Excitement rippled through the riverside park as spectators gathered to watch a sea of yellow take over the River Wey. 
Hundreds of numbered rubber ducks were poured into the water from Long Bridge, marking the start of each heat. From there, the plucky paddlers bobbed their way downstream, all vying for the coveted title of Champion Duck 2025.
Organised by the Farnham Weyside Rotary Club and supported by local groups including Farnham’s Air Cadets, the event proved to be another quacking success.
“Those ducks were in fine fettle,” said a Rotary Club spokesperson. “They’d completed their training and were raring to go. Gostrey Meadow was bursting with colour, music, and laughter — it really was a day to remember.”
Families enjoyed traditional amusements, children’s rides, and live music from the Rock Choir, while food and drink stalls kept the crowds well-fed and refreshed.
Ducks were still being adopted on the morning of the race for £2, with each entry offering a shot at a prize. 
All proceeds will benefit good causes, with this year’s nominated charity being The Woodlarks Centre, the much-loved care home and activity centre located on the edge of Farnham.
See this week’s Herald for more reports and pictures.
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I have spoken with some of the small shopkeepers in Farnham
They are losing money whilst the traffic changes are being installed
Some of them may not survive the next two years
They work very hard to pay the high rates and rents charged by the landlords and local council of Farnham
I feel that the council rates and rents should be reduced for the duration of the traffic works
The council already charge enough for visiting Farnham through their car park charges
which many of these same shopkeepers have to pay just to work in Farnham
The council too will lose money if visitors stop coming to Farnham
The piece by Farnham and Bordon MP Gregory Stafford on the Scunthorpe steel crisis (Herald
April 17) reflects opportunistic finger-pointing rather than a balanced look at a complex situation
the decline of the UK steel industry has been decades in the making—under both Conservative and Labour governments
To claim this crisis is purely Labour’s failure is misleading when successive Tory governments oversaw years of underinvestment
and dependency on foreign ownership—including the original approval of the takeover by the Chinese group Jingye
Stafford criticises Jingye’s rejection of a £500 million rescue bid but fails to mention that as a commercial entity the company is under no obligation to accept offers that don’t meet its conditions—especially after years of political and economic uncertainty in the UK
The Conservative government’s role should have been to secure those guarantees earlier
not trying to lay the blame when private negotiations collapse now that his party is in opposition
As for the rushed bill and sweeping powers: this is a tactic all too familiar from the Conservative playbook
Stafford’s outrage over legislative overreach rings hollow
especially from a party that passed major acts of parliament with little or no scrutiny during Brexit and Covid
invoking national security and military bases in Hampshire feels like a stretch
but Scunthorpe’s economic lifeline should not be weaponised for attempts at political point-scoring
Real leadership would focus on building a future for steel through public investment
and fair terms for workers—not trying to score headlines with blame games
I was heartened by the piece by our MP Damian Hinds last week (Herald and Post
April 17) in which he argues convincingly in favour of free trade
I wonder if his article was cleared by Conservative Party Headquarters 
or whether he is keen to distance himself from headquarters and show the voters of East Hampshire where he stands on the issue
the advisory cycle lane markings along Alton’s Anstey Road were removed by Hampshire County Council (HCC) contractors
they removed the longest bit of cycling infrastructure in Alton
and narrower than the minimum recommended width for cycle lanes
they were used by many local cyclists on this often busy main route into town
The benefit of cycle lanes is that they delineate road space for cyclists and alert drivers to the possible presence of cyclists ahead
These lanes gave confidence to many users who are now hesitant to cycle along this stretch of road
It seems perverse of HCC to waste taxpayers money on removing some inoffensive and helpful road markings
while simultaneously consulting residents on where we’d like them to make budget cuts for next year (the future services consultation)
So far it has proved impossible to find out the reason for their removal
Cycle Alton has asked several people at HCC including officers and our councillor
I’ve lost count of the number of people who have asked me where the cycle lanes have gone
If someone from HCC could tell Alton cyclists why
The only advice we’ve been given so far is to report them as ‘missing’ on the HCC website
which is ironic when it was HCC who removed them
Many people take advantage of the Heritage Open Days that are held in September
which give people a chance to ‘try out new experiences’ for free
According to the Heritage Open Days website
these events are part of England’s largest festival of history and culture
our local Alton Quakers have opened their premises and put on displays in Heritage Week but they have been the only ones to take part – so far
it is planned to hold an Alton Heritage Day on Saturday
Thanks to the generosity of Dementia-friendly Alton
we will have the use of the Assembly Rooms
businesses or families to join in and have a table where they could share their history with everyone
The Heritage Open Days theme this year is architecture
so it would be lovely if some of the displays could reflect our buildings
As much of what we have lost has been connected with our brewing industry
Alton has a rich and varied history which we are proud of and that we need to preserve and publicise while
we support the valuable work that is being done by Dementia-friendly (for whom donations will be welcome)
So, if you are a club, group, society, business or family that has a history that you would like to display – please contact me at <a rel="nofollow" href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#3a505b545f524f48494e0b7a5d575b535614595557">[email&#160;protected]</a>. Planning is in its early stages but it is hoped to make this the first of an annual event.
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Eighty years ago, the Herald reported scenes of joy, relief and solemn reflection as the people of Farnham gathered to mark Victory in Europe Day—a “God-given triumph over evil,” as it was described at the time.
Now, eight decades on, the town will once again come together to commemorate VE Day with a flag-raising ceremony at the town hall and a beacon lighting event at Gostrey Meadow on Thursday, May 8.
News of that the Second World War was nearing its end reached Britain on the evening of Monday, May 7, 1945, when the BBC announced Germany’s surrender and declared the following day a national holiday. 
On the afternoon of May 8, Prime Minister Winston Churchill addressed the nation on BBC radio, officially declaring the end of the war in Europe.
“My dear friends, this is your hour,” he told listeners. “This is not victory of a party or of any class. It&#x27;s a victory of the great British nation as a whole. We were the first, in this ancient island, to draw the sword against tyranny.”
As the Herald recorded at the time, more than 1,000 people gathered at St Andrew’s Church in Farnham for a thanksgiving service led by the rector, Rev G N Selby-Lowndes. The service, authorised by the Archbishop of Canterbury, began with the national anthem and included popular hymns and a heartfelt address.
Rev. Selby-Lowndes told the congregation: “Even the most indifferent and thoughtless must realise what bestiality the world had been delivered by this victory. 
“But at what a cost! As there were not those among the people of the German race to stop this evil, but people who rather gave themselves to acquiesce in it. The sacrifice had to be made by the united nations.”
The church was filled with representatives from the town council, wartime organisations, and essential services, including the armed forces, ambulance, police and nursing staff.
Elsewhere around the town and villages surrounding Farnham, other churches hosted their own services and residents created their own celebrations with small gatherings for tea and cakes.
Many prisoners of war also were able to return home. These included Cecil Collins from Rowledge , Kenneth Lannister who had family in Farnham, Ernest Edwards from Farnham, Alfred Farr from Lower Bourne, Harold Tester from Dockenfield, Jerry Spedding from Farnham, and several more men who had been captured.
While the war in Europe was over, conflict continued in the East, and the monumental task of rebuilding had already begun. 
Overseas, Farnham residents were involved in the aftermath of the Nazis atrocities. For example, the Herald  reported on the humanitarian efforts of Marjorie Ashbery, daughter of Mr and Mrs P Ashbery of Beaumont College.
Marjorie left her post as head game mistress at a school in Lincoln to join the Friends’ Relief Unit, volunteering to assist following the liberation of the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, where a deadly typhus outbreak had spread.
“Our day starts at 7am and we don’t arrive back from the hospital and the camp until 8.30pm to 9pm and then there are chores to do,” she said. 
“We are helping an army unit and a casualty clearing station to evacuate and nurse typhus patients in a concentration camp. No British women are allowed to visit the camp, as it is considered too horrible.
“In the four days we have helped, there have been 2,500 people evacuated. Nurses think 20 percent of them will live and the doctors think about 45 percent will live.”
She also noted the disparity in conditions: SS officers nearby lived in relative comfort, with medicine, clothing and well-furnished apartments—just miles from where camp survivors struggled with death, illness, malnutrition and extreme deprivation.
As Farnham prepares to honour VE Day once more, the Herald’s accounts from 1945 serve as a powerful reminder of a community shaped by the hardships of war and united in its commitment to remember.
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Brightwells Yard has announced the launch of Brightwells &amp; Co, Creative Space, a new community hub in Farnham. 
The space will bring together arts, business, and photography while working with local artists, schools, and residents to energise the area.
A spokesperson for Brightwells Yard said: “We are really pleased to be opening Brightwells &amp; Co, Creative Space. Our aim is for it to be a real asset to Farnham, a place where people can connect, create, and enjoy a diverse range of activities. 
“We’re looking forward to seeing it become a thriving hub for everyone.”
The hub’s programme begins on Wednesday, May 7 with Possibly Real, Probably Not, an exhibition by students from the University for the Creative Arts (UCA).
Then, on Saturday, May 24, local artist Kate Kennington-Steer will present a yard of joy, a free, drop-in mixed-media art workshop celebrating Creativity and Wellbeing Week. The event will also serve as the official launch of the community space.
In June, the hub will host a month-long photography exhibition from Kiln Photography, showcasing the talents of local photographers.
Brightwells &amp; Co, Creative Space also plans to run a regular Small Business Showcase. Local businesses interested in getting involved are encouraged to visit the Brightwells website for more information.
Brightwells Yard reached completion last year after several delays. Since its opening, it has attracted some exciting additions, such as a Reel Cinema, Nando’s, and Jetts gym.
It has, however, been criticised in some quarters for the number of empty retail units. The new creative space is part of ongoing efforts to bring life and purpose to the long-awaited development.
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<a rel="nofollow" href="https://theriverstrust.org/sewage-map"></a>Finally
the sun seems to be shining and the temptation is to head to our rivers
this is not always a safe decision around here
Take the River Wey. It runs through Bordon, Haslemere, Farnham and many places in between. The was an outcry when hundreds of fish were <a href="/news/absolute-tragedy-as-toxic-spill-turns-river-wey-into-wildlife-graveyard-779582" title="&#x27;Absolute tragedy&#x27; as toxic spill turns River Wey into wildlife graveyard">killed mysteriously here in March</a>. Though this particular incident remains unsolved, the source of most of the River Wey’s pollution is a matter of public record. 
During 2024, Thames Water was ‘permitted’ to discharge sewage into the river on 139 occasions in 2024. It flowed for more than 1,400 hours. In Farnham alone there was a discharge of over 10 hours every week on average.
Last week, the Daily Telegraph revealed that over and above the permitted amounts, there are countless illegal releases. Even the country’s areas of outstanding beauty aren’t exempt; more than sixty per cent have been hit.
Given all this, I find it astonishing that only three people in the water sector have ever been prosecuted for any environmental related crimes since privatisation. But they weren’t even given any penalty under the Conservatives. Not even a fine. And neither was any action taken against the water bosses who obstructed enquiries into illegal overflows.
So, I was delighted to see the Labour government introduce new powers last week to toughen up the law. These could see water executives who cover up illegal sewage spills imprisoned for up to two years – the toughest ever measures in history.
The new legislation will also provide powers to ban the payment of unfair bonuses for polluting water bosses.
This is vital because not only did the Conservatives fail to deliver investment in our broken water infrastructure, they also let our money be spent irresponsibly on bonuses and shareholder payouts amounting to over £41m since 2020 alone.
While the Conservatives are primarily responsible, they were aided and abetted by the Liberal Democrats. Funding for the Environment Agency was cut by half between 2010 and 2019. During half of this time the Lib Dems were sat at the cabinet table signing the cuts off. This led to a staggering drop in enforcement activity against the polluters.
And, as many of your readers will recall, the now Lib-Dem leader Ed Davey concluded in a review that water regulation “works and is not fundamentally flawed”.
Disappointingly this shameful record continues. The Liberal Democrats voted against the legislation to ban the payment of unfair bonuses and making polluting water bosses criminally liable for their actions.
Labour, in contrast, has made clear its determination to clean up our rivers, lakes and seas. £104 billion of private sector funds will finally be invested in rebuilding and upgrading our water system, and an Independent Commission into the water sector has been launched – the largest review since privatisation. 
This could be a sea change for our rivers and coasts.
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Staff and volunteers at Farnham Food Bank have made a May appeal for donations as stocks are running low on some supplies
Community-minded residents can help out by donating tinned meat – tinned hot dogs
stew and ham will be gratefully received – and UHT milk
jelly and fruit pots could also do with topping up while donations of tinned vegetables like carrots and peas are also welcome
Donations can be made at The Vineyard Centre
Wrecclesham and Heath End branches of The Co-op
To contact the food bank call 07901 581539 or email <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection" class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="fa93949c95ba9c9b8894929b97d49c95959e989b9491d495889dd48f91">[email&#160;protected]</a>
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The ad-free version is ready for purchase on iOS mobile app today
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boasting the Maltings venue and a 12th-century castle among its attractions
The redevelopment of the East Street area is a long-running issue
Nearby Bourne Wood has been used as a set for major movies like Gladiator and Robin Hood
while Snow White &amp; The Huntsman was filmed at Frensham Ponds
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Farnham Town Flares&#x27; over-50s squad have made history
winning their first-ever league title after an impressive final round of games in the Thames Valley Walking Football League Division One
The team secured three wins and two draws at Bisham Abbey National Sports Centre in Marlow
finishing top of the table and earning promotion to the Championship division
Heading into the day in second place behind Watford
Farnham knew they needed a strong performance – and they delivered
They edged past Wycombe and Watford with back-to-back 1-0 victories before a goalless draw with Woodley
A dominant 3-0 win over Maidenhead and a battling 1-1 draw with Reading sealed the title
Club chairman Andy Cundy expressed his delight at the historic achievement
we have often come close to winning leagues or tournaments
but five years after the club was established
we finally have a trophy for the cabinet,” said Cundy
Farnham Town Flares and runners-up Watford will move up to the Championship division
where they will face an even higher level of competition next season
The Flares’ over-50s title-winning squad included Stephen Probert
over-60s and multi-age teams competing in leagues and cup competitions
The club also competes in tournaments and friendly games
Although walking football is aimed at people over the age of 45
Farnham Town Flares also welcome players who are below this age and would like to continue playing
Training is held weekly throughout the year
Anyone who would like more information should visit the club’s website at <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.ftfconline.com/farnham-town-walkers">www.ftfconline.com/farnham-town-walkers</a> for further details.
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and hundreds of fans turned out to mark the momentous occasion
cheering as players from Farnham Rugby Club and Farnham Town Football Club paraded through town aboard an open-top bus
Football club chairman Harry Hugo hailed the double triumph
“It’s been amazing for the town and for both the rugby and football clubs
with both now playing at the highest point in their history,” he said
“It’s been great for the town to get together on Easter Monday.”
was among those joining in the celebrations
the way they have rallied round the team and the town,” he said
leading the parade aboard the Union Jack-adorned bus with rousing renditions of We Are the Champions
setting the tone for a day of festivity and pride
Farnham Town FC narrowly lost 1–0 to Hartley Wintney
but neither the result nor the looming threat of rain managed to dampen spirits
A carnival atmosphere took over The Borough and Castle Street as blue flares lit the air and fans welcomed their heroes into town
Among the crowds was 89-year-old Audrey Owen from Hindhead
so I decided to follow—and it’s been a great season
As the football players arrived in Castle Street
the town crier led three cheers for the team
as players gleefully sprayed beer into the crowd
became the sporting capital of Surrey—and its people made sure to savour every moment
Farnham Rugby Club were crowned champions of Regional 2 South Central in the 2024–25 season
Their victory in this league secures their promotion to Regional 1 South Central
Read more on our <a href="/news/live-blog-farnhams-double-champions-victory-parade-785853" title="LIVE BLOG: Farnham&#x27;s double champions victory parade">live blog </a>and don’t miss this week’s Herald for full reports and more photos from the day.
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Twenty-three Farnham Runners took on the challenge to consolidate the teams’ positions in the league.
There were 12 men in Farnham Runners vests to secure full A, B and C teams, while the ladies fielded 11 runners so the C team just lacked one runner but the team still did well.
The ladies consolidated high positions in the leagues. Their A team came fifth in the top flight and they lie fifth of ten clubs. Their B1 team came fourth and they lie fifth.  The C team was also fourth, raising the overall C table position to seventh.
The men’s A1 team was seventh and lie eighth out of ten, the B1 team was fifth and lie tenth and the C team was seventh and lie ninth.
The first two men back both achieved personal best times. Joe Collins ran a splendid time of 58.49 and placed 16th overall over the undulating course and amazingly, as part of his training for the London marathon, continued to run another ten miles, following the first half of the race route and back the same way. Joe Lee, after a long time off with injury was delighted to be back, with a time of 1:02.10.
New member Alex Elsey impressed with 1:02.07 (chip time), clocking the same gun time as Lee. Nick Grist in 1:08.48 put in a strong performance as the fourth member of the A team.
Ivan Chunnett led the B team (1:09.11) followed by fifth M60 Keith Marshall (1:09.30), Colin Addison (1:13.10) and Charles Ashby (1:13.45).
The C team consisted of Richard Denby (1:23.47), Chris Allen (1:27.07), Craig Tate-Grimes (1:38.49) and Howard Inns (1:40.29).
Linda Tyler, first F60 in a new personal best time of 1:13.24, led in the ladies. Next in, Candy Waller (1:14.46), Gemma Whitehouse (1:23.31) and Gill Iffland (1:23.48) also recorded new personal bests.
Tori Shaw (1:27.55), Jane Georghiou (1:29.13, second F70), Kelly Lincoln (1:32.38) and Colette Grist (1:32.39) made up the B team, while Lizzie Collins (1:35.15), Sandra Hickey (1:36.52) and Alison Lamb in her first ten miler (1:47.35) ran for the C team.
In training for forthcoming ultra-distance races four Farnham Runners tackled the Big Feat Winter’s End off road marathon over the South Downs. Ivan Chunnett finished in second place in a remarkable time of 4:24.08 over the challenging course, while Colette Grist, Kate Townsend and Kelly Lincoln clocked six hours 15 minutes.
Three Farnham Runners ran the hilly Brighton marathon. Mike Taylor recorded a time of 4:11.33, while Steve Bailey, after an injury curtailed his training, finished in 4:13.30. After also sustaining an injury in training, Georgie Abrook had to settle for 4:39.35 this time. 
Phoebe Thomas showed her potential in Vienna. Her time of 3:04.00 placed her 29th lady and ninth in the senior ladies’ category. Not only that, she was the first British lady home.
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Brightwells has announced the winners of its ‘Win a Shop’ campaign, aimed at bringing new life to the mixed-use development in Farnham.
The competition offered an ambitious business the opportunity to win a year’s free rent at the site. It can now be revealed that two new shops entering the development will be BB Dog Boutique and Amba House Furniture.
The businesses saw off over 180 applicants and were two of 10 finalists to take part in a Dragon’s Den-style interview hosted by Nando’s. Farnham’s town mayor, Brodie Mauluka, took on the role of dragon and was impressed by all the finalists.
Cllr Mauluka, said: &quot;It was a real privilege to be part of the Win A Shop panel. 
“The energy and dedication of all the finalists were truly inspiring, and it was fantastic to see so much potential for new businesses in Farnham. 
“The selection of two winners, each with such distinct and promising visions, is a fantastic outcome for Brightwells and for our town. I look forward to seeing them flourish.&quot;
Amba House is a home furniture company, while BB Dog Boutique sells collars, clothes and accessories for dogs.
A spokesperson for Brightwells said:&quot;We were truly blown away by the enthusiasm and creativity demonstrated by all the applicants. 
“The passion of both Kelly at Amba House and Caroline at BB Dog Boutique for their ventures and for becoming part of the Brightwells community shone through. 
“Their unique offerings will undoubtedly add something special to Farnham, and we are thrilled to support them as they embark on this exciting journey.&quot;
The spokesperson also expressed gratitude to all those who applied and reached the final stages of the Win a Shop campaign. Further opportunities are expected, and applicants have been encouraged to keep an eye on their inboxes for updates.
Despite the positive news, Brightwells Yard continues to face criticism over the number of empty retail units and the wider challenges the development has faced since its long-delayed opening. 
The Win a Shop initiative is one of several attempts to address ongoing concerns and attract more businesses to the site.
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Families have been urged to go by the Weyside and enjoy a quacking day of fun in the heart of Farnham
A wave of excitement is building in the town as the Great Farnham Duck Race returns next weekend
A flotilla of rubber ducks will turn the Wey through Gostrey Meadow into a yellow river next Saturday lunchtime (May 3)
Ticket holders and fans can expect a series of exciting heats in the race to be crowned Champion Duck for 2025 with the fun taking place from midday to 4pm
Crowds will line the riverbank to cheer on the plucky duckies while visitors can expect plenty of “colour
fun and entertainment for all the family,” according to organisers
A spokesperson said: “The racing ducks have finished their training and are ready to descend and compete in the Great Farnham Duck Race along the river
“Gostrey Meadow will be bursting with entertainment.”
The spokesperson added: “There will be amusements for the children
music including performances from the Rock Choir
The first race will begin at midday while there’s still plenty of time for well-wishers to splash out on a £2 ticket this Saturday (April 26) in Lion &amp; Lamb Yard
Buyers can snap up a duck on the day on the meadow or buy one in advance through <a rel="nofollow" href="https://shorturl.at/M2tU0">https://shorturl.at/M2tU0</a>
There will be prizes for heat winners and the overall victor with all money raised from the Birdworld-sponsored event going to local and Rotary charities
This year’s nominated charity is The Woodlarks Centre: a much-loved care home and activity centre in a wooded setting on the edge of Farnham
For more details about the organisers and their activities visit <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.farnhamweyside.org.uk">www.farnhamweyside.org.uk</a> or look for Farnham Weyside Rotary Club on Facebook.
Tel: <a href="tel:01252725224" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">01252 725224</a><a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#c5aba0b2b685a3a4b7abada4a8ada0b7a4a9a1eba6aaa8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="contact-link">[email&#160;protected]</a>Follow us
It has been an historic week in UK politics. All around the country, the Conservative and Labour votes have crumbled, with Reform UK winning the lion&#x27;s share of support.
Something is definitely happening. A group of Surrey Reform members visited Runcorn recently to help campaign, and we were met on the doorsteps with huge levels of support.
But also something else – a feeling of exasperation, frustration, and anger with successive governments and the impacts that ill-thought-through policies have had on their lives.
Issues ranging from the Prime Minister not knowing what a woman is, to the removal of winter fuel payments, and the sense of injustice at a local hotel housing illegal migrants at the taxpayers&#x27; expense – all while local people are struggling with sky-high bills, high unemployment, and a lack of local services.
We were asked repeatedly on the doorsteps: “How is this fair to us?”; “What do the Government think they are doing?” – and some far more direct, expletive-laden comments regarding the intellect of those MPs in Westminster.
All the people we spoke to wanted to see a return to common sense, fairness, honesty and, that word most despised by those on the left of politics, a patriotic government which puts the interests of the country and its people first.
Ged Hall, Chairman Reform UK, Farnham and Bordon
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With frustration mounting over Farnham’s traffic gridlock, housing developments, and the much-maligned Brightwells project, one resident has turned to poetry to express what many in the town are feeling. 
Channeling these concerns, resident Val Harris has written Farnham’s Lament  to capture the mood of a town in transition. 
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Parents face a £70 fine if they park close to a North Farnham school as the town is getting a county first.
History will be made on Monday (April 28) as Bullers Road School Street is set to go live.
The Surrey County Council scheme means that non-exempt traffic will be banned from using the road leading to Heath End School at drop-off and pick-up times.
Motorists who ignore the warnings will be sent a Fixed Penalty Notice in a scheme that aims to improve safety for pupils walking to Heath End and William Cobbett schools.
While “School Streets” have proved a huge success all over the country the Bullers Road scheme is the first in Surrey.
And Farnham could also be home to the county’s second, as the wheels are turning for a similar scheme to be rolled out around Potters Gate Primary School at the other end of town.
Heath End headteacher, Stuart Maginnis, told the Herald in February he is looking forward to seeing the scheme rolled-out while Cllr Catherine Powell, Surrey County Council member for Farnham North, is adamant it will improve safety for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers.
She said: “Leaflets have been delivered to all residents of Bullers Road explaining how to obtain permits and there has also been a session at Heath End School.
“The team are looking to introduce the school street after the Easter Holidays to ensure residents have plenty of time to get their permits sorted.”
Bullers Road residents, blue badge holders, emergency vehicles, school transport lorries, carers and health workers will be exempt with restrictions being in place from 8am to 9am and 2.15pm to 3.30pm.
Vehicle movements will be monitored by ANPR cameras with parents being encouraged to use the new car park next to the all-weather hockey pitch.
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Sonny Boyce, a Farnham Town under-nines player and Potters Gate Primary School pupil, was a mascot for the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley last week.
And he had even more reason to celebrate as Palace booked their place in the final with a 3–0 win over Aston Villa on the day.
Sonny had been waiting for over three years to become a mascot due to the backlog created by the Covid pandemic—but his patience paid off, as he was the first to walk out onto the pitch.
It wasn’t too nerve-wracking for Sonny, who had already walked out as a mascot for Farnham Town’s first team alongside midfielder Harry Cooksley. The pair took to the pitch together on April 12 for Farnham Town’s victory over Kingstonian.
That experience gave Sonny the confidence to step out in front of 82,000 people at Wembley—with a smile.
Sonny’s proud dad, Jesse Boyce, 46, said: “It was a dream come true for Sonny, who may now be spotted around Farnham proudly frequently wearing red and blue - when he&#x27;s not wearing his Farnham Town shirt.”
As he does most years, Sonny made a tin foil FA Cup to wave from the terraces. This year, his creation was even featured on BBC One’s coverage after Palace’s fifth-round win over Millwall.
He also made a YouTube guide for other children on how to make their own foil FA Cup and has since collected over 10 signatures on his homemade trophy from the Crystal Palace first team—including Jean-Philippe Mateta, Daniel Muñoz, and Adam Wharton.
He attended the 2022 FA Cup semi-final against Chelsea aged six, when Palace lost—but this year, he’ll be back at Wembley to watch his team play in the final against Manchester City.
Jesse and Sonny are both Crystal Palace season ticket holders, as well as being fans of Farnham Town FC.
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with Farnham enjoying a hugely-successful 2024-25 campaign
Town won the Isthmian League South Central Division title in style
drawing six and losing four to pick up 102 points out of a possible 126 and seal back-to-back promotions
The success continues a rapid rise for the club
which won the Combined Counties Premier Division South title in the 2023-24 season after winning 35 league games and drawing three to pick up 108 points out of a possible 114
The awards – sponsored by Covers Builders Merchants – were held in Farnham Town’s clubhouse
The clubhouse was packed with Farnham supporters as fans and players celebrated the season together
Town skipper Ryan Kinnane had a successful evening – winning two awards
Kinnane won the players’ player of the season award and the manager’s player of the season award
Owen Dean won the golden boot award for the third successive season after scoring 26 goals
Dean also won the fans’ player of the season award after contributing eight assists to help fire Town to promotion
The playmaker award for most assists in the season was won by Harry Cooksley
Ben Purcell won the goal of the season award for his superb strike into the top corner in the comprehensive 4-0 win away at Kingstonian
The awards were followed by the first annual Big Fat Farnham Town Quiz of the Year
which was also held in Farnham’s clubhouse
Town now face a busy summer before taking on the challenge of Step 3 football in the 2025-26 season
Anyone who would like more information on Farnham Town should visit the club’s website at <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.ftfconline.com/">https://www.ftfconline.com/ </a>for further details.
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The final started in an even manner as both sides had good spells of possession in the opening 10 minutes of the game
the match burst into life as Brentford took the lead
Logie did excellently to pivot and shoot in the box and despite her effort striking the post
Woods was quickest to the rebound to give the Bees the lead
Farnham did probe the edge of Brentford&#39;s box for an extended period after going a goal down and their equaliser arrived eight minutes after conceding as Maya Adams&#39; delivery into the penalty area found the head of Mia Delaney
Adams was causing problems down the left side and it took good defensive work from Carolin Engelhard to delay the winger and ensure she could not get a shot on goal
Habeebat Gbajabiamila was next to go close for the Bees and after good work in the box her chipped effort only just went over
The west Londoners were beginning to build momentum and a great Woods cross found Logie whose headed effort was tipped over by the goalkeeper
Emily Foss had the last chance of the first period for Farnham as she smashed the crossbar with an effort from the edge of the box
Foss had the first chance of the second period
she found the bottom corner of the net with a great finish
Farnham did well to contain Brentford for most of the half but after a flurry of second-half substitutions from Osborne
Alissa Down powered an effort onto the crossbar but Cheatley was in the right place to turn the ball into the net
Boycott made an impressive save to deny Adams and keep the scores level following the goal
Logie was in the right place at the right time to latch onto a lofted through ball from Engelhard and lob the goalkeeper from just inside the box as she grabbed her first goal and the Bees&#39; third
Farnham found a dramatic equaliser as Anya Kinnane looped a header over Boycott from a corner to take the game to penalties
Two great saves in the shoot-out from goalkeeper Boycott allowed Cheatley to take the fourth and winning spot-kick following successful efforts from Woods
Osborne&#39;s side secured their first piece of silverware of the season with the impressive comeback and then eventual penalty shoot-out victory
Attention now turns to next weekend when the Bees can secure the league title and promotion to tier five on Sunday 4 May away from home against Clapton Community
Brentford Women head coach Karleigh Osborne praised his side following their penalty shoot-out victory against Farnham Town in the Capital Cup final
The win handed the Bees their first piece of silverware for the season and their third trophy in the last two campaigns
&quot;That&#39;s a brilliant result to hold onto the cup
which is a difficult thing to do,&quot; said Osborne
&quot;Winning it the first time was extremely tough
&quot;We&#39;ve got some magnificent characters in this group and that&#39;s the bit that we&#39;re showing
At times last year we maybe didn&#39;t show it enough
but this year I think every individual is showing that character.&quot;
But council figures believe it can’t get any worse – and that disruption was always “inevitable” at the start.
The queues that have developed on Downing Street since two-way traffic was reintroduced on The Borough were the big talking point during the Farnham Annual Meeting of Electors at the UCA on Monday.
Steve Hamilton of Hamilton’s Tea House asked what will be done in the short to medium term to help struggling traders, while Richard Sanders called the situation on Downing Street an “absolute nightmare” in raising pollution concerns.
Mr Hamilton said: “I’ve watched all day and seen ambulances and police cars stopped by the traffic.
“At the farmer’s market footfall was down because people don’t want to deal with traffic. What are you going to do to help us?”
The early impact of the changes will be debated this Friday with Surrey County Council leader, Tim Oliver, and Greg Stafford MP meeting Borelli’s bar owner David Quick onsite ahead of a Farnham Board meeting. 
Hopes are high that queues will ease once all the traffic lights are synchronised and people get used to the new system, while “game changing” wardens will also hit the streets in April to act as a go-between.
Town and Waverley Borough councillor, Graham White, said the A287 is the big problem but with a bypass unlikely to arrive anytime soon, it’s about “getting a balance between pedestrians and cars.”
He said: “I know we’re experiencing delays on Downing Street but that’s the worst situation we’re going to deal with.
“There will be more situations with disruption but I think a lot of people now recognise if they can avoid bringing their car into Farnham, they will.”
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Councillors have found themselves at a crossroads over plans to install a “monolithic” digital advertising board beside a busy junction in Farnham.
Surrey County Council wants to install a digital panel on Hickley’s Court to promote some of its messages, local highway plans and initiatives like Active Travel.
It is also hoped the LED screen will provide an “additional shop window” by promoting local products and services.
The application will come before Waverley Borough Council next Wednesday (May 7) with the 2.75m high by 1.14m wide board being recommended for approval.
Farnham Town Council have objected as they haven’t been consulted and believe the “proposed monolith” will be visually intrusive and will detract from a heritage fingerpost earmarked for the same site.
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The secret is out: M&amp;S have confirmed they are looking to open a foodhall at Farnham Retail Park.
The retailer confirmed to the Herald this morning they have submitted plans for a new branch.
Speculation has been growing in recent weeks as surveyors linked to the firm have been seen checking out the former Homebase unit and its surroundings.
And a spokesperson finally confirmed the news today in a development that will delight fans after their pull-out from Brightwells, with 70 jobs being created, if approved.
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Earth Day 2025: the role of solar power in commercial real estate
Earth Day is the world&rsquo;s largest environmental awareness initiative
2025&rsquo;s theme &ndash; &lsquo;Our Power
Our Planet&rsquo; &ndash; spotlights the urgent need to scale up renewable energy
to triple clean electricity generation worldwide by 2030.&nbsp;
Farnham&nbsp;residential property market: research and insight on residential values
Farnham and its surrounding areas offer strong commuting routes into nearby London
Renowned for its long-held association with the creative arts
the town hosts prominent displays of public artwork and is home to some notable architecture
This can be seen in its varied offering of period mansions
The average second hand sale price in Farnham was &pound;625,040 in the year to November 2024
this was higher than in nearby Aldershot (&pound;311,137)
in Farnborough (&pound;371,175) to the north
average prices were higher in Chiddingfold (&pound;796,552) to the south east
Average second hand sale price&nbsp;across Farnham
Confidence is gradually returning to the prime regional markets of the UK
as mortgage rates improve and inflation continues to remain within the Bank of England&rsquo;s target threshold
Prime prices across Farnham and its surrounding areas increased by 0.3% over the first three months of 2025;&nbsp;a greater increase than over the same period in 2024&nbsp;(0.2%) and in 2023 (-1.5%)
house price growth averaged out at -0.5% over the 12 month period to Q1 2025
a significant increase on falls of -7.0% over the year to Q1 2024
financial pressures and economic uncertainty have impacted market conditions
values remain up by 8.7% since December 2019
higher than the 5.6% average for the outer commute zone
the region which covers Farnham and the local area
Farnham and its surrounding areas typically attract needs-based
59% of Savills buyers in this location were upsizers in 2024.&nbsp;
<a style="background-color: #ffffff; font-size: 1rem;" name="primelettings"></a>
The prime rental market across Farnham and its surrounds saw rents rise by 5.9% over the first three months of 2025
an increase on falls of -2.6% over the three months prior.&nbsp;
The recent uptick in rental growth can be attributed to changing market conditions
with the return of the family market locally
as well as pre-pandemic migratory patterns placing pressure on local supply
rental growth averaged out at a marginally positive 0.2% in the year to Q1 2025
The rental market in Farnham and its surrounding areas typically attracts tenants looking to upsize and relocate
But affordability pressures and the announcement of VAT on schools fees in the Autumn budget resulted in some tenants becoming more conscious of their budgets
Farnham also holds an appeal to certain families
drawn by the strong mix of local schools As such
rental prices for houses outperformed flats across the outer commute zone as a whole over the year to Q1 2025
the prime regional markets are witnessing improved sentiment as mortgage rates and economic conditions continue to stabilise
we expect price growth across the prime regional markets to be driven by additional base rate cuts
As reduced mortgage rates and improved sentiment are expected to drive demand in those areas with more debt-reliant buyers
whilst the application of VAT on school fees since January may put additional pressure on some household budgets
we continue to forecast positive growth of 18.2% across the prime regional market over the five years to 2029
It must also be noted that some locations with strong educational provision may benefit from increased demand
we continue to expect demand to be determined by the balance between supply and demand
with increased regulation through the Renters&rsquo; Rights Bill
has prompted some uncertainty from landlords and will put upwards pressure on rents
anticipating 12.6% rental growth over the prime regional rental market over the period to 2029.&nbsp;
Six properties we sold and let in your area
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<a href="https://www.brentfordfc.com/en/teams/profile/nour-aboul-kheir" title="">Nour Aboul Kheir</a> said she was excited about the challenge and keen to play her part in adding another trophy to the club’s growing collection
“This season we’ve had a lot of success in the league
so it’s nice to take a break and look at the cup and win one to add to the two we won last season - we’re really looking forward to it,” she said
I’m quite excited because last season I wasn’t involved
so I’m quite looking forward to being involved in this matchday squad.”
The clash follows on from <a href="https://www.brentfordfc.com/en/news/article/brentford-women-match-reports-denham-united-ladies-0-brentford-women-1-match-report" title="">Tuesday’s tense 1-0 win at Denham United</a> in the London and South East Regional Women&#39;s Division One North
providing a rare double game week for Karleigh Osborne’s side
“The game on Tuesday was a really tough one so I think emotions were definitely high after getting that win,&quot; added Aboul Kheir
&quot;It put us in a really good spot in the league and we can hopefully seal promotion really soon with the next game
“Everyone’s fighting for a spot in the squad
Sunday&#39;s final will be the first time Brentford have played Farnham this term
but the west Londoners&#39; preparations will remain the same as normal
we look at every team as it’s going to be a challenge
we shouldn’t drop our standards no matter what league they’re in,” she explained
“We’re a tier-six team taking on teams in the leagues above and winning
so it shouldn’t be any different for teams below us to come and try to do the same thing to us.”
The Bees played out a tense LSE Division One North clash with Denham United in midweek, with <a href="https://www.brentfordfc.com/en/teams/profile/chloe-logie" title="">Chloe Logie’s</a> second half-goal enough to secure a 1-0 win
Brentford were forced to fight for 90 minutes under the lights at Windsor &amp; Eton Football Club but Osborne’s group did enough to secure a vital three points in their quest for promotion
Previously in the Capital Cup, the Bees cruised to a <a href="https://www.brentfordfc.com/en/news/article/brentford-women-south-london-capital-cup-bedfont-sports-club" title="">5-0 win over South London</a> at Bedfont Sports Club
Despite going into half-time goalless, braces from Logie and <a href="https://www.brentfordfc.com/en/teams/profile/ashley-cheatley" title="">Ashley Cheatley</a> alongside one goal from <a href="https://www.brentfordfc.com/en/teams/profile/alissa-down" title="">Alissa Down</a> were enough to book the side’s place in Sunday’s final
Farnham Town compete in the SEC Surrey Premier Division - the seventh tier of women&#39;s football - where they currently sit second with 11 wins from as many games
They trail leaders Carshalton Athletic by one point having played three games fewer
reeling off five-straight wins in all competitions since a 4-0 loss to Carshalton in early March
Maya Adams (16) and Kaitlin Howard (14) have led the way up front and will pose a threat to the Bees’ defence
There will be updates from the game against Farnham Town on <a href="https://x.com/BrentfordFCW" title="">social media</a>, as well as a match report on the club&#39;s <a href="https://www.brentfordfc.com/en" title="">official website</a> and <a href="https://www.brentfordfc.com/en/news/article/club-news-brentford-fc-launch-new-app-download-" title="">app.</a>
Farnham Walking Festival will return this year
the annual event offers a diverse programme of guided walks that celebrate the great outdoors and everything the local area has to offer
The festival includes more than 30 walks catering to all interests and fitness levels—from leisurely strolls and nature trails showcasing local wildlife to more challenging hikes for seasoned walkers
offering participants insights into Farnham’s unique environment and rich history
said: “I look forward to welcoming you to the 10th Farnham Walking Festival
I would like to give my thanks to Farnham and District Ramblers for leading so many of the walks as well as the many other volunteer guides
“Each guide has specialist knowledge about their route which will make for some very informative walks.”
although a few request a donation to charity
For full details, visit <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.farnham.gov.uk/" title="FTC">www.farnham.gov.uk</a> or pick up a brochure from Farnham Town Council on South Street.
This year’s principal sponsors are Kidd Rapinet and Shaw Gibbs.
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Police are investigating an act of criminal damage after teenagers threw eggs at the screen during a late-night screening of A Minecraft Movie at Reel Cinema in Farnham. 
The incident, which the cinema said caused thousands of pounds worth of damage, took place at about 9pm on Friday, April 4.
A cinema spokesperson said in a social media post: “Last night, during a showing of Minecraft, a group of children egged our cinema screens. What may have seemed like a harmless prank has actually caused thousands of pounds worth of damage.” 
The spokesperson explained that the screens are made from special materials that cannot be easily cleaned, and in some cases, the damage could render a screen unusable for weeks.
The cinema also confirmed that its auditoriums are covered by “high-quality CCTV” and the names of those believed to be involved have been reported.
“We’ll now be working with their school and the police to take the appropriate next steps,” they said. 
The cinema also announced plans to increase monitoring during screenings, stating, “We will not tolerate any kind of disruption before, during, or after a screening. Anyone who disrupts a showing will be asked to leave, and if necessary, the police will be called.”
A spokesperson for Surrey Police said: “We are investigating an incident of criminal damage at Reel Cinema in Farnham that took place on Friday, 4 April. 
“The incident took place between 8:55pm and 9pm and involved two teenage boys throwing eggs at the screen, causing significant damage. 
“We have been in contact with the cinema and our enquiries to identify the suspects are ongoing.”
A Minecraft Movie, based on the popular video game, stars Jack Black and Jason Momoa as they’re transported into a blocky world. 
While critics have given the movie generally poor reviews, it has been a box office success. 
However, reports of antisocial behaviour, especially among younger viewers, have surfaced worldwide, with some screenings descending into chaos. 
Social media footage shows food being thrown, loud shouting, swearing, and people jumping from their seats, many recording the mayhem on their phones.
Anyone with information about the Farnham egging incident is urged to contact Surrey Police, quoting reference PR/45250040334.
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After a raft of bank branch closures in recent years
Santander’s exit from Farnham will leave only Nationwide Building Society in the town centre
Santander UK has revealed plans to shut 95 of its branches - with the Farnham branch among those earmarked for closure
The Spanish banking group confirmed the closures will take place in June and July
alongside reduced operating hours at 36 branches and the transition of 18 sites to counter-free operations
Santander will retain 349 branches in the UK
Along with the Farnham branch on The Borough
the nearby one in Fleet is also due to close on June 30
A Santander UK spokesman said: “As customer behaviour changes
we are ensuring that our branches remain fit for the future
“Our new combination of full-service branches
counter-free branches and reduced hours branches
aims to provide the right balance between digital banking and face-to-face money management and guidance
“Closing a branch is always a very difficult decision and we spend a great deal of time assessing where and when we do this and how to minimise the impact it may have on our customers.”
Last month, <a href="/news/final-withdrawal-as-barclays-makes-removal-request-for-closed-borough-branch-771108" title="Final withdrawal as Barclays makes removal request for closed Borough branch">Barclays closed its branch</a> on the corner of the Borough and South Street
Nationwide will be the only banking branch left in Farnham town centre
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Councillors have asked a developer to keep the noise down after approving plans to convert a former bank in Farnham town centre into housing.
Plans by JBS Development to convert part of the former NatWest branch on The Borough and its adjoining wing into six properties have been approved.
David Quick warned Waverley Borough Council that approval could have severe consequences for his Borelli’s Wine Bar and Grill. He fears complaints from future residents over late-night noise from the bar and its courtyard on Fridays and Saturdays will lead to restrictions and possible closure.
He said: “There would be serious noise complaints whatever soundproofing is put in.
“For any restrictions to be imposed on our business would undoubtedly result in closure.”
Architect Derek Copeman said the applicants had gone to “enormous lengths” to provide a compatible scheme that includes a secondary system of approved glazing.
He said to David: “There’s absolutely no intention to create a situation whereby your business is any way threatened.
“You will not have an unwelcome resident next to you, but probably six new customers.”
The applicants say the grade II-listed building will be “meticulously transformed” into a mix of apartments while the plans also include the loss of 23 spaces, with the area being gated off and turned into private parking.
Councillors also offered some assurance to Mr Quick with Cllr Carole Cockburn calling Borelli’s “cherished”.
She said: “I just hope it all works, especially when you’ve got something as treasured as Borelli’s – we can’t have anything that detracts from that.”
Cllr Graham White said: “I think it’s an important business to the town and it’s something we treasure. I’m reasonably confident there will be protection.”
Cllr David Beaman added: “We’ve got to take the word of the applicant but we need to monitor it very carefully.”
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Simply stunning: that’s the verdict of some shoppers amid news M&amp;S could be coming to Farnham after all.
Social media and message boards were alive with excited chatter yesterday with news that M&amp;S has submitted plans to open a foodhall on Farnham Retail Park.
Speculation has been building in recent weeks with surveyors being spotted onsite and construction workers tipping off retailers.
And it became official on Thursday morning, with the retailer confirming it had submitted plans for a foodhall at the edge of town site.
Some 70 jobs will be created if plans come to fruition, with shoppers and retail workers at the park welcoming the news on Thursday.
“Farnham needs M&amp;S and this is exciting news, as all we seem to hear about is new houses coming to town, which we don’t need,” said shopper, Sasha Dennison.
Maureen, a visitor from Aldershot, is also pleased to hear M&amp;S might be returning to the area.
She said: “I was gutted when I heard M&amp;S was leaving Aldershot but I’m excited it’s coming here.
“I think it will be great for the area and I can’t wait until it opens, hopefully with a café.”
Andrew Ormerod, store colleague at Pets at Home, thinks the store’s arrival is good news for the town and retail park. Few need reminding M&amp;S were meant to be an ‘anchor’ tenant at Brightwells Yard, but infamously pulled out of the scheme.
He said: &quot;Homebase&#x27;s closure had a big impact on footfall to Pets at Home but M&amp;S coming to town is a massive boost. 
“A construction worker came and told us they were moving in and then we had it confirmed by another customer shortly after that, so we are delighted it has been confirmed by M&amp;S.” 
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Regarding Alastair Emblem’s amazement the Herald has received no letters about the roadworks in Farnham town centre (Letters, March 27), I can assure him hundreds of people are complaining on Farnham’s social media sites. 
People are using words such as: chaos, shambles, ridiculous, stupid, ludicrous, ill-conceived, poor planning and dangerous. 
On every road leading into the town and in the town centre, vehicles are gridlocked, chugging out exhaust fumes. Did the Farnham infrastructure planners envisage this scenario?
Vehicles can now turn right from Castle Street into The Borough to leave the town via West Street. Some people seem to like it. Some do not. 
One day I joined the queue to drive down West Street into The Borough. I was in the middle lane because vehicles were queueing to go up Castle Street blocking my view of cars coming down the street. I drove on and came bumper to bumper with a car trying to turn right. 
An accident blackspot maybe requiring an ambulance or police presence, but where are the ambulance and police vehicles? In Downing Street, Union Road or South Street, stuck in a long line of vehicles. 
Pedestrian safety seems non-existent in The Borough. Why has a new crossing been placed too close to the top of Downing Street? I believe even the pedestrian safety island has been removed from the bottom of Castle Street. Pollution in Downing Street must be far worse than it ever was in The Borough. Shopkeepers are saying they have to keep their doors shut because of the choking fumes being emitted. 
Their takings are also down. Shoppers find it too time-consuming trying to get into the town. People are saying they now shop in Alton. 
The Farnham Infrastructure Plan includes widening of the pavements in Downing Street. Why? It will make it impossible for ambulances and fire engines to even nudge their way along the road. 
Are the planners thinking that such vehicles will never be needed to attend emergencies in the town centre?
For many people their bete noir is those damned planters and little posts. Nobody wants them.
Once again the powers-that-be are lumbering Farnham with another white elephant. Eventually we will have a whole herd of them.
I agree wholeheartedly with Alastair Emblem, where are all the complaints about the roadwork situation in Farnham?
I have to travel down Firgrove Hill to enter the town. More often than not, we are held up in lights there.
I am a disabled driver and rely on parking near to my destination. I am unable to use outside Elphicks now as there are police cones. Car parks for that part of town are too far for me to walk.
I feel for all the shops which must be affected badly. Why would you want to come into town, unless it was urgent?
May I also suggest to the council that they get rid of those planters and posts in Downing Street, as they are pointless.
I just have to write regarding what is happening to Farnham.
Well what is happening to it? It was said there would be no disruption to pedestrians - what a laugh! It is a total nightmare in the town. Why on earth is there any need to turn right at the bottom of Castle Street? For years and years it has been left-turn only and it worked perfectly OK. Pedestrian crossings are dangerous. 
They are killing this lovely town. Workmen’s signs are all over the pavements, a hazard, and what is the common sense of having shopkeepers’ boards also on the pavement? Not a bit of sense or thought for disabled people, wheelchair users, or buggies. Poor-sighted people could easily fall over.
Shop owners should know better, we all know what shops we want to go to. People do not want to read the boards - they should be made to remove them.
I think all this was thought up by people who have lived in Farnham for a few years, or not at all. They have no idea.
I am saddened and disgusted with it. It’s a waste of money. As for Downing Street, I will say no more.
People are not going to come to Farnham and can you blame them? A lovely old market town ruined.
In the edition of the Herald from February 27, an article (Twitchers at Tice&#x27;s hoping for handsome visitor) horrified me. One, if there was a goshawk near Tice’s Meadow it spells doom for all the other birds there, except perhaps swans. 
This evil, ruthless bird will destroy the area and then move on. I have seen this happen on the Wiltshire/Dorset border.
You admit in your article that the goshawk will prey on the nests of other birds. You say that they usually prey on squirrels and crows, but when they are gone, what next?
Please concentrate on the rare birds that really matter.
Regarding your article ‘Aircraft&#x27;s night flight alarms Farnham residents’ (Herald, March 13).  These surveys happen every few weeks. Then there are the repetitive flights every few months for Farnborough and Odiham to calibrate the instrument landing systems. The attached flights were from 8.30am to 2.30pm on Wednesday, none of these flights are included in flight numbers or aircraft noise measurement. 
One of the issues everyone keep avoiding is the impact of more flights and new flightpaths on property prices. We’ve calculated it and it is the billions. When someone sells their house, they are legally obliged to state proposed or planned changes in flights or flightpaths in the TA6/Sellers Information Pack. 
We’ve written to estate agents locally asking why they aren’t complying with this. No response. We’ve asked the national body, PropertyMark, why they aren’t communicating this. No response to several emails over six months. 
We think this is something the public should know about as, at some point, it will result in claims from buyers against estate agents. 
Farnham Business Improvement District (BID) is set to launch a new town ranger service next week providing seven-day security coverage across the town centre. 
In partnership with SWL Security Services, the initiative aims to create a safe and welcoming environment for residents, businesses, and visitors in Farnham.
Starting on Tuesday, April 15, the service will be led by rangers Billy and Harry, who will patrol the town centre between 10am and 6pm, with occasional patrols outside these hours to support key initiatives and events. 
Mark Robson, Farnham BID vice chair, said: “This is an exciting new chapter for Farnham. Billy and Harry will be at the heart of our community, supporting local businesses and making the town centre a safer, more enjoyable place to visit.
“We are delighted to launch this service as part of our wider investment in Farnham’s future.”
Their presence aims to reassure the public, deter anti-social behaviour, and provide immediate assistance to those in need. 
Through a community-focussed approach, the rangers aim to foster a positive experience in the town centre, contributing to a safer and more connected Farnham.
In addition to daily patrols, the rangers will carry out a range of duties to support the BID and the wider community. 
These duties include engaging with businesses, reporting public realm issues, assisting vulnerable individuals, supporting crime reporting efforts, and collaborating with local police and authorities as necessary. 
Their role will balance security responsibilities with ambassadorial tasks to ensure that Farnham remains safe.
Dean Rawson from SWL Security said: “SWL supply street teams to multiple BIDs and councils across the south, and we are proud to partner with Farnham BID to deliver their new ranger service.
“Our team is fully trained, community-focused, and ready to make a real difference from day one.”
The introduction of the town ranger service is part of Farnham BID’s investment in safety, community engagement, and visible support for the town centre. 
This initiative aligns with the organisation’s strategic priorities to enhance the local environment and improve the overall experience for all who visit and work in Farnham.
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Robbie Tabner-Barclay was punched and fell through a door during the terrifying raid on the EE shop on The Borough around 5.20pm on Thursday (March 13).
The assistant manager also kept a customer safe and managed to press a panic button before the trio could get their hands on any stock.
Mr Tabner-Barclay spoke to the Herald about the ordeal shortly after being checked over at Haslemere Minor Injuries unit on Friday afternoon.
“I knew the moment they stepped in we were getting robbed,” said the worker, who claimed the trio spoke in London accents.
“They said ‘everyone in the back or you’re going to get stabbed’ but I thought if they really had a knife, they would have pulled it out already.
“I tried to go for the panic button but one of the robbers saw and punched me and I went through the door. I tried holding back the door so they couldn’t get to the stock.
“Another one shoved me in the face. He had this bag and said ‘give me all the phones’ but I told him we didn’t have any and told him to look at the stock.
“When he did I pressed the panic button and he alerted his guys. The customer in the shop came out and we pulled the shutters down to calm things down.”
While guidance is usually not to confront would-be robbers, Mr Tabner-Barclay said he was “thinking clearly” at the time and even gave the trio a “very British’ wave goodbye after they left empty handed.
He said: “I’ll admit it was a bit scary, but I was more angry because it happened at the end of the day and I was looking forward to going bowling with my missus.
“No-one was hurt, but I think I would have had second thoughts if they did produce a knife. I would have said ‘ok’, I’m not going to stop you, but I was certain they didn’t have one.”
Police have circulated CCTV footage from the store online as part of their appeal for witnesses and information.
The suspects are described as three black men in their late teens, and were all wearing black, face coverings and carrying backpacks. It is suspected the trio may have parked in Central Car Park.
Witnesses or anyone with information should DM Surrey Police or call 101 quoting PR/45250030063.
Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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<a href="http://guildfordfringe.com/" target="_blank"></a>
Dragon reporter Stella Kuchanny investigates serious allegations about the standard of mental healthcare at a Guildford centre
The father of a young man with mental health problems has described what he claims to be “a horror story” that unfolded while his son was a patient at Farnham Road Hospital
He has made a series of shocking allegations about his son’s treatment at the hospital
The young man &#8211; who is 21-years-old &#8211; has bipolar disorder
a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings
a former financier of healthcare infrastructure who once helped fund facilities like the Aldershot Centre for Health
said he was shocked to find himself on the other side of the fence &#8211; as a parent watching his son suffer under the care of a system he once supported
His name has been withheld to protect his son&#8217;s identity
the Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust insisted they take all concerns about the quality of the care they provide very seriously
The young man&#8217;s father began by telling me about his son’s experiences with lithium
so the hospital could not confirm whether his dosage remained safe
they continued administering what the father described as &#8220;fairly high doses.&#8221; Eventually
which revealed “dangerously high” lithium levels
you have to ensure the dose is not dangerous,&#8221; he said
&#8220;It&#8217;s like driving a car at night with dipped headlights—you can’t see far ahead
You don’t keep going full speed just because you think the road is clear.&#8221;
Once the elevated lithium level was confirmed
his son was transferred to the Royal Surrey Hospital’s Acute Medical Unit—just one step short of intensive care
&#8220;At least I could visit him at the Royal Surrey,&#8221; he said
They even sent Farnham Road Hospital a discharge letter with clear recommendations for a safe maximum dose
But that advice wasn’t well received by the consultant.&#8221;
he claimed: &#8220;There was an unnecessary risk to my son’s heart and overall health
You cannot justify a high dose without confirmation from blood tests
You have to reduce it &#8211; because without those results
He remembers telling the consultant exactly that: &#8220;You are flying blind.&#8221;
he received excuses including claims that the issue was caused by his son not drinking enough water
&#8220;This is a hospital with staff around the clock
And no one can remind him to drink water?&#8221;
It is claimed that another drug was introduced alongside the lithium
&#8220;I often had to help lift him out of chairs,&#8221; he recalled
The same consultant reportedly asked if his speech problems were &#8220;normal.&#8221;
It was particularly difficult for the young man&#8217;s mother to witness
making the visible similarities in symptoms particularly distressing
The most disturbing moment came when the father received a call from his son’s solicitor
A member of hospital staff had allegedly told his son not only that he should kill himself
but also explained how he might go about doing it
and someone in a position of care gave him instructions on how to end his life
That kind of cruelty is hard to process.&#8221;
I was able to speak briefly with the young man himself
a mental health nurse suggested he should end his life
the young man’s father has finally been offered a meeting with the Chief Executive of Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
The father says it took three months and repeated emails before this offer came
While he has asked that his son’s name not be published to protect his future
he believes the public deserves to know his son&#8217;s story
&#8220;Would a reader want their son or daughter to experience this—and feel powerless for months on end?&#8221; he asked
He said he was considering legal action against the trust and that the police had been informed about the case
He said sharing his experience with the media was essential to achieving accountability
He also drew my attention to the hospital’s online reviews
currently averaging just 2.5 stars on Google Maps
Many – although not all – are critical of the care they received
One woman wrote: &#8220;Left me topless and without a bra when there were males present.&#8221;
Another reviewer said: “Absolutely horrific
I thought the Victorian ways of treating the mentally ill were well and truly over.”
Another reviewer described one of the wards as &#8220;just a holding cell that has no therapy on offer at all.&#8221;
&#8220;CQC (the independent regulator) would have a field day,&#8221; a reviewer said
&#8220;It’s not a safe unit and should be seriously looked into.&#8221;
I contacted the Surrey and Borders Partnership Trust
described the allegations and requested a comment
Chief Executive of Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
said: &#8220;We take all concerns raised about the quality of the care we provide very seriously
We are in active conversation with the family and are investigating the complaint that has been raised as a matter of high priority.&#8221;
The police said they were unable to comment on the allegations without a case number
It means it means the world to me to have my story published
We need volunteers who will go into the hospital and support our most vulnerable people
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It’s the high-street staple known across the UK for cheap drinks
and carpets so garish they might just give you vertigo
With hundreds of pubs stretching from one end of the country to the other, it seems<a href="/news/wetherspoons-is-coming-to-farnham-as-plans-for-east-street-unit-served-up-to-council-780340" title="Wetherspoons IS coming to Farnham as plans for East Street unit served up to council"> Farnham is the latest town</a> to join the Wetherspoons family
The anticipated arrival of the iconic chain has stirred mixed reactions from Farnham&#x27;s residents
the prospect of affordable pints and classic pub grub is a welcome addition
voiced concerns over the impact on the town&#x27;s character
with fears that Wetherspoons might undermine the trade of local
Whether it’s a quick pit stop between train changes or a longer hangout with friends
chances are you&#x27;ve popped into one in other towns
a Wetherspoons in Farnham is a new experience
and there are a few things that make it stand out from your typical local pub
Most punters can forget dancing till 3am — Wetherspoons famously doesn’t do <a href="/topic/music">music</a>
so the only soundtrack you’ll get is background chatter and the occasional plate clatter
Wetherspoons owner Tim Martin has opened a number of Lloyds No.1 Bars - colloquially known as ‘Party Wetherspoons’
Lloyds is a ‘Spoons sub-brand that runs pubs with music
traditionally later licences and a stronger focus on drinks
But it remains to be seen what type of Wetherspoon the town will get
You don’t buy a latte or a cappuccino in Wetherspoons
That bit of pottery then grants you unlimited <a href="/topic/access">access</a> to the hot drinks machine
In other pubs, the machines are usually dotted around the <a href="/topic/venue">venue</a> (there tends to be more than one
These machines are pretty high-tech and serve all manner of drinks from cappuccinos to lattes
you can forget seeing any fancy coffee art on top of your flat white  - unless you’re a dab hand at latte art yourself
Wetherspoons has a reputation for somewhat chaotic décor
quirky seating layouts and the occasional wild colour clash
it might look a bit like this – so we’re curious to see how they’ll rework the Slug and Lettuce space in Farnham
It’s a social media trend that could finally reach our town
Post your table number and pub name into one of the many ‘Wetherspoons Game’ Facebook groups
and strangers might send you anything from a pint to a bowl of peas
There’s no catch – just an unspoken rule that you do the same for some other randomer next time
you won’t even have to leave your seat to order
Wetherspoons only shows what&#x27;s available on Freeview
don’t expect regular Premier League matches
you might want to find somewhere else to settle in
Brace yourselves - and maybe keep that app downloaded
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Cala Homes has secured reserved matters approval from Waverley Borough Council for a 320-home scheme in Farnham
with 96 of the homes being provided as affordable housing
was allocated for residential development as part of both the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan and Waverley Local Plan and follows outline planning permission that was granted in June 2023
The plans include a range of one to five-bedroom open market houses
The mix of options means there will be suitable homes for first-time buyers
All homes on site will be equipped with electric vehicle charging points and air source heat pumps to help residents reduce their carbon emissions
the homes will be constructed with a timber frame which has been shown to have up to 20% less embodied carbon than a typical masonry build
timber frame could help reduce energy use compared to a traditional masonry structure by offering improved thermal efficiency
The development will deliver a range of benefits for the local community in addition to much-needed new homes
a pedestrian crossing and bus stops on West Street
an extension of the Public Right of Way to the south of the site that leads through Bishops Meadow to the town centre
Also included are new children’s play areas
including a large play area at the centre of the site
there will be new public open space and planting to encourage urban wildlife on individual plots.&nbsp;
Cala has committed to establishing a Community Pledge on the new development
Each Pledge will bring together a bespoke programme of activity designed to address specific community needs
head of planning at Cala (South Home Counties)
commented: “We’re delighted to achieve consent to deliver high-quality
This site will support the Council with its housing requirement and provide much-needed homes for people to ensure housing availability throughout the borough.”
&#8220;This consent follows the successful completion of several schemes in the Surrey area
such as Ockford Park in Godalming and Chestnut Fields in Woking as well as Rivermead Gardens
“The proposed new community would also provide significant contributions towards local services and infrastructure
Receiving this approval is testament to our commitment to delivering sustainable developments
and the positive placemaking that our plans incorporate.”
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All roads will lead to Farnham on April 13 as a huge display of classic and vintage vehicles will be on display in the town centre.
You don’t have to be a petrolhead to appreciate the Phyllis Tuckwell Classic and Vintage Car Show in Central Car Park.
The free event from 10am to 4pm will make a great day out for the whole family and motoring enthusiasts alike with a huge range on display, from classics to ex-military vehicles.
Any donations support will Phyllis Tuckwell to continue to deliver their high-quality hospice and respite care. The charity supports people with terminal illnesses along with family members and their carers.
Vehicle exhibitors should contact Hermon Frost on 01252 320439. By Jack Baker
Tel: <a href="tel:01252725224" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">01252 725224</a><a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#c3ada6b4b083a5a2b1adaba2aeaba6b1a2afa7eda0acae" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="contact-link">[email&#160;protected]</a>Follow us
A major part of a lengthy – and controversial – project that could have huge ramifications on trade and traffic in Farnham town centre is about to begin
The cobbled islands at the top of Downing Street will soon be washed away in a wave of changes
Their removal is a key part of the Farnham Infrastructure Programme that will “transform the town centre” through a host of changes from traffic flow to civic enhancement
The hard work starts on Monday (February 17) as Surrey County Council has given the green light for roadworks to commence on The Borough between Castle Street and West Street
The removal of the islands during the two-week programme will allow vehicles to turn right at the bottom of Castle Street
Some disruption is expected as there will be temporary traffic lights during the day and 11 overnight road closures with diversions put in place
Pedestrians and cyclists will be able to pass while early and late buses will be marshalled through the closed roads
Attention will then switch to making Downing Street two-way between Longbridge and Lower Church Lane with work expected to take eight weeks
There will be more about the upcoming work in next week’s Herald with the FIP being a partnership between SCC
Tim Oliver, SCC leader and chair of the Farnham Board, said the improvements will “transform the town centre” with ongoing updates at <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.surreycc.gov.uk/farnhamworks">www.surreycc.gov.uk/farnhamworks</a>
He said: “These improvements are the most significant changes to Farnham town centre for a generation, and come after several rounds of consultation and engagement with people in the town. 
“I am confident they will enhance the town’s history, while encouraging shoppers to spend longer in the town and support the local economy.”
*An earlier version of this article included a visualisation of West Street, The Borough and Downing Street. That scheme has been since been altered to the one which appears with this article. This story was updated on Monday, February 17.
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A country pop band from the Farnham area have been chosen to represent the UK at this year’s Eurovision Song Contest
Remember Monday will perform their song ‘What The Hell Just Happened?’ at the event
Remember Monday is made up of Lauren Byrne
who are from the Farnham area and met in 2013 while studying at Farnborough College
they said: &quot;We&#x27;re going to be the first girlband to represent the UK since 1999
energy and hopefully do something that you won&#x27;t have seen before on the Eurovision stage.&quot;
The trio originally took part in The Voice UK series 8 in 2019
where they managed to reach the quarter-finals
they&#x27;ve been releasing music as an independent act
The band has more than 530,000 followers on TikTok and 85,000 followers on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/remembermonday_/" title="Remember Monday Instagram">Instagram</a>.
A wine bar and restaurant in central Farnham is to close less than two years after opening
On the social media page of Jack and Alice Farnham
the owners said they were closing the venue with a “heavy heart.”
but one that unfortunately had to be made,” the statement read
“We have loved being part of Farnham and will truly miss everyone we’ve met along the way
The trendy &#x27;wine bar and pantry&#x27; opened on The Borough in June 2023
It was the second branch of Jack and Alice following the success of its original venue in Gerrards Cross
A sign on the door of the venue on Thursday (January 16) evening read: “Due to unforeseen circumstances
we regret to inform you that we are closed until further notice
We apologise for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding during this time.”
Jack and Alice is the second business to close its doors in The Borough in recent months,  after<a href="/news/final-chapter-for-farnham-bookshop-but-is-there-one-last-twist-697697" title="Final chapter for Farnham bookshop - but is there one last twist?"> the Blue Bear Bookshop</a> relocated from Farnham to Hartley Wintney last August.
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The TimesThere’s lots to like about Farnham
from its riot of red-brick and timber-framed buildings to an army of independent shops and cafés stuffed up cobbled passages beside old oast houses
a legacy from when this Surrey market town was a hops-growing heavyweight
Opened in October in a 90-year-old neoclassical bank building
the latest addition to Youngs’ portfolio combines a locals-filled pub
a small roof terrace warmed by heaters and nine stylish
luxurious bedrooms featuring individual designs
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CYNTHIA REZENDEScore 8/10One worry when sleeping above a pub is noise — which will also be the case if you’ve booked the solitary accessible room on the ground floor
the Teller’s Arms’s soundproofing is excellent
Eight spacious rooms are in the Boutique category
complete with a four-poster bed and a bathtub — but no windows save for a skylight — is aptly designated as the Bigger Boutique
There are no other provisions for families
rainfall showers and Hypnos mattresses are uniform
as are inventive minibars laying on self-heating eye masks and pre-bottled espresso martinis
Be it bright or dominated by moss-green hues
each room looks very chic under its high ceiling
A nice touch sees Farnham’s heritage referenced in locally made pottery or minimalist barley-plant paintings
is that the Bigger Boutique’s wardrobe area is far too dimly lit
MATT AUSTINScore 7/10An all-day menu offers burgers
fish and chips and seasonal dishes such as buttermilk fried pheasant with plum chutney
My main — calves’ liver and crispy bacon alongside mash
but my starter sees a floating cheddar rarebit quickly disintegrate within a humdrum French onion soup
Also lacking for taste is an underwhelming sticky toffee pudding and I soon push mine away in favour of a rich draught ale by Farnham’s own Hog’s Back Brewery
Diners like me sit at sectioned-off tables in a snug area at the rear
beyond the more raucous (on weekends) bar and its olive-painted rectangular columns
handsome herringbone floors and surviving bank clock
Breakfast consists of superlative fry-ups alongside a small continental buffet bolstered by nice homemade granola
• <a href="https://www.thetimes.com/article/best-hotels-in-surrey-w0tzkbnmm" class="link__RespLink-sc-1ocvixa-0 csWvlP">Best hotels in Surrey</a>• <a href="https://www.thetimes.com/article/best-boutique-hotels-in-the-uk-v0r3rcv5s" class="link__RespLink-sc-1ocvixa-0 csWvlP">Best boutique hotels in the UK for your next weekend break</a>
International rugby union matches are screened on two TVs; that roof terrace
should gain a retractable roof in time for next spring
CYNTHIA REZENDEScore 9/10An hour from London Waterloo by train
Farnham station is five minutes’ walk from the compact town centre
via an ancient staircase — seven sets of seven stairs
seven paces apart — to Farnham Castle Keep
although this is expected to be closed for maintenance until spring 2025
and an adjoining palace where bishops of Winchester once stayed
The North Downs Way footpath requires a rather longer walk and starts its 153-mile route to Dover near the station
The picturesque 12th-century ruins of Waverley Abbey
Price B&amp;B doubles from £119Restaurant mains from £17Family-friendly YAccessible YDog-friendly Y
Richard Mellor was guest of the Teller’s Arms (tellersarmsfarnham.co.uk)
• <a href="https://www.thetimes.com/article/9-of-the-best-country-house-hotels-near-london-dzjvcwqvm" class="link__RespLink-sc-1ocvixa-0 csWvlP">Best country house hotels near London</a>• <a href="https://www.thetimes.com/article/best-family-friendly-short-breaks-in-the-uk-sl59kf06j" class="link__RespLink-sc-1ocvixa-0 csWvlP">Best family-friendly short breaks in the UK</a>
An award-winning Somerset ale has closed its brewery after more than 45 years and entered a partnership that will see its beers brewed instead in Surrey.
Exmoor Ales will now produce its beers at Hogs Back Brewery in Tongham, a move the Somerset company says will save jobs.
Exmoor managing director Jonathan Price said: “We have done our last brew and are putting it into casks over the next couple of days.”
The company has closed its brewing operation at Wiveliscombe, near Taunton, following a restructuring after years of battling the knock-on effects of the Covid, pandemic, inflation, and tax increases.
Mr Price said a decision was taken that working with the family-run Hogs Back Brewery, based between Farnham and Guildford, would best help to preserve the Exmoor brand and protect jobs.
Mr Price said: “It is shocking to have to close a brewery, but the environment for small brewers has been one of decline since Covid.
“I do not know how many small breweries have closed down, but it is likely in the hundreds.
“The closure of a brewery is always sad, but in the current market, it is becoming all too common as global brewers close opportunities for small local brewers.
“Foreign global brewers now represent 92 per cent of the UK beer market and continue to march forward, well able to sustain the economic ups and downs.”
Mr Price said three of the company’s 18 jobs had been lost and head brewer Sanghrash Bhattachan was moving to Surrey to oversee production there, while distribution would continue to be from Wiveliscombe, with Hogs Back helping to distribute nationally.
Mr Bhattachan will use the same Exmoor Ales recipes and yeast to maintain the ‘distinctive taste and quality’ of the beers.
Mr Price said the move was genuinely a partnership and not a takeover, and the Exmoor Ales brand would continue to be independent.
He said: “This collaboration with another brewer addresses the economics of running a brewery at a high level.
“What we have here is a genuine ‘partnership’, preserving as many jobs as possible and providing a good base to grow the business for the longer-term future.
“Success might well bring some brewing back to Somerset sometime in the future.
“This might well be a model others could follow.”
Exmoor Ales was founded in 1979 amid a national wave of pioneering microbreweries and grew to be one of the largest in Somerset.
Mr Price said he and the sales and distribution teams would remain in Wiveliscombe to take advantage of ‘exciting new opportunities’ which were emerging, including launching an Exmoor Ales lager, a low-alcohol beer, and a new IPA, in the next few weeks.
He said: “We will also seek collaborations with other local businesses and introduce exclusive distribution arrangements with other drinks businesses.”
Mr Price said he had written to publicans who sold Exmoor Ales beers and was pleased with the positive feedback.
He said good stocks of beers were held so there would be no disruption to supplies during the transition period.
Hogs Back, which opened in 1992 in an historic barn, is now Surrey’s largest independent brewer.
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