Local News & Weather

 

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

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

MP Resigns After 18 Years - 06/01/10

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

Horley School Worst in Surrey - 17/12/09

Manorfield Nursery & Primary School in Horley has scored the worst SATs results in the whole county, sparking fears from parents choosing schools for their children next year. Manorfield scored just 23.9 in Key Stage 2 tests whilst the local average is 28.5. Only 35 percent of students managed to pass the controversial tests in English and Mathematics.

Local Men Face Extradition - 06/12/09

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

Town Centre Lights Scrooged by Council - 03 /12/09

Horley Town Centre has been declined funding by the council to pay for festive lights this Christmas leaving the town with limited illuminations that look pitiful compared to previous years. The Chamber of Commerce have done their best to brighten up the town with wreaths and blue lights, but the results do not live up to expectations. At a time when Horley town centre has more vacant premises than ever, something has to be done to rejuvenate the town centre and turn it into the shopping centre it should be.

New Street Lamps Throughout County - 02/12/09

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

Horley Rugby Club Storming Ahead - 30/11/09

The new rugby club in Horley, based at the Oakwood school, are taking the rugby world by storm with a series of impressive wins. The club, nicknamed the Griffins, have won all of their games this season, accumulating more than 400 points whilst conceding just 25 points. They are top of their Sussex league with maximum points possible and are through to the semi-final of the Sussex cup.

Gatwick Airport Sold - 21 /10/09

Six months after the Competition Commission ruled that BAA would have to sell Gatwick Airport within two years, the airport has been sold to Global Infrastructure Partners who also own London City Airport. Many local businesses believe that the new ownership will bring operational changes that will have a positive effect on the surrounding economy. 34 million passengers travel through Gatwick Airport every year.

Arsonists Set Horley Ablaze - 20/10/09

Arsonists started four fires in the space of an hour in the early hours of Sunday morning, causing substantial damage and wasting vital firefighting resources. The first fire happened behind the Foresters Pub in Consort Way at 1.48am when two wheelie bins were set on fire. Shortly after, two wheelie bins behind Iceland were set ablaze. Then another two bins were set fire to at the rear of the British Heart Foundation shop in the High Street. The final fire was lit behind the Tanning Studio in Massetts Road at approximately 3.13am.

Chemical Leak at Flats - 13/10/09

Over 30 people were evacuated from their homes on Monday when a dangerous chemical leak was discovered. Residents of the flats in Lumley Road were evacuated at 5.30pm and the road was cordoned of by police. The scare was caused by dangerous levels of hydrogen peroxide leaking into the flats from an unknown source.

Roadworks Misery for Hospital - 09/09/09

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

Horley Station Horror - 08/09 /09

Commuters and rail passengers were left stunned and horrified on Monday as they witnessed a man being struck and killed by a high speed train at Horley station. The incident happened at around 8.20am on Monday when a 44 year old male appeared to throw himself in front of the express train. Trains were delayed for over an hour whilst police had the scene cordoned off.

Fatal Car Crash Near Gatwick - 06/09 /09

A young mother was killed when her car collided with a coach on the roundabout by Gatwick's North Terminal on Friday. Melanie Wisden, 34 from Cardiff was killed as her car was crushed by the National Express coach carrying 40 passengers. The incident happened at around 1.30pm but caused hours of chaos as police closed the road to investigate.

Fire Destroys Flats - 09/08/09

A fire in a third floor flat is being treated as suspicious by police after it broke out just after 5pm on Wednesday. The occupants of the flat in Court Lodge Road were not at home at the time of the blaze and fortunately nobody was hurt despite the damage.

Corner Shop Drugs Raid – 05/08/09

Police raided The Corner Shop in Victoria Road on Tuesday following information that local residents that quantities of drugs were being held on the premises. Police found cannabis and suspected stolen items in the raid. A man and a woman were arrested.

Confidential Documents Found – 01/08/09

Confidential papers containing the personal details of 14 patients were found at the side of the road in Smallfield. The documents contained names, addresses, phone numbers and medical records for patients of Britannia Healthcare, based in Horley. The company are investigating the serious breach in confidentiality.

Vandals Attack Garden – 31/07/09

The new community garden in Horley’s Recreation Park was targeted by yobs just a week after it was finished. The vandals pulled up the newly laid paving slabs and hurled them onto the nearby bowling green causing £2000 of damage and causing distress to users of the park.

Police Raid Horley Brothel – 24/07/09

Three women were arrested when police raided a flat in Horley High Street, suspecting that the premises were being used as a brothel. The raid took place on Wednesday morning and came as a result of complaints from local residents.

Church Treasurer Jailed - 21/07/09

Colin Cooksey, the former treasurer of Horley Methodist Church, has been jailed for stealing over £150,000 from the church. Cooksey, 61, pleaded guilty to six counts of transferring money by deception and was sentenced at Guildford Crown Court last Friday. Cooksey used the stolen money to pay off his mortgage and fund a lavish lifestyle.

Mentally Ill Patient Escapes - 21/07/09

A mentally ill patient at the Farmfield Hospital in Charlwood escaped on Monday and is still at large, potentially trying to travel to Southampton. Samuel Boylan, 20, escaped from the secure unit on Monday and, though he is considered low risk, police have advised the public not to approach him.

Swine Flu Hits Surrey Schools - 09/07/09

Six schools in the borough have issued alerts that they may have been exposed to swine flu. Both the Warwick school and St Bedes in Redhillhave confirmed that they have either had actual cases or that relatives of pupils or staff had been diagnosed with the virus. There were also unconfirmed reports that Oakwood School in Horley had reported potential exposure to the virus.

Formula 1 Comes to Horley - 05/06/09

A revolutionary new Formula One simulator centre could be built in Horley according to plans shown to the Surrey Mirror this week. An application has been submitted by BullRacing Developments to build the centre at the old Sidlow dealership site in Brighton Road and, if successful, the centre could open later this year.

AMEX to Close Horley Office - 04/06/09

American Express have announced that they will be closing their Horley office, based in Consort Way, potentially making the 75 staff based at the office redundant. The services offered by the Horley team will be relocated the customer service centre in Brighton.

Oakwood Schoolboy Injured - 03/06/09

A 15 year old schoolboy was rushed to hospital with serious injuries following a crash in New House Lane, Salfords last Friday. A 17 year old from Crawley was arrested and subsequently released on bail in relation to the incident.

Power Cut Misery for Shoppers - 19/05/09

A massive power cut left around 2000 Horley homes and businesses without electricity for nearly four hours on Saturday. The failure just before midday resulted in shops, restaurants and hotels being forced to turn away customers, including the Tesco supermarket in Hookwood, who had to evacuate over 1000 customers midway through their shop.

Bike Explosion - 19/05/09

A motorbike burst into flames when the rider lost control and hit a bus stop in Balcombe Road last Friday. The aaccident occurred just up the road from the entrance to Oakwood School. The rider was taken to hospital with burns.

Drug-Taking Clubber Accused of Murder - 07/05/09

A man accused of murdering a young father had taken a cocktail of drink and drugs, a court heard this week. James Redmile-Gordon, a former pupil of Oakwood School in Horley, is accused of murdering 28 year-old Ovidiu Pop after striking him on the head with a fire extinguisher following a scuffle between two groups of friends outside the Honey Club in Brighton last August. Mr Pop suffered a fractured skull and died shortly after the incident. Mr Redmile-Gordon denies murder, claiming he struck out in self defence. The trial continues at Lewes Crown Court.

New Leisure Centre Gets Go Ahead - 1/04/09

The council have finally given the go ahead for a new leisure centre to be built at the site of the old Court Lodge school. As well as building the new leisure centre, the site will also contain a new church to replace Horley Baptist church, new homes and a care home for the elderly.

Woman Attacked in Subway - 31/03/09

A 40 year old, deaf woman was attacked by four men brandishing a knife as she walked through the subway going beneath the train line between Station Road and Yattendon Road. The attack happened at around 10.15am on Wednesday morning. The assailants stole the woman's handbag and pushed her to the ground before fleeing.

Schoolgirl Followed Home by Hooded Man - 18/03/09

A 9 year old schoolgirl ran home terrified on Tuesday after she spotted a man wearing a hooded top following her. The incident happened in Grove Road and the man was described as white, medium build and around 25 years old.

Teenager Attacked in Home - 16/03/09

A 17 year old boy was attacked when a group of thugs forced entry into his flat on the Langshott Estate. The teenager was alone when the attackers struck last Wednesday evening and viciously beat him before smashing up belongings in the flat. The boy was unable to give a description of his attackers and police do not have a motive.

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

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

Elderly Brothel Keeper Sentenced - 09/03/09

A 72 year old man from Charlwood has been sentenced to 14 months in prison for running a brothel from his home for two years between 2004 and 2006. Anthony Cox had 123 girls on his books and allowed them to entertain clients in adapted rooms in his house, taking a fee from each girl and earning £44,000 a year.

Oakwood Pupils Return to Mourn Teacher – 25/2/09

Pupils at Oakwood School returned from half term this week to a series of assemblies and group discussions organised to remember and mourn the tragic death of their much-loved PE teacher, Andrea Hinton, who died of leukaemia last week. Miss Hinton was just 31 years old and had worked at the school for five years.

Heavy Rain Brings Flood Fears to Langshott Residents – 13.2.09

The recent snow, followed by torrential rain has increased fears that the Horley Master Plan for 2600 new properties may have miscalculated the flood risk to new and existing homes. The initial investigation undertaken by the Environment Agency calculated the risk of a flood would only occur every 100 years, despite local campaigners providing evidence to the contrary.

Death-Crash Lorry Driver Jailed – 12.2.09

The truck driver responsible for the death of Horley resident, Wanda Harden, has been jailed for two years at Guildford Crown Court. Christopher Weech pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving after the accident on the A3 near Guildford last April. Weech could not explain why he failed to spot the stationary traffic which he ploughed into causing Mrs Harden's death.

Plans for New Leisure Centre in Horley Going Ahead – 30.1.09

Plans for a brand new leisure centre in Horley have taken a giant leap forward after Surrey County Council agreed to sell the former Court Lodge infant and secondary school to Reigate & Banstead Borough Council. The new development on the site of the old secondary school will house the brand new leisure centre (including swimming pool, sports hall, dance studio and gym) and some housing. The site of the infant school will house a new care home, a church and more housing.

Virus Closes Hospital Wards – 28.1.09

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

Battle for Castle Goes On – 27.1.09

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

Violent Boyfriend Walks Free – 7.1.09

A violent thug who threatened to kill his girlfriend whilst holding a broken bottle to her neck has walked free from Redhill Magistrates Court. Michael Hesketh, 29, from Haroldslea Close, Horley pleaded guilty to common assault and was given a suspended sentence, 100 hours community service, ordered to complete an alcohol treatment programme and to pay court costs.

Snowy Start to New Year – 5.1.09

On most people's first day back at school and work, nature taunted us all with an overnight snow storm that left Horley under a blanket of snow on Monday morning. The weather brought a smile to kids faces as they built their snowmen and threw snowballs but brought misery to motorists as they attempted to return to work in the treacherous conditions.

HAPPY NEW YEAR – 1.1.09

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

Horley Lifeguards Sacked – 3.12.08

Following several months of investigations by Reigate & Banstead Council and Courtneys, who own the Horley Anderson Swimming pool, the two lifeguards on duty when a nine year old boy nearly drowned have been sacked. The incident, which occurred on September 20 this year, resulted in a customer jumping in to the pool to rescue the boy, who was not breathing when he was pulled out but later made a full recovery.

Olympic Hopeful Behind Bars – 2.12.08

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

Credit Crunch Closes Estate Agent – 21.11.08

More signs of the credit crunch will be apparent in Horley town centre this weekend as shoppers will see another vacant building in the town centre. Gascoigne Pees Estate Agents in the High Street have been forced to close, leaving all five staff members jobless, as the crash in the housing market takes it’s toll.

Motorcyclist Injured – 21.11.08

A 24 year old motorcyclist was taken to hospital following a collision with a Volvo at the Chequers roundabout at around 10pm on Thursday evening. Details of the cause of the accident are unclear and police are calling for winesses.

Supermarket Closes Without Warning – 27.10.08

Local residents were left confused and angry when the Sainsbury's Local supermarket on the Chequers roundabout closed last Friday. Customers using the store in the latter part of the week were confronted with empty shelves and the news that the busy and popular store was closing. The petrol facilities are due to re-open within the next couple of days and the store will be converted to a Shell Select shop.

New Playground for Horley Kids – 16.10.08

Horley Town Council have spent £15,000 on a much needed update of the playground equipment at Horley Recreation Ground. The out-dated central activity has been replaced with a colourful, multi-activity climbing frame and smaller pieces opf new equipment have been installed.

Guilty Plea of Paedophile – 7.10.08

A paedophile living in Horley has pleaded guilty to a string of offences involving images of children. David Murdoch of Peeks Brook Lane was arrested in January 2008 and police found more than 1400 disturbing images of children on his computer. He will be sentenced at the end of October.

Suicide of Local Taxi Firm Boss – 5.10.08

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

Horley Residents Halt Council Plans – 25.9.08

The multi-million pound scheme to pedestrianise part of Horley town centre has been put on hold by the council following heavy opposition from residents and business owners. The council have not abandoned the plans for Horley’s regeneration project but were forced to re-think the scheme after being presented with a 740 name petition against existing plans.

Another Win For Horley Rugby Club – 21.9.08

The new rugby club in Horley have built on their first victory against Eastbourne two weeks ago with a hard fought win against Newick rugby club. Horley scored two magnificent tries early in the first half but were then stifled as Newick resorted to old-fashioned forward’s mauling rugby. Horley grabbed victory late in the second half with a drop goal from their fly-half. The final score was 17-14.

Gatwick Airport For Sale – 18.9.08

British Airports Authority announced yesterday that they will sell Gatwick Airport. The announcement has created uncertainty and job loss fears amongst airport workers and experts say that passengers out of the World’s busiest single runway airport will suffer.

Horley Man Jailed for 'Minding' Drugs - 9.9.08

Melvin Mettle from Victoria Close, Horley has been jailed for 18 months at Guildford Crown Court for allowing his flat to be used as a storage place for drugs. The 24 year old restaurant worker was intimidated and injured by drug dealers before allowing them to store heroin, cocaine and cannabis in his flat.

12 Year Ban for Anti-Social Drinker - 8.9.08

A Horley man has been banned from entering any of the town’s 22 pubs for 12 years following a series of anti-social outbursts at pubs around the town. Harry Horan, 21, from The Ridgeway is well known to most pub landlords for his behaviour. The latest offence occurred outside the Jack Fairman pub where, having been refused entry for being drunk, Horan threw a bottle at a window, abused staff and customers and finally scuffled with police officers called to arrest him.

Horley Rugby Club Win their First Game - 8.9.08

The newly formed Horley Rugby Club got off to a fantastic start on Saturday with a hard-fought win over a strong opposition from Eastbourne. The new team, sponsored by G4S and All About Horley, showed enormous skill and commitment to overcome the visitors 22-15. For full details, visit www.horleyrugby.co.uk

Horley Businesses and Residents Campaign Against Pedestrianisation - 20.8.08

Local residents and businesses are campaigning against the pedestrianisation of Victoria Road as part of the Horley Regeneration scheme. The plans to pedestrianise a large part of Horley's town centre are opposed by traders who fear it will have a detrimental impact on their business as well as residents of neighbouring roads who would have to endure the re-routed traffic from the town centre. A similar scheme in Horsham has already seen businesses suffer. For more information on the plans and to support the campaign, please visit www.horleymatters.org

Skunk Car For Sale - 13.8.08

The Rover 216 decorated as a skunk to compete in the Ramshackle Rally is up for sale in E-Bay having completed the 3000 mile race Europe, ending in Poland. The team left Horley on 31st July and returned on 8th August. The team, led by teacher Jo Backhouse, competed to raise money for St Catherine's Hospice in Crawley.

Kid on a Hot Tin Roof - 11.8.08

A 17 year old burglar had to be rescued from the roof of Horley's Regent House Community Centre last Friday after getting stuck during the attempted robbery. Police and fire crews were called to the scene at around 2am and the firemen placed a ladder against the side of the building to allow the youth to climb down to safety... right into the arms of waiting police officers.

Police Arrest Man Threatening Suicide - 4.8.08

Armed police stormed a house last Thursday after a mentally ill patient threatened to slit his own throat. Todd Fuller, 26, locked himself in an upstairs room of the house in Churchill Road, Smallfield and hurled abuse at passers by and police attending the scene. The siege started just after 1 pm and Fuller was eventually arrested after police entered the property via the back door at around 5.30pm.

Police Sergeant Bailed - 2.8.08

A MET police sergeant living in Horley has been bailed by Crawley Magistrates after he was accused of assault against a fellow police officer. Patrick Byrne, 49, will return to Crawley Magistrates in September for a committal hearing.

Tropical Thunderstorm in Surrey - 29.7.08

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

No Pool for School - 24.7.08

Plans to build a brand new leisure centre at the Oakwood School on Balcombe Road have been scrapped by Reigate & Banstead Borough Council. Having reviewed the plans, the council claimed that it would be cost-prohibitive to build at the site. They are fully committed to building a new Horley Leisure Centre and are now looking at new potential sites, including the old Court Lodge School site.

New Rugby Club Calls for Players - 6.7.08

The brand new Horley Rugby Club are delivering leaflets around Horley this weekend in a bid to recruit more players. The club, set up by three rugby-playing friends, will train and play their home games at Oakwood School. For more information on the club, you can visit their website (see link on our Sport & Leisure pages)

Massive Fight in Horley - 2.7.08

An enormous fight involving dozens of females, erupted outside the Jack Fairman pub last Friday. An argument about a taxi broke out between two groups of women and soon escalated into a full scale riot as friends and onlookers became involved.

Horley Rejuvenation Could Cause Death of Town - 1.7.08

Horley shops and businesses are furious at the council's plans for a £4 million rejuvenation of the town, saying that it will discourage shoppers from visiting the town. Most of the money is being used on traffic regulations and 'unnecessary' road improvements, which traders claim will simply help shoppers to by-pass the town. Everyone who lives or operates a business in Horley is keen to see genuine improvements to the town centre which will encourage new shops and businesses to the area but spending this money on road layouts does not seem like the best way to do this.

Residential Road to Become Major Route - 3.7.08

Residents of Russells Crescent in Horley are up in arms having discovered plans for the vast majority of traffic travelling through Horley to be redirected along their quiet road. The plans were discovered via an anonymous source and detail a proposal to semi-pedestrianise Victoria Road which would result in traffic being re-routed along Russells Crescent.

Mill Lane Car Crash - 1.7.08

Firefighters had to cut a man free from the wreckage of his car after he lost control and collided with a tree in Mill Lane. The driver, in his 40's, was complaining of neck pains whilst trapped in his vehicle and was taken to East Surrey Hospital.

Burglary Gang Operating in Horley - 11.6.08

Police have asked residents of Horley to watch out for any suspicious activities following a number of burglaries on public buildings recently. The gang of thieves are targeting shops, schools, churches and other local public buildings to steal lead and copper from the buildings. The most recent sites of burglary were the Keys Youth Centre in Court Lodge Road and The Adult Education Centre next door last weekend. If you spot anyone acting suspiciously, you should call 999 immediately.

Horley Fire Crews Help Tackle Blaze at Crawley Tip - 11.6.08

Firefighters from Horley joined forces with crews from Crawley, Haywards Heath and East Grinstead when a massive fire swept through Crawley's Council Tip causing millions of pounds of damage. Although the cause of the fire is as yet unknown, it is believed to have started at around 5.30pm on Monday in the household waste section. Part of the building's roof collapsed and it is expected that it will take 12 months to rebuild the destroyed building.

£4 million for Horley Roads - 20.5.08

Surrey County Council have announced that they will spend £4 million pounds on road improvements in Horley as part of developers' investment of £90 million. The improvements will focus on road safety and traffic congestion and will be welcomed by residents of the town, especially following a number of serious road accidents recently.

Charlie Robinson Update - 20.5.08

We are pleased to report that three year old Charlie Robinson is now out of intensive care and making a good recovery following the horrifying road accident that left him seriously injured last week. We wish you a speedy recovery Charlie and hope to have you back in Horley soon.

Horley Child Seriously Injured - 16.5.08

Charlie Robinson, a three year old pupil at Manorfield Primary and Nursery School, has been seriously hurt after being hit by a motorbike on his way home from school on Wednesday. The horrific accident on the Brighton Road have left Charlie in intensive care with internal bleeding, damage to his vital organs, a fractured skull and other broken bones. The accident was attended by local paramedics and an air ambulance who all fought to save the tots life.

Farmer Ordered to Demolish Castle - 15.5.08

Robert Fidler, the farmer who built a castle-style home on his land at Honeycrock Farm and hid it from view with bales of hay, has been ordered to demolish the building by Reigate & Banstead Borough Council. Mr Fidler now plans to take his appeal to the High Court.

Rugby comes to Horley - 15.5.08

It has just been announced that Horley will have it's own rugby club in time for the next season, beginning in September. Horley has never had it's own senior rugby club before, despite local schools teaching the sport and producing some good players. Until now, players from the area have had to travel to Crawley or Reigate for their nearest club. More information will be coming soon.

Scorching Weather or Arson? - 14.5.08

Firefighters were called to put out two seperate blazes in garden sheds last Monday just two hours apart. The first fire was in a garden shed in Haroldslea Drive and the second was in an unused shed in woodland just of Smallfield Road. Investigators were unable to determine the cause of either fire and will not speculate on the possibility of arson.

Horley Paedophile Jailed - 23.4.08

Richard Kloss from Meath Green Lane in Horley has been jailed for six and a half years and placed on the sex offenders register after pleading guilty to numerous sexual offences which included having sex with a 15 year old girl. Kloss met his victim after 'grooming' her through an internet chat room. The court heard how Kloss had a history of visiting chat rooms and had coerced girls to expose themselves to him via webcams.

Town's Graffiti Problem Worsens - 21.4.08

Police and residents are growing more concerned at the amount of graffiti appearing in Horley, in particular around the Garden Estates area of the town. The vandals have already defaced a number of buildings and fences and Police are eager to catch the criminals before the ugly problem worsens.

£1000 for Fly-Tipping - 17.4.08

A Horley man has paid nearly £1000 in fines and legal costs after being caught fly-tipping Smallfield last December.

Horley in Bloom Competition - 16.4.08

Green-fingered gardeners get pruning - the Horley in Bloom Summer Gardening competition (now in it's 14th year) has been launched. The closing date for entries is June 30th and entry forms are available from the town council offices or at www.horleysurrey-tc.gov.uk

Domino's Pizza Opens in Horley - 16.4.08

The second of two high-profile fast food outlets has opened it's doors in Horley this week. Domino's Pizza took it's first orders on Monday, providing Horley with another delivery & takeaway option. Domino's comes just two months after Subway opened in the High Street and should help to encourage other high street names to consider Horley as an emerging town. Please visit our Restaurants page to view all of Horley's food offerings.

Distress of Local Retailer - 15.4.08

Vicky Johal, owner of the Balcombe Road post office has described the awful treatment received by the post office after they informed her that they were to close her post office. Following the shocking news that Vicky would be forced to close, post office officials have harassed her into making hasty decisions otherwise she could lose the compensation on offer. The post office will close on May 19th. However, astute Vicky has already made plans to expand her off licence section and turn her shop into a Premier convenience store with a much greater food offering. We wish you every success Vicky.

Horley to Celebrate St Georges Day - 15.4.08

The English celebrate St Patrick's Day, Australia Day, American Independence Day and a wide variety of other nation's holidays but often forget our very own Patron Saints day. Well, not patriotic Horley. St Georges day will be celebrated in style, starting this Saturday (19th April) with a full day of music and dancing in the High Street including morris dancers and live bands. Retailers like Chris White Butchers, Horley Corner Shop and Planet Sweet will be joining in the festivities and Subway will be running a special St Georges day promotion.

Sat Nav Stolen from Taxi Driver - 9.4.08

A Horley man has been fined and ordered to pay compensation to a taxi driver after stealing the driver's satellite navigation system following a fare dispute.

Pub Chef to Appeal - 8.4.08

Mark Dixie, the former chef at Ye Olde Six Bells pub, is to appeal against 34 year prison sentence for the murder of Sally Anne Bowman outside her home in Croydon in 2005.

Horley Town Centre Development Delayed - 8.4.08

Plans to develop Newman House in Victoria Road have been delayed after councillors were not satisfied with developers proposals to convert the building into an eight storey block. Although the council are keen to sell the property, they do not want to jeopardise the style of Horley town by allowing high-rise buildings to overshadow other buildings.

Horley Post Office to Close - 7.4.08

Despite substantial local opposition and campaigning, the Balcombe Road post office in Horley will be closed as part of the government's Network Change program, designed to stem heavy financial losses across the Post Office network.

Arson Attack on Horley Restaurant - 7.4.08

A popular indian restaurant in Horley town centre has narrowly avoided being burnt to the ground thanks to the heroics of it's chef. Spice Boys' tandoori chef, Abdul Mannan was woken in the early hours of Saturday morning by the restaurants fire alarm and discovered a fire of burning boxes in the restaurant's extension. The quick thinking chef threw the boxes outside, burning his arm in the process, avoiding any serious damage to the property. Despite minor smoke damage, the restaurant continues to open as usual.

Horley Restaurant Wins 'Restaurant of the Year' award 2008 - 6.4.08

The Curry Bengal Indian Restaurant has one the 'Restaurant of the Year' accolade in the hard fought, intensive competition run by the Horley Observer / Crawley Observer. Curry Bengal fought of competition from dozens of other local residents to win the prestigious award.

New Youth Club for Horley - 2.4.08

A brand new Youth Centre is to be built at the site of the old fire station in Albert Road, Horley. The new centre, due to be opened early in 2009 will have a youth cafe, dance studio, creche, counselling facilities and careers advice. The step by Surrey County Council will be welcomed by Horley residents who have become increasingly concerned with youths loitering in the streets, apparently with nowhere to go. The new centre will be open until 10pm on weekdays and will also play host to a brand new youth radio station.

Horley Restaurant & Takeaway menus - curry, chinese, pizza, kebab - 1.4.08

Now you don't need to go hunting around in kitchen drawers whenever you want to find a takeaway menu for a Horley restaurant. Simply go to the Restaurants & Takeaways page and click on an advert for an up to date menu for your favourite curry, chinese, pizza, thai or kebab shop.

Ancient Sport in Horley - 30.3.08

A game similar to cricket dating back to the 14th century, has been officially recognised as a sport. Stoolball, played at Horley Cricket & Hockey Club, is often seen as the forerunner to cricket and baseball.

Local Elections - 24.3.08

Borough Council elections will be held on Thursday 1st May. For information on how to vote and for your local polling station, please visit www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk

Social Club Will Not Close - 18.3.08

The social club adjoined to the Horley Anderson centre will not be closed when the leisure centre is demolished according to Neil Kerr, treasurer of the 180 member club. The club, based in Innes Pavillion, Thornton Close, is leased from Horley Town Council and provides many facilities for members as well as a club house and changing facilities for several local football teams. Horley Anderson will remain open until a new swimming pool is built close to Oakwood School in 2010.

Syringe Found Outside School - 5.3.08

Three students at Oakwood School were shocked to find a dirty needle and syringe outside of their school. The needle was found near the recycling area at the entrance to the school grounds and it is suspected that the needle was left there during the recent half term. Police are looking at CCTV footage to see if they can discover how the needle came to be left so close to the school.

Horley Blackout - 3.3.08

More than 800 businesses and homes were plunged into darkness at around 10pm last Friday during an electricity blackout. This most recent power failure follows a spate of problems around Christmas on the EDF Energy Network.

Calling All Shops, Restaurants, Builders, Hotels, Pubs, etc. - 1.3.08

If you own or manage your own business in Horley, you should be on All About Horley. If you have a restaurant or takeaway we can list your menu. If you have a shop we can list your products. If you own / manage a hair or beauty salon we can show your price list. If you are a builder or window fitter, carpet fitter or gardener we can help to market your business to local customers. If you have a hotel or guesthouse, a pub or a kebab shop we have solutions for all of you. Please e-mail us at contact@allabouthorley.co.uk

34 Years for Murdering Pub Chef - 27.2.08

Mark Dixie, the former chef at Ye Olde Six Bells Public House, has been sentenced to 34 years in prison for the murder of Sally Anne Bowman in Croydon in September 2005.

Local Parks Could Ban Dogs - 26.2.08

Reigate & Banstead Borough Council is planning to ban dogs from four parks in Horley as well as other multi-use recreational areas. Dog-walkers may be fined for having their dogs of the lead, walking more than six dogs or allowing their dogs to foul. The minimum fine could be £75 and maximum £1000. The new orders could be imposed within the next three months if agreed.

Arson Attack on Flats - 24.2.08

A block of flats in Langshott were the target of an arson attack in the early hours of Thursday morning. 18 residents were evacuated from the block of flats in Whitecroft after fires were started in three wheelie bins in a communal walkway.

Pub Chef Denies Murder - 5.2.08

Mark Dixie, the former head chef at Ye Olde Six Bells pub in Horley denies murdering model Sally Anne Bowman outside her home in Croydon in the early hours of 25th September 2005. Dixie, who has a history of sexual assault, does not deny his presence at the scene of the horrific murder but claims that Sally Anne had already been attacked and killed and he took 'advantage of the situation'. Prosecutor Brian Altman refers to Dixie's defence as ludicrous and born of desperation. The trial continues at the Old Bailey.

Information on Horley Website Launched - 1.2.08

All About Horley, the information webiste exclusively for Horley businesses and residents, has now been officially launched. So if you are looking for news or information on business services in Horley, look no further. You will find all you need to know about Horley town right here, including details of restaurants, hotels, pubs, travel agents, builders, shops, windows, doors & conservatory fitters and manufacturers, car showrooms, mechanics, schools, doctors, dentists, vets, garden centres, carpet fitters, cafes, hair dressers and barbers, tanning centres, kitchens, bathrooms, beds, banks - in fact, anything you could possibly want is available in your town, so please have a look around. If we've missed anything or you would like to comment, please e-mail us at contact@allabouthorley.co.uk

Horley Post Office Faces the Axe - 30.1.08

Balcombe Road post office has been named as one of four in the area that could be closed in a Government shake-up of the post office network, which will eventually lead to 2,500 closures across the country. Vicky Johal who runs the Balcombe Road post office says that she fears she will have to close the shop altogether if she loses her post office services. The proposed closure is made even more ridiculous in light of the fact that 700 new homes are due to be built near her shop, vastly increasing the demand for the shops services. MP Peter Ainsworth has launched a campaign to save the shop and local residents are up in arms about the proposal.

Fertility Doctor Charged with Sexual Assault - 27.1.08

An East Surrey Hospital doctor has been suspended following sexual assault allegations made in September 2007. Dr Edwin Nwokedi Onugha's suspension has resulted in the fertility services at two hospitals being closed indefinately meaning that couples struggling to fall pregnant will now have to seek treatment elsewhere. Dr Onugha will appear before magistrates on 29th February.

Heightened Security at Gatwick Airport - 24.1.08

Border control bosses at Gatwick Airport have increased the number of officers at the airport in an attempt to tackle the number of illegal immigrants travelling into the country and to come down hard on drug smuggling. A merger between the Border & Immigration agency and Revenue & Customs is also expected later this year.

Couldn't Find A Castle in A Haystack!- 24.1.08

A local farmer, who built his family's dream house styled like a castle and then 'hid' it inside a haystack, may be forced to demolish the stunning property because he did not have planning permission for the building on his farm in Axes Lane. Robert Fidler, the owner of Honeycrock Farm, will fight Reigate & Banstead Borough Council in court for his right to keep his property.

New Housing Estate for Meath Green - 23.1.08

Planning for 1,510 new homes in Meath Green will be submitted later this year following the outline planning permission being granted in December 2007. Providing developers can satisfactorily offer contributions in excess of £30 million towards infrastructure and community facilities, they will get the green light. The development will be built in four phases from 2009 - 2015.

Fake Car Theft Wastes Police Time & Money - 23.1.08

A Horley motorist crashed his car and then reported it stolen, resulting in a helicopter and dog unit being deployed at huge cost to taxpayers. Aaron Richens, 23 of Skipton Way ploughed into a telegraph pole in the early hours of the morning last September. He was given a suspended sentence at Guildford Crown Court.

New Maternity Ward for East Surrey - 19.1.08

A second maternity ward could be opened at East Surrey due to the number of people giving birth at the hospital rising by 50% since Crawley Hospital closed it's in-patient services in 2001. Currently, 4300 women give birth at East Surrey Hospital every year.

Subway comes to Horley - 14.1.08

The international sandwich chain, Subway, has been given the green light to open a new store in Horley Town Centre. The new store is expected to open it's doors at the end of February and will be at 22-24 High Street, the building previously occupied by Horley Bookshop, which has moved to Victoria Road.

Pubs Impose a Two-Drink Limit on Parents - 14.1.08

A Horley pub, owned by national pub operator JD Wetherspoon, has imposed a two drink limit on customers with children. The Jack Fairman in Horley is one off the 683 pubs owned by JD Wetherspoons who have blanket imposed the rule across their estate. A company spokesman explained that children entering one of their pubs must be accompanied by an adult and both must order a meal. The adult may order up to two alcoholic drinks to accompany their meal but would be expected to leave approximately 40 minutes after finishing their meal.

New Information website for Horley. Restaurants, Shops, Travel Agents, Cars, Pubs and lots more - 10.1.08

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

 

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

Redhill, Reigate, Horley LIFE

Surrey Mirror / Horley Mirror

Horley Observer

The Post

All local radio stations

and other web-based media sites

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

All About Horley includes information on all Horley Restaurants including Khushboo , Curry Bengal , The Curry Inn , Le Gourmet , Kemal at the Cambridge Hotel , Saigon Nights , Pizzasta , Blue Lake , Il Sorisso , all indian restaurant , chinese restaurant , italian restaurant , thai and vietnamese restaurant , takeaway and delivery services such as Dominos Pizza , Subway and Spice Boys.

All About Horley has information on all shops in Horley including Mitchells , High Street Pets , Collingwood Batchelor , The Factory Store , Cooks Electrical Retailer , Orchid Kitchens , Burstow Garden centre and nursery , Chris White Butcher , Mud Pie Ceramics , Waitrose , Tesco , Iceland , Sweetpea Florists , Don Ruffles Stationers , Boots the chemist and Horley's Travel agents such as Travel Sense.

It also lists all of the schools and nurseries such as Oakwood School , Langshott School , Cranbrook Nursery , local playgroup and nursery.

All of the Horley hairdresser and barber shops are listed including Sue Jane Hairdressing , Shear Class , Andrew Lyon Hair & Beauty , as well as beauticians such as Pro Nails Design , Tulsi , and Studio 44 in Salfords.

You can find a wide variety of estate agents for that new home such as Gascoigne Pees , Cubitt & West , Andrews Estate Agent , James Dean Estate Agents , and Savills. And if you would rather build your own home or conservatory , you can find details for local builders such as Hystar construction and a local Horley plumber or electrician. In fact, anything to do with your home and garden such as window fitters like Future Windows , kitchen showrooms like Orchid Kitchens and bathroom specialists like the Bathroom Studio or garden furniture from Mitchells or the garden centre or CPM Fireplaces. You can even get a skip from a local Horley skip company such as MF Mini Skips.

No comprehensive Horley site would be complete without a full listing of Pubs and Bars such as The Gatwick Arms pub , The Kings Head pub , The Forresters pub , The Black Horse pub , The Farmhouse pub , The Air Balloon pub and Jack Fairman.

Horley is renowned for all of it's hotels and guesthouses being so close to Gatwick Airport and All About Horley has a full listing of these such as the Rennaissance hotel , Langshott Manor Hotel , The Lawn Guesthouse , the Cambridge Hotel and lots more.

Plus lots of other information such as sports club like Horley Rugby club , Horley Town football club , Horley Tennis club , Horley Squash and Cricket club. Taxi numbers like A2B , 780780 and Roadrunners , all of the local churches and places of worship such as St Bartholomews church , St Francis church and St Wilred's church. All of Horley's doctors , dentists and opticians.