Surrey Care Trust's Bid Yellow Duck Race

Brilliant weather and lots of local excitement (and sponsorship – many thanks!) for this annual fixture on Millmead Island. Elaine Tisdall (CEO) and husband Leslie were expertly supported by the Surrey Care Trust team, and given loads of encouragement from the Mayor of Guildford, Mike Parsons, and the High Sheriff. 

History was also made as ardent Welshman, Mike, was seen to be supporting the Restore Duck, sporting the England team colours (totally beyond the call of duty!!)

Congratulations Surrey Care Trust – a great event!

 

 

'Pride' Unites Elmbridge Unit of the Surrey Volunteer Police Cadets

An inspiring visit this evening to the Elmbridge VPC Unit, and agreement amongst the cadre of cadets that ‘pride’ is the uniting factor! Staff Chris explained the background and success of this particular unit, based at Three Rivers Academy in Hersham. Our pic of Staffs and cadets just missed the rainbow hovering over us at the time, but fitted our thinking re ‘pride’ and inclusiveness, always at the foundation of our Units across Surrey;

 

 

SCARF – Even in The Hot Weather!

Lady Louise O’Connor and the High Sheriff, met Oaktree School Head teacher, Glen Alder, Mark Fisher (with the Giraffe!) and Coram Managing Director of Education and Wellbeing, Harriet Gill, to witness first hand this long-established programme of Safety,Caring, Achievement, Resilience and Friendship. The CEO of Woking Borough Council, Ray Morgan, is to be given great credit for retaining permanent funding over many years to ensure that pupils all get an opportunity to receive this special opportunity to learn skills for life; delivered by Mark, a true master, teacher and puppeteer extraordinaire!

 

 

Life Skills Focus at 'Outstanding' Oaktree School

Lady Louise O’Connor and the High Sheriff were welcomed to this ‘Outstanding-rated’ school in Woking, by Head Teacher, Glen Alder, and representatives from the ‘Owls’ and ‘Foxes’, who insisted on checking the HS’s business cards under Louise’s watchful eye!

 

 

Nishi and James Steal the Show!

Congratulations to all of Surry’s Universities and Colleges for presenting such a powerful display of excellent Outreach, Widening Participation and Volunteering activities at the High Sheriff’s Garden Party last night. There will be more detail to follow, but for the moment, everyone agreed that they really are the Pride of Surrey!

Volunteers from Patchworking Garden, Guildford Bike Project, The High Sheriff Youth Awards and The Surrey Volunteer Police Cadets were all working hard throughout the evening and impressed all the guests with their enthusiasm, dedication and sheer professionalism. Great adverts for the collective community spirit in Surrey.

Everyone agreed that, in terms of great entertainment, Nishi (Dance Shakti Troupe) and James (Academy for Contemporary Music) really did steal the show!

 

 

 

Modern Slavery in Surrey – Surely Not?

Well, as we heard at the seminar organised by Surrey Chambers of Commerce, and sponsored by Police and Crime Commissioner, David Monro, the sad fact is that it is indeed present and it is our collective responsibility (business, police and members of the public) to be a willing part of the solution. Powerful presentations from Assistant Chief Constable Jeremy Burton, Nicki Crayfourd (Compass Group – a huge employer in the UK and throughout the world) and Shayne Tyler (Manor Fresh), provided evidence and helpful ways forward for all interested parties. Support is available through Unseen UK and Stronger Together, two organisations with significant experience of this complex and distressing issue. ‘Be vigilant’ is the message from David and the High Sheriff!

 

 

Celebrating Diversity in Woking!

The Mayor of Woking, Will Forster, and Mayoress, Hannah Thompson, arranged a wonderful Civic Celebration this afternoon, celebrating diversity and inclusion within the Borough. Will and Hannah received great support from Revd Lucy Brierly, Head Imam, Hafiz M Hashmi, Revd Jonathan Thomas and the Chairman of Woking People of Faith, Simon Trick.

In addition the large gathering were superbly entertained by music students from Woking High School, the Epworth Choir and brilliant Lion Dancing and a Tai Chi Fan Dance from members of the Chinese Association of Woking.

A moving reading of a personal poem entitled ‘Why I Love Woking’ from Westfield Primary School won lengthy applause, while Will’s charities for his year, The York Road Project and Woking & District MENCAP were powerfully represented.

All in all, a memorable afternoon – well done Woking!

 

 

Superb Parade at Gordon's School!

Great care was taken to ensure the wellbeing of all students on parade at today’s quite exceptional Annual Inspection and Parade, followed by the uplifting Prize Giving ceremonies for Junior and Senior students.

 

It was a privilege to be Guest of Honour for this inspirational day of celebration, and I was most grateful for the support and guidance from Regimental Sgt Major Phil Fox, who kept me on the straight and narrow throughout!

Patchworking Garden Open Day Tomorrow!

Don’t miss this brilliant opportunity to see one of the best kept secrets in Dorking, as Carmel (Founder – on my right) and her entire team of Trustees, volunteers and supported volunteers

 

 showcase all of their great achievements! Call in any time between 12.00 and 4.00pm and join the celebrations – you certainly will be most welcome! 

Warm Welcome at Brooklands College!

And it had nothing to do with the weather! Starting with the friendly security officer, then on to the helpful receptionist, the charming and efficient PA, Angela, right up to the Principal, Gail Walker herself, the entire culture at Brooklands College is focused on service delivery for everyone visiting, and particularly for the students themselves. Gail explained that it is this ‘family’ approach, individually crafted to suit each student, that sets Brooklands apart. I look forward to returning to sample the student-created restaurant fare!