businesses.
Surrey Hills Enterprises was founded 10 years ago this month to work with local businesses to support the rural economy and promote, protect and enhance the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and, a decade on, continues to go from strength to strength today.
Simon Whalley, Chairman of Surrey Hills Enterprises (c) Sian T. Photography
Joined by a personally-invited array of current members, corporate partners, trustees and a number of VIP invitees, guests were officially welcomed to the anniversary event held at the Queen Anne mansion by Lord Lieutenant of Surrey, Michael More-Molyneux, Simon Whalley, Chairman, and Wendy Varcoe MBE, Executive Director of Surrey Hills Enterprises and Sandra and Malcolm Young, owners of Fetcham Park.
With welcome cocktails served by Binary Botanical, sustainably-made beer brewed from waste bread provided by Crumbs Brewing and espresso martinis from Chimney Fire Coffee and Silent Pool, the evening offered the chance for local business people to meet, network and celebrate, moving from the Great Hall to the Salon.
binary botanical serving Surrey Hills cocktails (c) Sian T. Photography
Michael More-Molyneux, Lord Lieutenant of Surrey welcomes guests to Fetcham Park (c) Sian T. Photography
Commenting on the special anniversary event, Michael More-Molyneux, Lord Lieutenant of Surrey and Patron of Surrey Hills Enterprises, said:
“I applaud Surrey Hills Enterprises on reaching this pivotal milestone and for their ongoing work in supporting Surrey Hills’ businesses and the wider economy and landscape. Now, more than ever, it is essential that we recognise the commitment of Surrey’s small businesses and their key efforts in working towards a more sustainable future for the region.”
The theme of delicious Surrey Hills’ refreshments provided by local producers and businesses continued with a selection of canapes using local produce offered by Lavender Catering, Samosas from Mandira’s Kitchen, Surrey Hills sparkling wine served by Albury Organic Vineyard, coffee provided by Chimney Fire Coffee, and dessert in the form of Moooh! Ice Cream served from a vintage ice cream bicycle.
Peter Courtney-Fitch, Gildings Barns enjoying locally-made Moooh! Ice Cream (c) Sian T. Photography
Sandra Young, director and owner of Fetcham Park congratulated Surrey Hills Enterprises saying:
“Fetcham Park has been home to many small and new businesses over the past 23 years and we are delighted to see many thrive and grow into significant national players. Several of our clients are working in leading edge technologies, both nationally and internationally. Working with Surrey Hills Enterprises complements Fetcham Park’s ethos of supporting the diverse and dynamic organisations based in our well-connected county, amplifying the message that Surrey is a vibrant place to do business.”
The Mandira’s Kitchen team enjoying the terrace at Fetcham Park (c) Sian T. Photography
As part of the landmark event, Surrey Hills Enterprises presented three special businesses and individuals with the coveted Gold Trade Mark Awards 2022. Introduced and presented by Michael More-Molyneux, Lord Lieutenant of Surrey, the Gold Trade Mark Awards were bestowed in recognition of the winners particularly excelling in their dedication towards improving environmental sustainability, the inspiration they provide to others and their collaboration and connection with other Surrey Hills Enterprises members and their local community.
The Gold Trade Mark Award winners with the Lord Lieutenant of Surrey; High Sheriff; Simon Whalley and Wendy Varcoe MBE, Surrey Hills Enterprises
The first award was presented to Founder of Plant Passion, Claire Brown. Based in East Clandon, Plant Passion grows beautiful, seasonal sustainable flowers that are sold locally to florists, for events, and as bunches and bouquets. Seasonal, scented and sustainable, all blooms are of the very highest quality and grown on the flower farm at the heart of the Surrey Hills, ensuring they are the best and most sustainable English cut flowers, something that Plant Passion prides themselves on.
Claire Brown, Founder of Plant Passion receives her Gold Trade Mark Award from the Lord Lieutenant of Surrey (c) Sian T. Photography
Mandira Sarkar, Mandira’s Kitchen (c) Sian T. Photography
Mandira Sarkar at Mandira’s Kitchen received the second Gold Trade Mark Award 2022.
Producing award-winning Indian meals from a beautiful location alongside the Silent Pool in Albury, Mandira’s Kitchen dishes are handmade in small batches using fresh produce, family traditions and lots of love.
They can be purchased on site or delivered directly to customers’ homes, with meals containing no preservatives and frozen to keep the flavour and goodness intact.
Martin Bamford, CEO of Bear Content, a content production agency working with small businesses in the Surrey Hills and beyond to create video, blog and podcast content marketing, was the third and final awardee. The first time that a Gold Trade Mark has been bestowed on an individual, Martin received the award in recognition of his commitment and the time he gives to Surrey Hills and the local community in Cranleigh, as well as his inspiration to others.
Martin Bamford, Bear Content (c) Sian T. Photography
Simon Whalley, Chairman of Surrey Hills Enterprises congratulated the three winners on their Gold Trade Mark Awards, saying:
“The Gold Trade Mark Award was created to recognise excellence in environmental sustainability as well as support for the Surrey Hills and other local businesses and it is clear that all three of this year’s winners exemplify this and more. We are very proud to have Plant Passion, Mandira’s Kitchen and Martin Bamford as pivotal Surrey Hills Enterprises’ members and wholeheartedly congratulate them on this achievement. We wish them ongoing good fortune for the future.”
High Sheriff of Surrey, Christopher Critchlow leads guests in a toast to Surrey Hills Enterprises (c) Sian T. Photography
The evening culminated in a toast to Surrey Hills Enterprises and its members led by High Sheriff of Surrey, Christopher Critchlow, inviting guests to look forward in anticipation of the next 10 years of success.
These beautifully detailed and keenly observed illustrations in acrylic and ink were conceived to support visual interpretation for the Making Space for Nature project. They have all been created by an artist as part of a prisoner rehabilitation programme. We are absolutely delighted that the National Trust has offered to display the originals, which we eventually hope to sell to raise funds towards the Society’s charitable purposes of promoting the positive enjoyment and care of the Surrey Hills National Landscape.
Gordon Jackson, Chair of Surrey Hills Society and Surrey Hills Trust Fund
The 30 illustrations are directly inspired by the Surrey Hills Nature Recovery Strategy, a collaborative document with farmers and landowners designed to develop an approach to nature recovery. Seven habitats were identified, and each species is an indicator of a healthy habitat and in turn raises awareness of the essential conservation and protection of the homes of these animals, flora and fauna. Whilst some species depicted in the illustrations, such as the Water Vole and Turtle Dove, are not currently present within the Surrey Hills, it is hoped that habitat creation and enhancement, combined with targeted conservation action, may encourage these species to increase their current ranges. For those that are present, conservation projects within the Surrey Hills are critical to manage essential habitats and support both an increase in abundance and biodiversity.
The Making Space for Nature project promotes education, awareness, and a sense of purpose in the landscape. The aim is to encourage community support, connection to nature and inspire efforts towards the protection needed for these species to prosper. The Surrey Hills has helped to enhance these rich habitats through projects such as the 7.5km of native hedgerow planted over the past winter, which will create dynamic environments for species such as the Turtle Dove, Barn Owl, Brown Hairstreak Butterfly and Hazel Dormouse. These projects are made possible through collaborative farming and landowner groups funded by the Farming in Protected Landscapes grant and fantastic volunteer efforts delivered by Surrey Hills Society.
The opportunity to exhibit these illustrations at Leith Hill Place will powerfully enhance and impact the experience of viewing these artworks for those who visit. This evocative National Trust property was the childhood home of Ralph Vaughan Williams, composer of the pastoral masterpiece The Lark Ascending, which pays homage to our Skylark illustration, one of the species exhibited. Vaughan Williams’ great uncle, the famous naturalist Charles Darwin, visited Leith Hill Place frequently and conducted experiments in the grounds.
We are so pleased to host this exhibition for so many reasons. We at the National Trust are always looking at ways to engage new audiences and potential supporters of our natural and built heritage. It is after all being protected for everyone to enjoy. Our strategic ambitions of restoring a healthy and beautiful natural environment can only be achieved if we work across landscapes and with partner organisations, landowners, farmers and leisure users to come together under shared goals. The Making Space for Nature project is a wonderful example of these shared ambitions.
Stephanie Fudge, General Manager of the Surrey Hills for the National Trust
The exhibition is open to the public now and is included with the purchase of an entry ticket to Leith Hill Place, free for National Trust Members. It will continue to be on display at Leith Hill Place until the autumn. Leith Hill Place is open Friday to Sunday 11am – 16.30pm.
