Cherkley Court: we listened to everyone & excluded no one.

On page 23 of the Leatherhead Advertiser of the 22nd December there is a short articled titled "Access Denied" which claims to give "clarification." Sadly, it does not clarify things but rather adds further misinformation in what we are very concerned had become a 'war of words' which may be having a divisive effect on the community. I make the following points:

1. No one was denied access to the LRA meeting on the 3rd of December, which was was an open Committee meeting. Anyone, whether a member of the LRA or not, could attend as an observer.

2. The Longshot proposals had been favourably reported at some length at LRA meetings in the July and September, as the minutes show. Also the Summer edition of our Newsletter contained an article largely supportive of these proposals; the Autumn Newsletter also contained reports on the proposals. All minutes and Newsletter are available online:
www.leatherheadresidents.org.uk/meetings.shtml
www.leatherheadresidents.org.uk/news.shtml

3. It should also be pointed out that all Committee members had attended at least one of the impressive and professional presentations given by Longshot's representatives at Cherkley Court.

4. Therefore, it was felt that the offer from one of Longshot's representative to give yet another presentation at the 3rd of December meeting was superfluous and, in view of the intention to keep the meeting short, it was politely declined. But there was no exclusion on anyone's attending the meeting. Indeed, some future presentation may be made, and this will be discussed at the January meeting of BLeAF (Chairmen of the Bookham, Leatherhead, Ashtead and Fetcham Residents' Associations).

5. After Longshot had formally submitted its application to MVDC, our Planning Subcommittee met and spent some considerable time pouring over the lengthy documentation submitted in support of the application. The Subcommittee produced a report, which had been available on line since 27th November, and this report was presented to the 3rd of December meeting.
Planning_Cherkley_2011.pdf

6. At the 3rd December meeting, one of our own LRA members was allowed to give a ten minute presentation on behalf of the Cherkley Campaign. This was a very modest 'balance' to the extensive pro-Longshot representations the Committee has been receiving over the past six months.

7. The vote that took place was made after having received several reports and presentations made on behalf of Longshot, a report on the actual submission made by our Planning Subcommittee, and a ten minute presentation on behalf of the Cherkley Campaign. It should also be pointed out that the vote was by secret ballot, i.e. each member was voting individually without influence of fellow members.

Volunteer Opportunities – Olympics 2012

If you are looking to get involved in the excitement of next year’s Olympic events in Surrey, then the ‘Surrey Ambassadors’ scheme could present the perfect opportunity.

Surrey Police, in conjunction with Surrey County Council, is looking for volunteers to support our Olympic programme of events and activities whilst helping to give visiting spectators a really good experience of Surrey. Ambassadors are required to ‘meet and greet’ people, guide them to events and local places of interest and answer questions.

Volunteers will need to have specific local knowledge of locations along the routes of the cycling events and the Torch Relay – key locations are Dorking, Egham, Esher, Godalming, Godstone, Guildford, Leatherhead, Redhill, Reigate, Shere, Weybridge and Woking. They will also need to be available on at least three of the following dates: 20, 28, 29 July and 1 August and for a days training in the weeks leading up to the Olympics.
To take on this important role you must be an excellent communicator, enthusiastic, supportive and reliable. As the friendly face of Surrey, you will need to be approachable, open minded and patient, as well as physically fit and confident. If you are fluent in a second language (particularly French, Dutch/Flemish, Italian, German and Spanish) that would be useful but is not essential.
At the moment we are just looking for expressions of interest. Once you have registered interest you will receive an application form and further information. Applications will be ‘sifted’, and those who meet all the criteria will be invited for a short interview. After training, successful applicants will work alongside other Olympic stewards, and of course Surrey Police officers and staff.

To register your interest, please email volunteer@surrey.pnn.police.uk giving your name, address and phone number. Or drop us a line at Police Support Volunteers, Surrey Police HQ, PO Box 101, Guildford GU1 9PE.

Closing date for applications: Wednesday, 1 February, 2011.

Surrey Police: Rogues Gallery launched to name and shame convicted burglars and ask for information on those ‘Most Wanted’

SURREY Police has launched a new section on the Force’s website today to trace those both wanted and suspected of being involved in various burglary offences across the county. The section also names and shames those recently put behind bars.


http://www.surrey.police.uk/media/rogues_gallery.asp


The Rogues Gallery is split into three sections - 'Behind Bars', 'Most Wanted', and 'Do you know these people?' and it will run for an initial three month trial period. The Rogues Gallery will be updated on a regular basis with new convictions to highlight how the public have helped Surrey Police put criminals ‘Behind Bars’. It will also be updated regularly with those ‘Most Wanted’ or suspected of being involved in burglaries.
Anyone with information can call Surrey Police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 if they don’t want to give their name.

Surrey Police’s campaign to help homeowners avoid becoming the victims of burglary over Christmas also launched last week.
 http://www.surrey.police.uk/safety/beattheburglar/beattheburglar.asp


The campaign includes a short video and radio adverts urging the public to protect their homes and possessions and not to make life easy for burglars by leaving their wrapped presents in view under the Christmas tree.

A new 10 step self assessment to consider and assess the level of home security is now available on the Force’s website. It provides practical advice to help homeowners reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim of burglary.

To help you enjoy a happy and safe Christmas and New Year, Surrey Police recommend the following:
At home

• Don't leave presents under the Christmas tree in view of a window. Hide them somewhere safe until Christmas morning.
• Security mark expensive presents, such as electronic equipment with a forensic marking product and keep an inventory on a property registration website such as www.immobilise.com.
• Dispose of Christmas gift packaging carefully. Empty boxes left outside can advertise to thieves what they can find inside.

Going away?

• If you are going away over the festive period ask a neighbour or your local Neighbourhood Watch scheme to keep an eye on your house.
• Do not post details of your holiday on social networking sites.
• Make your house look occupied by using automatic timer switches to turn interior lights, radios or TVs on and off and ensure you cancel your milk and newspapers.
• Remember to lock all doors and windows and to set your burglar alarm.

Visit www.surrey.police.uk to view the Rogues Gallery, the Christmas campaign video or to take the self assessment on your home security.

Call 101 for all non-emergency policing matters.
Call 999 if you have a genuine emergency requiring the attendance of the police (eg a crime is in progress or someone is in immediate danger).
Call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if you have information about crime and don't want to leave your name. ENDS CW/11 For more information please call 01483 632000 or email; PlannedCommunications@surrey.pnn.police.uk
Follow Surrey Police at www.twitter.com/surreypolice

MVDC Budget Consulation

 

Dear All

 

Some of you may already know that Mole Valley District Council has begun its budget consultation for 2012. I am therefore contacting you to ask you and your colleagues and residents to take a few minutes to complete our short survey to tell us your views on this topic.

 

The consultation can be completed online on our website at www.molevalley.gov.uk.  Here is a link for your convenience:

 

http://www.molevalley.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=12710

 

For anyone who prefers to complete the survey in hard copy, these can be found in the Pippbrook offices, at the Leatherhead HelpShop, in our two Day Centres (Dorking Christian Centre and the Fairfield Centre), in the 2 sports centres (LLC and Dorking Sports Centres) and in libraries. 

 

Thank you

 

Louise

 

Louise Bircher
Customer Service and Communications Manager
Mole Valley District Council
Tel: 01306 879155
www.molevalley.gov.uk

Follow us on Twitter @MoleValleyDC

"Elf" & Safety : Concerns over Wonky Tree

Will the Leatherhead tree last through the festive season?

Open Committee Meeting Monday, 5th December Leatherhead Institute 7.30 pm – 9.00 pm

Agenda (7.30 pm - approx. 8.15 pm)

1. Apologies for absence.

2. Minutes of the 7th November.

3. Matters arising from Minutes (not covered later in the agenda)

4. Correspondence (None received so far)

5. To receive and consider reports from:

• Environment Subcommittee
• Highways Subcommittee
• Planning Subcommittee: Appeals, Decisions & Current Applications (except Cherkley Court)
• Planning Subcommittee: Cherkley Court Application
• LRA member Kristina Kenworthy: Cherkley Campaign

6. Any Other Business (None received so far)

The formal meeting will be followed by an informal session with mulled wine or soft drink, mince pies and other seasonal nibbles.
________________________________________

(The South Leatherhead Police Panel will be held in the same room earlier in the evening from 6.45 pm to 7.15 pm;
there is no North Leatherhead Police Panel this month)

Surrey County Council Bus Consultation

SCC will run a three-month public consultation from Tuesday 1 November 2011 to Tuesday 31 January 2012 for your comments on the proposals. Brochures listing the changes and including a feedback form will be available at libraries from 1 November. Alternatively email your feedback to busreview@surreycc.gov.uk

The proposals can also be seen on the SCC Website

Improvements to Leatherhead Community Recycling Centre and Waste Transfer Station

I am writing to let you know that improvements to Leatherhead Community Recycling Centre and Waste Transfer Station are due to begin in January 2012. The site will close on 9 January and the work will take around eight months. The nearest alternative community recycling centres are at Blenheim Road, Epsom, KT19 9DL and Ranmore Road, Dorking, RH4 1TL. The nearest waste transfer station is also at Blenheim Road. Both sites are around seven miles away from the Leatherhead waste facility. The site is being redeveloped to provide Leatherhead residents with a modern, accessible and user-friendly facility. The improvements will include:

· Improved parking and road layout to help site users to move around the site more easily and help to reduce queuing;
· Separate entrances for the public and site service vehicles to help reduce congestion at the site entrance;
· Drop off area for garden waste carried in trailers.

Other alterations planned also include:

· Redevelopment of the waste transfer station to include a fully enclosed building for household waste from borough councils;
· Improved traffic management with the complete separation of neighbouring Grundon and Thames Water vehicle access, as currently they pass through the site.

Yours sincerely,

Beverly Sheridan,
Project Manager
SITA Surrey

Cold Calls from G1 Security

We have received reports in connection with people receiving "cold calls" from a company called G1 Security, who are trying to persuade people to purchase home security systems.
The calls are usually from someone purporting to be from Crime Prevention UK and there is sometimes a suggestion that the company is responding to recent crimes in the area.  In particular, the company tends to target elderly and/or vulnerable people.  If the offer is accepted the company then progresses to using "hard sell" tactics to get people to sign up to monitoring systems.
Prices quoted vary from "free" to a small selection of addresses as an advertisement for the company to £5000 - £6000 or more.  If the system is offered "free", there is still an administration charge.
G! Security is not registered with any of the Security Industry Regulatory organisations.  Sometimes they provide a genuine police incident number to give the impression that they are authorised by the local police.  This is not the case as police never recommend specific companies as this would be totally unethical.
We would always advise people to research any system requirements for themselves and not respond to cold calling.  If a salesperson turns up at an address and refuses to leave at the residents' request, they are committing a criminal offence and police can be contacted.
If you would like totally impartial and free advice about your home security, you can always call 101 and ask to speak with our Crime Reduction Advisor, Mike Bessent.  Mike is happy to make home visits by appointment and to give a professionally qualified assessment of security needs that is cost-effective, appropriate and realistic to individual needs.
Thank you and please feel free to pass this information on to your friends, family and neighbours.
Mole Valley Safer Neighbourhood Team

If you need to contact us in the meantime, you can reach us on 

Email: Clarke13363@surrey.pnn.police.uk
Tel: 101

THE LETHERHEAD INSTITUTE CELEBRATES 120 YEARS SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY IN 2012

The Letherhead Institute at the top of the High Street was built in 1892 and given to the people of Leatherhead by local benefactor Abraham Dixon of Cherkley Court. Next year sees the commemoration of 120 years providing educational, social and recreational facilities within this beautiful Victorian building.

Amazingly the Institute had already been there for 5 years when Queen Victoria celebrated her Diamond Jubilee and it will be bedecked again next year to mark the Diamond Jubilee of our own Queen Elizabeth II.

The festivities on 19 May will include an invitation for all the Leatherhead Community to come and see what’s inside the building; a special feature will be an exhibition including pictures and artefacts from 1897 - Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee Year.

Do you have any Victorian memorabilia or photographs which you would be prepared to lend for the exhibition? We’d be delighted to hear from you at LCA2 AT btconnect DOT com or please write to:

The Administrator
Leatherhead Community Association
The Institute 67 High Street
Leatherhead KT22 8AH

Parking Problems

Ray Ward's articles in the Autumn Newsletter "Parking inconsiderately" has a photograph of traffic parked on both sides of Kingscroft Avenue, making it difficult for larger vehicles to pass along the road, and impossible for fire engine to get through and causing problems for bin lorries. On at least one pccasion, I am told, "they sent a small vehicle on a Saturday morning and they threw all the refuse and paper/card in together!!"

This is hardly satisfactory. When restrictions were, quite rightly, imposed in Bypass Road some two years ago, could Surrey County Council (SCC) not work out that cars would simply shift into Kingscroft Avenue?

In response to the article, I have heard from a resident in Linden Road where - believe it not - when parking restrictions were introduced two years back in several roads (such as Bypass Road) "restrictions on parking in Linden Road were relaxed"! And guess what the resident went on to say? "... since then there have been no end of problems with inconsiderate parking." Was it really beyond the wit of SCC to foresee that would happen?

I am told that in response to complaints from residents in Linden Road, white 'aitch-bars' were painted in front of drives about six months ago; but as these things are not enforceable, "many drivers continue to park over them." More worrying still is the fact that this resident finds that when she tries to turn out of her drive "there is often ... insufficient field of vision to do so safely (quite a concern with my two young sons in the car). There has been one crash and numerous near misses as a result."

Three times in the past, "Fulvius", one of the Blog's contributors and a resident of Oaks Close, has blogged about the problems of that road. Incredibly, when restrictions were introduced on neighbouring rounds about two years ago, nothing was done about the road closest to the station! Surely even the dimmest person could work out that problems in Oaks Close would increase? It was either beyond SCC to work that out or it didn't care.

I will not go over the problems with delivery lorries that Fulvius has high-lighted in the past. The problems with bin collections have continued and now the only way Mole Valley District Council can ensure refuse is regularly collected in Oaks Close is to have one side of the road coned-off every Tuesday evening and the cones removed the following evening. So, if anyone in Oaks Close is going to have their house on fire, they had better make sure it's a Wednesday!

If it were not so serious, this would be farcical. And I think it likely there are other streets besides just these three that have experienced worsening problems over parking during the past two years.

It is not just that life is made difficult for delivery men, bin men and residents but people's lives are being put at risk, whether because fire service or ambulance will be held up or because of a fatal accident as some one turns out of their drive. Do we really have to wait until there is a fatality or serious injury before something is done about the parking problems in these (and other roads)?

We said at the time the restrictions were introduced two years back that it would only push the problem into other roads. How right we were! When are we going to have a proper comprehensive parking strategy for Leatherhead?

Help Surrey Police to reduce burglaries during the winter months

Surrey Police in partnership with Eagle Radio have launched a campaign aimed at helping the county’s homeowners avoid becoming victims of burglary during the winter months.
The county sees around a 33% increase in domestic burglaries between the months of October and December after the clocks have gone back and the evenings get darker.
The campaign, titled "Burglars take more than you think - Don’t make it easy for them", includes a short film and radio adverts urging the public to protect their homes and possessions and not to make life easy for burglars.
The film features a young man, played by an actor, in a property you believe to be his own home. He’s taking a drink from the fridge and sitting on the sofa as he works from his laptop. As he prepares to go out he places the laptop in its case, gathers his "belongings" - a gold watch, mobile phone and money - and heads for the kitchen draw to collect his car keys.
As he drives off the viewer sees how he came to be in the property in the first place as he is revealed as a burglar!
A radio advertising campaign will run alongside the film featuring the views of home owners after they discover they have been burgled. Actor’s voices will portray the emotion and upset involved in having both sentimental and valuable items taken.
This campaign follows on from Surrey Police and Crimestoppers coming together to launch "Cash for information" to encourage the public to pass on information anonymously about burglars and the handling of stolen goods in return for a financial reward if an arrest and charge is made.
Temporary Detective Superintendent Maria Woodall said "As the clocks go back and it starts to get darker earlier, the number of break-ins goes up. It is known that burglars often target properties that appear to be unoccupied and therefore making sure your home looks and feels like someone is at home can be all that is needed to keep your belongings safe.
"Simple crime prevention measures can really make all the difference, such as leaving a few lights on and not having valuables in view from a window. The majority of burglars are opportunists, and if they have to make a lot of noise, spend a lot of time, or risk being seen, they are likely to go elsewhere"
Surrey Police is giving the following advice to help residents avoid becoming a victim of burglary as the winter months rapidly approach:
· Light up your house – inside and outside. If you are out or away, use timer switches to turn internal lights on and off.
· Make sure your doors are securely locked at all times.
· Close and lock all windows – burglars can wiggle through any gap larger than a human head.
· Fit locks at the top and bottom of patio doors.
· A visible burglar alarm will make a burglar think twice. Make sure you set your alarm every time you leave your house.
· Never leave garages or sheds unlocked.
· Fit and lock gates across side and back entrances.
· Be alert to strangers loitering in the street, If you don’t recognise them and they are acting suspiciously, call the police.
· Don’t hide your keys under a mat or a flowerpot – it’s the first place a burglar will look
· Keep an inventory of your valuable property, either on paper or online with a company such as www.immobilise.com
· Use a property marking product to uniquely mark valuable possessions. For more information visit www.securedbydesign.com
· Beware of bogus callers. Use a door chain and check the callers identity carefully. If in doubt, keep them out.
· And finally, if a burglar does get into your home handbags, wallets and car keys are rich pickings so never leave these items in view.

Jamie Robinson Force Crime Reduction & Crime Prevention Design Advisor
Central Neighbourhood Team
Surrey Police
101 ext: 36527
robinson13404@surrey.pnn.police.uk
Surrey Police, PO Box 101, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 9PE
www.surrey.police.uk
Surrey Police – With You, Making Surrey Safer

Olympic Torch Relay

Hello,
 
Today, LOCOG (London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games) has announced the journey of the Olympic Torch in the 70 days leading up to the start of the Games.
The Torch will travel through Surrey on a number of occasions:

10 July – Egham
17 July – Felbridge
20 July – Godstone, Bletchingley, Redhill, Reigate, Dorking, Westcott, Shere, Godalming and Guildford.

The Torch will stay in Guildford during the evening of 20 July for an evening of events at Stoke Park.

Surrey County Council will be working with District and Borough Councils, Surrey Police LOCOG to make the torch relay run as smoothly as possible. This will mostly involve ‘rolling road closures’ that will be reopened as promptly as possible after the torch has passed along a street.
More information about the impact on roads will be provided at a later date.

To find out more about the Torch Relay, visit http://www.gosurrey.info/torch-relay.

Many thanks

2012 Team

Open Committee Meeting Monday, 7th November Leatherhead Institute 7.30pm – 9.00pm

Agenda

1. Apologies for absence.

2. Minutes of the 3rd October.

3. Matters arising from Minutes (not covered later in the agenda)

4. Correspondence

5. To receive and consider reports from:
   Environment Subcommittee
    Planning Subcommittee
    HighwaysSubcommittee
    BLeAF (meeting of chairs of Bookham, Leatherhead, Ashtead & Fetcham RAs)
    (If any more are received they will be added to the agenda)

6. Any Other Business
    (None received so far)

Have a Spooktacular Halloween in Leatherhead

Leatherhead town centre will be taken over by creepy crawlies, stilt walking devils and gargoyles on Monday 31 October when the town once again hosts an afternoon of fun and games for your little ones from 3.30pm to 6.00pm. 

                                                                         

Be terrorised (only slightly) by Animazing’s real life creepy crawlies, including snakes, spiders and cockroaches. Be wowed by the stilt walking devils that will tower above the crowds and be mesmerised by the Whizzers; strange sprite-like characters that will glide through the streets. Also, look out for the two gargoyles in the town centre.

Are you feeling lucky? Find the key to the locked treasure chest and you could be in for a treat! But be warned, if you’re unlucky you will be in for a trick. Are you brave enough to find the magic stone in amongst the body parts? How about guessing the name of our real tarantula or testing your aim at skull hoopla? If this isn’t enough, enter the Witch Word Competition and you could be in with the chance of winning a £15 gift voucher. 

Students of Therfield School will perform Halloween Hits such as the Monster Mash and the Harry Potter theme tune, while local dance group Poptastic will perform Michael Jackson’s Thriller.

A fancy dress competition for all ages will take place at 4.30pm in the Swan Centre, with prizes for the best costume.

Councillor Kathryn Westwood, Portfolio Holder for Partnerships, said: “Halloween in Leatherhead promises to be lots of fun for the whole family. With the music, fun and games there will be a fantastic atmosphere. The event is a great way for us to reach our communities and encourage residents to support local businesses.”  

There will be a small charge for some of the competitions and games. For the safety of residents, the barrier to the High Street will remain closed until 6.30pm.

Cherkley Court Consultation Weekend

I understand that following the Consultation Weekend in July, Longshot Country Club Ltd is holding another presentation on Friday 14th October & Saturday 15th October at Cherkley Court from 10.00 am till 1.30 pm.

You are not expected to be there for 3½ hours. If you want to know the latest for Longshot's plans for the house and gardens, do look in.

Olympic Planting

 

Olympic Planting Colour Scheme 

 

Dear All

 

As many of you may know the London Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (LOCOG) have tight control over how the Games will look - including use of the Olympic logo, advertising along or close to the route and also how the route is dressed. Mole Valley District Council together with Surrey County Council and LOCOG are already thinking about this last aspect and have received printed guidance from LOCOG on the issue of route dressing. In it, there is guidance and ideas on planting for next year - how to get the right colours and which plants will do that so that any planting along the route is in line with the Olympic colours.

 

As it is the time of year when many gardeners are making plans for next year, it seems appropriate to forward this guidance now. Naturally it is most relevant to those of you who are on or near the Olympic Road Race route but I hope you will bear with me on this mass email.

 

I hope that this guidance is useful. It contains ideas on the relevant plants that will bring the right colours to your displays but they are not prescriptive and you may choose to use different plants. I would be most grateful if you could forward this on to any relevant clubs or associations that you may know of too.

 

Kind regards

 

Louise

 

Louise Bircher
Customer Service and Communications Manager
Mole Valley District Council

Circus Of The Orient Arrives In Leatherhead

EXCLUSIVE OFFER

For the first time, a spectacular, fun-packed world-class circus for all the family, the likes of which can only be seen by audiences in major cities - is coming to Leatherhead – for three days only!  The Big Top will be at Leatherhead Leisure Centre from Tuesday 25^th October until Thursday 27^th October 2011.

Featuring a galaxy of international circus stars from China, Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan, Bulgaria, Romania and France, Circus Of The Orient, has been specifically designed to visit towns and locations normally considered beyond the reach of circuses of an international standard.  Yet its creators, Carol and Phillip Gandey say there will be no compromise in the size or quality of its world-class performance.

Leatherhead audiences can witness the amazing world famous Shaolin Wu Shu Warriors appearing by kind permission of the Abbott of the Shaolin Temple and the Chinese Ministry Of Culture. Blink and you could miss it, such are the lightening reactions of the greatest exponents of martial arts, they stretch the limits of human achievement in this dazzling new production where east meets west.

Other world class artist’s include the sensational springboard acrobatics from the amazing ‘Julio Troupe’, combined with supreme aerialists, ‘Trio Serik’, who will be on hanging straps high in the roof of the Big Top. The beautiful ‘Monalisa’ will provide an element of grace with her aerial showcase.

Encounter the unbelievable somersaults performed on Chinese poles and watch artists dice with death on the cloud swing trapeze, all whilst the spectacular Big Top is echoing with laughter from the antics of our crazy clowns ‘Duo Delbosq’.

HOW TO RECIEVE OFFER

This is your opportunity to receive an exclusive Buy One Adult Ticket And A Child Goes Free*. You can either call 0871 705 5507 (10ppm BT) and quote “Leatherhead KF” OR print this email and take to our Box Office on site at Leatherhead Leisure Centre, KT22 9BL, to book your tickets. Our Box Office is open from Tuesday 25^th October times of 12pm to 8pm.

Offer Valid:

·         Wednesday 26^th October show times of 2pm and 4.30pm.

·         Thursday 27^th October show times of 2pm and 4.30pm

(*Offer valid on all seats except Rear Tier and valid to all Wednesday and Thursday performances, Subject to availability)

For more information on Circus Of The Orient please go to www.circusoftheorient.com

Open Committee MeetingMonday, 3rd OctoberLeatherhead Institute 7.30pm – 9.00pm

Agenda
 
1. Apologies for absence
 
2. Notice of Matters for Any Other Business
 
3. Minutes of Meeting on 5th September.
 
4. Matters Arising,from the minutes which are not on the agenda below.
 
5. Correspondence
 
6. Autumn Newsletter
 
7. Reports from sub-committees:
    Membership
    Environment
    Planning
    Highways
 
8. Reports from other meetings:
    Leatherhead Highways Forum 30th August.
    Leatherhead & District Forum 15th September
    BLeAF 23rd September
    The Green Mole Forum
    Transition Bookham
 
9. Any Other Business (as agreed under Item 2)
 
(The Committee meeting will be preceded by a South Leatherhead Police Panel meeting at 6.45 pm)

Open Committee MeetingMonday, 5th SeptemberLeatherhead Institute 7.30pm – 9.00pm

1. Apologies for absence

2. Notice of Matters for Any Other Business

3. Minutes of Meeting on 1st August

4. Matters Arising,from the minutes which are not on the agenda below.

5. Correspondence

6. Reports from sub-committees and from other meetings.
    Membership
    Environment
    Planning
    Highways
    Other meetings:
      Leatherhead Highways Forum 30th August.

7. Any Other Business (as agreed under Item 2)

Police warn residents to be wary of bank card scam

Police warn residents to be wary of bank card scam

Surrey Police is warning residents about an emerging scam in which fraudsters use false pretences to try and get people’s bank cards.

The scam works by the victim initially receiving a phone call, or number of phone calls, from someone claiming to be from their bank. The caller checks the victim’s details, including asking for their pin number, then informs them that they need a new bank card. The victim is advised that someone will be visiting them shortly to collect their old card. A person, dressed to look like a courier, then arrives at the door to take the card.

Detective Sergeant Vicki Morris, who is investigating these incidents, said: "It is important that residents are aware of the tactics used by con-artists. This scam works due to the two pronged approach of first calling the victim on the phone and then visiting their property. If someone turned up at your door and asked you to hand over your bank cards, you would most likely be wary and refuse, but having someone call beforehand to warn you that a ‘courier’ will be coming can make it seem more legitimate.

"I would urge householders never to give out bank details or other personal information over the phone whatever the reason behind the request. Banks would never operate in this way either by phoning or turning up out of the blue. They would write to customers and would expect them to cut up cards personally when they expired.

"This is a worrying scam which is clearly being aimed at the most vulnerable members of our community. I would urge families, friends and carers to explain to others who may be at risk what they should do to protect themselves. If at anytime a resident feels suspicious they should contact Surrey Police as soon as possible."

Anyone with any information about either of these incidents is asked to call Surrey Police on 0845 125 2222, quoting reference MV/11/3469. Alternatively, information can be passed to Crimestoppers, anonymously and free of charge, by calling 0800 555 111.

Grab a compost bin for only £10!

Following on from an earlier post :

Grab a compost bin for only £10!

What: Surrey Waste Partnership’s home composting team will take their roadshow to Leatherhead Leisure Centre car park where they will be selling compost bins at the bargain price of just £10. Pick up step-by-step guides and trouble-shooting advice for free too, from our composting experts. When: Thursday 25th August, 11.00am to 16.00pm

Context: Home composting is an essential part of Surrey’s waste minimisation campaign and has an important role to play in achieving a reduction in the amount of garden and food waste that is disposed of. Out of a total 514,000 tonnes of household waste currently produced in Surrey each year, it's estimated that around a third could be composted which would save the county an estimated £10 million in green waste disposal costs each year. Visit www.surreywastepartnership.org.uk.

Ride The Route 4 September 2011

Ride the Route Sportive 4 September 2011
Information sheet
August 2011

Introduction
Ride the Route (RTR) is a non-competitive participation cycle ride taking place on 4 September 2011 for experienced cyclists. The route follows a 65 mile circuit based on the 2012 Olympic Road Race route within Surrey only.


Frequently asked questions
Q. Is this a cycle race like the London-Surrey Cycle Classic?
No, RTR is a Sportive (sometimes called a cycle-sportive), it is not a race. Cyclists take part in this ride at their leisure. Many other Sportives take place within Surrey every year.


Q. When did you start planning this event?
We started looking at organising this event in February 2011


Q. What is the exact route?
We do not give out details of the exact route until the day. This is to allow for any safety or emergency diversions.


Q. How many riders will be taking part?
We will have a clearer idea 7 days prior to the event but currently we expect a maximum of 500.
Ride Estimated Timing:
Riders leave East Molesey
Between 6:00 – 8:00
Ride Box Hill
From 07:00 – 12:00
Riders return to East Molesey
Between 10:00 – 14:30


Q. Which roads will be closed?
RTR takes place on open roads, no roads are closed.


Q. What has been done to minimise disruption to other road users?
We have picked an early Sunday morning start when most people take a more relaxed approach to their day. The date has been changed to ensure a gap between the London-Surrey Classic and RTR. The riders set off in staggered waves rather than all in one go.


Q. Have you been in touch with the National Trust?
Yes we have permission to use their private road.


Q. How many barriers will line the route?
We will not be using barriers on open public roads, these are not needed.


Q. Why has there been a delay in getting information out to areas where the ride passes?
We have had to wait to ensure both the safety procedures and date was confirmed otherwise the information we supplied may have been incorrect.


Q. How many spectators will be on the route?
We do not expect any spectators on the route, as this is not a race.


Q. Is it open to anyone?
Due to the nature of the route and the need to ensure safety we stipulate that those entering are experienced cyclists (not beginners) and 18 years of age or over.


Q. What safety measures are in place?
Safety is of paramount importance to us. We have been working with the Police, National Trust and Local Authorities and they are fully satisfied with our safety measures. The route has been fully risk assessed and we have gone above and beyond the government guidance for this type of event. This includes:
• Sign posted route
• First Aid and Paramedic support
• Two ambulances in attendance
• Static marshals
• Moto marshals
• Mechanical support
• Ride doctor


Q. What will you be doing to stop riders causing blockages and riding in groups spanning the road?
Riders will be given printed information to ensure they respect other road users and reminded that they must ride in accordance with the Highway Code. They will also be briefed before they set off to ensure they have received this information both in written and verbal format. We will highlight the more challenging parts of the route.
We will have static marshals and members of the National Escort Group (Moto marshals) that will help regulate the riders.


Q. When will the signage go up?
We will be using temporary signage. This will be in place before the ride starts and will be removed in sequence after the last rider has left the start point.


Q. The riders have timing chips surely you are encouraging them to race?
Not at all, it is essential we can identify riders in case of an accident and that we know that they have set off and returned to the start/finish point. In addition we have marshals who will be instructing riders to slow their speed at certain points if necessary.


Q. How are you helping areas that already see an increase in cyclists?
Anyone can legally ride a bike on an open road. Ride the Route offers a safe regulated platform for those who may already be thinking about following this route. 84% of current cyclists signed up to ride are local to the areas this ride passes.


Q. Who do I get in touch with if I have a question?
This event is organised by Active Surrey. Active Surrey is the Sport England funded strategic lead sports development agency for Surrey (hosted by Surrey County Council).
Please email info@ridetheroute.com or active.surrey@surreycc.gov.uk
Tel. 01483 518944

Surrey CC Composting Event

From the comms department at Surrey Council Council:

"Our composting team are holding a bargain bin sale 25th August in Leatherhead (£10 only!)"

No more details at the moment.

Watch out, watch out - Mrs Wu is about!

I've just got back from holiday and find I have a letter from a Mrs. Grace Wu, who describes herself as a private investment banker. She tells me that somone with my surname instructed her to lodge $21 Million in some Chinese bank to be used for an investment in some business or other; and these funds were invested and have increased in value.

Several years later the Bank reported to her that the funds remained untouched and when she investigated further it turned out that the investor had only gone and got himself killed in a hiking accident in mainland China. Not only that - he died intestate and now Mrs. Wu wants to do a deal with me so that she and I can share these unclaimed million of dollars!!

Wahoooo!! I'm in the money - I'm in the money!!

Well, no, not exactly. She tells me that to save her getting into trouble all of this must remain confidential and I mustn't tell anyone about it - not even you who are reading this.

But I am telling you this because it is a scam. If you get such a letter, do NOT reply to it! Once she (if, indeed, it is a she at all) has your bank details you will be cleaned out of all the money in your bank account.

A quick look on the Internet will soon reveal many people with "the same surname" as you, and you and you have also invested $21 Million in some Chinese bank and died intestate, having died in a hiking accident in Mainland China (obviously a dangerous place to go hiking!).

The sad thing about these scam letters (and emails) is that these criminals work on the numbers game - if they send out enough of this drivel there will always be some gullible soul out there that will be taken in and will lose their hard earned cash to these vermin. Don't let it be you - and please warn your friends about this.

Parking on the Olympic Cycling Route

The County Council will be actively putting flyers on all cars parked along the cycle route on 31 July and 7 August as advanced warning that the London-Surrey Cycle classic will be coming through and that vehicles parked on the route on Sunday 14 August will be towed.

Designing Out crime

Public Consultation 22^nd July to 2^nd September 2011.

Surrey Police is working with Mole Valley District Council to produce a planning guide on Designing out Crime.

Designing out Crime will be a practical guide for developers, householders and anyone else with an interest in new development.

The aim is to help people understand how to design new development in ways that will reduce opportunities for crime and anti-social behaviour. As a result, new developments should feel safe, helping to reduce the fear of crime.

The guidelines will cover issues such as designing security measures in a way that is sympathetic to the surroundings, laying out development so that it doesn’t create hiding places or escape routes for criminals, and fostering a sense of pride and ownership within new streets and public spaces, so that residents feel secure.

Members of the public and other interested parties are invited to read and comment on Designing out Crime.

A draft version will be available from 22^nd July, on the Council’s website at www.molevalley.gov.uk/ldf

Copies will also be available for public inspection at:

• The Council Offices at Pippbrook, Dorking
• Libraries in the District
• The Help Shop in Leatherhead