A WOMAN in her 20s was declared dead at the scene of a car crash in Lingfield this morning. Surrey Police confirmed the woman, who was the sole occupant of the vehicle, died on Godstone Road. Emergency services were called to the scene at around 3.40am after a white Ford Fiesta left the road and hit a tree. A spokesman for South East Coast Ambulance Service said the woman suffered a "traumatic cardiac arrest". The road was closed for around four hour while paramedics, police and fire crews attended the scene. Firefighters had to help remove the woman from her car. Next of kin have been informed. The woman is believed to be from the Lingfield area. Call Surrey Police on 101 quoting reference P14141529 with information.

SURREY Police attended the scene of a two-car collision on the A217 this morning. Cars travelling in both directions were delayed following the collision on the arterial road from Reigate to Gatwick. Witnesses report two people sat on the roadside with, what appeared to be minor injuries, South East Coast Ambulance staff also attended the scene. The incident happened between 8.30am and 9am. Check back for more details.

The woman who died in a single vehicle collision in Lingfield this morning has been named locally as Vicki Reid, from Oxted. The incident occurred on Godstone Road, Lingfield at around 3.40am. Tributes to Vicki have started to appear on social networking site Twitter. One was from ‏@MissNScordellis, who tweeted: "Never put off what you can do today as you may never get another chance! So sad too hear the tragic loss of local @oxted girl Vicki Reid." The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, a woman in her 20s, was pronounced dead at the scene. It is believed the vehicle, a white Ford Fiesta left the road and collided with a tree. Police have said her next of kin have been informed and their thoughts are with her family and friends at this difficult time. An investigation has commenced to establish the cause of the collision and to ascertain the circumstances surrounding it. Anyone who witnessed the collision or the events surrounding it is urged to contact Surrey Police on 101 quoting reference P14141529.

ON May 22, East Surrey will head to the polls to elect members of Reigate and Banstead Borough Council. Here we give all the candidates the chance to speak for themselves.Banstead VillageChris Byrne (Ukip)Chris Howell (Lib Dem) Chris works as a personal tutor in and around Reigate and Banstead, and as a Chess coach with several local schools. Chris has been prominent in fighting for improvements to public transport and campaigns to protect the green belt. Chris campaigned with the team for a 20mph speed limit outside of all our schools.Samuel Thomas Walsh (Con) Banstead is a vibrant, attractive Village, which has developed whilst retaining its character. With the continued pressure on housing we must resist the pressure for unnecessary and inappropriate developments within the village and to protect the Village, the surrounding greenbelt and the Borough as a whole. I have represented the Village since 2006. Throughout that time I have sat on the Borough Planning Committee to ensure your views are heard and your concerns are openly dealt with. I intend to continue in this role to use my professional knowledge, skills and experience for the benefit of all residents of the Village.Chipstead, Hooley and WoodmansterneMarcus John Harriott (Ukip)Richard Stanley Mantle (Con) I have successfully represented the Conservative Party in the 2006 and 2010 elections in this ward and hope to continue for a further term in the forthcoming election. During my Council career I have served on a range of committees including Planning, Standards, Licensing and Regulatory and enjoy the variety of community engagement that each offers. As a serving Councillor I sit on a number of outside bodies including Banstead Commons Conservators, Downsland Countryside Management, the Banstead Centre, and various Banstead and Woodmansterne Charities. I work closely with my fellow Conservative Councillors and attend Residents' Association meetings as often as possible.Earlswood and WhitebushesJohn Drew (Ukip)Sue Fenton (Green) Sue Fenton is a freelance journalist who lives in Whitebushes. She is active in the local CND and Stop the War groups and volunteers at a local dog rescue centre. Sue believes that environmental and community considerations – rather than the benefit of big business - should be at the heart of political decision-making. She wants to add to the Green presence on the council in order to challenge the unhealthy dominance of a single party and to promote local recycling and environmental projects.Jane Nicola Kulka (Lib Dem) Jane has lived in the ward for the past 28 years and was a councillor for this ward in the early 90's and was part of the team that introduced the at home recycling scheme, improvements for the housing stock and the help shops. Jane works as a School Business Manager for a large Girls school in London. She is married to Steve, a local Councillor for a neighbouring ward. They have two grown children who attended the two primary schools in the ward and then Reigate School and Reigate College. Jane stood as the parliamentary candidate for the Reigate constituency the past three general elections. Rita Renton (Con) Rita was first elected in 2010 and has been a portfolio holder for the past 2 years. Living locally for 40 years, Rita's interests include the welfare and support of young people, health and community safety and this has been reflected in her term of office. For the future, she will work to ensure the regeneration of all our towns continues and that council income will be spent wisely.Helen Young (Lab)Horley CentralThom Brown (Green) Thom Brown is a professional IT consultant and trainer. He says, "We need a Council that works sustainably and for the interests of everyone. More Green Councillors would mean a louder voice to resist damaging budget cuts, unsustainable development and to promote affordable housing in our Borough."Tim Deevoy (Lib Dem)Rukshana Horwood (Con) Rukshana Horwood has lived in Horley for 25 years and is married with a six-year old daughter. Rukshana enjoys working in and around the community. She has worked with the Salvation Army and has volunteered as a teacher of English as a foreign language. She is passionate about helping people, which led her to put herself forward as the Conservative candidate for Horley Central. As a mum and a resident, she speaks to other mums who take a great interest in their children's schools. Rukshana believes that we have a great community in Horley and wants to work for fellow residents.Linda Jane Mabbett (Lab)Christian Stevens (Ukip) I have lived in Horley for most of my life and work in the area as an administrator for a local company. I have a staunch belief in democracy and became involved in politics as I believe it is better to be proactive to bring about the change and improvements on the issues that affect our lives each and every day. As your UKIP Councillor I will tirelessly stand up and ensure the residents of Horley Central get a better deal!Horley EastMalcolm Roger Brighting (Ukip) I am married and have lived in Horley for the last 12 years. I have worked as a HR professional for over 30 years in many sectors: Public, private and currently in the healthcare sector. I enjoy sports and walking in the country side. If you elect me I will work hard to get a better deal for Horley East residents.Barry James Hamilton (Lib Dem)Graham John Knight (Con) Elected for the first time in 2010, Graham has worked hard for Horley East and our town over the last four years. He was Leader of the Conservative Group from 2011 to 2013. Together with Horley's other Councillors, he led the fight against on-street parking in our town centres and has worked hard to ensure the Borough Council's costs are kept to a minimum. Graham's principal interests are the promotion and regeneration of Horley Town Centre. He sees the role of Councillor as the representative of the people who vote, not as an employee or spokesperson for the Council.Gerry O`Dwyer (Lab)Katie Smith (Green) Katie Smith is married and mum to one teenager and works as a digital strategist. Katie says, "I was born in Redhill and have lived in the area most of my life. I believe our community deserves better from our Council, and I want to make sure that commercial interests are properly balanced against the real needs of local people.Horley WestSoo Abram (Green) Soo Abram is a graphic designer who has lived in Redhill for over 30 years. She believes that sound environmental policy, freedom, fairness and social justice are entirely compatible with the economic success of the business sector, local communities and the country as a whole. She believes that the shift away from these essential values by the three mainstream parties is already damaging society, and will lead to even greater problems in future. The Green Party has the vision, policies and will to re-establish these values.Tim Brooke-Harte (Ukip) I have lived in Horley for 35 years. Married with children and grandchildren, I am a practicing Christian and a member of several Horley clubs. I work for an airline caterer at Gatwick Airport. I want to be your voice in the Borough Council FIGHTING for a better Horley and ensuring residents of Horley West shall be heard!Alexander Horwood (Con) Alexander has been a Horley councillor for the past four years and has worked closely with residents, council officers and colleagues to ensure Horley is well represented within the Borough. Alexander would like to continue this work to ensure Horley's residents receive the best quality in front-line services. As a School Governor, he knows the demands on the provision of school places in Horley. Alexander recognises the issues that Horley will face in the future regarding homes, schools, the town centre and Gatwick Airport and is keen to play a part in ensuring Horley continues to prosper.Geoffrey Smith (Lab)Geoff Southall (Lib Dem)Kingswood with Burgh HeathBob Cambridge (Ukip) I am a video engineer and have lived in Lower Kingswood with my wife Phyll since 1988 and have two sons. We must prioritise the cutting of wasteful expenditure such as excessive advertising and self-promotion budgets . That way we can keep council tax under proper control. I will campaign for speed plateaus for traffic calming and more parking for local shopping areas to help small businesses. I strongly support having binding referenda on major local planning proposals: this is real democracy in action. Derek Smith (Green) Derek is a retired professional engineer and lives in Redhill with his wife. He has been a Green Party member for 20 years and is the secretary and treasurer of the local branch. Derek says, "We're causing so much environmental damage that I seriously worry for the future for my four grand-children. The Green Party is the only party which takes this seriously enough."Joan Spiers (Con) I have lived in Kingswood for over 35 years, and brought my children up here. I have served this Council for thirty of those years, serving on many committees, and have been the Council Leader for eleven years, a challenge I have enjoyed. Like many of you I hate the changes forced upon us but accept that change is inevitable.Meadvale and St John'sJohn Steven Godden (Con) I have lived in the Borough for 13 years having identified the area as having the perfect balance of open space and town facilities in which to bring up my family. Prior to that I lived in Kingston, where I was a Councillor for 8 years and gained valuable experience both representing the residents of my ward and also taking responsibility for a number of Council departments including Leisure, Housing and Finance. With my children now growing up and my business established, I have the time, energy and focus once again to stand for election, hopefully putting my experience, abilities and opinions to good use.Steve Alan Kulka (Lib Dem) Steve has been a Councillor for the past twelve years. He has served on many community groups during this time, including: Woodhatch Community Association; Redhill Shopmobility; Earlswood Common Management Group and as a School Governor for Reigate Priory School. He is a member of the Council Planning Committee and previously served on the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and Standards Committee. Steve has lived in the Redhill and Reigate area for the past 28 years and is married to Jane. They have two grown children who both attended Reigate School and Reigate College.Malcolm Kemp Savidge (Lab)Colin Brian Stiff (Ukip) I have lived in the area all my life so I know it well. I have served The community and wish to continue to serve. I was for a number of years the Chairman ofd Whitebushes Residents Association and founded the Whitebushes Community Centre. I was in the Surrey Police Service for 32 years and was recently a Parish councilor for Salfords and Sidlow. MersthamPhyll Cambridge (Ukip)Graeme Philip Crome (Con) It's a privilege to be a Merstham Councillor. I have lived at the heart of our community for most of my life and I really enjoy working to improve Merstham for everyone, friends, neighbours, community groups, local businesses. Merstham matters to me, let's work to make it even better.Stewart James Dack (Lab)Deanna Elizabeth Durward (Lib Dem) Deanna was a Borough Councillor until 2003 for Merstham. Deanna worked as a health visitor in this Borough and is now retired. Deanna wants to see the council increase the facilities it offers for recycling not just from home but for retail traders too. She would also like to see an improvement in facilities for the children and young people of Merstham. Deanna has been a prominent part of many of the local Liberal Democrats' campaigns for school places and more housing.NorkAndré Grant (Ukip) I am a local man and a Specialist Residential Property Surveyor by profession. I joined UKIP in 2012 because the Party believes in the freedom won by the many men and women who gave their lives over the past century so that we could live in a democracy and not be governed by bureaucrats. I like its brand of honesty and common sense policies and the fact it does not have the whip in local politics, leaving local councillors to do what is in the best interests of their community. Chris Reynolds (Con) I moved to Reigate & Banstead in 1979 and have known Nork almost all my life. I spent eight years as a Councillor in neighbouring Mole Valley and wish to represent the interests of the residents of Nork. I am honest, dedicated, enthusiastic and thorough and I am a member of the same party as our MP with whom I have worked for the last fourteen years. I wish to preserve our green belt and work with residents over back garden developments. I will run a monthly drop in surgery – no appointment needed. Please support me vote REYNOLDS.Brian Albert Stead (Nork Residents' Association) Brian is a tireless contributor to Nork's life, having represented the ward since 1995. He has served as Mayor and is currently Chairman of the important Overview and Scrutiny Committee. He vigorously opposes planning applications for the intensive development of back gardens which threaten Nork's green character. He is determined to seek value for money from the Council Budget by thorough scrutiny.Redhill EastJohn Michael Berge (Lab)Richard William Coad (Con) Richard has lived in Redhill East for six years and is an engineering Project Manager. Richard has a 14 year international business career working on the development of major energy projects. His professional experience includes commercial and contracts management and he has postgraduate qualifications in applied mathematics. Richard is a member of his local Residents' Association at Watercolour. He is a governor of a local primary school, a Russian speaker and his own children go to school in Earlswood. Over the past two years he has campaigned in favour of providing a new primary school in Redhill.Jonathan Essex (Green) Jonathan Essex is a civil engineer and an active community campaigner. He has lived in Redhill for 15 years, is married to Fiona, and is a member of the Reigate Society and Redhill Baptist Church. He is a trustee of the local Council for Voluntary Services and of Furnistore. Jonathan has served as Borough Councillor for Redhill East for the past four years, and as County Councillor for the last year. Derek Graham French (Ukip) I am a Surrey-born resident 58 years old now living in Redhill for over two years. I enjoy walking and cycling I am very concerned about protection of the Green Belt and the need for sensible plans for Redhill town centre development to accommodate residents and commuters alike. I believe there is a need for more common sense decisions. Examples include better parking for cars which promotes the economy around Redhill. I seriously question the council's priorities by spending £1.5m on the local memorial park which seems a ridiculous sum at this time.Rob Kulka (Lib Dem) Rob has lived in this borough for most of his life, attending local schools & college and The University of Surrey. He is a Doctor of Engineering and works as an engineering consultant for a Surrey engineering company. This provides engineering and technology expertise to a variety of industries. He wants to see sustainability considered for all new developments. Redhill WestJohn William Barton (Lab)Andrew James Cressy (Lib Dem) Andrew lives in the ward he is hoping to represent and has lived in this area for most of his life. He is a well-known member of the community. He owns a small firm of accountants with many clients in the local area. Andrew has been a member and campaigner for the Liberal Democrats for over 20 years. David Pay (Con) David has been a Borough Councillor for Redhill for fourteen years. Every year since his election he has served on the Planning Committee, holding the position of Vice Chairman for two terms, and more recently, Chairman for two terms. He has been Mayor of the Borough for two separate terms, and has served for 12 years with the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Always a defender of the Green Belt and of historic buildings, his interest remains with both the natural and the built environment, always advocating the use of local materials fashioned in the local style.Tim Pearson (Ukip) I will campaign for a REAL local voice for the protection of our Green belt and the limitation of housing development, yet fight against unproven and unscientific Green measures that only increase fear and the Council's budget. I will campaign for weekly bin collections, a vital council service, as it protects us against fly tipping, rats, smells and possible disease. I am passionate about increasing services and help for the homeless and vulnerable in our society. We need initiatives that will help local businesses to flourish, which will increase wages and provide more jobs. Phil Wilson (Green) Philip Wilson has lived or worked in Reigate & Banstead since 2010 and is currently living in Salfords village. Philip says, "Greens elected onto the local Council have continued to work hard with local residents to make a real difference. More Greens will help us achieve greater things and ensure we provide an effective opposition to the Tory-dominated Council".Reigate CentralMichael Stewart Blacker (Con) I was born in the Borough and have lived here all my life. I have been married to Evelyn for over 40 years, and have three married daughters, and three grandchildren. I have 17 years' experience as a Councillor, including a period representing this area. By profession I am a Charted Structural Engineer and I have experience with planning matters both professionally and as a former member of the Planning Committee. I have battled against the use of our precious Green Belt for development and have given evidence at Public Inquiries. I live locally and my office is in Reigate.Helen Jane Kulka (Lib Dem) Helen is 28 years old, has lived in the area her whole life and runs a business on Reigate High Street where she has worked for over twelve years. Outside of work she is studying towards an Open University degree in Child Psychology. Helen has been actively involved in many local Lib Dem campaigns in the past including Reigate Priory developments, recycling schemes and parking concerns. If elected she will provide a voice of reason and common sense on the council. Her priorities for Reigate Central include adequate provision of school places and affordable housing as well as seeing local taxpayers' money spent on causes that will benefit all.Stephen David Alfred Russell (Ukip) "The South-East of England has always been my home. I value everything and everyone who comes to enjoy this wonderful part of the world. I am a professional, a father of three at school in Surrey and I hope for them to live and prosper here. I strive for local decisions and local responsibility: a government that does good work with light touches, that is transparent in its dealings and leaves the individual to determine their own way. I want a say in our community and a voice in our country."Robin Paul Spencer (Lab)Sarah Vaci (Green) I am a special needs teacher, Eco-schools assessor and community filmmaker as well as a mother. I am passionate about supporting and bringing together older and younger generations, improving access to local public transport and dealing with traffic and environmental issues as well as supporting local, independent businesses and charities. I will strive to develop a safer, healthier and more harmonious community in Reigate and I am very keen to ensure all local residents' views and concerns are heard and dealt with fairly and efficiently. Fenella Rosemary Whinney (Ind)Reigate HillLisa Jane Brunt (Con) I have lived in the borough for 18 years with my husband Mark. I have served as one of Reigate Hill's borough councillors since 2006. I am an active member of the Borough's Planning Committee, working closely with local residents and local residents' associations to represent their views, in order to preserve and enhance Reigate Hill's special character. I work as a teacher and have served as a school governor at a local primary school for the past 12 years.Laurence James Clack (Ukip)Andrew David Saunders (Lab)South Park and WoodhatchMoray William Macleod Carey (Lib Dem) Moray attended Reigate St Mary's school and worked at Reigate counter when employed by the Post Office. A resident of South Park for 25 years he served on the Reigate Priory Athletic Club Committee which played a prominent role in restoring the out of use Battlebridge track for sporting purposes. He is also in favour of more recreational facilities being provided throughout the Borough for the benefit of all. He desires a fairer, proportional voting system to ensure all shades of opinion are represented when decisions are made, guaranteeing genuine democracy. Joseph Brian Fox (Ukip) I am a local man through and through, having lived and worked in the borough all my life. Reigate Town Hall needs genuine opposition. It needs to be held to account by an independent voice. Even if local councils object to developments, they are often over-ruled by Central Government, which, under the coalition, is on a mission to cover this part of the country with concrete. I would fight tooth and nail to stop any building on the Green Belt. UKIP would make major planning decisions subject to binding local referendums. That's because UKIP trusts the people more than we trust the government. Simon Glenn John Rickman (Con) I am Simon Rickman, and I live in Woodhatch with Suzanne and my two children, aged 13 and 15, who both very happily attend Reigate School. I have just started up a motorcycle training school in partnership with South Park Football Club. I have a keen interest in the youth facilities within the area and have actively helped and supported the 14th Reigate Scout Division. I have lived in this area for many years and I would like the opportunity to continue to represent this area.Graham Wildridge (Lab)Tadworth and WaltonSonja Begley-Moore (Lib Dem)Valerie Ann Moore (Ukip) I have lived in Tadworth for 15 years. I am a widow and have one daughter and one delightful 5 year old grandson .I worked in Financial Services before retiring through ill health. The council should restrict the excessive advertising and self-promotion budgets and abolish all non-essential and "politically-correct" services. That way we can keep council tax under proper control. I will campaign against back garden development, and for speed plateaus for traffic calming, more parking for local shopping areas to help small businesses and weekly rubbish collections.Alistair Patrick Galbraith Morten (Green) Alistair lives with his family in Tadworth and Walton and works in local government supporting older people. He believes that only the Green Party is committed to creating communities that are vibrant, inclusive and sustainable.Rachel Sandra Turner (Con) Rachel has lived in Tadworth for many years, and for the last 14 years fighting to retain essential services at Epsom Hospital, a cause helped by her membership of the Surrey County Council Health Scrutiny Committee She has served as a Councillor for 14 years and understands issues confronting people living in Tadworth and Walton on the Hill, and will always support local residents with their problems and queries.TattenhamsIain Bonner-Fomes (Ukip) Council services should be run for the benefit of the council tax payers. Too often these services seem to be run for the benefit of those administering them. UKIP will work to make these services more accountable to you. Furthermore parking is becoming a major issue in every town. If we wish to keep our town centres open we need to allow people to park for free. An hour should be the minimum free time. I strongly support UKIP's policy on having binding referendums on major planning issues, giving people a direct say on what most affects their livesBob Harper (Tatt Residents' Association) Bob works as an engineer and is a lifelong local resident, serving as a Councillor since 2002. His aim is to keep Tattenhams a safe, clean and pleasant place to live. He has campaigned to rebuild the Banstead swimming pool, and is heavily involved in the Preston Regeneration Project. He believes that party politics are best kept out of local government. Jane Illingworth (Con) I have been a Tattenhams resident for many years, involved in and passionate about our local community. I am absolutely dedicated to The Tattenhams; it is time for some new blood on our Council and I hope that I can count on your support and involvement. Please do get in touch!" Conservative Councillors have a track record of delivering value for money and protecting your services. We will refuse to change Greenbelt boundaries unless local communities demonstrate very special circumstances to release the protective status. The preservation and conservation of the character and environment of our Ward is a personal passion of Jane's.Some candidates had not responded as the Mirror went to press

A FORMER Surrey Police chief inspector has been jailed for more than 30 fraud offences. Tanya Brookes, 46, has been imprisoned for two and a half years for illegally obtaining financial benefit from several High Street chain retailers, insurance fraud and travel fraud. Surrey Police said she was not on duty at the time but used her position as a police officer when carrying out several of the offences. After her sentencing last week, Assistant Chief Constable Gavin Stephens said: "In her role as a police officer, she should have known better. We expect the highest standards of conduct from all of our employees and this kind of behaviour has no place in Surrey Police." Brookes and a second senior Surrey Police officer were arrested in January 2012 following initial enquiries and were both suspended from duty while an investigation was carried out No charges were brought against the second officer, but they were dismissed from the force following an internal misconduct hearing. Brookes was sacked from the force in November 2012 following a misconduct hearing. She pleaded guilty to eight charges of fraud when she appeared in court on March 10 this year. She had previously been convicted of 25 counts of fraud by a jury following a four week trial that concluded on February 28. Assistant Chief Constable Stephens added: "The sentence handed to Brookes today not only reflects the severity of the offences she committed but also the fact she used her position as a police officer when committing a number of these offences. "The vast majority of our officers and staff who serve the people of this county are professional and hard-working and the public rightly trust them to act with integrity at all times. "We will not hesitate to thoroughly investigate any evidence of wrong-doing and take swift action if any officer is involved in criminality. "This was a complex investigation but thanks to the painstaking work of the officers involved, the scale of offending behaviour by Tanya Brookes was uncovered and she has been brought to justice."

REIGATE Heath Golf Club celebrated the next phase of its clubhouse redevelopment with a family day.

The fun event proved to be a great success that was enjoyed by 140 members of all ages and golfing abilities.

The day started with a nine-hole Texas scramble competition for the Windmill Decanter Trophy, with ten teams of five players competing. Open to all age groups and memberships from beginner to full members, the Decanter was won by the Perkins family – Hugh, his wife Rachael, and their children Katherine and Luke, plus the fifth member of their team Chris Milton. This was followed by a junior shootout on the par three 18th, won by Ethan Quantick who won with his ball finishing nearest the pin.

Then Bill Longmuir, the winner of eight European Senior Tour titles and a member of the club, took on the club's new head PGA professional Clifford Gough to see who could get nearest the pin from the tenth tee in front of the clubhouse to the first green, a distance of 297 yards. Both men reached the green but Gough's ball finished 34 feet from the flag.

Club manager Scott Patience said: "Reigate Heath is a favourite place for all sorts of golfers, and today was all about having a lot of fun. We're always encouraging people to 'be part of the club', and it was great to see so many people, whatever their age or ability, doing just that."

"There were complete beginners and academy members playing alongside much more experienced players, and children playing with their parents. It was obvious that everyone was having a great time, and we're planning to do a lot more of these kinds of events, because golf is about everybody – beginners, kids, parents, grandparents, whatever – being a part of the club and having fun."

LINGFIELD are set to play in the Southern Counties East Football League next season. The Lingers were awaiting their fate amid speculation they could be placed in the former Kent League, which is at the same level (step 5 of the non-league pyramid) as the Sussex County League Division One. And according to the SCEFL website and Twitter account, that is the case, as they state that following a meeting of the FA leagues committee, Lingfield, along with Crowborough Athletic and Croydon, will be moved across for next season. And Lingfield have welcomed the news on social networking website Twitter, tweeting: "Looking forward to playing in the @SCELeague next season, great opportunity to play and meet great Teams and Players #Lingers

PUPILS from Dunottar School in Reigate have kick-started an aerial walkway project by recording a music album.

Students at the school want to build a small-scale version of the treetop walkway at Kew Gardens, in London.

The project, titled High Trees, aims to provide elevated views of the school's own canopy of trees and will be open to the public.

Year 11 and sixth form pupils behind the idea are hoping schoolchildren and nature-lovers will be able to spot birds, insects and blossoming buds at close quarters.

The students are also hoping visitors will see the deer which inhabit the school grounds.

The proposed site will be fully accessible for wheelchairs and buggies.

Penny Durston, a 16-year-old pupil at the Reigate school, said: "We are building a canopy for our future with the High Trees project, because our roots are firmly in the community, with an aerial walkway for everyone to use."

On April 22, the students launched the project with the help of Musikscool, a not-for-profit organisation which helps people create an album and set up business projects.

Musicians, business coaches and trainers from the firm helped the students write, produce and record an album which will be sold to the public through iTunes to help fund the project.

One of the songs on the album is a new school anthem, written to mark Dunottar's new co-educational future with United Learning, the charity which now runs Dunottar.

The album will be showcased to the rest of the school on June 18 to mark its official iTunes launch and all of the profits will go towards the aerial walkway.

To contribute to the pupils' High Trees project, call the school on 01737 761945 or e-mail info@dunottarschool.com

AFTER the captain's most recent interview with the Surrey Mirror, Chipstead received no less than six seven-day transfer requests for Dan Moody's services – but manager Steve Baker insists he's going nowhere.

Moody had a phenomenal first season at High Road, scoring 30 goals from midfield before being crowned the manager's player of the season at the club's end-of-season awards.

It was inevitable his stream of goals from the left wing would draw the attention of other clubs, but Moody has pledged his future to the Chips.

And Baker is looking forward to building a team around his free-scoring captain.

"Dan was one of the first players I wanted to speak to about next season and I was delighted he wanted to stay," the manager said. "It's well-known how many sides came in for him last season; I think it was nearly every side in the league in the end, apart from some of the far Kent ones.

"We haven't got the biggest budget but I think Dan feels part of it at Chipstead; he lives quite locally and he's really enjoying the captaincy.

"When I first came to the club I was braced to lose Dan because I knew he had strong connections to the former manager, but I was delighted when he stayed and making him captain was probably one of the best things we did."

And with the captain now committed for the coming season, Baker is hoping it has a knock-on effect.

"Dan was happy to commit for next season because we discuss that if we could keep most of the squad from last season, but then add another couple then we will be in a good position," Baker explained. "The first thing players ask me when I talk to them about next season is 'is Moods staying'? so I think that will have a knock-on effect.

"I've spoken to a few new players already but at this time in the season they all give the same sort of response so we'll know more nearer pre-season."

THE retirement income for women is £6,700 a year lower than that for a man.

Despite the widening gap in expected income from private, company and State pensions, there is some comfort for this year's female retirees – at £12,200 their average expected annual income is £450 higher than it was last year, according to a study by Prudential. However, a man's average expected annual retirement income has grown by £650 since last year to £18,900.

Prudential's research first highlighted the issue of a retirement income gender gap in 2009 when women's average expected retirement incomes of £13,700 a year were £6,600 less than male retirees. The gap peaked in 2010 when men's expected retirement incomes were larger by £7,400. This year's gender gap shows a rise of £200 since last year and is now at its widest since the 2010 peak.

Vince Smith-Hughes, retirement income expert at Prudential, said: "It is welcome news that average expected retirement incomes have increased for both men and women, but concerning that the gender gap remains stubbornly wide.

"The changes to pensions and how people can take their retirement income announced in the Budget last month will provide savers and retirees with more choices. However they don't alter the fundamental fact that many people are not saving enough for a comfortable retirement. There are also some specific practical steps that women can take today to improve their retirement incomes in the future. These include maintaining pension contributions where possible during career breaks and making voluntary additional National Insurance contributions when returning to work.

"A consultation with a financial adviser or retirement specialist could help women put together an action plan to help increase their potential retirement income. The Pensions Advisory Service (TPAS) also provides information about the options available to women in the run up to retirement."

Michelle Cracknell, Chief Executive of The Pensions Advisory Service, said: "Women generally have lower pensions than men and there are many obstacles that prevent women from building up enough pension savings, such as lower lifetime pay and career breaks due to caring responsibilities and bringing up children.

"At TPAS we have an ongoing initiative to help women with their preparation for retirement and this research shows how important the information that we provide is to women planning their retirement. For more details go to www.pensionsadvisory service.org.uk/women-and- pensions or call the TPAS helpline dedicated to women and pensions on 0845 600 0806."

Prudential's study also found that only 41 per cent of women planning to retire this year feel financially well-prepared for retirement, compared with 54 per cent of men. Just 29 per cent of women believe they will have enough income to enjoy a comfortable retirement, compared with 47 per cent of men.

with Mark Davison

The Watermill, Reigate Road, Dorking

B IRDS were singing cheerfully in the warmth of the spring afternoon as I stepped onto the patio of The Watermill pub between Betchworth and Deepdene.

I had pulled up at the Watermill to avail myself of some food which is served all day.

On arrival, I crunched over the gravelly forecourt and parked the motor with ease. A large poster displayed alongside the drive advertised the public house's roast dinners and showed a picture of a mouth-watering dinner plate piled high with roast potatoes, meat, veg and gravy.

Stepping inside, I enquired at the bar if it was all right to eat outside on the patio, which commands panoramic views of Box Hill.

A personable young waitress assured me this was fine and that I should make a note of the number on the table of my choice and return to the bar to order. She handed me a lunch menu with some most reasonably priced smaller dishes available between midday and 4pm each afternoon, Mondays to Saturdays.

I took a seat in the sunshine.

Two retired ladies were "doing lunch" on a table nearby.

One said in a low voice to her companion: "I really should have taken them to court. The floor was wet when I had that fall."

The ladies got up to depart. They smiled at me and I asked how their meal was.

"Oh, very nice," said one of the pair. "We ended up having fish and chips and sat there enjoying the lovely view."

I enquired whether they had selected the £5 fish and chips or the, presumably, larger version from the main menu.

She stifled a naughty laughter and confessed: "The main one. We decided to push the boat out."

I enquired if they had far to go (in their car, not a boat).

"My sister here lives in New Malden so I'm going home with her," one of the ladies said.

I replied that I remembered New Malden from when I was much younger.

She said the area had greatly changed over the years and reminisced about some of the bygone shops, such as the large Cannings toy and book store.

"Do they still call the High Street, 'the village'?" I asked.

"Oh yes," she said. "Some of us do."

I bade them farewell and perused the lunch menu.

The Stilton and peppercorn mushrooms – comprising sautéed mushrooms on a garlic toasted muffin with a Stilton and pepper sauce, "finished with crumbled Stilton" (£3) was a must.

I also placed an order for the crayfish mayonnaise sandwiches (£5.99) with a salad side dish. After all, salad days were here at last.

The other sandwiches on offer included cheese with ale chutney (£4.49); smoked chicken, bacon and avocado (£4.99) and barbecue and ale-pulled pork (£5.99).

A few onion rings couldn't be resisted either.

Returning to my table, I sat back to soak up the atmosphere and the sunshine.

I surveyed the surrounding countryside and was amazed to see old mansions, partially hidden by small woods, nestling here and there on the southern slopes of Box Hill. How would motorised transport reach these isolated dwellings? I wondered.

Sheep were grazing in pastures which were remarkably verdant given there had been two or three weeks of dry weather in April.

I cast my eyes on the summit of Box Hill and spotted half a dozen visitors milling around the viewpoint admiring the vistas.

A middle-aged couple took a table near mine.

They sipped drinks and said very little until the lady mentioned to her dining companion: "I've been looking at the Science Museum on-line."

As I tucked into the mushrooms, a young couple strolled onto the patio. Both were wearing summer attire and sporting sun shades.

At the far end of the patio, an older couple were lazily finishing off a late lunch. Occasionally the lady took a puff on a cigarette.

Still the birds sang and I could make out the soporific song of the blackbird and the robin.

Bordering the pub patio were flowering mauve and white lilac trees.

Now and again, a pesky fly would settle on the table while I was eating. The raising of a hand instantly led to its swift departure.

A wood pigeon cooed in the distance and after a pause, a reply would be aired by a mate in a far-off tree.

Time was by now getting on and although it would have been nice, I decided not to while away the whole afternoon on the patio. Chores needed to be attended to.

I bade farewell at the bar on the way out. An older gentleman was telling the bar girl: "I used to come to dances here, back in the 1980s."

The waitress looked up, smiled again and thanked me saying, "Enjoy the rest of your day".

A CAR flipped onto its side after colliding with another car on the slip road from the M23 northbound onto the M25 at Junction 7 this morning (Saturday). One lane of the slip road near Merstham had to be closed following the incident at about 11.15am, with firefighters from Horley called to the scene as well as an ambulance. The driver and one passenger of the car which flipped onto its side both suffered neck and shoulder injuries and were taken to hospital as a precaution, although they had managed to leave the vehicle before the firefighters arrived. Two people travelling in the other vehicle also suffered whiplash in the incident. Firefighters remained on the scene for 35 minutes to help administer first aid and to make the scene safe.

DETECTIVES from East Surrey CID would like to identify these four people in connection with a serious assault in Epsom, during which the victim lost teeth.

The incident occurred at about 2am on Saturday, April 26, on the High Street outside Barclays Bank.

The people in the CCTV are believed to be witnesses to the offence or the events surrounding it, and officers urge them to contact Surrey Police on 101 quoting reference 45140033286.

Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A NEW poll has found that retirees from Surrey are becoming part of a growing generation of internet age pensioners (IAPs).

Research from retirement house builder McCarthy & Stone found more than half of adults aged over 60 are comfortable with downloading new apps, are happy to back up their PC with security software and think nothing of synching their iPhones, or uploading pictures on Facebook.

While 83 per cent of respondents in Surrey said they still generally like to keep in contact with their friends and family via the telephone, an impressive 58 per cent are frequent users of Facebook, and 56 per cent of those regularly use it for messaging purposes.

Julie Ward, sales and marketing director for McCarthy & Stone, said: "There is a perception that retirees are less knowledgeable when it comes to technology, but that really isn't the case anymore. For example, did you know that 51 per cent of pensioners in Surrey now own a tablet device while 46 per cent have smartphones?

"While some may feel that they need to keep up with modern modes of communication if they want to keep in touch with the younger generation, many more are actually turning to technology because they understand that it can help make their lives much easier.

"We were amazed to discover that well over half of those we surveyed said they were comfortable using online banking to manage their finances, 83 per cent said they will use Google to find answers, and 50 prefer GPS to a standard map."

The survey also found that 75 per cent had used the internet to research deals and utility quotes, 70 per cent to research days out and 71 per cent had booked a holiday online. Laptops were the most desired new piece of tech the group wanted.

REIGATE boxing prospect Ashley Dansie says winning his first title next month would be the perfect pay-off for all of the hard work he has put in.

The undefeated 19-year-old will step through the ropes at the Effingham Park Hotel in West Sussex on Sunday, June 8, to challenge old rival Anthony Ayinde for the Queensbury Boxing League's vacant novice welterweight title.

After beating Ayinde on his debut in the competition in 2013, Dansie believes the return will be even more exciting than their first encounter, with both of them now firmly established names in the novice division.

Dansie, who trains out of the White Dog boxing gym in Redhill alongside fellow Queensbury champion Ben Davies, has yet to put a foot wrong in the competition since entering its ranks.

And after seeing Ayinde string together three impressive wins since his only defeat, the Redhill pugilist is confident the fans will not be disappointed with what awaits them when they meet again.

Talking ahead of the clash, Dansie said: "I think the rematch is going to be even better than the first fight, and now that we both have a bit more experience it's going to mean a much more entertaining fight with a title also on the line.

"Out of all my fights in the league I'd say the one against Ayinde was by far the toughest, but I was really nervous when we fought, with it being my first-ever fight in the league in front of all the cameras and fans, but now I'm feeling a lot more settled with the big stage.

"Training-wise, I'm really improving and I've started to put my combinations together and things are feeling more natural, and with the team I've got behind me, who are going to push me all the way, I'm confident that winning this title will be the perfect pay-off for all the work I've put into getting here."

Dansie's title showdown will feature as one of the main contests of the big Super Sunday of boxing being held in the Millennium Arena at the Copthorne Effingham Park Hotel.

For more information, visit www.queensburyboxing.co.uk

FIVE people have been arrested following a fire at a house in South Park, near Reigate in the early hours of this morning (Sunday). Police were called to the property in Alexander Road at about 1am after a garden shed was completely destroyed by the fire, which is believed to have been started deliberately. The fire spread to the roof of the detached house next to the shed but firefighters from the Reigate, Horley and Epsom stations managed to stop the flames spreading further into the home, which was unoccupied at the time of the suspected attack. A 16-year-old girl, 18-year-old man, 19-year-old man and 21-year-old man have all been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent. A 17-year-old boy has also been arrested on suspicion of use of a motor vehicle on a road or public place without third party insurance, aggravated vehicle taking and dangerous driving, as well as arson with intent. All are believed to be from the local area and remain in custody whilst enquiries continue. Two windows, one on the ground floor and one on the first floor, and the guttering of the property were damaged by the fire. There was also internal smoke damage as a result of the incident. Reigate and Banstead neighbourhood sergeant Simon Ward said: "Local police officers were first on the scene and with an aim to ensure that there was no-one at risk in the house they forced entry into the property to conduct a search - thankfully, the occupants were out at the time of the incident. Officers also gained entry to the car on the driveway and moved it away from the scene to ensure that it was not fire damaged. "Local officers will be continuing to patrol the area and engage with the local residents to provide reassurance and guidance." Firefighter Harry Baxter from Reigate fire station said: "The roof is very damaged and charred. The downstairs toilet is quite damaged as well. "Three to five minutes later and the roof would have gone. It was very, very close." An investigation into the circumstances around the incident is ongoing. Anyone who has information on the incident is urged to contact Surrey Police on 101 quoting reference 45140040239. The independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A MUM has started a fundraising campaign to improve the quality of life for her son who has cerebral palsy. Laura Palmer, of Merstham, is trying to raise £2,000 for her 22-month-old son Theo Snelling to help buy the equipment he desperately needs to make life easier. Theo has cerebral palsy, a neurological condition which impairs muscle co-ordination. Miss Palmer said: "He's a really happy and determined little boy, but obviously he does find things difficult. The only movement he has made is being able to roll over, but he wants to walk around and play." To help aid Theo's mobility, Miss Palmer is raising funds with Tree of Hope, a charity which will hold the money in a trust fund for use whenever Theo needs something. Miss Palmer, who is a full time carer for Theo, explained: "We are grateful for all the NHS does, but they have to fight for funding too." "It's a battle to get things but they provide most of the basic equipment, so he's got a walking frame, but they are just the basic bog-standard things. "The other stuff just helps make life a bit better." An example of equipment Miss Palmer would buy with the funds is a Firefly GoTo seat from manufacturer Leckey, which Miss Palmer says will make trips outside easier: "When we get out and about the seat can be attached to a chair and so when we go out he can have his own chair." Miss Palmer believes the biggest difficulty the pair face is how Theo's condition makes him feel: "I think what causes most problems is his frustration, he's an intelligent child for his age. He knows what's going on and when his physical disabilities are holding him back he can get quite angry and quite cross." "Also, we do not know what's going to happen in the future. I think long term, will he be able to do things by himself? Will he have to use a wheel chair? I'm worrying about schools because he needs to be some where supportive with his needs." Miss Palmer is holding a quiz night for Theo at The Feathers hotel and pub in Merstham, on May 22. Tickets are £10 per team up to six per team. To donate to Theo's cause go to www.justgiving.com/theosfight

THE funeral of former Sea Cadet and officer Bill Vine will be held at the Surrey and Sussex Crematorium next week.

Officer Lieutenant Vine died on May 5, aged 86, after an illness.

He was involved with the Reigate unit for many years, starting as a Cadet just after the unit opened 75 years ago.

He then became one of the Bounty Boys on board an old sailing vessel named TS (Training Ship) Bounty, where sailors had pre-service training before going on to active service.

His funeral will be held at Surrey and Sussex Crematorium in Balcombe Road, Crawley on Thursday, May 22, at 2.30pm.

SPEED cameras have been installed along the East Surrey stretch of the M25 – but we are not allowed to know where.

Over the last 12 months the section of motorway between junction 5 for Sevenoaks and junction 7 with the M23 has undergone a multimillion-pound upgrade.

As part of the scheme, which was completed last month, the hard shoulder was turned into a fully functioning lane. But, less well known, speed cameras were also installed along the roadside.

Highways Agency officials are remaining tight-lipped about the locations of the cameras, which work in the same way as speed cameras on smaller roads and can lead to fines for drivers breaking the limit.

Daniel Wood, a spokesman for the Highways Agency, says the new cameras are to help traffic flow rather than to catch motorists out.

He said: "Cameras are currently used to help smooth traffic flow and improve journey times on smart motorways by ensuring compliance of variable speed limits.

"All that is happening is that we are introducing new, more advanced cameras which do that better.

"Regardless of cameras, signed speed limits are enforceable. It is important that drivers understand that the onus is on them to ensure that they abide by speed limits."

He added: "If we give the location of the cameras then it becomes unenforceable. People will adhere to the speed limit around the area of the cameras and we will end up with stop-start traffic."

The new "smart motorway" scheme aims to keep traffic flow regular, with new radar cameras installed to monitor congestion. If staff at the Highways Agency monitoring offices spot heavy congestion in an area they can temporarily change the speed limit, which will appear illuminated in a red circle on gantries across the road.

Drivers who ignore these speed limits could face fines if caught by the new cameras.

Driver Luke Fox, 22, who uses the Reigate stretch of the M25 every day, wants more clarity over how the cameras will be used.

He said: "I have got no problem with there being speed cameras on the M25 but I want to know whether they are switched on or not. It's morally bankrupt to not tell us where the cameras are; it is just a hidden tax and a money-making scheme."

He added: "It is better the way they do it in Germany where there's no speed limits."

There are 46 camera spots, which can have up to six cameras each.

LONG-SUFFERING residents have described living near an adventure facility in Nutfield as "unrelenting and intolerable".

Those living close to Priory Farm, off Sandy Lane, have told a planning inquiry how they have continuously suffered noise and disturbance from clay pigeon shooting, paintballing and quad biking on the 250-acre site.

Priory Events Ltd, which hosts the activities for corporate groups, schools or private parties, wants permission to extend the operating hours.

The firm wants the go-ahead to host clay pigeon shooting up to 6pm on Saturdays – compared to the 2pm finish it currently has – and to allow motorised activities on Sundays from 9am to 4pm.

It also wants to move the paintballing site.

The appeal follows Tandridge District Council's refusal of planning permission in June last year.

John Morris, of Fullers Wood Lane, told planning inspector Tim Wood: "I sit on the terrace of my house and to the left is substantially loud clay pigeon shooting, on the right paintballing. It's effectively automatic fire and explosions.

"Between them it's like being in a war zone. It's not acceptable."

Neighbour Simon Newth said: "On a Saturday it's a nuisance. It's noticeable inside and outside the house. To have shooting going on past 2pm on a Saturday would just be intolerable."

Concerns were also raised about quad bikes riding too close to the boundary with residents' homes.

Mr Newth said: "The proximity of the quad bikes is intimidating."

Chris Gibbs said it would be "very depressing" if the hours were extended, adding: "It can only impact in a negative fashion on our environment."

Residents also complained about the noise of the paintballing.

Charles Graham said participants are "heavily armed with noise-making equipment" including guns, smoke grenades and Thunderflashes.

"You can hear all the briefings going on, you can hear every single word from my house," he said. "When they shoot the noise crescendo rises. People all scream at each other. The noise generated from this site is phenomenal."

Landowner Neil Good told the inquiry that measures could be introduced to minimise the noise.

These included placing hay bales in the shooting range, ensuring direction of fire was not at people's homes, using quieter "supersonic" cartridges in the guns and having exclusion zones near boundaries with residential properties.

He added Thunderflashes were no longer sold on site.

The results of the inquiry will be published in about six weeks' time.