Tandridge Independent

Little Free Libraries have been popping up within local villages and there are now over 100,000 across the world. The Little Free Library book sharing concept gives greater book access to children and helps develop literacy skills within communities. The libraries are inspired by local buildings and Caterham, Old Coulsdon and Woldingham are local villages and towns which have embraced the idea.

#loveWoldingham is looking to raise £3,000 to build and install three additional ‘Little Free Libraries’ across the village. The first will be Station Cottage which will provide free sharing places for books. Jim Johnstone donated the first library in June has offered to build the other three. If you would like to contribute please call 07803 094505.

Hot meals for lunch are back at ‘The Westway, Community Centre & Well Being Centre’ on Chaldon Road.
Tim Fisher and Jane will be in the kitchen on a Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Meals are £5 for a main and dessert. Booking is essential as numbers are strictly limited (01883 347230).
There is also the option of a Meals on Wheels’ service and having lunch delivered to your door. Contact ‘The Westway’ for further details.

Chaldon Pre School are extremely lucky to have the exclusive use of half an acre of private land for their ‘Forest Pre School’ activities. The land is secure and safe or the children to use and explore and the 2-4 year olds have the luxury of the unique facility guided by the forest school leader.

The school thrive on their ethos ’To let children discover, explore and be adventurous! The land allows them to play with sticks and stones while building and gives them the opportunity to step away from plastic toys while enjoying exploring nature.

Rebecca Bush is a Caterham based artist with a unique and vibrant style.

Rebecca teaches people of all artistic ability, in her classes, supporting them to embrace the learning curve with her relaxed approach, so they can enjoy the emotionally uplifting benefits of creative self-expression.

A couple of months ago we published the story of Liam and his family. Liam is a four year old suffering from. neuroblastoma. 16 year old Josh Baker (who goes to school in Caterham) ran and cycled for 100 miles over 10 days to raise money for Liams treatment and a possible life saving vaccine available only in New York.

I want to take this opportunity offered to me by Louise at ‘The Caterham Independent’ to thank all our loyal clients for their support over the last 4 months.
I was overwhelmed by the lovely messages and requests to purchase vouchers while we were closed.

It was lovely to be able to interact with our clients through social media, sharing beauty tips and advice throughout lockdown.

Last month, I was delighted to see the Caterham Beacon being lit to honour the 75th Anniversary of VJ Day. As we continue to come out of the pandemic I hope to see many more of you soon.

As part of my attempt to have 'a Green-tember' - a month focussed on environment issues - I will be litter-picking with Caterham residents on the 5th September. I will also be hosting a virtual Q&A on the Environment for East Surrey residents on 28th September at 10.15am with Zac Goldsmith, Minister for the Environment, and long-standing Green champion in Parliament.