Chief Constable's Award Ceremony

It was a real privilege to Join the CC, Nick Ephgrave, and the PCC, David Munro, in recognising the exceptionally talented individuals receiving awards for long service (both officers and staff) and Chief Constable’s Commendations for effort beyond the call of duty. Great to see that several staff from Surrey County Council were also recognised as key members of the broad Police teams tackling some of the most difficult crimes faced by our county.

A privilege also to meet Dennis and Carol Gunn, who were present as sponsors of the Richard Gunn memorial Award, this year presented to PC Will Nicholas, an outstanding Area Patrol Team Officer. As Dennis observed, Will is very much in Richard’s style, and a most appropriate recipient of the award (photo)

 

 

Surrey Hills School Superstars!

Fantastic weather for a great Westcott sporting event! The pupils, family and friends all turned out to support this exhibition of determination and talent – lots of future star track athletes in evidence, but the thing that really stood out to Mrs Radcliffe, Head, and her team of teachers and support staff, was the exceptional team work on display amongst all the young people. 

Special thanks to a very special teacher who makes it all possible behind the scenes, and who is such a sporting inspiration to all the pupils (the majority have now had the chance to represent their school) – Carolyn Stowell (below)

 

 

New Citizens; New Opportunities!

Today is a special day for 21 new citizens of the UK, as they enjoyed the Citizenship Ceremony at County Hall. Anne, Deputy Superintendent Registrar, led the proceedings (Photo) and Jean ensured that all signatures were correctly recorded – a most professional event to formally mark the great occasion!

 

 

Mayor of Runnymede's Civic Service

 

A real pleasure to be in attendance at this beautiful service at St Mary’s Church, Thorpe, for the new Mayor of Runnymede, Cllr Mrs Dolsie Clarke. The music, hymns and Choir were excellent throughout, and the Vicar of St Mary’s, Father Damian Miles, did confide that Royal Holloway had also kindly provided assistance. The tea was well earned! (Great job with the photo Harry!)

Citizens In Policing – Volunteering Awards

A privilege to have been invited to join ACC Nev Kemp and his senior team for this excellent celebration of volunteering on behalf of the Surrey community.

And, of course, Nev himself was recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours announced this morning, with the award of the Queen’s Police Medal – Congratulations from the community of Surrey!

So many well-earned rewards for Special Constables, Volunteer Police Cadets and Police Support Volunteers – superb dedication to Surrey. Thanks to three special advisors who all received Long Service Awards as Police Support Volunteers, Nail, Raj and Cliff;

 

 

Community Foundation for Surrey – Making Connections!

 

Enjoyed a stimulating meeting at the CFfS HQ in Guildford with Laura (Chief Executive) and Joe (Director of Philanthropy) discussing the many, potentially huge, opportunities that exist across the county to bring together resources (through philanthropy and also use of existing facilities eg college gyms over the summer) to meet the growing demand from young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. We parted determined to do something about it – and when Laura and Joe say that, watch this space!

Join the Force!

My visit to the Woking unit of the Surrey Volunteer Police Cadets inspired this blog for all interested young people to get in touch with their local Unit – there are six across Surrey, all staffed by experienced Police personnel on an entirely voluntary basis.

 

Discipline is rigorous, as is to be expected, but some of the drills are somewhat more relaxed, as you can see!

New Woking Police Cadets Catch High Sheriff!

Last night was a wonderful opportunity to meet the Volunteer Police Cadets, established and new, in Woking with their Unit Commander, Martin Lock, and his exceptional team of three full-time and special officers. The entire training team are volunteers and work tirelessly to inspire young people in the area – there are still places to be filled, so get in touch! An important fact about the VPCs is that about one quarter are from vulnerable or disadvantaged backgrounds – there is no cost at all to the cadets or their families, other than time and effort, so everyone can apply.

The new cadets were being trained in the issue of Trust, and the HS had no hesitation in placing himself in the hands of three of the new recruits (awaiting delivery of their uniforms!) who performed to perfection – thank goodness!

 

 

Happy Birthday Surrey Hills Community Radio – 4 Today!

Had a great time celebrating the fourth birthday of this famous community on-line radio station with Founder Dave (in fashionable attire in photo) and original fellow-DJ, Andy, perhaps better known for his excellent photography! Enjoyable banter about football, life in the 70s and many other topics, including Dorking Wanderers moving to their new home in the town. Have a magnificent party in Horley tonight with all of the other volunteers!

 

 You can listen to the interview here: https://m.mixcloud.com/surreyhillsradio/breakfast-show-06-06-2018-with-the-high-sheriff/

The Mayor of Spelthorne's Civil Service

 

Stunning weather and a fine setting beside the river for Jean Pinkerton’s Civic Service as the new Mayor of Spelthorne. Jean has extensive experience of the education sector and has kindly agreed to help with advice around my theme of exclusions from school. Best wishes to Jean for a hugely successful year as she champions ‘talent’ across the Borough.