Local News & Weather

 

Will it rain or shine? For a detailed 24 hour or ten day forecast of the weather in Redhill, please CLICK HERE.

If you have any local news about Redhill that you would like posted on All About Redhill, please e-mail the article to us by CLICKING HERE.

 

Council Rejects Major Retailer – 17/2/12

Plans by a major clothing retailer to redevelop the Mercedes garage in Brighton Road have been rejected by Reigate & Banstead Borough Council. TK Maxx had made the application to the authorities but learned this week that they had been declined as a result of the council's own ideas to develop the area just outside of the town centre into a multiple retailer shopping area.

Arsonists Attack Garages and Cars – 16/2/12

Thousands of pounds of damage was caused to two cars last Wednesday after arsonists set fire to the garages they were parked in. The incident happened at around 5am in Pendleton Road and could have been far more serious were in not for the quick response of emergency services.

Man Falls From Reigate Shop Roof – 7/2/12

An elderly man fell from a Reigate shop roof on Friday, sustaining serious injuries and bringing Reigate to a standstill as roads were closed around the scene. It is not known what the man in his 60s was doing on the roof of Knights department store in Bell Street and whether he jumped or fell off. Following the incident at around 2.40pm on Friday, an air ambulance landed at the entrance to Morrisons supermarket car park and air lifted the man to hospital, where he was admitted to the intensive care unit with chest, pelvis and limb injuries.

Redfest Boasts Huge Line-Up – 1/2/12

The organisers of Redfest have announced their headline acts for this year’s festival, which is sure to get revellers excited. Among the acts are Kids in Glass Houses, Modestep and The King Blues and the organisers have also announced that the festival will be go on for 3 days this year. Redfest is held at Robins Cook Farm in South Nutfield between Friday 20th and Sunday 22nd July.

Drug Gang Jailed – 30/1/12

Five local men were given prison sentences on Monday for their parts in a Class A drug dealing operation. The men were arrested as part of a huge operation by Surrey Police which resulted in 16 properties, including the homes in Redhill, Horley, Woodhatch, and Nutfield, being raided last February. The local men jailed for between 36 and 24 months were Marc Northover, Rahiel Abid Hussain, Mark Edwards, Stephen Buckland and Oliver Ripley-Duggan.

Evasive Paedophile Finally Jailed – 27/01/12

A convicted sex offender who evaded the police for 8 years has finally been jailed for his crimes after police extradited him from the Caribbean. 67 year old Ralph Baker from Redhill was arrested in 2001 for breaching a Sexual Offences Prevention Order that had been placed on him after he was discovered making indecent images of children on his computer. However, he skipped bail in 2004 and fled to the Caribbean in order to avoid prosecution, but was eventually tracked down to the Dominican Republic where local police arrested him and co-operated with immigration officials to send him back home to face trial. He was sentenced to four years by Guildford Crown Court.

Council Refuse Grant and Increase Tax – 27/01/12

Surrey County Council have turned down the offer of a £14 million grant from the government in favour of increasing council tax by 2.99 per cent. Councillors have defended their decision by claiming that had they accepted the grant and frozen tax increases, they would have to increase council tax by 5 per cent in 2014.

Development Plans for Redhill Station – 13/01/12

A company set up to rejuvenate rail stations has announced that it is working on plans to redevelop Redhill station. Solum Regeneration have been tasked with turning what they call wasted space at stations into multi-purpose buildings whilst making them more attractive to visitors to the town. If the plans at Redhill go ahead, the current building and car park could be turned into a hotel, flats and shops whilst improving the actual facilities for station users.

Attack at Reigate Beauty Salon – 09/01/12

A woman and her daughter were attacked and stabbed by a knife-wielding maniac at a beauty salon in Reigate on Saturday morning. The attack happened at around 10am at the Mon Amie salon in Cockshot Road. The mother, who works at the salon, received non-life-threatening stab wounds to her neck and her daughter sustained minor lacerations. Police responded to emergency calls quickly but the attacker had escaped when they arrived. A 40 year old man from Tadworth later reported to Reigate Police station to assist officers with the enquiry. He has been remanded in custody.

Reigate Churches Get Go-Ahead for Building Work – 05/01/12

Two churches in Reigate have been granted planning permission to demolish and rebuild their community centres by Reigate and Banstead Borough Council. St Mary’s church in Chart Lane will build themselves a new, modern and more suitable building opposite the church. Holy Family church in Yorke Road will demolish their existing community building and sell the land in order to raise funds to pay for a new community centre attached to the church.

Food Hygiene Concerns at Reigate Kebab Shop – 04/01/12

A popular kebab shop in Reigate has been ordered to pay more than £3500 by a court after admitting numerous health and safety offences. The owners of Reigate Kebab and Burger House, Adem and Clare Eskisan, pleaded guilty to 16 offences including the risk of salad being contaminated by raw meat, lack of hot water for hand and equipment cleaning, mould, and water leaking onto live electrics. Despite the offences, the kebab shop remains open whilst all of the infringements are made good.

Festival Plans Put on Hold – 16/12/11

Following the fierce public opposition to a proposal for a live music festival at a Charlwood farm, the event organisers have withdrawn their application. Dansell Multimedia were shocked at the extent of the local opposition to an event at Edolphs Farm and have withdrawn the application in order to review their proposal.

Jewellery Store Robbed in Town Centre – 12/12/11

More than £50,000 worth of jewellery was stolen in an audacious raid on a jewellery store in Redhill Town Centre. Police were alerted by alarms at the H Samuel jewellery store in the Belfry Shopping Centre at around 3am on Friday morning. The gang of thieves had used an axe and a screwdriver to break into the shopping centre, before smashing the window of the jewellery store and making off with their considerable loot. Having reviewed CCTV footage, it looks as though one thief escaped on a bike whilst the second ran off on foot.

Redhill Cinema Gets Approval – 12/12/11

Reigate and Banstead Borough Council have backed the proposal for a multi-screen cinema and leisure complex to be built in Redhill. At a council meeting on Thursday, councillors agreed that the site in Marketfield Road and the HIgh Street was a prime location for the development and would help considerably with Redhill's regeneration plans. A developer has yet to come forward with a proposal but now that the green light has been given, it is expected a partner will be found quickly.

Another Retailer Vacates Redhill – 9/12/11

The woeful appearance of Redhill town centre is going to take another hit in the new year when a store that has been based in the town for 25 years closes it's doors. Dabners Pet Shop will close down at the end of January due to poor sales which they blame on the number of empty shops and the general appearance of the town. The planned redevelopments for Redhill town centre and improvements to the town centre need to happen quickly before the town's commerce is beyond saving.

Plans for Farm Festival Opposed – 9/12/11

Angry residents joined forces at Stanhill Court Hotel on Tuesday to oppose plans for a Glastonbury-style festival to take place at a farm in Charlwood. The owners of Edolphs Farm in Charlwood have been in discussions with Dansell Multimedia regarding holding a live music event and festival in the grounds of their farm next year. Dansell arranged the consultation at Stanhill Court to discuss the plans with local residents, but they did not expect the level of fierce opposition and hostility that they received. Edolphs Farm has over 150 acres of open land that would make a perfect setting for a festival as well as other live events.

Major Re-Development Plan for Redhill – 2/12/11

Reigate & Banstead Borough Council have announced brave new plans designed to re-invigorate Redhill town centre and promote it as a thriving town for local residents and visitors. In addition to the new shopping projects that have recently been given the go-ahead, the Council also have a ideas for a multi-purpose leisure, retail and housing facility which could include a brand new cinema. The site being reviewed for the project is in Marketfield Way, opposite the Belfry, where there are several empty retail units as well as Argos, Coral and some restaurants. Redhill has suffered in recent years, as major retailers moved out of the town, forcing people to travel to other towns to do their shopping and creating a downward economic spiral. This new development could be the catalyst for Redhill returning to greatness.

Security Van Robbed in Merstham – 30/11/11

Portland Drive in Merstham was closed by police on Monday afternoon following a daring robbery on a cash in transit van. The security guard was unloading a cash box from the rear of his van when a man in a black balaclava and overalls approached him and demanded the box. The man then fled to a waiting van being driven by an accomplice wearing a similar outfit and they sped off. The van was abandoned just up the road and witnesses said that the two men escaped in a blue and grey car. No weapon was used in the raid.

Increase to Car Park Charges – 24/11/11

In a year that local parking charges have caused petitions and disputes, Reigate & Banstead Borough Council have announced that all council owned car park charges will increase effective from 1st January 2012. 20 minutes parking will increase to 35p from 30p, and parking for 1 hour will increase to 90p in Horley and £1.10 in Redhill and Reigate.

Royal Visit Huge Success – 22/11/11

The Queen and Prince Phillip were given a Royal welcome at East Surrey College last Friday when they visited to open the new campus. The Royal couple were treated to demonstrations by many of the college’s departments and spent time speaking with students and lecturers about the benefits of the new facility. They then enjoyed lunch in the college’s auditorium before departing in a maroon Bentley at around 3.30pm.

Rare Brain Condition Kills Bubbly 16 Year Old – 18/11/11

A popular and kind 16 year old girl died after an undiagnosed brain condition caused bleeding on her brain. Deni Bateman from Brighton Road Horley collapsed at home on 4th November and died the following day in St George’s Hospital Tooting. Deni had grown up in Horley, attending several schools in the town before moving on to East Surrey College in Redhill to study an NVQ in construction. The condition that she did not know she was suffering from is called spontaneous intracranial hypertension. Her funeral will be held next Wednesday at St Bartholomew’s church in Horley.

Drilling for Black Gold in Salfords – 15/11/11

Surrey County Council have given permission to an oil company to commence exploratory drilling for oil in Salfords. Magellan Petroleum UK have been given the go-ahead to sink an 8000 foot well into the land off Horse Hill in Salfords dspite concerns from environmentalists and local residents.In order to appease objections to noise pollution, the council have restricted the operating hours of the site.

Olympic Torch Coming to Redhill – 11/11/11

The route for the Olympic torch was announced this week and Redhill residents were delighted to hear that it will be paraded through the town. When the torch arrives in the UK on 18th May, having been lit in Greece, it will be carried by 8,000 torch bearers through over 1,000 towns and cities throughout the country as part of a 70 day relay before it reaches the Olympic Village in London. The torch will appear in Redhill on 20th July and councillors have vowed to make the event special.

The Queen Is Coming to Redhill – 11/11/11

Her Majesty the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh will be visiting Redhill next week to officially open the redeveloped East Surrey College. More than £61 million has been spent at the college to create one of the most up-to-date vocational learning facilities in the country. The new building boasts a car workshop, recording studio and beauty salon as well as being the new home of Reigate School of Art, Design & Media. The Royals will arrive on Friday morning, be given a guided tour of the facility and stay for lunch.

Council Prepared for Winter – 10/11/11

Surrey County Council aren't taking any chances with the bad weather this Winter and have invested heavily in ensuring that they will no t be caught out by snow and ice again. The council have bought 24 new gritting vehicles, taking their fleet up to 40 vehicles, and have stock-piled 17000 tons of salt - an increaae of 4000 tons on last year. These new measures will ensure that more roads can be cleared and kept safe in the event of another heavy snow period.

24 Hour Asda Could Open in Redhill – 06/11/11

After months of planning and negotiations, Asda have now submitted an application to build a brand new supermarket in Redhill. The planned site for the new store is between Cromwell Road and the High Street and has generally been met with approval by residents and other business owners. Business in Redhill has been on a downward curve for several years as shops have closed down and major retailers have withdrawn from the town. The new Asda store could breathe new life into Redhill and in addition to the 7922 square foot supermarket, there could also be new space for additional restaurants and smaller retailers.

Eastenders Star Rocks Reigate – 01/11/11

Shane Ritchie, better known as Alfie Moon from Eastenders, entertained pub-goers on Friday when his band performed at the Market Hotel in Reigate. The gig in the upstairs bar was the first of five planned live music nights at the venue, which is currently up for sale.

Swan Killed at Lakes – 26/10/11

A local charity is asking for witnesses who may have witnessed a horrific attack on a swan to come forward. Swans & Friends Bird Rescue were called to Earlswood lakes last Thursday after a dead swan was spotted in the water near the car park. When they arrived and retrieved the corpse, the true extent of the injuries became evident as around a quarter of the bird had been eaten. The most likely cause of the injuries is a dog attack and the charity are asking for witnesses to contact them.

Ice Rink Comes to Redhill – 19/10/11

The Belfry Shopping Centre in Redhill will have it’s own ice rink this December to bring some festive fun on the lead up to Christmas. The ice rink will be located in the retail unit previously occupied by Madhouse and there will also be a festive themed sweet shop in an adjacent unit. Tickets will cost £3.50 for half an hour and the rink will be open 8 hours a day from 15th December to Christmas Eve.

Nightclub Re-Development Revealed – 13/10/11

The developers who bought the site previously occupied by Liquid and Envy nightclub have revealed their plans for the development of the site. The proposal is for a large ground floor space which could be used for retail and food service plus seven further floors that will be a mix of one and two bedroom flats. There will also be underground parking for 35 cars and a large parking area at the front. At present, the proposal is for the building to retain it’s traditional and iconic front.

Council Tax Will Not Rise – 7/10/11

Contrary to plans by Reigate and Banstead Borough Council to raise council tax next year, residents in the borough will now not face an increase. The government this week announced that it wanted councils to freeze tax next year and offered a grant equivalent to a 2.5% increase to authorities willing to accept a freeze.

Man Killed in Gardening Accident – 4/10/11

A landscape gardener from Kent was killed last Wednesday when the digger he was operating overturned. Kenneth Pinkerton was working in Juniper Close, Woodhatch when the incident occurred. He was not seriously injured by the initial accident but was then killed as co-workers tried to rescue him using a dumper truck, which subsequently overturned and crushed him. Despite the swift response of Surrey Air Ambulance, Mr Pinkerton was pronounced dead before he arrived at hospital.

Pub Licence Reviewed – 29/09/11

The Abbott pub in Redhill has had it’s opening hours reduced by Reigate & Banstead Borough Council after police requested a review of it’s licence. The police supported their request by producing reports of more than 50 incidents involving the pub over the last 18 months, including assault, criminal damage and under age drinking. The pub will now close at midnight on Thursdays, Friday and Saturdays and will have to employ three door staff rather than two on those nights.

Campaigners Win Parking Battle – 22/9/11

After months of campaigning and petitioning, local businesses and residents have finally convinced the council not to install pay and display machines throughout local towns. Both Reigate & Banstead Borough Council and Surrey County Council voted against to abort the plans after accepting that inadequate consultation had taken place. Horley and Reigate managed to avoid almost all of the proposed pay and display areas, whilst Redhill will have some machines installed but many will have a short period of free parking.

Asda Reveal Plans for Redhill Store – 8/9/11

Asda will this week launch a public consultation to gauge opinion and support for a brand new superstore in Redhill Town Centre. The plans show an eye-catching redevelopment of the shopping area in Cromwell Road, opposite the Belfry Shopping Centre. An exhibition to show the plans will be held at the Harlequin Theatre next Thursday and Friday.

Sainsbury’s Plans Approved – 7/9/11

The council have approved plans submitted by Sainsbury’s to increase the size of their Redhill supermarket and build a 98 room hotel, a new super-gym and a car park with space for 562 cars. The development could take up to two years as it involves the demolition of Lombard House next door.

Troubled Hospital Plans New Temporary Ward – 2/9/11

Having come under fire on numerous occasions already this year, East Surrey Hospital have submitted plans to build a new temporary ward in an attempt to increase capacity and improve the service they can give to patients. The new prefabricated two-storey ward is in addition to the much-needed improvements to the Accident & Emergency department which will commence this month.

Redhill Regeneration Commences – 26/08/11

Local businesses and private investors, alongside Reigate & Banstead Borough Council, have formed the Redhill Regeneration Forum in an attempt to improve the appearance of the town and therefore attract more businesses. The group will start work next month with a project to improve Station Road and Memorial Park, with many other locations planned for the future.

Mega Sainsbury’s Recommended for Approval – 26/08/11

A proposal for the Sainsbury’s supermarket in Redhill to triple in size plus for a new hotel, gym and car park to be built has been recommended for approval by council planners. Not only would the new development create 100s of new jobs and improve the look of the town, but it will also help to improve the transport network in the town as the developers would give £369,000 to this cause.

Pub Licence Under Review – 18/8/11

The Abbott pub in Redhill town centre could lose it’s licence following a request from Surrey Police. The police have issued a document highlighting nearly 50 incidents over an 18 month period including violence, under-age drinking and theft. The licensing hearing will take place in September.

Riot Threats Close Town Centre - 11/08/11

Following the horrific riots in London and Croydon last weekend, public fear and an element of scaremongering saw many businesses throughout Redhill close their doors early on Tuesday for fear of the riots spreading south. Despite the gossip on social networking sites, there were no reported incidents of violence in the town. Officers from Surrey Police were called to assist the MET police with the mayhem.

Half a Dozen Bins for Homes – 03/08/11

Reigate & Banstead Borough Council have approved a £4.5million plan to change the way we dispose of rubbish and recycle. The new scheme, which will be phased in throughout 2012 and 2013, will mean that some households could have as many as six separate bins to use and leave out for collection. Food and paper waste will be collected every week whilst glass, plastics, cans, and garden waste will be collected fortnightly.

Warwick School Gets Improved Ofsted Report – 02/08/11

The Warwick School in Redhill has been rewarded for the efforts of it’s teachers and students with a new Ofsted report showing vast improvement on it’s previous report. Five year’s ago, the school was labelled as inadequate due to pupil’s behaviour and turnover of staff. Head teacher Ron Searle has been praised for his personal efforts in turning the school around.

Reigate & Banstead Most Violent Borough in County – 28/07/11

New Home Office figures show that Reigate & Banstead reported more violent crimes than any other borough in Surrey last year. More than 2100 violent crimes were reported in the borough last year, averaging out at 5.8 per day, despite Surrey being the eighth safest county in the country. The figures also revealed that robbery and burglary were up by 6% on the previous year, although vehicle theft and vandalism of vehicles were down 1% and 51% respectively.

Custody Suite Plans Approved – 22/07/11

Residents in Salfords are fuming after the proposals for a police custody suite were approved despite significant public opposition. The planning inspectorate upheld the police’s appeal at a hearing on Monday, thus giving the go-ahead for the 24 cell suite to be built in Salbrook Road Industrial Estate. Work will start on the new suite as soon as possible.

Future of Liquid & Envy Nightclub Revealed – 21/07/11

The new owners of the Liquid & Envy nightclub in Redhill have revealed that they hope to turn the building into new flats and shops, breathing new life into Redhill town centre. Developers are planning for approximately 50 new flats, with underground car parking and a small mall-type shopping area. Although the existing building will be bulldozed to the ground, the developers are keen to keep the front of the building in order to retain some of it’s previous identity.

Regeneration Plan for Merstham – 15.07.11

Reigate and Banstead Council have unveiled plans to completely regenerate Merstham in an attempt to make the troubled area more attractive to prospective homeowners. The plans propose that Portland Drive and other areas are completely bulldozed to make way for more upmarket housing and a more attractive shopping parade. Consultation over the plans will continue through to mid-September when residents views will be considered.

Multi-Million Pound Project to Aid Congestion – 23.06.11

Reigate & Banstead Council have put in a proposal for a major project designed to significantly ease congestion in Redhill Town Centre. The plan targets the stretch of road between the roundabout outside Redhill station and the Lombard roundabout where traffic is always at a standstill during rush hour and drivers are confused by the merging lanes. The plans do not specify exact details, but preliminary suggestions include phased traffic lights and wider lanes. In addition, the Surrey Travel Smart proposal will promote cycling and walking as well as car sharing schemes.

End of Era for Redhill Nightclub – 22.06.11

This Saturday will mark the end of an era for generations of clubbers in Redhill when the nightclub, currently called Liquid and Envy, closes it’s doors for the last time. Originally built as a cinema in the 1930s, the venue was transformed into a nightclub in the 1970s. The club has had many transformations and name changes over the years, including Busbys, Millionaires, and The British Embassy and it’s closure will be a sad occasion for many. The site has been sold to an unidentified buyer and the future usage is not known.

Paedophile Evades Jail Sentence - 15/06/11

A paedophile who was caught with more than 40,000 indecent images of children was told by a judge that a prison sentence would not prevent him re-committing similar crimes and was instead placed on a sex offenders treatment programme. 35 year old Terry Briance had previously been caught watching children play in Hyde Park and had received a banning order in relation to that. He also has a conviction for a sexual offence in the USA.  

Female Fraudsters Prey on Elderly - 09/06/11

Surrey Police have issued a warning following a number of theft and fraud instances in Reigate, Horley and Redhill. The first incident happened in Morrisons car park where an 85 year old woman was approached for directions by one suspect whilst another suspect stole her bank cards from her bag. £500 was later taken from her account and used in the Argos store in Redhill. The second incident occurred in the Tesco car park in Hookwood when a 65 year old woman was asked for directions in the car park. 30 minutes later she was contacted by her bank who advised her that over £2200 worth of transactions had been attempted. The first suspect at the Morrisons incident was described as a tall Asian woman and the second suspect was a white woman with bleach blonde hair. The suspect at the Tesco incident was described as an Asian woman in her 40s wearing a turquoise sari.

Helicopter Crash at Redhill Aerodrome – 06/06/11

A helicopter crash carrying three people crash landed on Saturday at Redhill Aerodrome after experiencing problems during it’s flight. The helicopter had been taking two passengers on a local sight-seeing flight when it ran into difficulties. Both the pilot and passengers were unharmed.

New Mobile Police Service - 03/06/11

Surrey police have announced plans to launch a new Mobile Counter service this month. The move comes following the closure of many local stations across the county due to a reduced need for stand alone police stations. The new service will visit 12 locations including Oxted, Lingfield, Capel and Horley on a fixed timetable giving local residents a more convenient way of speaking with police.

Parking Charges Reviewed - 01/06/11

The parking charges imposed by Reigate & Banstead Council could be abandoned after complaints that the council failed to conduct an adequate public consultation prior to approving the plans. The plans to introduce Pay & Display parking bays across the borough were approved by Surrey County Council last week despite a petition containing mor ethan 40,000 names. The decision will now be reviewed by the Environment and Transport Select Committee.

Harlequin Fair Gives Hope to Jobseekers – 18/05/11

Hundreds of jobseekers flocked to the Harlequin Theatre in Redhill on Wednesday to attend the Redhill Jobs Fair. Attendees were offered training and career advice as well as the opportunity to brush up on interview techniques. There were also more than 15 employers exhibiting at the fair looking to fill current vacancies.

Potentially Lethal Prank Injures Cyclist - 28/04/11

Police have condemned a foolish prank after a cyclist received neck injuries after being knocked off his bike. The man in his 50's was cycling along Asylum Arch Road in Earlswood in the early hours of the morning when he was suddenly thrown from his bike. A black cord had been tied between a tree and lamp post so that it stretched across the road and was barely visible. Police have increased patrols in the area amd have warned that, if caught, the offenders will face serious consequences.

Harlequin Theatre Given £1 million Lifeline - 15/04/11

The Harlequin theatre in Redhill has been given nearly £1 million pounds to undertake a major refurbishment this year. The council money, totalling £939,000, will be used to replace the air conditioning and heating system, improve facilities and decorate the reception area. Work will start at the end of the Summer and it is hoped that the investment will help with other plans to rejuvenate Redhill twon centre.

Proposed Facelift for Redhill Train Station - 31/03/11

A new scheme has been unveiled to help ease congestion and commuter chaos at Redhill train station by introducing an Oyster style ticket system and building a new platform. The logistics of how the proposal will work need finalising in order to connect the ticket system to the London transport network, but the plans have been warmly welcomed by commuters to and from Redhill who have suffered years of misery queuing at inadequate ticket booths and waiting on over-crowded platforms.

Redfest Gets Council Thumbs Up - 29/03/11

Organisers of the Redfest music festival have been given a licence by Reigate and Banstead Borough Council to stage the event again this year, despite opposition from local residents and the Parish Council. The licence was granted on the condition that additional security staff are employed to avoid the trouble experienced at last year's event. Redfest will take place 22nd and 23rd July.

Paedophile Pensioner Jailed - 24/03/11

A 65 year old man has been jailed for abusing children whilst he ran a youth club in Merstham between 1984 and 1990. 65 year old Steven Mizon was jailed for 11 years at Guildford Crown Court for abusing two children who met later in life and compared their traumatic experiences as children.

Council Ignore Parking Protest - 23/03/11

Despite thousands of signatures on petitions and a staged protest at County Hall, council bosses refused to discuss further their plans for parking charges across the borough. Campaigners from Reigate, Redhill and Horley joined many other towns on Monday to demonstrate to the council that their plans to implement widespread parking charges throughout towns in the borough were unwelcome, unneccessary and damaging to local business.

Hospital Investigation After Mis-treatment of Patient Exposed - 04/03/11

East Surrey Hospital have launched an investigation after an undercover TV camera recorded footage of distressing and callous mis-treatment of a patient. The footage was aired on Channel 4's Dispatches programme on Monday and shows the appalling treatment of an elderly patient who died at the hospital in December 2010. The chief executive of Surrey and Sussex Healthcare has promised a full investigation and that the individuals concerned will be held to account for their actions.

Police Car Crash - 02/03/11

A police car smashed into a hedge and flipped over whilst responding to an emergency call in Merstham last Friday. The car lost control near the junction of Rookwood Close and London Road on it's way to a disturbance in Portland Drive. Nobody was hurt in the accident and the disturbance was attended by other police vehicles including a riot van where officers made several arrests.

Police Raid Suspected Drugs Dens - 13/02/11

Police from across Surrey and Sussex undertook a series of synchronized dawn raids on 16 properties in an operation to smash heroine and crack cocaine ring. More than 200 officers raided properties in Horley, Redhill, Woodhatch, South Nutfield, London & other location in Sussex at 6am on Thursday morning. More than 100 wraps of heroine were found along with stolen goods and money and 16 people were arrested on suspicion of supplying class A drugs.

Redhill Worst in County for Crime - 06/02/11

According to the new Home Office website, Redhill is the worst town for crime throughout Reigate & Banstead Borough. 308 incidents were recorded in December including 139 antisocial incidents, 42 violent crimes and 7 burglaries. In the same month, Reigate had a total of 181 crimes reported including 20 incidents of violent crime.

Redhill Supermarket Wars - 04/02/11

Three of the biggest retailers in the UK are going head to head for retail space in Redhill. Plans for a new Tesco store in Reading Arch Road have already been countered by Sainsbury's plans to radically redevelop their store in Redhill town centre and now Asda have shown an interest in building a superstore in Cromwell Road opposite the exit from teh Belfry shopping centre. Whilst Redhill is in need of some development and more retailers, Reigate & Banstead Council have declared that three major projects would be too much for the town.

No Increase to Council Tax - 28/01/11

Reigate & Banstead Borough Council have decided that there will be no increase to council tax in the coming year. The news will be welcomed by residents throughout the district, particularly in the current economic downturn. By not increasing council tax, the council will receive a grant of £286,000 from the Government.

Sainsbury's Proposal Could Revitalise Town - 20/01/11

Sainsbury's supermarket and Aviva Investors have submitted a joint proposal to redevelop part of Redhill which could create hundreds of extra jobs and breathe new life into Redhill town centre. The proposal would see the existing Sainsbury's redeveloped and adjacent office block as well as a brand new hotel, and gym.

Bus Hijacked - 12/01/11

Two men threatened a bus driver and took his bus for a dangerous joy ride before colliding with another bus carrying passengers. The men boarded the bus in Bletchingley Road in Merstham at around 7.30am on Saturday and threatened the driver with a sharp metal object. The quick thinking driver managed to escape with the cash box, but the hijackers drove off with the bus towards Nutfield. The terrifying joyride came to a halt when the men tried to reverse the bus and hit a second bus. Police immediately stormed the vehicle and arrested both men.

New Parking Charges Set to Hit Town - 04/01/11

The council have started the year by upsetting retailers and residents with a new proposal for parking zones throughout Horley, Redhill and Merstham. Pay and display machines will be installed by Surrey County Council in numerous roads around the towns with Horley getting 113 machines, Reigate 115, Redhill 94 and Merstham 47.

Vicious Attack in Town Centre - 27/12/10

A 28 year old man was taken to hospital following a vicious and cowardly attack by a gang of yobs on Christmas Eve. The man was attacked outside Road Runners taxi office at 1.30am and when he tried to escape, the gang chased him and continued the assault. The gang fled when brave taxi drivers intervened.

Snow Brings Chaos... Again! - 20/12/10

Less than two weeks after snow brought the South East to a standstill, a fresh dusting of snow on Friday and Saturday sent the country into more chaos. Shops and businesses were unable to open, shoppers were unable to get to those shops that were able to open, the roads were gridlocked with cars unable to move and public transport came to a standstill. Furious members of the public have questioned the government and council's lack of preperation for what has become inevitable weather conditions that could be made much easier.

More Police in Town - 15/12/10

Surrey Police have increased the number of patrolling policeman in Redhill and Reigate town centres in an attempt to control violence and anti-social behaviour over the Christmas period. There will also be increased undercover officers visiting pubs and clubs to check for under age drinkers.

Snow Brings South East to Halt - 02/12/10

For the third time in the last 12 months, snow has brought the South East of England to a standstill, causing chaos for everyone. Schools have been closed, workers have been unable to reach their place of employment and the drivers that were able to venture out have experienced extreme difficulty to travel on roads with little or no grit to clear the snow.

Nun Dies After Road Accident - 20/11/10

An 83 year old nun has died in hospital three weeks after being hit by a car in Redhill. Sister Denise Wood was walking to morning Mass on October 31st when she was hit by the car at the junction of Linkfield Lane and London Road. She was taken to East Surrey Hospital where she remained until she died on November 17th.

Public To Make Decision on Spending Cuts - 18/11/10

In an attempt to avoid massive backlash from angry residents, Reigate & Banstead Borough Council are asking you to decide what gets cut and what deserves funding across the borough. Councillors have drawn up a hit list of amenities that could suffer from the massive spending cuts but rather than make an unpopular decision themselves, they are giving everyone a chance to vote on projects. The consultation will run until 14th January 2011.

Car Crashes Into Hospital - 12/11/10

An out of control car crashed through the Accident & Emergency entrance of East Surrey Hospital on Tuesday, narrowly missing patients in the waiting area including a small child. The silver BMW, driven by an elderly lady, lost control and smashed through the double doors at the front of the hospital. The driver was taken away on a stretcher and seemd confused about the situation.

Yobs Attack Restaurant - 22/10/10

A gang of youths attacked a restaurant owner and staff after they were caught trespassing on the property last Thursday. Jube Ahmed, the owner of Ruchita Tandoori in Earlswood, spotted the gang walking across the roof at the rear of the restaurant. When he called out, most of the group fled but Mr Ahmed managed to detain one of them. As he called police, the rest of the gang returned with weapons, including an imitation gun. The youths managed to escape but were later arrested by police following a search of the area.

Football Club Lose Punk – 07/10/10

The organisers of Redhill Punk Rock, held at Redhill FC’s clubhouse, have had to pull the plug on the monthly music night due to lack of funds. The regular night of punk had hosted some of the biggest bands in punk music including Splodgenessabounds, famous for the hit Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps Please, but diminishing audience numbers have made the event a costly exercise for organisers.

Paedophile Gets Four Years – 06/10/10

David Lyn Jenkins, the paedophile who abused young boys over a forty year period, was jailed for four years at Lewes Crown Court on Monday. The ex-leader of Redhill Boys Brigade was jailed for sex offences committed against a 13 year old boy in 1968 and with a boy of 9 in 2005 through to when the same boy was 13 in 2009.

Schools to Become Academies – 01/10/10

Talks have taken place between the council and the government to turn all of our local secondary schools into academies according to an exclusive report by the Surrey Mirror newspaper. The proposals, which would mean that the schools would be funded by a central government rather than local education authorities, have received mixed reactions from teachers and parents alike, though the main concern is the reduction in facilities and service if the government opts to cut spend in the future.

Aerodrome Expansion Plans – 27/09/10

After two years of consultation and design work, plans have now been released for the expansion of Redhill Aerodrome. The massive redesign includes a 1300 metre hard runway, which would allow slightly larger passenger planes to land at the aerodrome instead of the existing grass runway that only allows very small aircraft enough space to take off and land. The new plans could mean a massive boost to the local economy. The public consultation will conclude at the end of October.

Sick Paedophile Faces Long Sentence – 09/09/10

A paedophile whose reign of terror lasted 40 years has been warned by a judge that he faces a long prison sentence for his vile crimes. David Lyn Jenkins pleaded guilty to five counts of sexual abuse on boys under the age of 14. The first count of abuse goes back to 1968 when he abused his wife's 13 year old brother. Jenkins was a trusted leader of the Boys Brigade in Redhill and Merstham where he befriended his victims and their families. He originally lived in Merstham, before moving to Chart Lane in Reigate and subsequently to Smallfield where he carried out four attacks on a boy between 2005 and 2009. He will be sentenced on 4th October.

Redhill Footballer Shot Dead – 08/09/10

A young player at Redhill Football Club was shot and killed on Monday whilst visiting the scene of a road accident that had claimed the life of one of his friends. Rio McFarlane, 19, was shot in the chest by a gunman through the window of a car. The rising star was pronounced dead at the scene in Southwark. Redhill Football Club officials and players are in deep shock at the tragedy and cancelled their league match on Tuesday.

Government Cash for Buildings – 03/09/10

The government have awarded £1.3 million to Reigate & Banstead Council to assist with building developments in the area. Reigate, Redhill and Horley will all benefit from the money, given to the council following accreditation as a New Growth Point. The money will be used for substantial building projects, including Horley's new leisure centre.

Beauty Shop Burgled – 02/09/10

Burglars smashed their way into a beauty salon on Tuesday night, causing extensive damage to the shop door. Workers at Pure Beauty in Hatchlands Road arrived on Wednesday morning to discover the shop door smashed in and glass all over the floor.

Record GCSE Results Throughout Borough – 26/08/2010

Students, teachers and parents alike are jumping for joy following this year's record breaking GCSE results. The Warwick School in Redhill achieved a 74 per cent pass rate against a target of 65 per cent. Reigate School in Woodhatch continued their success of recent years, with 65 per cent of students achieving more than 5 A* grades.

CCTV Set Up to Drop Dog Owners in the Muck – 26/08/2010

CCTV operators in Redhill have been instructed to keep a close eye out for dog owners who refuse to clear up their pooches poo, according to an exclusive report by the Surrey Mirror newspaper. The area targeted initially is around Portland Drive in Merstham and offenders will be issued with a fixed penalty.

Highest Number of Benefit Claimants in County – 17/08/2010

New figures released by the Office of National Statistics show that Reigate & Banstead has the highest number of people claiming Jobseekers allowance in the entire county. The July figures show that 1620 people were claiming the benefit - more than double the number claiming in Mole Valley and Tandridge.

Local Fundraiser Found Hanged – 05/08/2010

A local man who had dedicated huge amounts of time to raising money for the Surrey Air Ambulance charity was found hanged in a flat in Horsham last week. Andrew Mayne, 46, who lived in Royal Earlswood Park, had recently been made redundant and had gone through a difficult divorce. Police are treating the death as suicide.

College Student Dies on Holiday – 30/07/2010

A fun loving 17 year old girl studying at Reigate College has collapsed and died whilst holidaying in Majorca. Nathalie Cocks of Oakdene Road, Redhill was enjoying a well-earned holiday in the Mediterranean when she collapsed at the side of a hotel swimming pool. Despite resuscitation attempts, Nathalie died of a suspected heart defect.

Minibus Road Chaos – 30/07/2010

Local roads around Redhill and Reigate were gridlocked with traffic following a crash on the M25 that caused emergency services to close the motorway for five hours. An EasyBus minibus carrying four passengers from Gatwick Airport to London overturned at around 4.30pm on Wednesday between the M23 junction and the Reigate junction, resulting in rush hour chaos that literally halted traffic in all directions.

Redfest Success Over-Shadowed by Rape - 26/07/10

After years of trying unsuccessfully to organise a well attended festival in the area, Redfest finally attracted more than 2,000 revellers last weekend and was hailed as a huge success. However, the fantastic event was over-shadowed by claims that a 17 year old girl was raped in a tent. The alleged incident was brought to light when the victim and her friend approached security guards, visibly shaken and upset. The girl claimed that she had been attacked in a tent by two men whilst two others laughed and took pictures on their mobile phones. Two 20-year-old men from Dorking were arrested on suspicion of rape and two other men, one from Dorking and one from Reigate were arrested on suspicion of false imprisonment. All suspects were bailed until 5th September pending further investigation.

Merstham Car Fire Spreads to House - 23/07/10

A ferocious car fire in Radstock Way on Saturday spread so quickly that it set fire to a nearby house, causing the residents to flee their home. By the time fire crews arrived, the fire had spread to another car and soon moved on to the house. The fire is not being treated as suspicious.

Redfest Returns - 15/07/10

The organisers of Redhill's Summer festival, Redfest, have not been deterred by the festival's poor attendance in the past, and are looking forward to this year's event. The festival will take place at Robins Cook Farm in South Nutfield on 23rd and 24th July and the organisers hope that good weather will bring more than 2500 people to the event.

Earlswood Man Accused of Indecent Assault on Girl, 13 - 14/07/10

Guildford Crown Court heard how a 13 year old tried to hang herself after she was sexually assaulted by a 34 year old man. The girl, now 15, described how Duncan Till from Tollgate Avenue lured her to Earlswood Lakes and groped her whilst touching himself indecently in 2007 and 2008. The alleged assaults happened after the girl had befriended Till and confided in him having been bullied at school. The trial continues.

New Coucil Chief Vows Improvement - 12/07/10

John Jory, the new chief executive of Reigate & Banstead Borough Council has vowed to make massive improvements in order to justify his £138,000 salary. Mr Jory is widely recognised as the man who changed the fortunes at Mid Sussex District Council and intends on making a similar name for himself in his new post.

Pornography Searching Childminder Escapes Prison Sentence - 10/07/10

A former childminder caught with indecent images of children on his home computer has evaded a prison sentence at Guildford Crown Court. Glenn Martin, 51, was caught with the images during a police sting whilst his home was being used to look after young children. He pleaded guilty to all charges and escaped with a 3 year community and supervision order plus he will be on the sex offenders register for 3 years.

Families to Sue E. Coli Farm - 16/06/10

Victims of the E. Coli outbreak at Godstone Farm are planning legal action following the release of a report by the Health Protection Agency revealing that appropriate safety measures were not taken to prevent the outbreak. 93 people were affected by the outbreak in August last year of which 27 were hospitalised. 76 victims were the under the age of ten including Redhill toddler Alfie Weaver.

Didn't We Have A Lovely Time the Day We Saw The Bangers! - 14/06/10

Crowds flocked to Smallfield at the weekend to revel in a whole host of party activities including the Banger Racing. The annual party had something for everyone, with lots of activities for children as well as a large screen for patriotic football fans to watch the dismal display against the USA.

Cannabis Factory in Earlswood - 13/06/10

Police uncovered a around 100 cannabis plants when they swooped on a family house in South Earlswood following a tip-off from the property's landlord. Drugs with a street value of more than £200,000 were discovered at the house in Horley Road which had been transformed by the tenants into a drug factory using hydroponics equipment to cultivate the plants.

Tax Cheat Sent to Prison - 17/05/10

A self employed man from Redhill has been convicted of tax evasion and sentenced to eight months in prison. 57 year old Nicholas West of Heston Road failed to pay more than £40,000 in tax between 2002 and 2007 as he undertook cash in hand work. In order to settle his debts, West will have to sell the family home and repay the money owed in full within six months or he will face a further 12 months in prison.

Man Stabbed in Redhill Flat - 17/05/10

A 31 year old was fatally stabbed at a flat in Observatory Walk, Redhill last Tuesday. Anthony Kennard Gray was stabbed in the neck and, despite being airlifted to hospital, died the following day from his injury. Marlon Kelly, a 31 year old from Battersea has been charged with murder although police are appealing to local residents for information on the circumstances leading up to the attack.

Woman Murdered at Home - 12/05/10

A mother of three was found murdered in her Nutfield bedsit on Monday, with multiple stab wounds to her body and neck. Sarah Thomas, 38, was discovered just after 6pm on Monday 10th May and pronounced dead at the scene. Police are appealing for any information that could assist with their investigation.

New Park Plans Revealed - 10/03/10

Plans to overhaul the Memorial Park in Redhill to make it more appealing to users have been revealed. Having witnessed the amazing transformation of Priory Park in Reigate, Redhill residents were keen to mimic their neighbouring town's success. The revamp plans were presented by project manager, Nina Porter at a meeting in the Harlequin Theatre. The plans include a cafe, toilet block, play area and water feature. However, locals are concerned that the new park will become the target for youth gangs and vandals who will spoil the facility for other users and insist that security measures must be implemented to preserve the new area.

School Admissions Cause Chaos- 03/03/10

Hundreds of local families are distraught as they face the difficult task of appealing against their children's school allocation which was announced at 7am on Saturday morning. Many local schools are at bursting point and places are at a premium, with many families not getting any of their preferred choices. The problem is widespread throughout the district and applies to primary, middle and secondary schools.

Local Soldier Cleared of Assault - 02/03/10

A local soldier, who was also a former professional rugby player, has been cleared of allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman in her Redhill flat. Lance Bombardier Andrew Dawlings from Reigate, who has served in the Parachute Regiment for 18 years, was accused of entering a woman's flat, lifting her out of her bath and sexually assaulting her on the floor of her living room. Mr Dawlings had visited the property on 2nd December 2008 at the request of the woman's family but denies that any assault occurred. He claims that the woman was fully-clothed in her living room when he arrived, they had a brief conversation and then he left. The jury took less than an hour to clear him of all charges.

Merstham Pub to be Bulldozed - 23/02/10

On March 8th, the historic Iron Horse pub in Merstham will be bulldozed to make way way for development. The exact use of the site has not yet been revealed although it is expected to be turned into further retail premises with some residential property. The pub was closed three years ago following escalating violence in the area attributed the pub.

Snow Brings Redhill to Standstill... Again! - 09/01/10

Following the heavy snow before Christmas, Redhill residents expected the town to be prepared for more snow this week. However, weather unseen in England for nearly thirty years brought the town to a standstill once again and caused havoc for anyone trying to leave their homes. All of the local schools in the town were closed on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, leaving parents unable to even attempt to reach work. Untreated roads made driving hazardous and, as the cold snap continues, concerns for the elderly and ill are being addressed by care workers.

MP Resigns After 18 Years - 06/01/10

MP Peter Ainsworth has shocked friends and colleagues by resigning after 18 years. The former Shadow Cabinet Minister announced on Monday that he will stand down at the next election. Mr Ainsworth has been a popular MP for the East Surrey constituency, supporting local causes with passion and enthusiasm.

Local Men Face Extradition - 06/12/09

Six local men face extradition to Crete if found guilty of a vicious attack on another young Briton whilst on holiday in Crete. Curtis Taylor, Sean Branton, and Daniel Bell all from Horley, alongside Joseph Bruckland from Hookwood, George Hollands from Reigate and Benjamin Herdman from Crawley are all accused of savagely beating Robbie Hughes in Malia last year. Mr Hughes' injuries were so severe that he underwent four separate operations on his brain and has lost his memory since his teenage years. The six defendants refused to return to Crete to answer questions and European arrest warrants were issued.

New Street Lamps Throughout County - 02/12/09

Surrey County Council have signed a £250million deal to replace every street lamp across the county. The 25 year contract will see all 89,000 street lights replaced within five years resulting in massive savings of an estimated £12million to taxpayers through energy saving elements of the new lights.

Plans to Axe Bus Services Met With Outrage - 02/12/09

Surrey County Council's plans to axe several local bus routes due to poor usage has been met with outrage by regular users and a campaign to prevent the closures has begun, backed by local newspaper the Surrey Mirror with their Save The 324 campaign, named after one of the services under threat. The council's public consultation ends on 31st January 2010 when the fate of many services will be decided.

Man Jailed After Attack on Cabbie - 30/11/09

A 24 year old man from a traveller's camp in Merstham has been sentenced to eight months in prison after a horrific attack on a taxi driver. Caleb Eastwood from the Pendle Camp attacked the terrified driver after refusing to pay for the £10.50 fare. Eastwood punched Nasir Ali four times in the face before fleeing on foot. The attack happened in September 2008.

Internet Date Kidnapped - 22/10/09

A man was jailed for two years on Wednesday for kidnapping a Redhill woman he had met on the internet. Matthew Aldrich, 28, was upset after the woman had called time on their relationship after just a few meetings. He burst into her flat on July 27 and tied her to her bed with cable ties. The woman escaped the ordeal four hours later after convincing her captor to release one of her hands so that she could have a drink.

Hospital Standards Improve - 18/10/09

East Surrey Hospital has been rated as 'fair' in a new report by the Quality Care Commission, marking a significant improvement on the previous year's report. Notable areas that the hospital are still failing on are cancelled operations, incidents of MRSA, inpatient waiting times and staff satisfaction.

Railway Could Block Tesco - 15/10/09

Plans to build a brand new Tesco store in Redhill could be halted by proposals from Network Rail to build a new train track at the same site. The new track could be used as a freight link for trains using the Channel Tunnel.

Redhill Bank Robbery - 09/09/09

Daring robbers got away with hundreds of pounds after they robbed a security guard in broad daylight. The robbery took place at Loyds TSB in Redhill town centre at 10.48am on Tuesday when two unmasked men lay in wait for a G4S security van. The robbers escaped down the alleyway next to Kandootoo where a third accomplice waited in a silver BMW to complete their escape north on the A23. Both robbers were white and in their twenties.

Roadworks Misery for Hospital - 09/09/09

Plans to close the main access road for East Surrey Hospital will cause misery for patients and visitors to the hospital as well as chaos for motorists on the main A23. Resurfacing work will close Three Arch Road for six weeks, forcing motorists to take a detour via Honeycrock Lane in Salfords.

Lewis Hamilton Visits Earlswood - 04/09/09

Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton took time out of his busy schedule on Thursday to visit Reigate & Redhill YMCA. The 24 year old ace visited the site to film a fundraising appeal for the YIPPEE project, funded by Children in Need.

Wilkinsons Comes to Redhill - 13/08/09

A much needed lift to the local economy has come in the form of discount chain Wilkinsons. The new store will open on the site of the old Woolworths in Autumn this year.

Tesco in Merstham? - 12/08/09

Merstham could soon be the proud recipient of a brand new Tesco supermarket after the supermarket chain expressed an interest in the village. A prime location for the store would be at the site of the closed Iron Horse pub in Bletchingley Road.

Parking Wars on New Estate - 11/08/09

Residents on two opposite sides of the new Watercolour estate in Redhill are at war over the inadequate parking facilities provided by the builders, Linden Homes, in their new homes. Owners of 3 and 4 bedroom homes claim that the garages are too small to park their large vehicles, forcing them to park out on the street. Other local residents are concerned that this could have potentially lethal consequences in the event of a fire engine requiring access.

New Infectious Disease Ward at East Surrey - 02/08/09

A new £1.9million infectious disease ward has been given the go ahead at East Surrey despite health fears from local residents. The 12 bedroom ward will be used to accommodate patients requiring isolation, including foreign passengers arriving at Gatwick Airport.

Pensioner Conned Out of Savings - 22/07/09

Heartless conmen stole £1500 from a pensioner after conning their way into hisSouth Earlswood home and claiming that they would install a humnidifier in his home. The two men brazenly knocked on the pensioners door and them drove him to the bank to withdraw the money. The two suspects were white and thought to be in their early 30's.

Swine Flu Hits Surrey Schools - 09/07/09

Six schools in the borough have issued alerts that they may have been exposed to swine flu. Both the Warwick school and St Bedes in Redhillhave confirmed that they have either had actual cases or that relatives of pupils or staff had been diagnosed with the virus.

False Accusation of Gun Possession - 08/07/09

A 21 year old Merstham man witnessed the full force of the Surrey police on Sunday as he was falsely accused of possessing a gun. Leslie May opened his door to be confronted by 15 armed police officers and a helicopter swooping overhead following an anonymous 999 call claiming that he had threatened a woman with sawn off shotgun. After an extensive search of Mr May's house, it emerged that the call had been an expensive and irresponsible hoax.

Social Club Forced to Close - 05/06/09

The Frenches Club in Frenches Road, Redhill has been forced to close after failing to raise £300,000 for refurbishments. The club, which first opened more than 85 years ago, has played a massive part in the local community and the closure leaves it's 300 members angry that owners Sutton & East Surrey Water offer any assistance to raise the funds.

Imposter Taxi Driver Sexually Assaults Teenager - 04/06/09

A teenager was sexually assaulted by a man posing as a taxi driver after he tricked her into his car. The girl had ordered a taxi from Reigate-based Belfry cars to pick her up from an address in Woodhatch at 2.30am last Friday night. An unmarked blue car pulled up outside and the driver identified himself as a taxi driver. The girl sat in the front seat and was then driven to a quiet residential road where she was attacked before managing to open the car door and flee. Police are warning taxi users to be extra vigilante whilst they investigate.

Drugs Found at School - 20/05/09

Two 14 year old school boys were arrested last week under suspicion of bringing Class B drugs to their school. The pupils at St Bede's school were found with a substance thought to be cannabis by one of their teachers. Both boys were bailed pending further investigation.

Schoolboy Airlifted to Hospital -03/05/09

A 12 year old pupil of the Warwick school in Redhill was airlifted to hospital after being hit by a car last Wednesday. The boy was struck by a silver Ford Focus as he walked home from school and friends immediately dialled for an ambulance. A Sussex air ambulance landed in Memorial Park and paramedics trated the youngster in the road before airlifting him to Royal London hospital with serious head injuries.

Cyclist Airlifted to Hospital - 31/03/09

A horrific road accident on the roundabout between Hatchlands Road and Station Road left a cyclist with serious head injuries and brought Redhill traffic to a standstill. Philip Jones, 40, collided with a car at around 3pm last Thursday and became trapped under the engine. Witnesses rallied together to assist at the scene and Mr Jones was airlifted to the Royal London Hospital where he is making a speedy recovery.

Teenager Assaulted in Town Centre - 24/03/09

A 19 year old girl claims that she was raped by a middle-aged man in Redhill town centre in the early hours of Saturday. The girl was seen speaking to and sitting with the man on the benches in the Warwick Quadrant but she later reported to police that she had been raped by him in the alleyway behind Lloyds bank. Police cordoned of the alley for most of Saturday and are appealing for witnesses.

Brave Brothers Rewarded - 20/03//09

Two teenage brothers recieved a bravery award and £750 each for intervening in a vicious attack outside their house in Nash Road. Aaron, 18, and Joshua, 15, Green rushed to the strangers aid when they saw him being punched and kicked in the street last May.

Last Members of Drug Cartel Sentenced - 09/03/09

The final members of the drug cartel exposed by police were sentenced at Guildford Crown Court on Friday. Members of the gang lived in Redhill, Horley, Merstham and Woodhatch and earned more than £20,000 per week dealing class A drugs in the area. The gang were caught following Surrey's biggest ever police operation, codenamed Operation Kingbird last May. The members sentenced to serve time in prison included Kenneth Abrams from Horley, Paul Smith from Redhill, Tara Pickers Gill from Horley, Oliver and Patricia Ripley-Duggan from Woodhatch, Jarren White of Horley, Samantha Newbury from Redhill, Daniel Walk from Redhill, and Grant Smith from Horley.

Innocent Youth Attacked With Brick - 09/03/09

A 15 year old boy from Redhill was attacked with a brick whilst waiting in a stationary. Joshua Green was in the passenger seat of a parked Fiesta in Marketfield car park in Redhill at 2.15am on Saturday when a man kicked through the window and hurled a brick at Joshua's head. The man escaped towards Redhill train station and Joshua was taken to East Surrey Hospital where he received eight stitches.

Redhill Street Racers - 26/2/09

Police are searching for reckless young drivers who filmed themselves racing around the streets and car parks in Redhill at speeds of up to 70mph in front of groups of onlookers. The gang publicised their dangerous antics by posting videos on YouTube.

Local Lad Dies in Skiing Tragedy – 23/2/09

A 21 year old man from Redhill was tragically killed whilst on a skiing trip with family in the French Alps. Patrick Evans died after hitting rocks whilst skiing down a slope and plummeting into an icy stream. He was airlifted to hospital in Grenoble but later died from his injuries.

Secret Wedding for Wes – 21/2/09

An unsuspecting groom found himself involved in his own dream wedding after his long-term girlfriend won a Radio Mercury competition. Wes Parker from Merstham was completely unaware that bride Carly had won the wedding until just hours before the ceremony and was delighted when all became clear. Wes, a talented rugby player for Reigate Rugby Club, and Carly have two young children.

Tesco Comes to Redhill – 12.2.09

Redhill could soon have a new Tesco supermarket, providing hundreds of jobs in the town, if plans go ahead to develop the site currently occupied by Lifestyle Ford. The retailing giant have been in discussions with the owners of the land to purchase the site and plans will be unveiled at an exhibition at Warwick School from Feb 19 - 21. The site could also be used to build new, affordablle flats in the town.

Reigate Property Firm go into Administration – 28.1.09

Oakdene Homes, based in Bell Street, have gone into administration, halting work on one of their developments in Frenches Road, Redhill. Administrators sited widespread problems in the UK property market following the economic downturn as the reason for the companies financial problems.

Virus Closes Hospital Wards – 28.1.09

Three wards at East Surrey Hospital have been closed as a result of a rise in the cases of a winter virus. The virus called Norovirus, which causes prolonged spells of vomitting and other flu-like symptoms, caused chaos before Christmas when over 50 people fell ill in the hospital. This new outbreak has seen eighteen cases in less than a week. Healthcare experts advise that people do not go to the hospital unless absolutely urgent and should instead contact their GP if they think that they may have the virus.

Merstham Vigilantes Warned – 27.1.09

Senior police chiefs have met with members of the Merstham Justice Squad to warn them that taking the law into their own hands will not be tolerated. The vigilante group formed as a result of a series of attempted assaults on women in Merstham. Members patrol Merstham's streets in balaclavas, some carrying weapons such as baseball bats and knives.

Battle for Castle Goes On – 27.1.09

Robert Fidler, the farmer who built a castle in the grounds of his estate in Salfords, has won another step in his battle to keep his home. Mr Fidler attended the hearing at the High Court on Monday where he was told that he may continue to fight the council on their order to demolish the property.

Surrey Rugby Mourn the Death of Local Caoch – 26.1.09

James Skeens, a superb community rugby coach who dedicated his working life to help others enjoy the sport, died in hospital just days after marrying the love of his life, Jeanette. James died in the Royal Marsden hospital after a long battle with cancer of the spine. James was well known throughout Surrey schools and clubs where he patiently and expertly coached children of all ages. The couple married in his hospital room, witnessed by friends and family including their seven month old son Oliver. The ceremony was also attended by rugby legends Rob Andrew and Martin Johnson. James' funeral will be held on Friday 30th January where mourners have been asked to wear rugby shirts rather than suits.

Ceiling Collapses in Belfry – 24.1.09

Shoppers and coffee shop customers were shocked to witness part of the ceiling in the Belfry shopping centre collapse yesterday. Plaster fell from the ceiling 60 feet above, luckily missing unsuspecting shoppers. A spokesman for the Belfry explained that water from the horrendous weather recently had caused part of the plasterboard to come free.

Local Women Fear Sexual Prowler – 8.1.09

Local women around Redhill, Merstham and Reigate are being warned to be extra careful when walking in the dark following a series of attempted attacks. The latest two attacks occurred last Tuesday within three hours of each other in Redhill and Merstham. The first involved a young woman walking along Gatton Park Road who became aware of a man following her. When she ran towards Colesmead Road, the man gave chase before disappearing close to where a 19 year old girl was brutally raped last May. The second attack occurred in Merstham where a teenage girl was grabbed from behind but managed to struggle free and escape.

Van Crashes Into Homes – 3.1.09

A van driver crashed into a block of flats before abandoning his vehicle and fleeing on foot on New Years Eve. The Colne House flats in Linkfield Lane took extensive damage after the driver lost control. A man was later arrested in Station Road.

HAPPY NEW YEAR – 1.1.09

The staff at All About Redhill would like to wish all of our users and advertisers a happy New Year. We hope that 2009 brings success, health and happiness to you all.

Woolworths Closes It's Doors... Forever – 28.12.08

The post-Christmas blues were felt more than usual in Redhill town centre this year as the historic Woolworths store, a central part of the town since 1925, closed it's doors for the final time. The closure is being echoed in towns throughout the country as all 807 Woolworths stores were doomed by administrators failing to find a buyer for the troubled group.

Golf Club to Sell Land – 5.12.08

Redhill & Reigate Golf Club in Pendleton Road are hoping to sell part of their land to developers in a bid to rescue themselves financially. The club hope to sign the contract over the next few weeks which will free up enough cash to pay it’s rent arrears and existing debts. To avoid the situation re-occurring, the council have agreed to lower the club’s rent.

Olympic Hopeful Behind Bars – 2.12.08

A British Olympic hopeful has pleaded guilty at Guildford Crown Court to his involvement in a heroin and crack-cocaine network, dealing in Horley and Redhill. 19 year old Theo Gonzales was arrested in May alongside his accomplices Simeon Brown and Jason Kissi-Brown as part of a police operation targeting dealers in the two towns. During the operation, the trio dealt class A drugs to undercover police officers.

Firecrew Trapped By Selfish Motorists - 17.11.08

A firecrew on an emergency call out became stuck in a residential road on Tuesday as their fire engine was blocked by selfishly parked cars. Residents watched in dismay as the fire engine, with sirens blaring, was unable to pass between the cars. Fortunately, the call out was a false alarm but ,had it not been, these selfish motorists could have been responsible for a terrible tragedy.

Teenager Suspected of Rape - 17.11.08

A 19 year old Woodhatch man has been arrested on suspicion of raping a 50 year old woman in her own home on November 8. The teenager conned his way into the victim’s home after knocking at her door asking for a light for his cigarette. The man has been bailed until December 22 whilst police conduct further investigations.

Paedophile Jailed – 29.10.08

A Redhill artist has been jailed for two and a half years after being found guilty of sexual abuse. Christopher Brooks of Common Road was sentenced after a jury found him guilty of two cases of indecent assault and one charge of sexual activity with a child. The abuse began when the girl was just 11 years old and continued for three years. The girl, now 17, gave evidence at the trial.

Drunken Arrest in Town Centre – 26.10.08

A young woman was arrested for drunkenness in the middle of Redhill town centre last Friday lunchtime after being seen stumbling and shouting outside Sainsbury's supermarket. When police arrived to arrest her, the young woman did not want to accompany them and onlookers were subjected to a display as she kicked and punched out at officers. A male companion who was part of the drunken group was also arrested as he attempted to intervene in the arrest.

Suicide of Local Taxi Firm Boss – 5.10.08

One of the owners of the Horley based Carline Private Hire committed suicide in Crawley on Tuesday 30th September. The decapitated body of David Betchley, who lived in Redhill, was found in playing fields in Bewbush after he hanged himself from a bridge crossing the A2220.

Armed Raid on Redhill Convenience Store – 23.9.08

The United Oriental & Asian Mini Mart is the latest in a string of local shops to be targeted by criminals carrying weapons demanding cash. The raid happened on Saturday at 2.45pm whilst the shop was full of customers leaving staff and customers terrified. Police arrested a 26 year old male suspect later the same day.

Twins Tragedy – 18.9.08

Tragedy has struck a Reigate family holidaying in Canada when the body of 21 year old William Costaschuk was found hanged. The devastating news has been worsened by news that William’s body was found by his identical twin brother Michael, who went missing after the discovery and has still not been found. The former St Bedes students were inseparable and friends are not only devastated by the loss of William but are also fearful for the safety of Michael.    

Olympic Silver for Redhill Swimmer - 9.9.08

Louise Watkin from Redhill has won a silver medal at the paralympics in Biejing - and set a new European record in the process. Louise finished second in the final of the S9 class 100m Freestyle race just behind South African Natalie Du Toit.

Attack in Merstham - 12.8.08

A Merstham couple were attacked in their home last Thursday by hooded thugs who forced their way in. Stephen Le Hane and Sally Priestly were attacked in their flat in Purbeck Close, Merstham at around 9.15pm. The two attackers pushed Ms Priestly back into the bedroom whilst forcing Mr Le Hane into the front room where their attacks with hammmers left him unconscious. The attackers fled after neighbours became alerted to the commotion and have not been caught.

Security at Redhill Taxi Firm - 11.8.08

Owners of Road Runners taxi company in Redhill have hired securtiy staff to try and put a stop to late night violence at their Station Road offices. Despite previous attempts, including the installation of CCTV cameras, fights have continued to break out when pubs and local club, Liquid and Envy, close in the early hours of the morning. The new security staff will be responsible for controlling the queue for taxis in order to stop arguments over which customers were first.

Redfest a Washout - 11.8.08

Despite meticulous planning and a long list of up and coming bands, Redfest failed to attract the crowds last weekend. Organisers had hoped for over 3000 visitors over the three day event, but managed just 1000 as the English summer brought heavy rain and winds. However, organisers have already started planning next year's event and are looking for sponsorship to help with the costs.

Redfest Hopes for Good Weather - 7.8.08

This weekend will see the first ever Redfest Festival take place at Robins Cook Farm in South Nutfield. The event boasts a wide selection of live music acts and fireworks as well as a bar and food vendors. Organisers are hoping that the sun will shine for the weekend but have taken precautions by setting up marquees just in case the English weather lets them down. The festival will run from Friday to Sunday, 9am to midnight, with camping available.

£35,000 Bill for Benefits Cheat - 4.8.08

A Merstham man has been ordered to repay over £35,000 that he had been paid in benefits over a three year period. David Clarke of Chesterton Drive pleaded guilty to three counts of benefit fraud at Guildford Crown Court. He was also ordered to complete 240 hours of unpaid community work.

Hell Hostel to be Demolished - 2.8.08

The Hillary House hostel in Warwick Road, Redhill is to be demolished to make way for nine flats for people with learning difficulties. The hostel has been at the centre of controversy since the body of a 38 year old man was found decaying in one of the bedsits last June.

Raging Fire in Merstham - 29.7.08

A massive fire caused tens of thousands of pounds worth of damage last Sunday as it tore through a classic cars garage. The fire at Rectory Classics, Elgar Works in Merstham started early on Sunday afternoon and it took firefighters over eight hours to finally declare the scene as safe.

Tropical Thunderstorm in Surrey - 29.7.08

Redhill's skys were lit up on Monday night by a fantastic thunderstorm at the end of a two-week long heatwave. The storm lasted for around forty minutes and created a real spectacle as fork and sheet lightning ripped through the night sky.

New Homes to Fund College Redevelopment - 2.7.08

East Surrey College have asked for planning permission to build housing on a seven acre plot at Gatton Point South. The college hope to be granted outline planning permission which will then help them to sell the land to a developer to generate funds for it's proposed £50million redevelopment.

Reigate Schoolboy Dies on Train Track - 9.6.08

Tristan Griffith, an 18 year old pupil at Reigate Grammar School has died after he stepped onto a live track at Redhill station in the early hours of Saturday morning. No further information is known about the tragedy, but tributes have already begun to flood in via a tribute page on Facebook.

Brand New Information site for Redhill Restaurants, Shops, Travel Agents, Cars, Pubs and lots more - 2.6.08

A brand new website specifically for residents and businesses in Redhill will soon be launching officially - and you are looking at it! All About Redhill will have local news and events as well as business listings for restaurants , takeaways , hotels , pubs , travel agents , builders , shops , windows , doors & conservatory fitters and manufacturers , car showrooms , mechanics , schools , doctors , dentists , vets , garden centres , cinema , carpet fitters , cafes, hair dressers and barbers, tanning centres , banks and lots more. Please have a look around the site and let us know what you think.

Sources: Our local news is sourced from other local media and our thanks for their vital coverage of local events goes to them. They include but are not limited to:

Redhill, Reigate, Horley LIFE

Surrey Mirror / Horley Mirror

The Post

All local radio stations

and other web-based media sites.

Note: All About Redhill is an information website for all businesses in Redhill, giving contact details based on the latest information that we are supplied. All About Redhill can not be held responsible for any inaccuracies, but we would appreciate your feedback if you spot any information that is not current.

All About Redhill includes information on all Redhill Restaurants and Takeaways including The Curry Garden , New Tong Fung Chinese , The Joshua Tree , Peach Blossom , Ruchita Tandoori , The Laughing Buddha , Gulaab , Mamma Mia , Frankie and Benny's , Prezzo , Lotus House , King Rooster , Redhill Kebab House , Domino's Pizza , Vojan Indian Restaurant , McDonalds Restaurant , Burger King Restaurant , KFC , Everest Spice , Pizza Organic , Mango Indian Takeaway , all of Redhill's indian restaurant , chinese restaurant , italian restaurant , french restaurant , plus Redhill takeaway and delivery services.

All About Redhill has information on all shops in Redhill including a full listing of all shops in the Belfry Shopping Centre , The Fragrance Shop , JD Sports , Game Store , Woolworths , Raffles Kitchens & Bathrooms , Redhill Plumbing Centre , Mortons the Padlock , Milletts , Game Station , C & N Cycles Redhill , Street Talk , Mothercare Redhill , Kitchen Guide , Reffells Flooring Centre , JG Lighting , The Furniture Factory , Marks & Spencer , Phones 4 U , O2 , Vodafone & other mobile phone stores in Redhill. Linens Direct shop , Top Shop , Gamleys , Waterstones Book Shop , Redhill's Travel Agents , Redhill Banks , and all shops in and around Redhill , Merstham , Earlswood and Nutfield. Whatever you are looking for in Redhill, a new kitchen , bathroom , bedroom , telephone , clothes shops , furniture , carpets , shoes , we have the details of where you can get it right here.

It also lists all of the schools and nurseries such as Warwick School in Redhill , St Bede's School in Redhill , St Joseph's Primary School , St Matthew's Primary School , Furzefield School in Merstham , Merstham County Primary School , Earlswood Infant & Nursery School , East Surrey College , First Steps Nursery , St John's Nursery Group , basically any local school, playgroup or nursery in Redhill, Merstham or Earlswood.

All of the Redhill hairdresser and barber shops are listed including Maria Toop , Snippers Hairstyles , Supercuts Hair Salon , La Moda Hairdresser , Studio 44 , Vanity Fayre Hairdresser , DN Barbers , all of the barber shops in Redhill , as well as beauticians , nail technicians and tanning studios such as Fabulous Nails and Beauty , Simply Beauty , Pure Beauty , Beach Tanning Studio in Salfords , and Redhill Tanning Centre.

You can find a wide variety of estate agents for that new home in Redhill such as Bairstow Eves , James Dean Estate Agents Redhill , Choices Estate Agent , Woodlands Estate Agents , Cubitt & West , Howard Cundey , Andrews Estate Agents , and Halifax Estate Agents.

Or if you would rather build your own home or conservatory , you can find details for Redhill builders such as Hystar construction , Quality Build , M Wilson Builders , Cedarwood Construction and Roofing , and Redhill Builders . Plus a local Redhill plumber like Edwards Plumbing & Heating or electrician like Vines Electrical or or Embassy Electrics. In fact, anything to do with your Redhill home and garden such as window fitters like Meadvale Windows and Doors , Merstham Glass , and Priory Conservatories. Kitchen and bathroom specialists like Raffles Kitchens and Bathrooms , Kitchen Guide , 1st Choice Kitchens & Bathrooms , Absolute Kitchens. Carpet and Flooring specialists like Tavistock Carpets and Period Flooring or garden furniture from Redhill's range of garden centres.

No comprehensive Redhill site would be complete without a full listing of Redhill's Pubs and Bars such as The White Lion , The Dragon , The Red Lion , The Garibaldi , Dog & Duck , The Sun , The Abbott and Redhill's famous night club, Liquid & Envy opposite Redhill BR station.

Plus we list all of Redhill's doctors, dentists , opticians , osteopaths and physio therapists to ensure that Redhill keeps healthy.

Plus lots of other information on Redhill such as sports club like Redhill Football club , AFC Redhill and Merstham Football Club , Redhill Golf Centre and Reigate & Redhill Golf Club. Redhill Taxi numbers like Belfry Cars and Roadrunners , all of the local churches and places of worship such as Redhill Baptist Church , St Joseph's Catholic church and Earlswood Baptist church.

And of course, Redhill's very own theatre of arts, the Harlequin, where you have the best of both live theatre and cinema in the heart of Redhill town centre.