Welcome to the September edition of the Caterham and District Independent.
I can't quite believe that we are already in September: in comparison to last year, when time seemed to go so slowly, the months of 2021 have definitely felt as though they are speeding up, as we head into the last quarter.
I'm writing this at the very end of August, so the summer holidays are almost over. They’ve been fun, but I must admit I’m looking forward to getting some routine back into my life. For those of you with children, are you relieved that you'll be packing them off to school again soon, or sad because you’ll miss their company? For me, it's always a mix of the two. I love being with my three, whether we’re going on trips to visit local attractions, catching up with friends over picnics in the park, or just having some relaxed family time at home, but I’ll be honest: I also can’t wait to have a bit of peace again!
In terms of the Caterham Independent, this summer has been particularly difficult. My husband was away working in Japan, so trying to produce September’s paper while also entertaining the children proved testing at times. Meeting all the deadlines involved was a real challenge, so I can’t pretend that it won’t be easier to get on with the next edition once I’ve waved them goodbye at the school gates again!
Now we’ve gone to print for September, I really need a few days of complete quiet to sit and plan not just October's issue, but the rest of the year in general. My team and I have got lots of ideas for things we want to do, people we want to speak to and places we want to visit, so there's plenty to get on with.
So what have we got for you this month? Our reporter, Rosalind Brookman, spoke to two friends who have just started an incredible initiative enabling adults with disabilities to spend time outdoors, taking part in environmental volunteering opportunities. She tells us more about it inside.
The Girl who Gardens is taking inspiration from our area's grand estates, and shows us how to replicate them in our own gardens. Keep Calm Nutrition advises us on how to save time and money when planning meals, Champ Consultants gives new university students advice on how to budget their finances, and Tim Fisher gives us a delicious recipe for Tottenham Cake (please let us know if you try it!). We’re bringing you a new Q&A section as well, provided by Crossways Dental. Each month they will be answering your teeth-related questions, so contact us with any queries you might have on newsdesk@caterhamindependent.com.
You can also read a review of my night’s stay at Hever Castle. It’s a beautiful place, with a rich and fascinating history, surrounded by stunning gardens. And it’s only a 45-minute drive from Caterham so, if you get the chance, I’d urge you to visit – you won’t be disappointed!
Somebody else who has recently been to Hever Castle is our history writing competition winner, Ellie. Her prize was to take her family to watch Horrible Histories Live on Stage, courtesy of the Festival Theatre at Hever, but she was also lucky enough to go backstage and meet the cast. She's told us all about her experience in this issue.
A while ago we interviewed local author Roy Peachey about his first children's novel. This month we're bringing you a review of The Race from student Harry, 12. Find out what he thinks of the book inside.
As always, I'd like to thank our readers and advertisers for your input, inspiration, ideas and support with the paper.
I’ll leave you with a quote from Brazilian novelist Paulo Coelho, which really resonates with me at the moment:
"One day you'll wake up and there won't be any more time to do the things you've always wanted. Do it now."
See you next month!
(Find my past Editor's Letters here.)
