It has been a privilege to serve as Mayor over the past four months and to meet so many residents, volunteers, community groups and local organisations. Everywhere I go, I am reminded of the pride, kindness and community spirit that make our Borough such a wonderful place.
A key part of my year is supporting my chosen charities, and this newsletter highlights some of the events and fundraising activities planned in the months ahead. I hope you will join me at our charity car wash at the Woodhatch Centre on 17th October, as well as the other civic and community events featured in these pages.
This is also a historic year, as it will be the final mayoral year before the transition to East Surrey Council. As the last Mayor of the Borough, I am proud to celebrate all that our communities have achieved and look forward to meeting many more of you as we mark this important chapter together. Thank you for your support, and I hope you enjoy this newsletter.
Click on the bear to view upcoming Mayoral engagements
Mayoral Charities Click on the icons to visit the websites!
Age Concern Merstham, Redhill & Reigate is a local charity supporting people aged 55+ across the borough, helping them stay independent and reduce loneliness through community-based services. It provides a day centre, befriending service, and Men's Shed activities, offering social connection, practical support, and wellbeing opportunities for older residents.
The MYTI Youth Club provides a safe and supportive space for young people aged 8 to 15 in Tadworth, Surrey, offering activities such as sports, arts, music, and personal development. It aims to build confidence, support wellbeing, and create positive opportunities for local young people, with free meals provided during sessions.
Mayor's Upcoming Civic and Fundraising Events
Freedom of the Borough Award to Four Local Cadet Units – Sunday 11th October
Residents are invited to attend a special civic ceremony on Sunday 11th October, from 1pm to 2pm, in Priory Park, Reigate, for the presentation of the Freedom of the Borough of Reigate & Banstead to four local cadet units.
The Freedom of the Borough is one of the highest honours the Council can bestow and recognises exceptional service and contribution to the local community.
The cadet units are:
Reigate Sea Cadets, Reigate Unit No. 281, T.S. Ark Royal
Banstead ACF, Anzio Company, The Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment
Redhill ACF, Anzio Company, The Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment
RAF Air Cadets, 135 (Reigate & Redhill) Squadron, Surrey Wing
These cadet units have made a significant and lasting impact across the borough through their commitment to youth development, community engagement, support for civic events and participation in Remembrance commemorations.
The event is free to attend and open to the public.
GT Clean Charity & Community Day - Saturday 17th October
Saturday 17th October, 10am to 6pm!
GT Clean will be raising funds for MYTI, one of the chosen charities of The Mayor of the Borough of Reigate & Banstead
Expect a full family day with:
Raffles & prizes
DJs & entertainment
Soft play
Food & refreshments
Special car displays
Charity car wash
Fundraising activities throughout the day
Remembrance Services – Sunday 8th November
Remembrance Sunday services will take place throughout the UK on Sunday, November 8th. In the borough traditional Remembrance services will be held in Banstead, Horley and Redhill.
Redhill (Shaw's Corner War Memorial)
The Civic Party will gather from 10.15am in the Redhill United Reformed Church Hall, with the procession moving off to the War Memorial for the service commencement at 10.55am.
Banstead War Memorial
The parade will muster at 10.15am at The Horseshoe car park, next to Banstead Library. The parade route will march along Banstead High Street to the War Memorial, arriving by 10.55am for the service.
Horley War Memorial Gardens
The parade will assemble outside the Constitutional Club on Albert Road at 10.20am.
Led by the Redhill Corps of Drums Band, the parade will proceed to the War Memorial Gardens for a 10.58am service.
Wreath Making workshop – Wednesday 25th November
Guests are invited to join the Mayor and Mayoress for an afternoon of festive Christmas Wreath Making workshop in aid of the charities, Age Concern MRR and the MYTI Youth Club.
The Wreath Making workshop is taking place on Wednesday 25th November 2-4pm at the Town Hall. So, whether you are an experienced crafter or a complete beginner, all materials and expert guidance will be provided.
Behind the Lens with Royal Photographer Arthur Edwards MBE – Friday 4th December
Residents are also warmly invited to a special event of chat and photography in aid of Age Concern MRR and the MYTI Youth Club. The event will be hosted by acclaimed Sun Newspaper, photographer Arthur Edwards MBE who will share an exclusive behind-the-scenes talk about his long career, capturing impactful photos of the British Royal family over the years.
This event will take place on Friday 4th December 2-4pm in the Town Hall. Tickets are £25 and include afternoon tea. To book please visit: www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk/mayoral-events
