Scott Andrews from Farnham invites you to sign up now to make money from your recyclables; £25 per household, £150 per club, school, charity or organisation and £1,500 for businesses commercial or retail
Scott has launched a crowdfunder campaign aimed at helping us all recycle more. Recycle 4 Cash rewards everyone taking part by giving points for everyday items thrown in the recycle bi, exchanging your recycling for points redeemable in the shop or online or converted into cash. Scott’s initial target is £25,000 with an ultimate goal of £100,000. There are about three weeks left so please support this now!
“With your help we can get this off the ground,” says Scott. “It’s an all-or-nothing bid so we hope you get behind us and recognise the benefits this will bring to everyone involved.”
“We are currently seeking funds to buy new machinery for our plastic recycling side of the business, the machines will be used to process the waste plastic into different products that will be re sold from the waste we collect, there’s four machines we are looking to purchase at a total of £30,000.
“We have secured £5,000 from four business customers who signed up for having their recycle bin emptied every two weeks so they can see a bargain. Ideally we want support from people and businesses in Farnham Surrey and the surrounding towns and villages as these will be the initial winners in this, however we realise others might love the idea and want to support us so we will give everyone who funds us something back – it could be something made by our workers or local craft makers at the very least 25% off the shop products. I hope this does get funded and the community get behind us so we in turn can help hundreds more raise funds for their great cause!”
Choosing where and how you say ‘I do’ and celebrate your marriage is the first big decision for many couples, finding the venue that best suits your style and vision for the day will set the tone – no pressure then!
You’ve said yes and now it’s time to start the planning, there are so many decisions to be made not least the venue but don’t fret there are more options than you could toss your bouquet at to suit every style, theme and budget.
Thames Valley Venues
Courtyard by Marriott Oxford South
Whether you are looking for a traditional wedding or a bespoke package, personalised to your individual requirements, the Wedding Co-ordinator will be with you every step of the way. The modern and stylish hotel can comfortably accommodate ceremonies of up to 50, cater for parties of up to 80 for dinner and up to 100 for an evening reception. They are fully licensed for civil, humanist and religious ceremonies. Whether you are planning a large party or just inviting your closest friends, the 170 guest rooms ensure everyone can stay and have a good time. Find out more at www.marriott.co.uk/oxfcx.
The George Hotel, Wallingford
Licensed for civil wedding ceremonies and with the adjacent Castle Gardens providing the ideal backdrop for photographs, The George can cater for your every need. If your celebrations are for a smaller group of family and friends, the Private Dining Room will accommodate up to 30 guests. For larger and more formal gatherings, which require evening entertainment, the Wealh’s or Sir John Hedges Suite are suitable for parties of 50 up to 100 for the Wedding Breakfast and 80 to 150 for the evening. More information at peelhotels.co.uk/george-hotel
Lains Barn, Wantage
The family-run venue has been catering for weddings and events for more than 50 years and offers a plethora of inside and outside areas for you and your guests to enjoy, without sacrificing that all-important atmosphere. The timber vaulted roof is steeped in history, dating back to 1750. The U-shaped design creates the perfect flow for your day to unfold. When night falls, Lains’ grounds are illuminated by festoon lighting – making for some seriously fabulous photo opportunities. Visit lainsbarn.co.uk.
Picture: Siobhan Beales Photography
Earth Trust, Abingdon
Mark your nuptials surrounded by nature with a rustic countryside wedding in the renovated 19th century barn at the Earth Trust at Wittenham Clumps. Not only can your celebration there be as personal and unique as you wish but you’ll also be championing the natural world and our green spaces. Fison Barn and the courtyard are both licensed for weddings and are both relaxed and picture perfect. Poem Tree Barn is ideal for mingling while you enjoy the bar and catering. The intimate courtyard is perfect for some chill-out time. More at earthtrust.org.uk.
Cosener’s House, Abingdon
The 19th century house occupies a picturesque Thames-side position with private gardens; it truly is the hidden gem of Abingdon. You’ll work with an experienced wedding planner, who will guide and advise you along your journey from newly engaged to the moment you leave as a married couple. The Cosener’s House is licensed for indoor civil ceremonies. Panoramic gardens overlook the River Thames paired with traditional rooms to hold your wedding celebrations. More at The Cosener’s House.
Cogges Manor Farm, Witney
The 17 acres of Cogges Manor Farm provide many charming locations for your photographs – the Manor House lawn, the ever-changing walled garden and the orchard. You’ll enjoy sole use of the two barns plus an area for a fire pit or garden games and shelter too. Both are licensed for civil ceremonies and are next door to St Mary’s Church. Cogges gives you the flexibility to dress and furnish the barns as you wish, and to decide on your own caterers, musicians and other suppliers with Cogges help to your own, truly bespoke wedding, Cogges.
The Post, Newbury
The Post is a beautifully modern take on a countryside wedding venue. The English oak barn brings together contemporary architecture and bespoke design to create a wedding that reflects you and your vision, whether it’s a grand outdoor affair with dramatic sliding doors or an intimate candle-lit ceremony beneath the oak beams. The luxurious bridal pamper room is available for you and your bridal party to enjoy precious time together as you prepare for your big day. The dedicated wedding team will be on hand while your partner and guests are getting ready at the hotel. Visit thepostbarn.co.uk.
Picture: Chris Kemp Photography
Ufton Court, Ufton Nervet
Ufton Court is a charming and historic Tithe Barn and Grade I Listed Manor House wedding venue. The 16th Century timber-framed Tithe Barn provides the perfect blank canvas for your wedding celebrations. From the breath-taking driveway, perfectly manicured courtyard, traditional white walls and flagstone floors of the Tithe Barn to the historic Manor House and the grounds beyond. Whether you are looking for a cosy winter wedding with an open fire and blankets or a summer wedding with drinks on the terrace and garden games, Ufton Court is at your disposal. Additionally by holding your wedding at Ufton Court you will be directly helping the onsite children’s charity which supports hundreds of children and their families. Discover it for yourself at uftonweddings.co.uk.
Picture: Benjamin Stuart Photography
Elcot Park, Newbury
Recently named as Britain’s Best Hotel by The Times, The Retreat at Elcot Park between Newbury and Hungerford is a perfect wedding venue. A reimagined Georgian country house, The Retreat has beautiful private spaces, 55 individually-styled bedrooms, two stunning restaurants and an indulgent spa, all surrounded by glorious Berkshire countryside. A dedicated events team will help you plan your wedding, your way. Visit www.retreatelcotpark.com.
Notley Abbey, thame
Boasting a rich history of royalty and Hollywood celebrity, it now serves as an incredible exclusive venue that is unlike any other around. Choose from The Abbot’s Hall or The Monks’ Refectory to exchange your vows, both showcasing stunning architectural highlights. Why not tie the knot outside in the idyllic sun trap that is the Walled garden? More at Notley Abbey.
The Swan At Streatley
The Aviary is the stunning setting for your special day at The Swan, from your ceremony for up to 120 of your family and friends to your reception for as many as 200 in the evening. Chefs have created a selection of menus for you to dine on for the wedding breakfast and at the end of your special day enjoy the night in a complimentary River Suite – six bedrooms will also be reserved for your nearest and dearest while you’ll also get a unique code for your guests to book online too.
Leander Club, Henley
Many wedding parties for the elegant Edwardian venue choose to arrive at Leander either by boat or on foot – it’s just a short walk over the bridge from Henley. Enjoy photographs on the lawn or landing stage before your wedding breakfast in the stylish dining room adorned with artworks and painted oars. Dance the night away with family and friends before a fabulous fireworks display to round off your special day.
Stanlake Park & Vineyard, Charvil
One for wine lovers – you’re sure of a divine experience in the vineyard at Stanlake Park to toast your sparkling day. The picturesque venue is set in 150 acres of gorgeous grounds, with a tree-lined driveway. Vintage barns have been restored to conjure up an idyllic location and there’s a variety of settings to say I do, hold drinks receptions and play lawn games. Stanlake Park guarantees you beautiful photographs at any time of year.
Badgemore Park, Henley
From the moment you arrive at Badgemore Park, you’ll know this is the place for you. From major corporate events to weddings, private parties and celebrations – the opportunities are endless with the choice of three stunning settings: The Coach house, The Fairway and a beautiful, covered Courtyard. Talk to the team to make your event memorable, and perfect in every way. More at badgemorepark.com.
Stokes Farm Barn, Wokingham
The picturesque family-run Stokes Farm Barn is a rustic wedding venue full of character and licensed for civil ceremonies. The main barn is a bright space with floor to ceiling windows and beams. Enjoy drinks and canapes on the lawn and patio and the balcony bar presents the opportunity to watch those strutting their stuff overlooking the dance floor.
Monkey Island Estate, Taplow
The centuries-old retreat hidden alongside the River Thames offers the perfect setting. Picturesque and private, you’ll create unforgettable and precious memories. Whether you are looking to hold a dream countryside wedding with a marquee on the lawns, an intimate ceremony and dinner party or an elegant wedding in the stately ballroom, Monkey Island Estate can cater for everyone.
Wasing Park, Aldermaston
Located in the rural village of Aldermaston, Wasing Park is a luxury wedding venue set in stunning 18th-century parkland with historical buildings. The wonderful wedding venue boasts a stunning Victorian Summerhouse, a Castle Barn and the spectacular Stables Lodge. Located in the Terrace Garden, the Victorian summerhouse is traditionally built with wooden seating to all sides, often used for the ceremony in spring and summer. The interior has a hand-painted mural – a stunning photo backdrop.
Combe Manor Barn, Hungerford
The country house was listed in the Domesday Book in 1086 so getting married here assures your day will become part of history. The venue is licensed to hold civil ceremonies and for those wanting a church service, there is a beautiful 12th century church just yards from the barns. Only one wedding a week is hosted giving you access to the barns from the Wednesday prior to your special day. They have a list of excellent suppliers for your catering and floristry who are both local and have worked at Combe successful in the past. Other features included in the hire are a beautiful bridal bedroom with en suite bathroom for the day and much more. See more at Combe Manor.
Chalk Barn, Rushall Near Pewsey
A wedding at Chalk Barn is a truly exceptional experience. The day before your wedding is included as standard whether you have a hands on approach or a team to help you set up, the barn is yours for the day to decorate, dress, and perfect. Say I do in the barn or on the infinity lawn, the Wiltshire countryside is your backdrop. From a rustic feast to a refined banquet, artisan producers can help create a menu perfect for your day. And after you’ve celebrated, spend the night in The Hide.
Rockley Manor, Marlborough
Usually a private residence, the Grade II listed manor invites you to host your wedding day in the stunning grounds and house. You will have exclusive use of the grand 18th century manor and gardens to create a romantic and tranquil setting. The dedicated and experienced team’s attention to detail makes no aspect of your wedding too big or too small, leaving you with peace of mind, and your guests wowed at the how perfectly the day has run. Wedding breakfasts are held in the impressive Baronial Hall, while the courtyard and Park make the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos. Find more Rockley Manor Wedding Venue.
Templars Weddings, Hungerford
Templars is still a working farm today so perfect for a rustic yet elegant special occasion. Land owner Charles Perry rebuilt Templars Barn in 1998. The entire barn is seven bays long and you’ll notice the roof is a shade of pink because it reminded Mr Perry of the family holidays in the south of France. The property also comes with ample parking and a paddock for outdoor drinks and activities. Discover more at Templars Weddings.
Surrey & Hampshire Venues
Farnham Castle
Farnham Castle is a stunning historic, multi-award-winning venue for weddings, overlooking the historic, market town of Farnham, on the Surrey/Hampshire border. It is the perfect choice for your wedding, from ceremony, to reception, to party… and after the party you can relax overnight in the Guildford Honeymoon Suite, and for your guests, 33 guest bedrooms await. However you want to celebrate, the experienced team of Wedding Specialists will ensure that your wedding is managed to perfection. www.farnhamcastle.com | [email protected] | 01252 720402.
Picture: Harry Michael Photography
Painshill, Cobham
Painshill is a beautiful 18th century landscape full of picturesque garden buildings and stunning views. They are licensed to host ceremonies within the Gothic Temple, a romantic folly with an incredible backdrop. Couples can then take advantage of wonderful photo opportunities around the landscape at beautiful locations, featured in Married At First Sight and Bridgerton, including the sparking Crystal Grotto. Contact them today at painshill.co.uk to book an appointment to experience the views for yourself.
Credit: Married at First Sight UK
Gorse Hill, Woking
The Edwardian mansion sits in 17 acres offering oodles of photo opportunities for your bridal party while guests enjoy a drinks reception on the lawns. The Garden Suite Ballroom is available for seated wedding breakfasts and evening receptions. A private balcony overlooks the gardens from the honeymoon suite and with 67 rooms there is ample accommodation for guests too. More at Gorse Hill | Woking.
Great Fosters, Egham
The five-star hotel is set amongst 50 acres of stunning formal gardens and is licensed for civil ceremonies for up to 180 guests. The Tithe bar is a charming location for the wedding breakfast and up to 220 guests for an evening reception. Smaller celebrations can be held in The Orangery. The hotel’s gardens, with a Japanese bridge, lake, fountain and and Saxon moat, provide an idyllic backdrop. Find more at Great Fosters Hotel.
Pennyhill Park, Camberley
Exchange your vows in the Terrace Pavilion surrounded by 120 acres of stunning countryside and then head to the lily pond for unforgettable memories and photos you’ll treasure. Indoor ceremonies will be against the backdrop of the Library with vintage fireplaces and large windows offering views of the grounds. Handcrafted chandeliers add an elegant touch to the banquet hall where you’ll enjoy award-winning cuisine. Find out more The Pennyhill Park Hotel.
Coverwood Lakes, Gardens & Farm, Cranleigh
Those looking for less formal and ‘traditional’ style weddings will be intrigued by this unique venue which hosts tipi weddings amid 225 impressive acres of landscaped gardens and lakes. Only a limited number of weddings are held here each year so your lakeside setting is sure to be even more memorable for you and your guests in marquees and tipis on the lawns – perfect for your special day whether a traditional wedding, more bohemian or rustic.
Worplesdon Place, Guildford
The 19th-century manor house is located within two acres of landscaped gardens overlooking the swan lake. It can comfortably host up to 50 seated guests or 80 guests for an evening celebration and features a DJ and buffet space. An on-site event coordinator will assist with planning and additional amenities and facilities are available to you and guests.
High Billinghurst Farm, Guildford
The enchanting and romantic venue showcases the Hay Barn with large inglenook fireplace, bar and dancefloor for up to 150, with the interlinking Elizabethan Barns providing the perfect space for receptions, ceremonies and blessings. There is ample space for marquees, tipis or stretch tents if required and an area that can be used for glamping with toilet pavilion and showers.
Lythe Hill Hotel, Haslemere
Want your wedding to be part of history? Then how about a 16th century Tudor House for the venue overlooking a lake with breath-taking views of the South Downs. The combination of old-world charm and contemporary decor is sure to appeal with a sky view lantern roof and exposed beams while in the summer what could be better than the outdoor gazebo to say ‘I do’.
Gate Street Barn, Guildford
This family-run property is a working farm complete with cattle and pigs and is available to host weddings all year round. Get back to nature with a ceremony in The Barn or perhaps you want to tiptoe through the bluebell-lined paths for a fairytale blessing in the woods. If you decide to tie the knot in autumn or winter, wood-burning stoves will add to the magic of the day. Beautiful onsite accommodations can sleep up to 28 guests with the happy couple often opting for the seclusion of The Hayloft. Find more at Gate Street Barn.
Froyle Park, Alton
Jacobean features, a grand staircase and ornate fireplaces will greet you and your guests here for a ceremony that can host up to 300. A choice of ceremony venues is available depending on your requirements but you’re guaranteed to fall in love with whichever you choose. Luxurious en-suite bedrooms will welcome guests after a hard day’s celebrating. Discover more at Froyle Park Harbour Hotels.
The Anchor Inn, Alton
Fully licensed to host civil ceremonies, the country pub wedding venue offers a choice of private indoor and outdoor spaces of which the State Room takes pride of place. Full of charm and tradition, The Anchor Inn is the ideal venue for those looking for an intimate ceremony, larger parties can wine and dine in the rustic-style restaurant. The courtyard garden offers space to gather outside on warmer evenings.
Departure Lounge Café, Alton
The vintage decoration will impress those looking for an alternative wedding reception venue but will also provide everything you’re looking for from your special day in this unique countryside location. Catering for up to 150 guests in the café, marquee and gardens, the Departure Lounge is fully licensed and offers an afternoon tea option, buffet menu or hog roast. There is an area ideal for a live band or disco and the premises can be decorated to your taste.
Gilbert White’s House, Selborne
Enjoy your day in the 16th century Hampshire Barn, with glorious views over meadows, or for a more intimate ceremony and reception, the historic house and White’s Bistro. The Great Mead affords a charming location for an outdoor reception whether this is a marquee, teepee or bell tent you will be surrounded by stunning views in this location that allows you to celebrate your wedding, your way. Couples also have the opportunity to work with Gilbert White’s Brewery, to make their own loving brew for their special day. The venue is pet-friendly too, allowing your furry friends to share in your day.
The Welldiggers Arms, Petworth
The authentically British pub boasts intimate rooms and a delightful alfresco dining area with space for up to 120 guests using indoor and outdoor areas. The cottage style garden is ideal for summer celebrations while in winter it is heated and weatherproof with fur blankets on the furniture to keep you cosy. Embracing all that epitomises the country pub with local real ales and traditional British cuisine, a dedicated event team will be on hand to help you with every aspect and at the end of the day, one of the 14 en-suite rooms awaits. Find more at The Welldiggers Arms.
Cowdray Walled Garden, Midhurst
A hidden gem of a venue set against the astounding backdrop of Cowdray Ruins in the heart of the South Downs. Licensed for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies, up to 100 guests can be seated for the big moment in either the Castle Room which looks out over the ruins and the Courtyard with exposed stone walls which allow an opportunity to bring the outside in. The Walled Garden work with a selection of carefully chosen caterers with a strong emphasis on sustainability.
The Lismoyne Hotel, Fleet
A tree-lined driveway leads to this stunning property, complemented by beautiful English gardens and overlooked by a 300-year-old sequoia tree. The property is licensed for ceremonies in two banqueting rooms, conservatory or outside in the gazebo. This memorable location is perfect for both large and more intimate weddings, offering a perfect backdrop for your very special day. Explore more at Weddings | Hotel Wedding Packages Hampshire.
The Elvetham, Hartney Wintney
Original feature fireplaces, rich oak walls and spectacular views of perfectly manicured gardens create the perfect backdrop for your wedding. Choose from the Oak Room (up to 120 guests), the Morning Room (up to 50 guests) or an outdoor ceremony under the arches of the original Victorian summerhouse. Larger parties can then dine and toast the happy couple in the Grand Library whose walls are adorned with literature. Thirty five acres of gardens will provide you with so many photo backdrops you’ll be spoilt for choice. Find more at The Elvetham Hotel.
Lythe Hill Hotel, Haslemere
Want your wedding to be part of history? Then how about a 16th century Tudor House for the venue overlooking a lake with breath-taking views of the South Downs. The combination of old-world charm and contemporary decor is sure to appeal with a sky view lantern roof and exposed beams while in the summer what could be better than the outdoor gazebo to say ‘I do’. Explore more at Weddings – Lythe Hill.
Well done to the 20 brave men who have bared (almost) all for an outdoor winter fundraiser in Virginia Water raising more than £2,500 (so far) for the Mental Health Foundation.
We’ve all been feeling the cold in recent weeks. So praise is due to the local runners who braved the chilly trails of Virginia Water Lake togged up in just a pair of running shoes and “budgie smuggler” briefs.
The Budgie Smuggler Run 2023 event was founded by Brian Turner, Josh Lappin, Paul Dash and Jordan McDowell from Hampshire and Surrey in 2021 when they wanted to raise money and awareness for charity.
Since then, others have joined in the January spectacle, with 20 runners taking on the 7km route last Sunday (29th January) raising more than £2,500 for the Mental Health Foundation.
Brian said: “It started off as a bit of a laugh, but with a serious aim to raise money and awareness for charities that are close to our hearts. It certainly does turn heads, and after the first run I was surprised to find more people than just me willing to strip down and run the 7km route in the middle of winter.”
The Budgie Smuggler Run is now set to become an annual mass participation event in aid of raising money and awareness for men’s mental health.
World record holder Darren Hardy, a charity fundraiser and former British Army officer who was medically discharged from the army with PTSD in 2017, joined this year’s event. “It’s such a great event and certainly turned heads,” he said. “Despite the frosty January start we all rose to the occasion and drew quite a crowd at the finish line. I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone wanting to do something a bit different for charity.”
“It certainly does turn heads”
Over the last two years, runners have raised £2.5k for BulliesOut, an anti-bullying charity, and £1.3k for Cancer Research UK.
Brackendale Tree Care has valuable advice to help you care for your trees in winter
At this time of year, your garden will probably look as if it’s settled down for winter. That surely means your jobs for the year are all wrapped up. All you need to do now is feed the birds and enjoy your garden from the warmth of your home.
However, winter is the perfect time to crack on and care for your trees.
Not only is winter the ideal time for tree care from Mother Nature’s perspective, but it’s also a great time for us humans. Other garden jobs, such as weeding, lawn mowing and hedge trimming aren’t needed so we have time to lavish on our trees instead. And after all, what’s better than getting outside into the fresh air and work up an appetite for all that hearty winter food?
The two big tree-related jobs for the winter are winter pruning and planting bare rooting trees.
Job 1 – winter-pruning your trees
It’s nearly always better to prune your trees in the winter than in the spring or summer. There are a host of reasons for this, which we’ll now go into.
For deciduous trees at least, the lack of leaves makes it far easier to see what you’re doing. This means you’re less likely to trim your trees back too far or into a shape that you’re not happy with. There’s also the benefit of having almost no leaves to sweep up afterwards – only the branches and leaves. You’ll also know that nesting birds won’t be an issue – it’s only from March onwards that nesting becomes something to bear in mind
Because trees are dormant in the winter, their sap is less active. Sap delivers water and nutrients throughout the tree which may ‘bleed’ when the tree is cut. Too much bleeding can shock your tree so it’s important to make sure you’re pruning at the right time of year. Most trees are best pruned in the winter, although there are some such as magnolia and birch which should be pruned at a different time of year.
Winter pruning is a great way of reinvigorating trees and bushes that were beginning to look tired or straggly. Successful winter pruning can encourage bushy, healthy growth, helping revive a previously tired-looking specimen.
Pruning during the winter also helps prevent diseases. That’s because the bacteria, insects and fungi that carry the diseases are dormant or dead. So, by pruning during the winter months, your tree is less likely to pick up a serious disease.
Job 2 – plant bare rooted trees
Another job that’s perfect for the winter months is planting bare rooted trees. Loved by gardeners and tree surgeons alike, bare rooted trees are the best choice for anyone wanting to enhance their garden with healthy, strong plants.
Using bare rooted trees and hedges gives you a better range of plants to choose from, thanks to the range of specialist nurseries that deal with bare rooted plants. They’re also far better value than pot-grown plants giving you a healthy sapling for a bank-balance friendly price. This makes bare-rooted trees and hedges a must-buy for anyone wanting to plant lots of trees or a new hedge.
There are a few things to remember when planting bare rooted trees:
1. Plant bare-rooted trees quickly as you can
The longer you leave your bare rooted trees unplanted, the more moisture they will lose from their roots. And the more moisture they lose, the lower your chances of having a healthy tree in your garden. If you can’t plant your tree immediately, store them somewhere cool (a garage or shed is perfect) with their roots wrapped in a plastic bag.
2. Stake your bare-rooted tree after planting
Staking your bare rooted trees will help them establish more successfully by keeping the roots healthy. By keeping your new tree in a stable position, you minimise the chances of torn roots. It can take as much as two years for a new tree to fully anchor itself into the soil, which makes this step especially important.
3. Water trees thoroughly in the first year after planting
Although your new tree or hedge won’t need water while it’s dormant, as soon as you start seeing leaves bursting into bud, it’s time to water. Water your tree thoroughly (a full watering can is perfect) once a week – or more often if the weather is dry. In especially dry, warm weather you should water your new tree two or three times a week to help it establish.
Get in touch for help with winter pruning and planting
Winter pruning and planting bare rooted trees are tasks that your tree surgeon can advise on and help with. If you have questions or would like us to look after your pruning and planting, get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.
Interested in good design? Interested in exciting new buildings in the borough? Interested in sustainability?
The Guildford Design Awards Exhibition concludes its travel round the villages at West Horsley Place on Saturday, 29th October, 10am-4.30pm.
The exhibition will then have two days at the Guildhall in Guildford; on Friday 18th & Saturday 19th November, 10am-4.30pm.
The Guildford Design Awards were established to encourage and recognise; good design in new buildings and external spaces; restoration and conservation projects which ensure the legacy of our heritage buildings; projects which demonstrate sustainable energy principles and exemplary environmental awareness. The Awards help to establish a sense of civic pride in our built environment and improve our awareness of the importance of good design and the benefits it brings to our daily wellbeing.
Make sure to catch the travelling exhibition of the 2020 and 2021 award-winning projects to coincide with the Heritage and Architecture Open Days. Admission is free. Learn about some the excellent quality of commercial, public and community buildings, individual houses, multiple housing, conservation and regeneration projects and public art
Exhibition locations, dates and times:-
The Guildford Design Awards is a joint project between the Guildford Society and Guildford Borough Council, applications for the 2023 Awards (which as 2022 awards were postponed because of the pandemic, will include projects completed between June 2021 and June 2023), will be open next spring.
Submit an entry...
Potential entries are welcome over the next 12 months – email [email protected]
Hogs Back Brewery marked its 30thbirthday with a special ’30 at 30′ celebration, inviting 30 local loyal drinkers to join them for a celebratory pint
The 30 at 30 celebrations, held at the brewery in Tongham, brought back happy memories for guests, as they recalled where they had enjoyed their first pint of Tongham TEA.
For Nigel, his first pint at the King William IV at Mickleham, was ‘love at first taste and it has been an enduring love story!‘. Martin was‘lucky to taste the first brew of TEA, with the original Hogs Back brewer’and John remembered drinking it “with my father, explaining to me what real beer tastes like.” Several guests had enjoyed Tongham TEA at weddings and birthday parties.
Hogs Back Brewery managing director Rupert Thompson said: “We wanted to celebrate our 30thbirthday with thanks to loyal customers who have supported us for 30 years – as without them, we wouldn’t be here today.
“Over the years, TEA has been requested as the beer at many weddings and other celebrations, so for a whole generation of local people, it has a special place in their lives.
“Many also spoke about coming here with their parents to collect a barrel of Tongham TEA and are now doing the same with their own adult children. We’re of course delighted to see this tradition continue, and by inviting some of these younger drinkers to join our celebrations, we hope that they too become lifelong Tongham TEA drinkers!”
Ready for harvest
The ’30 at 30′ gathering was one of the last to be held in the Hogs Back hangar this summer before it switches from being a bar and event space to become the hub of the hop harvest, which starts at the end of August. Hop bines cut in the hop garden just yards away are brought back to the hangar where they are sorted, then dried and vacuum packed that they can add flavour and aroma to the brewer’s beers all year.
Bringing in the hops from the 8.5 acre field is expected to take several weeks and will be celebrated at the Hogs Back Hop Harvest weekend on 24thand 25thSeptember. The Hop Harvest Festival on the Saturday offers a fantastic musical line up including top Queen tribute band Majesty, while the TEA Party on the Sunday is more family-focused with a range of children’s entertainment. The full range of Hogs Back’s beers, including Green TEA, brewed with hops freshly-picked in the hop garden, will be available on both days:https://hogsback.co.uk/products/hop-harvest-party-2022
The biggest event on our calendar
Thompson said: “The Hop Harvest festivities are the biggest event on our calendar and were attended by 2,500 people last year. And as we’re the only brewer of any size to have our own hop garden, it is a uniquely Hogs Back celebration.
“Hops, like all crops, need water to thrive and the recent drought will have an impact on this year’s harvest. We’re not expecting to repeat last year’s bumper crop, but we will still harvest a good quantity of our own home-grown hops, which contribute to the distinctive flavour of our beers. And, as they are grown just yards from the brewery rather than imported from afar, they are reducing our food miles and helping us achieve our goal of being an ever more sustainable brewer.”
Hogs Back will harvest three hop varieties this year: Fuggles, used in Tongham TEA; English Cascade, used in its Hogstar lager and Surrey Nirvana Session IPA and Farnham White Bine, a traditional local variety that the brewer saved from near-extinction.
Your chance to join the celebrations for three decades of Tongham TEA
If you live in or around Farnham, the chances are that one of your first pints of beer was Hogs Back’s Tongham TEA (Traditional English Ale). The ale was the first beer brewed at Hogs Back Brewery when it opened 30 years ago, and it enjoyed almost instant success, with the hog icon becoming a familiar sight in pubs across Surrey.
To celebrate its 30th birthday this year, Hogs Back is inviting 30 local drinkers who’ve been enjoying their beers for a while to join them – and bring a younger drinker with them, for a toast to the past, present and future success of the brewery, on Thursday, 18th August.
We remain an independent brewer, committed to our Surrey roots
To join the party just let them know where you drank your first pint of TEA, by visiting the website page. We’ll invite 30 people to our special birthday drinks at the brewery, with a son, daughter or other younger relative or friend – aged 18+ – to pass the love of TEA down the generations!
Managing director Rupert Thompson said: “We’re delighted to be reaching our 30th birthday with plenty to be proud of. Much has changed since the brewery opened its doors in 1992, but we remain an independent brewer, committed to our Surrey roots – as demonstrated by our continued investment in our site here at Tongham, including the hop garden.
We are both thanking the local people who’ve made Hogs Back the successful brewery it is today, and doing our best to make sure it’s still alive and kicking in 30 years’ time!
“Clearly, without people drinking our beers, we would have no success to celebrate today! So, we’d like to reward anyone who’s been enjoying our TEA for a while with a pint or two on us, and at the same time introduce our beers to younger drinkers. This way, we are both thanking the local people who’ve made Hogs Back the successful brewery it is today, and doing our best to make sure it’s still alive and kicking in 30 years’ time!”
Hogs Back Brewery opened in August 1992 in Tongham, near Farnham, in 18th century farm buildings that at various times had stored wheat and housed cattle and, appropriately, hogs. The first casks to roll out of the original brewhouse – now the site of the Brewery Shop – and into local pubs were TEA – which was renamed Tongham TEA earlier this year.
Tongham TEA remains the brewery’s best-seller, winning numerous awards over the years, and gathering a loyal customer following in Surrey and across the south. Hogs Back’s reputation as a brewer of exceptionally fine ales was bolstered by subsequent launches such as Hop Garden Gold and RipSnorter and in recent years the brewery has broadened its range, launching new beers such as Hogstar Lager, Surrey Nirvana Session IPA and A over T (Aromas over Tongham) which won CAMRA’s Champion Bottled Beer of Britain in 2020.
HOGS BACK BREWERY – 30 YEARS OF BREWING EXCELLENCE
1992: First barrels of TEA produced at the Manor Farm site in Tongham, where the brewery remains today. One of the first pubs to stock it is the White Hart in Tongham, where it sells at £1.30 a pint.
1995: TEA named as runner up in Best Bitter category at the Great British Beer Festival, run by CAMRA.
2000: TEA named as winner in Best Bitter category and then overall runner up Champion Beer of Britain at the Great British Beer Festival
2006: A over T (Aromas over Tongham) named Supreme Champion Winter Ale of Britain at the CAMRA Winter Beer Festival.
2012: Business bought by Rupert Thompson, who had worked in the brewing industry for many years on brands including Carling (Britain’s biggest beer brand), Old Speckled Hen and Hobgoblin.
2013: Launch of Hogstar Lager, a 4.5% ABV lager brewed with five different hops and selected herb extracts and matured for over a month.
2013: Launch of Hazy Hog, a cloudy cider
2014: Planting of hop garden adjacent to the brewery, making Hogs Back the largest brewer with a hop garden in the UK. In 2015, Hogs Back harvest three hop varieties: Fuggles – used in Tongham TEA; Cascade – used in Hogstar lager; and Farnham White Bine.
2015: Hogstar wins Gold in the Premium Pale & Golden Lagers in the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) National Awards. It also wins Gold in the SIBA South East Region Awards in 2018
2019: Relocation of the hop garden to an 8.5 acre site next to the brewery.
2020: A over T, a 9% ABV bottle conditioned barley wine, wins CAMRA’s Champion Bottled Beer of Britain
2021: Hogs Back harvests its largest ever hop crop, and 2,500 people enjoy Hop Harvest celebrations over a weekend in September.
2022: Hogs Back’s flagship ale, TEA, is renamed as Tongham TEA and given a new design. The traditional, graphic style shows an illustration of the familiar Hog mascot in front of the brewery, farm buildings and fields.
The Green Hub in Milford, which has just had its first birthday, offers a vital support space for teenagers struggling with their mental health
Just one year ago you‘d find the Green Hub Project for Teens on Facebook looking for local folk to join a DIY SOS-style weekend, to transform their tranquil garden in Milford. This month the garden celebrates its first birthday.
Over its first year Green Hub Project for Teens has transformed from an idea in its embryonic stage into a confident adolescent.
The garden is the vision of local chiropractor Tone Tellefsen Hughes. “I’ve seen so much trauma through my clinic in recent years,” she says. “But since Covid, it’s become unimaginably bad, so many young people experiencing a tough time – it’s heart-breaking. This is why we are reaching out to families with teens struggling with low to moderate social anxiety, stress and overwhelm.”
Tone’s co-chair, local business coach Vanessa Lanham-Day, has been instrumental in creating the momentum behind the project. “The garden and teen volunteering is such a simple concept – it’s all about providing time out in nature and calm.
But, for the teens to benefit from time spent in the garden, there has been a whole machine that needed to be created. We have been busy spreading the word as well as building relationships with GPs, schools and youth organisations – but the most passionate requests come from parents themselves.
Teens spend up to 12 weeks becoming garden volunteers, under the guidance of adult leaders – there are morning and afternoon sessions (all free) each Saturday for up to eight teens. The process isn’t “therapy” problems aren’t discussed, and no advice is given – but the process is undoubtedly therapeutic.
Tone adds: “Science shows that being in nature allows the brain to calm down and settle a little, like a busy snow globe when the snow falls. When you immerse yourself in an activity – especially in nature – your brain is unable to do anything else and this gives the busy teenage brain a chance to rest and make sense of what’s been going on in their world. There are long term benefits after a garden session, as well as finding a connection which has been so sorely missed since the pandemic for so many.”
Tone and Vanessa would also like to find other garden spaces to extend the programme.
After two years the popular beer festival returns to Hindhead Royal British Legion Club with an amazing array of beers for you to enjoy
Get a head start on the Platinum Jubilee celebrations by sampling a selection of beers themed around the occasion, as well as a selection of British ciders, and a handful of international lagers as part of the Beacon Hill Beer Festival.
On Friday 13th May from 5pm we will be open to everyone to kick off the celebrations with live music from The Bierkeller Boys, a Bavarian Oompah band who are ready to get everyone on their feet with plenty of clapping, swaying and thigh slapping.
Saturday 14th won’t be any less exciting! Organizers say: “We open at 1pm for an afternoon of beer, lager and cider tasting. Shortly followed by what is sure to be a fiery FA Cup Final with Liverpool vs Chelsea on our big screen, with Liverpool aiming to become the first English team to win the quadruple, so we are sure to be in for an exciting game before we get right into the evening. There will be live music from The Noize to get us up on that dance floor for the night.”
An incredible weekend awaits at Hindhead Royal British Legion, Beacon Hill Road, Hindhead, GU26 6QB with a variety of breweries already lined up to take part:
