Get caught in The Housetrap

Karen Neville

Surrey

Join Guildford Shakespeare Company at West Horsley Place and immerse yourself in a festive murder mystery, quiz the suspects and solve the crime, December 2nd to 21st

This Christmas, Guildford Shakespeare Company (GSC) invite you to a 1920s murder mystery staged in a real country manor house, West Horsley Place.

Following the company’s sell out show last Christmas on a grounded Boeing 747, this time they are relocating to the Grade I listed medieval manor house.

It’s December 1922 and nestled at the foot of the tranquil Surrey Hills is the home of the recently married Sir Robert Montague, Duke of Surrey. Tragically, his new wife’s body is found at the foot of the stairs and a snowstorm cuts everyone off from the outside world, tensions come to the fore, secrets are revealed and suddenly everyone is caught in… The Housetrap.

Styled in the vein of the golden age of detective writing, audiences will begin their adventure in the elegant Drawing Room. In between scenes, they will be divided into groups and invited to explore different rooms of the manor to interrogate the suspects first-hand. Throughout the evening they will return to the Drawing Room to watch the next episode in the mystery.

Matt Pinches, GSC co-founder, pictured, said: “We are thrilled to be working with the wonderful team at West Horsley Place. It is an extraordinary venue; immensely rich in history and so many of the rooms retain the ‘lived-in’ atmosphere of its previous aristocratic owners, making it the perfect setting for a country house murder mystery.”

Perhaps most recognisable as Button House in the four series of the BBC sitcom Ghosts, and the location for numerous films and TV shows including Enola Holmes, My Cousin Rachel, Vanity Fair, and The Crown, this is the first time West Horsley Place has been used as a venue for an entire indoor theatre production,

By re-igniting people’s passion for theatre-going GSC seek to break down the boundaries that preclude participation, encouraging inclusivity and accessibility for everyone. Their site-responsive approach places audiences right at the heart of the action, immersing them in the world of the play.

Matt adds: “At GSC our mandate is to create exceptional theatre in extraordinary places, and The Housetrap seeks to continue that mission. This is not only an immersive theatre experience, but also a unique chance to explore an incredible part of our shared local heritage.”

With a strictly limited capacity of just 60 people per performance advance booking is essential. The murder mystery is approximately 80-minutes long and all tickets include a glass of prosecco (or non-alcoholic alternative).


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Take a surreal journey through Eulogy

Karen Neville

Surrey

Have your senses deceived in the exhilarating Eulogy at The Shed Bordon

Step into a surreal, otherworldly journey through a dreamlike, labyrinthine hotel that exists entirely in your mind and discover Eulogy. How you arrived is a mystery and why you’re there remains unclear. Just make sure you read the pamphlet.

Darkfield, producers of innovative, immersive experiences at the forefront of technology and theatre, are bringing their critically-acclaimed shipping container show Eulogy to The Shed from Wednesday, 30th October to Sunday, 10th November.

Performed in complete darkness over 35 minutes, this intense and exhilarating ride uses binaural 360 degree sound and speech recognition technology to deceive the senses and transport audience members through rooms, down corridors and into the bowels of this strange and not altogether comfortable hotel. How your dream unfolds is, in part, up to you. However, make sure you follow the right path and don’t volunteer to become the subject of the eulogy every guest is preparing to deliver.

Eulogy is both an intense and exhilarating ride and deeper exploration of the relative merits of an embodied human conscious experience versus one that only exists in the imagination.

Eulogy premiered as part of the London BFI Film Festival 2021 and has since toured to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Latitude Festival, Nottingham Lakeside, Norwich Theatre and across Australia. Darkfield shows have launched to critical acclaim, featuring in major film festivals worldwide.

Book tickets at Whitehill & Bordon


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Shooting Star shop glitters

Karen Neville

Surrey

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices shop in Godalming is the most-loved charity shop in the South East underlining its warm and welcoming atmosphere and fundraising achievements

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices Godalming shop has taken the title of South East winner in The UK’s Favourite Charity Shop Awards.

The title was awarded in the inaugural search for the UK’s favourite charity shop. The shop was one of 6,500 nominated across the UK and claimed the winning spot in a public vote involving almost 13,000 people.

Joe Tooze, Retail Manager at Shooting Star said: “We are thrilled to be named the South East winner in the UK’s Favourite Charity Shop Award! Our amazing shop manager, Julie, and her dedicated team of staff and volunteers have worked hard to create a store that the local community enjoys visiting. The shop is beautifully arranged with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Located near our hospice, Christopher’s in Guildford, our Godalming shop enjoys tremendous support from customers, volunteers and donors – all of whom we are deeply grateful for, as the funds raised in our shops makes a significant difference to the families we support.”

Shooting Star supports more than 700 children and their families throughout Surrey and across 14 boroughs of London year round who have a baby, child or young person with a life-limiting condition or who have been bereaved. Their bespoke support for families includes a comprehensive range of therapies and support groups, specialist nursing care and respite, symptom management, end-of-life care and bereavement support.

Charity shops are an institution in the UK and have seen a rise in popularity in recent years as the public look for more ways to shop sustainably, support good causes and give back to their communities. The awards are the first of their kind and were launched in June to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Charity Retail Association, the membership organisation for charity shops in the UK.

Robin Osterley, Chief Executive of the Charity Retail Association, said: “Huge congratulations to Shotting Star Children’s Hospices. This award is a testament to the dedication of the shop’s staff and volunteers, and highlights what this wonderful store means to the local community. We have been overwhelmed by the public’s response to our search for the UK’s Favourite Charity Shop, which celebrates the contribution the sector makes to communities and good causes across the UK”

The overall winner of the UK’s Favourite Charity Shop 2024 will be announced at a special event this month.

The shops are always in need of quality pre-loved items, visit Retail wish list – Shooting Star Children’s Hospices to find out what they’re after


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Alison Molan’s Pup Goes The Easel

Karen Neville

Surrey

Farnham artist Alison Molan of Pup Goes The Easel invites you to paint your pooch at a workshop at Sage & Salt in Petersfield and create the paw-fect paw-trait

Man’s best friend, woman’s best friend, everyone’s best friend – Alison Molan certainly believes so, she’s sharing the joy and love our four-legged friends bring into our lives with her colourful work.

Pup Goes The Easel started with her daughter’s Lurcher, Parker, developed with Frida, the Spanish Podenco and today the tale (tail?) continues with bright and bold pop-art inspired hues and the eclectic style of Frida Kahlo.

Alison’s portraits are not just paintings, their vibrant style reflects our relationships with our pooches and the bond created – one which you can create yourself at one of her workshops.

The next Paint a Pup workshop takes place at Sage & Salt in Petersfield on Friday, 8th November, 10am-4pm. These fun, sociable and informative one day workshops will give you all the materials you need and the hints and tips to create a painting of the pup you love. You will paint a work of art in the Pup Goes The Easel style, but with your own choice of colours and accessories to decorate your pup. At the end of the day, you will have a canvas to take home with you which captures the essence of your own pup.

These pawesome workshops are suitable for adults of all abilities and absolute beginners are warmly welcomed. The group sizes are kept small to enable you to achieve a whole painting in a day. These sessions are intended to be fun, relaxed and informative. It is widely recognised that being creative releases endorphins which enhance your mood and promote mental wellbeing. It is a pawfect excuse for some well-deserved ‘me time’.

Alison will provide a canvas, paper, pencils, acrylic paints and brushes which you will use, on the day, to create your unique painting. You will need to bring an A4 sized photograph or print of your own pup to copy (head and shoulders) as well as an apron to protect your clothes. In addition, she also asks you bring a light lunch and a water bottle. To book visit Workshops | Sage And Salt Studio

If you don’t think your artistic skills are up to scratch, commission Alison to em-bark on a custom pet portrait for you and let her capture the quirks and charm of your four-legged friend. Find out more about her work and enquire about a commission at Pup Goes The Easel where you can also see a range of cards and gifts for sale.


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Autumn glories at Ramster

Karen Neville

Surrey

Enjoy a kaleidoscope of colour as you shop for locally made gifts at the huge variety of stalls at Ramster Christmas Market

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the season as you step into the festive wonderland of Ramster Christmas Market.

The historic Jacobean halls and courtyard will come alive with the spirit of the season on November 23rd and 24th, 10am-4pm. This year, a diverse array of stalls will be offering a unique collection of locally made gifts, including food and drink, beauty products, art and homewares.

A selection of premium Christmas trees and beautiful handmade festive wreaths will also be available to purchase. Ramster Tea House will be serving up the perfect accompaniments to your visit, with their delicious homemade mince pies and mulled wine. The free to enter event has free parking and disability access.

Additionally throughout December, Christmas Trees will be on display outside the Tea House alongside a wonderful collection of handcrafted festive wreaths for sale.

Enjoy the glory of the gardens in the earlier part of the month (until 11th) with the vibrant colours of autumn all around. Stroll through the stunning woodland paths to experience the rich red, orange and gold hues with the sound of rustling leaves underfoot. Discover sculptures and natural carvings, including the Red Dragon, a bench carved from a fallen Californian Redwood.

Wander down leaf-covered woodland paths that meander past established shrubs, mature plants, and peaceful views. At every twist and turn, you will discover enchanting features, including unique sculptures, ornate bridges, and beautiful lakes. Ramster Garden is a serene oasis, perfect for a tranquil escape for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The ancient avenue of acers is a stunning sight and one of the most photographed spots in the garden. This picturesque pathway is lined with majestic acer trees, each boasting a rich history of over one hundred years. Their gnarled, twisted trunks and branches create a captivating tapestry of shapes, and their leaves ignite a fiery palette of reds and oranges.

The Liquidambar provides stunning autumn colour with its shifting shades as the season progresses while the Handkerchief tree resembles the fluttering wings of doves looking like handkerchiefs caught in the breeze.

Nuts and berries are a sure sign autumn is upon us and the woodland floor will be awash with fallen gems and orbs of all colours and varieties which should put you in the mood for a stop at Ramster Tea House for a warming beverage and delicious bite to eat.


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Elizabeth Ascot blending tea & history

Karen Neville

Surrey

Elizabeth Ascot is a new blend of fiction and fine tea – enjoy a cup as you lose yourself in historical fiction

Local author Agnes Fernandes has launched a historical fiction series that brings together the charm of storytelling with the pleasure of fine tea.

After more than a decade of writing romantic comedies and historical drama for the screen, Agnes turned to creating her first novel during the 2020 lockdown. The inspiration came to her on moving into a small cottage in South Ascot where she developed a story spanning over 158 years.

In 1862, a young Victorian governess arrives in Ascot during the aftermath of Prince Albert’s tragic death and lives in a small cottage on the estate of a country manor, while in 2020, a fashion designer named Lisa moves into the same cottage following a career setback. As Lisa settles into her new home, a series of dramatic events unveils her remarkable past as the creative director of Santierre, one of the world’s most renowned fashion brands. Lisa discovers the governess’s timeworn journals. Through their pages, she is drawn into a world of Victorian tea parties, hidden ambitions, and the pursuit of women’s liberation. Lisa becomes immersed in the life of the governess from over 158 years ago and unexpectedly finds connections between their experiences. As the past and present intertwine, themes of resilience, love, and the enduring bond of women across time come to life in this richly woven tale.

The modern storyline, focused on the fashion designer, was partly inspired by the author’s friendship with the legendary French designer Hubert de Givenchy. Working closely with him on his 50-year retrospective exhibition, Agnes gained a rare insight into the world of haute couture, alongside Givenchy and his devoted team, all driven by their commitment to his artistic vision.

The novel is being released in five instalments, each accompanied by a bespoke tea blend. The debut book, available now on the Elizabeth Ascot website, comes packaged in a beautiful gift box with ‘Victorian Black’ a single estate, loose leaf orange pekoe tea grown exclusively for Elizabeth Ascot on a third-generation Scottish family estate in Malawi. This exceptional black tea boasts a complex character, with notes of dark forest honey, earthy malt, and a hint of dry wood, balanced by gentle blackberry flavour.

A perfect gift for fans of historical fiction and fine tea, Elizabeth Ascot is an invitation to embrace British heritage, one page and one cup of tea at a time.

Visit Elizabeth Ascot for more.


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Look good with Inspired Styling

Karen Neville

Surrey

Ali Lees is ‘over the moon’ to have been chosen as one of the Small Biz 100, part of the Small Business Saturday campaign, and with help from Inspired Styling you can look and feel “out of this world” too

Ali Lees was given a whole new lease of life thanks to a colour analysis she received as a gift and now she is “spreading the joy of dressing to feel good to others.”

The mum-of-two who lives in Worplesdon studied art and textiles and went on to work in marketing but when she was made redundant, she started to question who she was and where her future life. The gift proceed to be just the pick me up she needed.

“I wanted to launch a service that made personal styling easily accessible to everyone regardless of their budget or how into fashion they are. I celebrate body positivity, advocate for preloved clothes and offer all my services online so clients get great value for money,” says Ali, who adds that the biggest problem she hears is a common one: “I’ve got a wardrobe full of clothes, but I can’t find anything to wear!” Sound familiar?

“By paying close attention to the colour of their hair, eyes and skin tone, as well as their body shape, I recommend colours and styles that are 100% suited to the individual,” Ali explains. “I share personalised styling recommendations in a digital mini magazine format that clients can refer back to for years to come. Having this framework of styles, colours and fits helps guide clients to put together stylish outfits easily, declutter their wardrobes and shops with ease. And that means they feel excited to get dressed every day, which makes me really happy too!”

Her most popular service is a combined colour analysis and body shape styling package in which Ali assesses skin tone, hair and eye colour to make recommendations about shades that will help them to shine and those to avoid. She’ll also advise you on particular styles of clothing to make the most of your body and accentuate your best features.

One-to-one consultations can help clients declutter their wardrobes, put looks together and identify missing pieces and all services can be tailored to men and women.

More than just finding the right clothes and colours, Ali believes there is a link between our appearance and how we feel about ourselves on the inside giving a boost in self-esteem and confidence, something which only the personal touch such as that handed to clients by Inspired Styling can do.

Inspired Styling will feature as part of Small Business Saturday (December 7th), which seeks to support small businesses and encourage consumers to shop local, and is the chosen ‘highlight’ Small Biz 100 on November 27th.

“I’m so grateful to be part of a network that encourages the public to support small, independent businesses,” she adds. “In my industry, it’s the personal touch that really makes clients feel special and this is what sets small businesses apart.”

Find out more about Ali’s business and how she can help find a ‘new you’ by visiting Personal colour analysis and fashion stylist online


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Carlton Kirby’s Tour de France tales

Liz Nicholls

Surrey

On 24th November at Borough Hall in Godalming, let the larger-than-life broadcaster and Eurosport commentator entertain you with the highs and lows of Tour de France

Carlton Kirby, AKA The Voice of Cycling, looks forward to sharing backstage tales at the Borough Hall.

Carlton wonders if he might be the last in the line of a certain style of commentator. Cricket’s Henry Blofeld, F1’s Murray Walker, Darts’ Sid Waddell… there was a time when sport was voiced by real characters bringing an extra sense of colour and context to the bare sporting action on screen. Now, Kirby – Eurosport’s Voice of Cycling – feels like an outlier.

“There has been a big shift towards TV employing former athletes – and often they can be quite straight in their approach,” he reflects. “But even in sports where non-athletes are still allowed in the commentary box, there’s a definite shift towards endless statistics and often quite dry technical analysis. I’m not sure that’s what the audience wants. Often, that sense of the wider occasion, all the emotion and fun and randomness involved – all the reasons people love sport – can get lost. But I want to make sure the audience at home get the full picture – I am compelled to mention, say, a very good local sausage shop, even if I have to get it into a manic sprint finish!”

Kirby is coming to the Borough Hall in Godalming for a show on 24th November, where he will share backstage stories from his years commentating on the Tour de France. His career has coincided with the golden age of British cycling, so, naturally, there will be talk of his dealings with the likes of Bradley Wiggins and Mark Cavendish. But the tone of the evening is likely to be set by Kirby’s off-piste experiences, driving round Europe for months on end in the company of terse co-commentator Sean Kelly and getting into scrapes in low-budget hotels.

“I think, even for a lot of cycling fans, covering the Tour de France and other big races seems like some kind of extended holiday. Of course, it IS a magical thing – to be part of the biggest annual sports event on Earth, part of this travelling circus that means so much to everyone at home. But then we are also driving thousands of miles over the three weeks of the race, often late at night, staying in often quite random hotels. It is definitely a job not a holiday. Maybe not a proper job, but a job nonetheless!”

Kirby’s CV also includes an unusually broad range of broadcast gigs, from the Le Mans 24 Hour Race to speed skating and, in the early days of Eurosport, both the Eskimo Olympics and the Rock/Paper, Scissors World Championships. Along with stints on breakfast TV, as a nightclub promoter and on the ‘…and finally’ quirky-news slot on local TV in East Anglia – not to mention a failed audition to present Blue Peter -, it has been a unique path to his current position.

“I do love it. I feel privileged to have called home Mark Cavendish on so many of his record-breaking 35 stage wins at the Tour; to have been involved when British riders have dominated both the Tour and the Olympics.  

“At the show at Godalming, we will celebrate the magic of the Tour and of those British riders but also all the strangeness that comes with it. Wherever we go with the live show, it feels like a gathering of the clans – all the serious bike riders come out but also people who just enjoy looking at the French landscape while snacking on their sofa. All these hundreds of people who have fallen in love with the Tour for different reasons getting together. I can’t wait!” 

Tickets from Radio Days Events.


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Join North West Surrey RSPB

Karen Neville

Surrey

Ken Sutton from North West Surrey RSPB shares his love of birds and invites you to join them

Surrey is an excellent county for birds. Our magnificent heathlands hold uncommon species like Nightjar and Dartford Warbler. Parklands, rivers, woods, and gardens all hold a great variety of birds.

Many Surrey residents are members of the RSPB, wit its total membership exceeding a million. One of the ways the RSPB sends its message is through its 134 local groups around the country. Ours is the North West Surrey local group and we cover Weybridge, Woking, Staines, Egham, Chertsey, and surroundings areas. We are this year celebrating our 50th birthday and continue to thrive.

We have a programme of outdoor meetings both weekdays and weekends at bird watching sites both locally and further afield. Our members cover a range of birdwatching skills, the only requirement being enthusiasm for nature. These walks are fun and relaxed and we always see a good range of birds and other species. We also have a programme of indoor meetings where quality indoor speakers give an illustrated talk on a variety of nature related topics. Another string to our bow is a series of talks that we give to local groups such as U3A and Wls. Some cover our Surrey birds, others outside the county or indeed overseas.

If you would love to connect with nature and spend time with like minded people contact a committee member, try an outdoor walk or indoor meeting. You will be most welcome – no payment or donation is requested on your first meeting. Details at Home – North West Surrey Local Group and (6) RSPB North West Surrey Local Group | Facebook


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Christmas at Camberley Theatre

Round & About

Surrey

Experience a Magical Christmas with Snow White: A Fun-Filled Pantomime Adventure!

Get ready for a spellbinding pantomime like no other! This Christmas, Snow White takes the stage in an exciting new production full of laughter, magic and surprises. Join Snow White and her lively band of friends in a charming adventure packed with unforgettable songs, hilarious moments, and stunning scenery.

Special Performances:

• Relaxed Performance: Sunday 15th December, 2pm
• Integrated BSL Signed Performance: Sunday 22nd December, 2pm
• Captioned Performance (live subtitles of the show): Friday 27th December, 1pm

7th December, all tickets are £20

To book tickets and to find out more visit Camberley Theatre


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