On Monday, I joined the Mayor of Elmbridge, local councillors, Sir Gerry Acher (of the Cobham Conservation and Heritage), John Stephens (of Downside and Hatchford Community Group) and local residents - including St Matthews infant school - to unveil a new village sign for Downside.

 

Designed by local artist, Kate Ellis, it was part of the local community effort to sustain and promote the unique identity of this wonderful village. The only hitch in proceedings - amidst the October mire - was the cover getting stuck on top of the new sign. I was duly dispatched up a ladder to release the sheet, so we could celebrate a fabulous new local landmark. My congratulations to all those involved.