Ride London – Surrey Police Motorcyclists Excel!
Persistent rain has not dampened spirits amongst the supporters, or prevented Surrey Police professionals from providing their usual exceptional service!
Dorking Children's Centre Fun Day A Complete Sell Out!
Over 250 children and families enjoyed the superb weather and wonderful facilities, attractions and entertainment available at the Centre on Goodwyns Road. Donna, Helen and the entire team deserve great credit, with Sophie having the lead role in terms of organisation of the event – well done to all!
Parents, grandparents and supporters were all adamant that this facility is a vital part of the local community and provides support on a daily basis to many young families. It was great to see the Surrey Fire Service visiting, and to welcome the tireless volunteers from the Dorking Food Bank.
Before the crowds arrived, we had the chance to take a quick group photo of many of the Children’s Centre team;
East to West – 'Bringing Hope To Young People'
An afternoon very well spent with Anthony Horton, CEO and Ian Smith, Head of Ops (right), at East to West at their HQ in Egham. They explained the evidence-based impact the organisation is having on the lives of young people, and kept the HS up to date with a specific project funded by the High Sheriff Youth Awards, which is providing appropriate professional support for students within 8 schools across Spelthorne, Runnymede and Elmbridge. As always, the power of East to West’s activities comes from the excellent staff (all pictured behind us on the wall!), who work an average of 22 hours/week and make such a difference to the pupils they support.
East to West is 21years old – let’s ensure that the next 21 provide similar positive outcomes for young lives!
11 Young Leaders Achieve Level 2 Awards
At the Addlestone Youth Centre, the Young Leaders themselves had these words to describe their journey together over the past nine months – ‘Inspirational’ ; ‘Determination’ ; ‘Amazing’ (coz we are!); ‘Commitment’. And all expressed their sincere thanks to the Youth Workers across Surrey who made the entire programme possible. The High Sheriff Youth Awards provided some financial support, and the summary from talking to the young people and their families/friends, is that it was money very well spent indeed!
On Board Swingbridge 2 With Surrey Care Trust
An instructive and productive day with Rita, Probation Service, and four offenders undertaking their hours of service in the community – all courtesy of Caz, Adult Learning Manager at SCT, and our second skipper, Alan, whose exceptional impact over many hours each week, is all as a volunteer. We painted one side of a long footbridge, and prepared the other side for painting next week, as well as learning about handling boats, dealing with locks (the watery variety!) and keeping the rivers and canal systems efficient and accessible. The chance to talk informally with everyone involved, emphasised the impact this opportunity is having on many lives.
Bravo, DOCTOR Ashley Herman!
Delighted to attend the University of Surrey Graduation Ceremony for the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, and celebrate the award of an Honorary Doctorate to Ashley Herman. Ashley, a prolific theatre entrepreneur (responsible for producing/co-producing/identifying funding for over 30 hugely successful West End shows in the past 20 years) has somehow also found the time to be a tireless expert advisor, Council member, supporter and great friend to the University. His work with disadvantage young people at the Lyric Theatre, Hammersmith, and through our own Guildford School of Acting, has been exceptional. Ashley confirms that the activity will continue with renewed vigour following this ceremony!
Respect & Total Involvement at Guildford VPC Unit!
Another great session with the Surrey Volunteer Police Cadets, this time at the Guildford Unit based at King’s College. The words of description were agreed by the cadets themselves. Thoroughly enjoyed the energetic discussion to identify the Unit priorities for helping in the local community – a perfect example of the volunteering spirit found right across our county. HS attempted an ambitious ‘selfie’, but all agreed that the basic skills leave a lot to be desired!
Catch-Up With Connor at Merrist Wood!
A welcome opportunity to visit Merrist Wood and deliver the well-earned High Sheriff’s Certificate, from their outstanding team effort at the Garden Party. Proudly accepting the certificate is none other than Connor, famous winner of the bike!
I also enjoyed a personal tour of the impressive Animal Management Centre, courtesy of Jo and Graham, and offered congratulations on the recent award of the Zoo Licence. This significant achievement will greatly enhance the scope of activities and learning opportunities at Merrist Wood. What a place to study and learn!
Stanwell Children's Centre – At The Heart of The Community
A most instructive and enjoyable visit to meet Janette Breese, Manager, and her team at the Stanwell Children’s Centre, and also to chat to many of the families using the varied facilities and programmes available on site. From Play and Learn, Adult learning Courses, Family Health & Well-being right through to many areas of Specialist Advice, the Centre really does cater for all the needs of children, and their families. What a community asset!
Graduation Week at University of Surrey in Full Swing!
The Mayor of Guildford, Mike Parsons, and the HS (with HS’s Police Cadet, Naeel Radha in close support) were greeted outside Guildford Cathedral by Pro-Chancellor Kim Tan, as we were honoured to be invited to process at the Degree Ceremonies with Kim and, later in the day, with the Chancellor of the University, HRH The Duke of Kent. What an occasion!
