Communities - East & West Molesey

Contestants needed for 'Elmbridge has talent'

2009-07-17T15:33:17Z

Elmbridge youngsters aged between 11 and 19 are being encouraged to take part in an 'Elmbridge has talent competition'.

Although the final is not until Saturday, October 24, youth organisations and schools are being encouraged to enter up to three acts, who would perform at Reed's School, in Sandy Lane, Cobham.

The winner, who can showcase any skill, will receive £1000 for their school or organisation.
For more information contact leisure and cultural services on 01372 474576.

Car crashes into wall following collision

2009-07-13T13:58:05Z

Two cars collided on Friday (10) night resulting in one of them crashing into a wall.

Just after 8pm, in Matham Road, East Molesey, a silver Ford Fiesta and a blue and white Ford Fiesta crashed into each other with the resulting impact causing the blue and white Fiesta to hit a wall.

The female driver of the blue and white Fiesta was taken to Kingston hospital and treated for minor injuries including whiplash and shock.

Police attended the scene and both vehicles were removed from the road shortly before 9pm.

Core strategy public meeting to be held at Civic Centre

2009-07-09T15:04:03Z

A public meeting is being held on Thursday, July 16 to discuss the Elmbridge Core Strategy.

Taking place between 2pm and 4pm at the Civic Centre, in Esher High Street, the consultation will act as an opportunity for residents to give their views on the future of the area.

For more information or to confirm attendance at the meeting, phone planning policy on 01372 474829.

Plans to tackle crime in Elmbridge

2009-06-25T16:28:49Z

Elmbridge Community Safety Partnership has launched its 2009 Partnership Plan to tackle community safety issues across the borough.

As part of its requirement to make the Crime and Disorder Partnership more accountable to the community its work of last year was reviewed at a annual public meeting on Wednesday (June 17) and its new plan set out.

]]> The priorities identified are to reduce anti-social behaviour, including anti social driving and parking of vehicles, to provide positive youth activities, reduce crime and the fear of crime, and reduce substance misuse and violent crime, including domestic abuse.

Peter Kipps CSP manager, said: "We had some pleasing results last year, crime was reduced by 16.5% which means 1,399 less victims of crime.

"The overarching priorities we will focus on are similar to last year with the addition of anti social driving and irresponsible parking which has been a growing concern of residents."

Th CSP has also announced the introduction of a new survey to find the views of residents about the actual level of crime being experienced.

To complete the survey online log onto http://www.elmbridge.gov.uk/snap/ccs2009.htm.

Mr Kipps added: "It's important that we obtain the views of the public on how they perceive Elmbridge.

"We also want to look at the levels of unreported crime and antisocial behaviour against what is actually being reported to see if there are any large gaps."

If you have any community safety issues or would like any further general information or a paper copy of the survey form please contact the Community Safety Team in confidence, by telephone on 01372 47 4399.

Police panel meeting to be held on Wednesday July 8

2009-06-25T16:14:10Z

The next East Molesey police panel meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 8.

Starting at 7.30pm at the St Mary's Church Hall, in Bell Road, it is a chance for all residents to express their concerns and fears to their local officers and community support officers.

For more information visit, www.surrey.police.uk

Elmbridge University of the 3rd Age meeting on Wed July 1

2009-06-22T14:32:13Z

The next meeting of the Elmbridge University of the 3rd Age, will be held on Wednesday July 1, when Gillian Rodrigues will describe her experiences white water rafting down the Colorado river, in the Grand Canyon.

The meeting will be held in Mole Hall, in Walton Road, West Molesey and will start 2.30pm.
All are welcome, entrance is free for members, or £1 for non members, for more information please contact secretary, Jim Walker on 0208 398 0786.

The University of the 3rd Age, is a self help organisation providing educational, leisure and social activities for those no longer in employment.

Cannabis factory found in East Molesey

2009-06-16T12:23:31Z

Two residents have been charged after police in Elmbridge seized more than 400 cannabis plants at an address in East Molesey.

Police seized the plants during a successful drugs warrant in Ember Farm Way just days before the launch of National Tackling Drugs Week, which began on Monday June 8.

]]> Officers from the Elmbridge tactical neighbourhood team and North Surrey tactical CID, assisted by Elmbridge safer neighbourhood team officers, executed the warrant, carried out under the Misuse of Drugs Act, on Wednesday 3 June.

The suspected class B drugs were seized and have been sent off for analysis.
A 22-year-old man and a 17-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of the production of class B drugs and entering the UK illegally.

Mai Phan, 22, of no fixed address, and the 17-year-old woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons, were subsequently charged with the production of class B drugs and entering the UK illegally, and both appeared at Staines Magistrates' Court on June 4, when they were remanded in custody.

Mai Phan denied both charges and has been remanded pending a date to attend Guildford Crown Court for sentencing.

The female admitted entering the UK illegally, and denied she was concerned in the production of cannabis. A case management hearing was set for July 15 at Staines Magistrates Court.

Elmbridge Neighbourhood Inspector Richard Haycock said: "I am pleased this proactive raid has led to the seizure of a large amount of drugs and two people charged.

"Officers acted on intelligence and we will continue to work with the community and our partner agencies to take strong action against anyone caught in possession of drugs and particularly those individuals believed to be supplying drugs in the borough."

If you suspect premises are being used for the cultivation of cannabis, or if you have any information about this incident, please call Surrey Police on 0845 125 2222, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Birthday Honours for Molesey and Hampton men

2009-06-15T15:02:25Z

The Queen announced her birthday honours on Saturday (13) and amongst those recognised were two men who have lived or worked in Elmbridge.

Peter Kenneth Wilkinson, the Managing director of policy, research and studies for the Audit Commission will be made a Commander of the British Empire (CBE) for his services to local government.

]]> The East Molesey resident is the longest serving director at the Audit Commission, having joined the management team in 1995.

Mr Wilkinson is responsible for the most of the Commission's national research and reports on value for money in local public services.

Mr Wilkinson, said: "I was astonished and delighted to receive such an honour. It's great to have a contribution from the Audit Commission recognised in this way.

"Many, many people in the Commission have helped me over the years. I wish I could thank them all personally, and hope they share my pleasure."

Coroner for Surrey, Michael John Clement Burgess will receive an Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his service to the administration of justice.

Mr Burgess, a Hampton resident, started his career as an assistant solicitor with Weybridge firm Messrs McNamara Ryan in 1970 before becoming president of the West Surrey law society in 1983.

In 1986, Mr Burgess was appointed the coroner for Surrey, an appointment he still holds.

Secretary for the Coroners Society of England and Wales, Andre Rebello, said: "Many congratulations, it's very well deserved."

Pupils learn how to be responsible citizens

2009-06-15T12:52:06Z

Pupils from across Elmbridge are learning how to be safe and responsible citizens thanks to the Junior Citizen Scheme.

The scheme is taking place at Walton Fire Station in Hersham Road from Monday June 8 until Wednesday June 24.

]]> The main focus of the day is safety, and is run by a number of agencies including Surrey Police, Elmbridge Borough Council, Surrey Fire and Rescue, St John's Ambulance, EDF Energy and the Royal National Lifeboat Institute.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Elmbridge visited the children from St Lawrence Church of England Junior School, in Church Road, East Molesey, taking part in the variety of workshops on Friday (June 12).

Just under 1,300 youngsters from across the borough in Year 6 (aged between 10 and 11) will take part in a number of different workshops on issues including crime reduction, 999 calls, stranger danger, road safety, fire safety, first aid, water safety and electricity dangers together with sets on how to recycle and the importance of the environment.

Youth affairs officer for Elmbridge PC Jerry Milford said: "I'm hoping the children enjoy Junior Citizen and learn from the experience.

"We want to make them think for themselves and to raise their awareness in a fun and effective way that helps them understand the contribution they can make to preventing crime and increasing their own safety.

"The children are about to move onto secondary school and it presents a great opportunity to educate them about safety issues, especially at a time when they really do need to be aware of how to look after themselves."

Time capsule making at Elmbridge museum

2009-06-09T16:28:27Z

As part of Elmbridge Museum's centenary celebrations, a session is being held on Saturday June 13, for children of the borough to make time capsules.

The session is being held at the museum in Church Street, Weybridge between 11.00am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 4.00pm.

The idea is for children to create a legacy, either with a drawing, a few mementos or some favourite items, which are then to be taken home to be buried for future generations to discover.

Councillor Jan Fuller, portfolio holder for leisure and cultural services, said: "Making time capsules is a fantastic way to join in with Elmbridge Museum's centenary celebrations. This really gives children the chance to create their own slice of history for future generations to enjoy."

Any child under 10 should be accompanied by an adult.

For more information, visit www.elmbridge.gov.uk/leisure/museum or by phoning the museum on 01932 843573.

Dads swim for free on Father's Day

2009-06-09T12:01:36Z

The Hurst Pool, operated in partnership with Elmbridge Borough Council, is offering FREE swimming to fathers on Father's Day, 21 June 2009.

Any father bringing their child to swim at Hurst Pool on 21 June 2009 may swim for free during All Welcome swimming sessions and at the discretion of the Duty Manager.

]]> A council spokeswoman said: "Swimming is a great activity to do with the kids and with dad's entry free, why not bring them down for a splash?"

For more information on this offer call the Hurst Pool on 0208 941 6544.

Did you know that all under 16's and over 60s can also swim for free? The government's new swimming initiative allows all 60s and over and 16s and under to swim for free upon registration at a DC Leisure Swimming Site.

For more information on this, please call either the Hurst Pool or Elmbridge Xcel on 01932 260 300. Alternatively, you can visit www.thehurstpool.co.uk or www.elmbridgexcelleisurecomplex.co.uk.

Carnival organisers praise 'resilient' Molesey folk

2009-06-09T12:01:36Z

Molesey Carnival Committee chairman Brian Cameron has paid tribute to the "resilient" people of Molesey who braved the rain to support Saturday's parade.

Speaking on carnival day, which this year was on June 6, he said: "It's been a very good event. The people of Molesey are very resilent, they've cheered the parade and are spending money on the stalls. The sun can't shine every year."

]]> Held every year since the Queen's Jubilee in 1977, the event began as usual at 3pm with a parade of colour and music as 16 floats made their way along Walton Road to the West Molesey Recreation Ground.

Residents braved the inclement weather, which included patches of rain, to line the streets and cheer on the procession. Street collectors raised £405.62 which will go towards the costs of next year's carnival.

"Mr Mole" - Eric Ponsford of Western Avenue, West Molesey, led the parade for his fifteenth and last time, as he will be passing on the famous furry costume to a successor next year.

The father-of-six said it had been great fun, adding: "You get all the kids waving and saying 'hello Mr Mole'. I thoroughly enjoy it but like a lot of things you do in life it's time to pass it on to someone else. I've got someone ready to jump into the costume and my advice will be to enjoy it!"

Eric was awarded The Geoff Alexander Cup by the Molesey Carnival Committee in recognition of his 23 years on the organising committee.

Revellers were entertained by arena events and some 44 stalls, run by local schools, charities and groups, and there was also a popular funfair.

St Alban's Catholic School used its stall to promote healthy eating, by selling tasty ethnic foods cooked by a parent - Hansa Granzelius, and were the proceeds to pay for the newly rennovated library at the school in Beauchamp Road.

The Esher Molesey Garden Society reported a roaring trade in potted plants and said the carnival had been a great way to raise funds, increase its 450-strong membership, and spread the word about its flower show in August.

How was the carnival for you? Add a comment below and see pictures from the day.

Concern over Latino bid for longer opening hours

2009-06-09T12:01:36Z

Latino in Walton Road has sparked concern from neighbours over an application to extend its opening hours.

The Italian restaurant and bar has a license to sell alcohol up to 2am, and is now applying to extend its opening hours from the current 11pm until 2am every night of the week.

Neighbours say it has been flouting its regularly permission by opening past 11pm but Latino management say they thought they did have permission to open until 2am.

]]> Residents in surrounding roads are unhappy that the bar has been 'flouting planning laws' by remaining open past 11pm.

One Manor Road resident, who wouldn't be named, said: "Residents have been putting up with things, believing they were allowed to stay open, then we found out about extending their opening hours. When we took this up with the council, they said it was basically because no-one complained. We didn't complain because we thought they were allowed to stay open."

Complaints have been made to environmental health officers about loud noise and antisocial behaviour in the past, and objections have been posted on the council's website regarding the current application.

Walton Road resident, Swee Kok, says on the site: "I am concerned that extending the opening hours would invite and encourage further noise, nuisance and shouting as well as serious brawls from late night revellers. We would rather that kind of nuisance did not increase in the future. Our village East Molesey, is a quiet residential family area and we would like it to be maintained."

Xander Freidlander of Walton Road added: "We are subject to the negative atmosphere and environment it is creating on our doorstep. Its' activities as a late night bar is completely out of keeping with the character of the village and the general noise levels we previously experienced whilst living here."

Latino has previously tried to extend it's alcohol license to 3am, but has been turned down.

Manager of Latino, Tony Mingoia, said: "We thought there were no restrictions on the premises. We have traded the same way for 10 years. Our license to serve alcohol is up until 2.00am, every time the law changed, we updated it. We didn't realise that the opening hours were different, but we have applied to change this. I want to make it clear that we are doing nothing different and nothing is going to change."

Election Result for The Dittons

2009-06-05T04:55:17Z

County Councillor Peter Hickman retains seat

The Dittons
Redvers Cunningham (Conservative) - 1193 votes
Francis Eldergill (Labour) - 184 votes
Barry Fairbank (Liberal Democrat) - 874 votes
Peter Hickman (Dittons and Weston Green Residents) - 2635 votes

County Councillors Ernest Mallett and Nigel Cooper retain seats

2009-06-05T04:55:17Z

West Molesey
Rita Drummond (Labour) - 171 votes
Chris Elmer (Conservative) - 531 votes
Ernest Mallet (Molesey Residents Association) - 2466 votes
Alaistair Sturgess (Liberal Democrat) - 270 votes

East Molesey and Esher
David Archer (Conservative) - 1742 votes
Nigel Cooper (Esher and Molesey Residents Association) - 1818 votes
Bruce King (Labour) - 116 votes
Sacha Visram (Liberal Democrats) - 350 votes