The High Sheriff Bravery Award

A tragic incident on the M25 in Surrey back in February 2023 resulted in the loss of two lives and serious injury to a third person, caused by dangerous driving by the man who they were travelling with. Two members of the public who alerted the emergency services and helped on the scene, and three Paramedics, one of which was in training, have been recognised for their bravery whilst handling the extremely traumatic situation. The terrible scene faced by all those involved was one which is unlikely to be forgotten by them and as a society we have much to be thankful for in having brave, decent and level-headed people both willing to serve as professionals attending in emergency situations and when the unexpected happens.

Ladislav Toth and his colleague Rodney Peacock – two members of the Public on their way back from work, stopped to help the survivors, alert oncoming motorists, and assist the paramedics – Katie Perry, Ben Wakefield (in training) and Daren Dyer.

The five were presented with Bravery Awards for their actions by the High Sheriff of Surrey – Mr Shahid Azeem DL at a Ceremony presided over by Judge Lees and Judge Fraser at Guildford Crown Court. The High Sheriff said, “The actions of these individuals during what must have been a harrowing experience both for the two citizens who stepped in to help and the Paramedics who handled the situation with professionalism and in very difficult circumstances, need to be recognised and on behalf of the County I thank them for their bravery and dedication to duty”

One of the Recipients – Paramedic Daren Dyer added, “I would like to thank the High Sheriff and the judges for this award. Being recognized in this way is an incredible achievement for both my colleagues and me. I also want to acknowledge the two members of the public who were first on the scene. Their actions remind us that even without formal training, ordinary people can make a real difference in moments of crisis. As professionals, we are trained to handle incidents of all magnitudes, though we always hope they never happen. But when they do, we are committed to providing the best possible patient care, ensuring every effort is made to preserve life and promote recovery. Thank you again for this honour—it means so much to all of us.”

Photography by Andy Newbold.

Surrey Care Trust Swingbridge Community Boats.

The Surrey Care Trust embodies community spirit and environmental stewardship, offering a safe haven on the water for schools with special needs and ensuring the river and its surroundings thrive for all to enjoy.“It was a pleasure to be hosted and I was given lessons on captaining the boat on river Thames, though my captaining was very similar to Uncle Albert from Only Fool and Horses! Surrey Care Trust carries out vital work with other stakeholders ensuring he river, towpaths and local wildlife is protected. Thank you for having me on your boat”

Find out more at – www.surreycaretrust.org.uk

Guildford Street Angels – Keeping the Town Centre Safe at Night

Street Angels are a team of volunteers that patrol Guildford town centre between 1.30pm and 4am on Friday & Saturday nights, providing practical care and support to anyone who has found themselves in a vulnerable state. This could be a result of alcohol, drugs, homelessness, assault, and much more. The Street Angels are there to help people have a good time and to get home safe, with no strings attached.

This week the High Sheriff went along to find out more – Noelle Coe talks about his visit, “We were able to share with the High Sheriff about the importance of valuing people and meeting them face to face. This could be by appointment with a volunteer chaplain who provides a safe non-judgmental space, as a friend over a period of time when isolated and lonely for many different reasons such as poor mental health, domestic abuse, bereavement, unemployment or a change in circumstances, as well as being out on a Friday or Saturday night helping people who have gotten into difficulties, such a being separated from friends and needing a phone recharged, first aid or a listening ear. The High Sheriff understood the importance of the support we can give people. This helps prevent possible escalation of needs and feelings of isolation and loneliness. It was great to hear that he would like to come out on a Street Angel shift and see some of our work first hand”

The organisation has around 50 volunteers that operate for around 3000 hours per year, helping in the region of three and a half thousand people – a resource that takes pressure off the Police Force and help to keep the town’s streets safe.

Shahid Azeem DL, High Sheriff of Surrey said, “It was a pleasure to spend time with the team at Guildford Street Angels and gain a better understanding of how they operate. and the different things that they do. Their actions no doubt enable the local Police to free resources to help combat crime in other areas of the Town as well and being vital eyes and ears in the Town Centre at night, helping to keep people safe. I am sure I speak for everyone when I say thank you to the volunteers who make this happen.”

Volunteers are over 18, are DBS checked, interviewed and receive specialist training to prepare them for the role. Over the years GTCC has nurtured and developed great working relationships with the local organisations and venues which results in effective collaboration when our volunteers are out. They also support other events & establishments, e.g. Fresher’s week, Alcohol Awareness events, the Guildford Retirement Fayre, the University Open days, helping to make Guildford a more welcoming place for prospective students, and reassuring the students of our presence in the town.

If you would like to become a volunteer contact the Street Angels Co-ordinator, Angela Gammage either by e-mail at streetangels@gtcc.org.uk  or telephone on 07717 876853. More information can be found at https://gtcc.org.uk/street-angels/

Raising funds for the Guildford branch of Samaritans – a bright, modern and fresh shop on Godalming High Street.

“My visit to the Godalming Samaritans charity shop highlighted the strong community spirit fostered there. It’s impressive to see how the dedication of volunteers and the generosity of regular donors contribute significantly to the essential support provided by the Samaritans to those in need.” Shahid Azeem DL – The High Sheriff of Surrey.

The shop is based in Godalming and sells preloved items to raise critical funds for the branch and the national charity. Donations are always appreciated and volunteers are always welcome. Pop in or call on 01483 422617. If you need support or more information about the work of the Samaritans go to www.samaritans.org

#samaritans #godalming #guildford #charity #volunteering #communirtysupport #highsheriffofsurrey

New Match Shirts for 2025 for Guildford School Footballers!

A promise of new strips for students at Kings College, made during a recent visit to the school by the High Sheriff, himself a former pupil, was made good this week. Shahid Azeem DL who is the chair of Aldershot Town, went to the school to present the new shirts to the boys and girls football teams and said “It seemed fitting that as the chair of Aldershot Town FC, with help from ‘L4 Teamwear’ we kitted the players out for 2025. It was great to be back again at the school where as a kid I used to play football and tennis, and it was great to make a small contribution”.

Alastair McKenzie – Principal for Kings College Guildford and Fullbrook School, added, “Kings College were delighted to receive new football match shirts, organised by the High Sheriff and the team at L4 Teamwear. the students are looking forward to wearing the kit in upcoming fixtures.” ​

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‘Leatherhead Youth Project’ – 20 Years of Supporting Young People.

The High Sheriff was in Leatherhead on Wednesday, learning about a charity founded in 2005 that started with one youth worker in an empty building and now has a team of dedicated people delivering youth services to over 600 young people every year! 

The ’BFree’ Youth Cafe is the Charity’s relational hub at All Saints Church on Kingston Road, Leatherhead, open every day during term time from 3:15 – 6:15pm for local young people aged 11-17. The aim of BFree is to provide a safe, positive space for young people to meet friends, enjoy activities & games, and get to know youth workers who understand their needs and support them in other areas of their lives when needed. The team can help with referrals to counselling, careers advice and support with learning specific skills. 

CEO – Jude Crome, said, “It was a pleasure to have the High Sheriff of Surrey, Shahid Azeem, visit us to see first-hand the support we are providing for local young people in our community. LYP has been running for 20 years, providing much needed services for young people in the area. As a charity we aim to help young people to be safe, happy, resilient and able to make positive choices in their own lives. We take a relational approach which provides support and skills for young people aged 11 – 24, helping them to overcome any barriers they are facing and build a brighter future.” 

The High Sheriff said of his visit, “It is great to see the dedication of the team at the impressive facility in Leatherhead and learn about the other aspects of what the charity do in the community – working with local schools, encouraging children to give back to the community, running residential camps and providing help to young people that are experiencing difficulties. It is so important that our youth have a safe place for connect and make friends and this they have provided along with so much more”

Find out more about the work of LYP and how you could help to ensure their work continues either by donations, volunteering, fundraising or helping to provide apprenticeship opportunities by visiting https://leatherheadyouthproject.com.

#leatherheadyouthproject #leatherhead #bfreecafe #highsheriffofsurrey #leatherheadadvertiser #surreyhillsradio #molevalley #bookham #northleatherhead

Christmas Day in the Community

I paid a visit today to Guildford Police Station to thank the officer on duty, followed by a trip to The Salvation Army HQ in Ashford, where volunteers cooked a delicious Christmas meal with food provided by Surplus to Supper. It was a great opportunity to meet local residents who were provided with food and a Xmas present, after which we all sat down and watched the Kings Christmas message! I hope everyone has had a good Christmas Day – Seasons Greetings to all.

Intergenerational work at its best – building bridges, breaking down barriers, and creating a sense of belonging for everyone involved.

The High Sheriff – Shahid Azeem DL, joined Lord Kamall of Edmonton, (The Shadow Minister of Health and Social Care, House of Lords​, and Trustee of Intergenerational England), on a visit to Guildford’s United Reformed Church, where they took part in an event to bridge generational divides through innovative activities. 

The program was organised by ‘The Guildford Hub’ and ‘Intergenerational Music Making’ (IMM) who are a pioneering national charitable organisation to being people of all ages together through music and creativity, addressing loneliness and isolation while enhancing physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

The “Intergenerational Guildford Hub,” a collaborative programme between Intergenerational Music Making (IMM) www.imm-music.com and the Guildford United Reformed Church, brings people of all ages together through music and creativity. The hub is an initiative created and facilitated by IMM, a pioneering national charity, focuses on reducing loneliness and isolation while enhancing physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

With over a decade of experience, IMM has impacted the lives of more than 78,000 participants across the UK. Its work has earned recognition at the highest level, including the Prime Minister’s Community Champion Award. IMM’s vision is to foster a society where meaningful intergenerational connections are fundamental to thriving, inclusive communities.

The Guildford Hub: Connecting Communities Through Music, was established in 2019, and has been at the heart of IMM’s efforts to bring people of all ages together through music. Initially hosted at The Electric Theatre, the hub has since found its home at Guildford United Reformed Church, where it continues to grow as a vital space for community connection. Each session is a dynamic celebration of intergenerational collaboration, with participants ranging from individuals living with dementia, those experiencing social isolation and loneliness, and members of the local church community, to children from early-years nurseries, local school groups, and organisations like HALOW.

These vibrant gatherings create a safe and joyful space for shared storytelling, singing, improvisation, and creative exploration. By fostering connections across generations, the Guildford Hub strengthens mental health, builds community, and highlights the power of collective creative expression to transform lives.

Charlotte Miller, Director of IMM, reflected on the impact of the Guildford Hub:

“The Guildford Hub is a shining example of what happens when we prioritise connection and creativity in our communities. Week after week, we see lives transformed, loneliness eased, confidence built, and friendships formed—all through the power of music. It’s a reminder of how vital these spaces are in building healthier, more connected communities.”

Celebrating Leadership and Intergenerational Connection. The Guildford Hub embodies the ethos of IMM and Intergenerational England www.intergenerationalengland.org, a national organisation co-founded by Charlotte Miller and Emily Abbott champions an “Intergenerational Approach” that leverages connections between generations to address societal challenges, from loneliness and economic disparity to age segregation.  As a proud partner of IE, the Guildford Hub showcases the practical ways intergenerational initiatives can transform communities, reduce health inequalities, and promote creative health.

Lord Syed Kamall shared his thoughts on the session:

“It was truly inspiring to see how the Guildford Hub brings generations together through music and connectivity in such a meaningful and impactful way. This is intergenerational work at its best building bridges, breaking down barriers, and creating a sense of belonging for everyone involved. My thanks to IMM and its incredible team for leading this transformative work.”

The High Sheriff – Shahid Azeem DL. Joined Lord Kamall in his praise of the event and added that he had thoroughly enjoyed attending: 

“There were some lovely moments as the energy and enthusiasm of the young children in the room lit up the faces of the many older retired people, themselves clapping and singing along as were several participants who had other challenges – a great example of organisations, including a local school and members of the church, all working together to make a warm happy and very inclusive occasion”.

And finally, a mention of the Christmas Tree Festival that also took place at the United Reformed Church – A concept first held in 2015, to provide an opportunity to bring together the 35 community groups which meet regularly in the church building ranging from the Little GURKINS Toddler Group to the Sunflower Café Dementia Support Group, through yoga, Pilates and several choirs, to a dozen 12-Steps “Anonymous” groups catering for addictions including alcohol, narcotics, and gambling. Our guiding principle here is to extend a warm and unconditional welcome to all in a progressive safe environment. This includes hosting Guildford Muslim Society’s thriving Friday Prayers. Many of these groups have contributed the trees, with cleverly themed decorations. The result was a very Christmassy indoor forest which attracted visitors and raised funds for two charities that the church support, Street Angels and Cherry Trees.

It is incredible what can be achieved when the community comes together in such a positive and creative way. 

Photos by Andy Newbold

High Sheriff Welcomes New Citizens.

The High Sheriff had the pleasure of presenting the British Certificate to all of the individuals who have become British Citizens. In his speech to them he said; “It is my privilege today to welcome you as new citizens to the county of Surrey. You are no longer a visitor; you are citizens of the United Kingdom and we welcome you to this country which is now truly your home. The community is of great importance to us in Surrey. This is the ‘Life Hub’ of the county, whether it be in a busy town or a rural village. A close community offers support and encouragement to others and values each and every person. You may already be involved in schools, community groups and places of worship – we would encourage you as a new citizen to continue to engage with your community.  Embracing and sharing the values and beliefs of each other’s cultures, allows us all to become a more tolerant and welcoming society.Voluntary organisations play an important and integral part, helping to make our communities thrive in a safe environment. Please get involved and support these organisations, businesses and enterprises to continue to make Surrey a successful, vibrant and safe place to live. We welcome you to our county with open arms, as we drive forwards to meet the challenges of the future. We value your ongoing contribution to the ‘Surrey Family’ and we appreciate and celebrate your contribution to the county’s success.”

The High Sheriff of Surrey - Seasonal Message 2024

A Seasonal Message from the High Sheriff of Surrey – Shahid Azeem DL, who visited Artventure Trust, and met the Artist who designed his Christmas Card.

Shahid Azeem, High Sheriff of Surrey made a special Christmas visit to the Artventure Studio in Merrow last week. He met participants, staff, volunteers and trustees of the charity, that celebrates 40 years in the services of our community this year. 

Artventure provides creative art sessions for learning disabled adults. They offer their services in their own purpose-built studio in the grounds of St Peter’s School, Merrow and they have just started to operate their second studio at Gosden House School in Bramley. 55 clients from all over Surrey visit their sessions weekly, where a team of practicing artists, artworkers and volunteers guide them to explore the visual arts and socialise in a safe and fun environment. The most important thing at Artventure is the creative process but they also like to show the produced artwork to the wider community at local exhibitions. 

The High Sheriff has also chosen a Christmas Card designed by Helena Palma-Clarke, one of the artists at Artventure to be his official ecard this year!

Helena is a young artist devoted to nature. Her favourite mediums are watercolour, acrylics and oil pastel.  She is also a keen and talented photographer, and her embroidery is remarkable as well. She attends sessions at Artventure Trust to practise her art and to be part of the Artventure community.  

The High Sheriff was pleased to meet Helena in person and Helena was happy to tell him about which medium she liked best and what topics were her favourites. She also talked about what it meant for her to attend Artventure sessions. 
“The best thing about Artventure was that it was like a big family, and once you became member of the Artventure family you would be part of it forever.” said Helena.

The High Sheriff met other clients and volunteers and even joined in creating a piece of his own. 

“Seeing the phenomenal work that this fantastic organisation does is inspiring! They have clients from all over the county and help them with drawing and painting, I am blown away at the standard of the fabulous artwork I have seen here today. It really is a very special place and a place where people feel safe with the opportunity to get to know other creative minded people.”

The High Sheriff also chose the occasion to record a special seasonal video message (Above), wishing the people of Surrey a very happy Christmas and New Year.

Photos/Video by Andy Newbold