TALK ABOUT EPPING
TOWN MAGAZINE
SPRING 2026
The Mayor’s view
November and December are the busiest months in the Mayor’s calendar. The focus in November is the Remembrance commemorations.
On the Friday before Remembrance Day at St John’s Church, I laid wreaths at the civilian memorial and the memorial to the men who died on HMS Sickle before going to Epping Cemetery to lay a wreath at the Commonwealth Graves. Some members of the public attended.
On Remembrance Day, I and many local representatives laid wreaths at the War Memorial and it was wonderful to see so many young people there. This was followed by the procession up the High Street and the Civic service. My role as Mayor was to read out the names of the men commemorated on the war memorial. Some families lost two or even three members. December was busy in a different way. I’ve been a volunteer at the Christmas Tree Festival for many years but never expected to be cutting the ribbon and declaring the Festival open. I also opened the Christmas Market and had the fun of leading the countdown to the lighting of the Christmas tree.
The previous day two pupils from local primary schools and I had walked along the High Street to judge
the best window display. They discussed each window carefully before coming to their decision.
The Mayor’s Christmas card competition brought dozens of entries and so much thought and care had gone into designing each card. I later visited the schools and nursery which the winner and runners-up attend to present certificates and prizes to them.
Another highlight in December was sharing in the lighting of the Menorah in the High Street.
My project as Mayor is raising awareness and understanding of dementia. Three Dementia Awareness sessions have been held and another is planned for February. These sessions are presented by the Alzheimer’s Society trainers and give basic information about this devastating disease of the brain. If you would like to attend a session please contact Epping Town Council who will pass your contact details to me.
On 10th March there will be a Dementia Fair at Epping library 10.30am-4pm.
Do come if you would like to pick up information or talk to people from relevant organisations.
Looking ahead, the Annual Town Meeting is on 26th March at Epping Hall. This is your opportunity to hear what the Town Council has been doing throughout the past year and to ask questions. Your views are wanted. Please come along and take part.
Epping Petanque: Stonards Hill
Epping Petanque club would like to thank everyone who has helped make this year so successful.
• Epping Town Council for their continued support and a new layer of chippings for our terrain.
• All our new members who are joining in enthusiastically, have taken to the sport and make it even more fun for us all.
We have had five trophy competitions with most members playing, alongside the Town Council versus District Council match which is great fun.
As a Petanque England club, we have also joined in springtime leagues with local clubs as far away as Maldon and Chalkwell. Grand days out.
Thirty six members have just enjoyed a Christmas lunch at one of Epping’s local restaurants.
Our games attract a lot of attention from people using the park and we welcome you all to sit, watch and join in the laughter.
For those who have never tried ‘French Boules’ or ‘Petanque’ it is a sport played outdoors all year round. In Epping we play at Stonards Park on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 1.15 pm then The Gardens of Hanbury, Waltham Abbey, Mondays and Thursdays 10 am. Email Jane at: secretary@ehpetanque.co.uk for a taster session including equipment.
Epping Town Council playgrounds
Epping Town Council looks after 5 playgrounds in Epping Parish:
Stonards Hill recreation ground, Lower Swaines recreation ground, Ivy Chimneys recreation ground, Frampton Road and Parklands at Coopersale.
Each playground has different equipment, but is designed to offer a variety of stimulating equipment to children of all ages.
The playgrounds have been replaced or refurbished on a rolling basis since 2015 and they are monitored for defects and required improvements on a very regular basis. Playgrounds are very expensive to install and maintain, so it is good to see them well used and enjoyed by families and children of all ages.
Janet Whitehouse
Epping Christmas Market 2025
Epping Town Council’s Christmas Market took place on Saturday 6th December, featuring over 50 stalls, selling various Christmas crafts, gifts and food with the market open from 12 noon through to 7pm. This was the first time the hours have been extended into the evening since pre-covid and everyone seemed to enjoy this.
The event was opened by our Town Mayor Cllr Janet Whitehouse, followed by the start of our live entertainment from local schools, Coopersale Hall school, Epping Primary school, Ivy Chimneys primary school and Coopersale & Theydon Garnon school choirs, this was followed by Epping Forest Band and local entertainers throughout the day. The PA and broadcast system was handled by the Forest Radio team who all did a fantastic job throughout the event.
We had roving characters through the Market to entertain in the form of Christmas Mickey, Elf on the shelf, and The Grinch, along with a reindeer led sleigh for photo opportunities. We also had our very own Elf volunteer in the form of Cllr Cherry McCredie, who kindly gave up her time to help with Santa at the Fire Station and help guide the characters around the market. Cllr McCredie was one of several councillors who gave their time to help with the event on the day.
The end of the day saw both LED snow queen and candy cane stilt walkers to further entertain. The event was closed by our Deputy Mayor Cllr Razia Sharif. Thank you to everyone who was part of this great event for our town.
Essex Local Nature Strategy: small actions, big impact for nature recovery
Nature recovery begins with all of us. The Essex Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) has now launched and outlines how everyone in Essex can play a role in reversing biodiversity decline. Whether it’s creating a wild patch in your garden, volunteering at a local habitat project or contributing your ideas to your town council, the LNRS makes it easy to get involved.
At the heart of the LNRS is an interactive map that shows opportunities for wildlife enhancement across the county. Even small changes in your neighbourhood can add up to big gains for nature. You can explore
actions, get involved and find your local area’s priorities on the Essex Nature Partnership website. Start your journey to support nature recovery: www.essexnaturepartnership.com
Swaines Green May Fayre 2026: Save the Date
The Friends of Swaines Green conservation group will be holding its annual Swaines Green May Fayre on Saturday 9th May on the recreation ground, Lower Swaines, Epping, CM16 5ER from 11am until 5pm. There will be something for all the family, Morris Dancing, Punch and Judy show, magic show and workshop, Belly Dancing, stalls selling crafts and local produce, a beer tent, a tea and cake tent, tug of war and a fun dog show. Entrance is free. For more information about The Friends of Swaines Green and the excellent work that the conservation group do, please visit their website: www.swainesgreen.org.uk They can also be found on Facebook ‘The Friends of Swaines Green’ and their email address is: swainesgreen@gmail.com .
Epping Forest Band
2025 proved to be a landmark year for Epping Forest Band, marked most notably by the celebration of its 90th anniversary. The commemorative concert was very well attended and reflected both the band’s long-standing musical heritage and its strong connection with the local community. Building on that momentum, the band now looks ahead to an exciting programme of events in 2026.
7th March 2026 sees the band’s next concert, a special collaborative performance with the children of Raglan Schools. This event will take place at St Stephen’s Church, Enfield (EN1 2ET) and promises to be an uplifting evening celebrating youth music-making alongside the band’s experienced performers.
22 March 2026 marks a significant competitive date in the band’s calendar, as Epping Forest Band attends the Areas Contest in Stevenage, held at the Gordon Craig Theatre. A strong performance here would see the band qualify to represent the area at the National Finals in September, an achievement that would be a source of great pride for both the players and their supporters.
15th May 2026 brings an international highlight, as the band welcomes its musical family from its twinned town of Eppingen, Germany. Stadtkapelle Eppingen will join Epping Forest Band for a joint concert at St John’s Church. This promises to be a memorable evening of shared music-making and cultural exchange, and the band warmly invites the local community to attend and show their support.
More information can be found on the band’s Instagram page and the website will be getting a revamp in the new year.
Epping Neighbourhood
Plan
Epping Town’s Neighbourhood Plan has been reviewed by its appointed planning inspector and she has confirmed that it is now ready to move forward towards a referendum. The Neighbourhood Plan will need to be approved by Epping Forest District Council’s Cabinet and once this has taken place, a referendum will be arranged.
The Plan has been devised by members of Epping Town Council and local partners and stakeholders. If made, it will form one of the key planning documents against which planning applications are judged. It is designed to protect key features and characteristics of our historic market town. Keep an eye out for more information as it becomes available.
Epping Monday Market
Epping Monday Market is open 52 weeks of the year including bank holidays, with trading from 9am till 5pm. This market is at the heart of our Town, by making use of the market and buying from the traders you are supporting your local community.
We have a mixture of single and double stalls offering a wide range of goods from clothing, bags, scarves, household goods, artisan bread and cakes, fruit and vegetables, to healthy nuts, dried fruits, fresh fish, pet supplies, china, books, toys, slippers and glasses, and much more. Our traders are friendly and accommodating and most have been with us for many years. So if you are at a loose end on a Monday why not come along to see what you can find.
For further information or become a trader with us call Epping Town Council on: 01992 579444 or email: info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk
Barchester Ashlar House & Epping Community Unites to honour the 80th anniversary of World War II
Epping community came together in a heartfelt and memorable commemoration of the 80th anniversary of World War II. The event brought together residents of all ages, families, veterans, community leaders and local organisations in a day of remembrance, reflection and celebration.
Public service representatives, the Rotary, MPs, mayors and former mayors stood side by side with our dearest residents and their families to honour the bravery and sacrifice of those who served during the war. The parade through Epping was a powerful reminder of the unity, resilience and shared history that continue to shape our town.
As the procession made its way through the streets, spectators lined the route to show their support and appreciation. The air was filled with a deep sense of pride and gratitude not only for those who fought and served but also for the generations who have carried forward their legacy of peace and community spirit.
Following the parade, residents gathered to enjoy an afternoon of live entertainment, featuring local favourite Paul Lillie, whose performance brought smiles and joy to all in attendance. The event was both a time to celebrate the enduring bonds of the community and to remember the courage, loss and hope that define our shared history.
Organisers extended their sincere thanks to everyone who took part from the volunteers who helped coordinate the event to the public services and community groups that made the day possible.
As the sun set over Epping, the spirit of remembrance remained strong a reflection of the town’s continuing commitment to honouring the past while celebrating the strength and togetherness of its people.
Stonards Hill recreation ground widened path
Many of you will now have seen the new double width path through the centre of Stonards Hill recreation ground. This has been installed as a result of Epping Town Council permitting the NHS Trust to lay cables under the recreation ground to assist with powering the new diagnostic centre at St Margaret’s Hospital. The wider sections are between Stonards Hill main car park to the cafe and Fairfield Road to St Margaret’s pedestrian gate. The land still requires some topsoiling and seeding but it is lovely to see people being able to pass in both directions on the new path and avoiding getting extra muddy.
Epping Christmas Lights 2025
Epping Town Council delivered a new Christmas lights scheme in 2025 to include the new stars on the shop fronts. The feedback has been very positive. We do hope you liked them.
Illusions Dance Academy celebrate 15 years
Illusions Dance Academy are proud to be celebrating their 15th anniversary. Classes started at the Jack Silley Pavilion in 2010 with just a handful of students and now the principals of the school, Stephanie Evans and Amy Cole, are proud to have over 150 students. During their 15 years they have been proud to put many students through ISTD exams and maintain a 100% pass rate. The school have also held many of their own shows at local theatres and are extremely proud to have their own performance team who have danced at prestigious venues in the West End including His Majesty’s Theatre and Shaftesbury Theatre as well as being invited to perform for Britain’s Got Talent with Ant and Dec. The principals would say that their most memorable moment to date would be taking their performance team to dance at Disneyland Paris, making special memories to last a lifetime for both the students and their families. The school are currently offering FREE trial lessons for anyone wanting to go along so now is a great time to enrol and be in time for their next shows at the Harlow Playhouse. Classes are held in both Epping and Loughton (age 2 plus) and if you would like your child to have a trial please feel free to contact them directly.
www.illusionsdance academy.com
Well done to Illusions!
EPPING
GONG / SOUND BATH
Epping Hall, St John’s Road, Epping, Essex CM16 5JU 8:00 pm – 9:15 pm
Experience the transforma琀ve power of sound at this deeply soothing Gong Bath Medita琀on. Lie back, relax, and allow the healing vibra琀ons of the gong to guide you on
The immersive soundscape promotes deep relaxa琀on, emo琀onal balance, and a sense of peace and wellbeing. Many par琀cipants report gaining clarity on life issues and feeling revitalised on all levels.
What to bring: A yoga mat or blanket to lie on, a blanket to keep warm, and a cushion or pillow for comfort.
This one-hour session includes 琀me to gently return to full awareness a昀erwards. Spaces are limited, so booking and advance payment are required via Eventbrite. Scan QR code for booking info and to purchase your 琀cket.
Contact Sarah Gregg at Reiki Drum & Sacred Sound Inspira琀ons Email: info@reikidrum.co.uk or info@sacredsoundinspira琀ons.co.uk
All monthly sound / gong bath dates are posted on the Events Page of the Reiki Drum and Sacred Sound Inspira琀ons websites. www.reikidrum.co.uk www.sacredsoundinspira琀ons.co.uk
Dates for 2026
19 March • 30 April • 18 June • 30 July • 24 September
22 October • 10 December Available from Epping Hall, St Johns Road, CM16 5JU
There are lots of events and classes on at Epping Hall, St Johns Road, Epping, CM16 5JU. Why not hire one of our spaces for your group, activity, meeting or party? Email: info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk or telephone 01992 579444 for details.
Tickets: £22 per person | Advance booking essential
Epping Hall tree planting to commemorate Epping Town Council’s 50th anniversary
On 13th November 2025, Town Mayor and Chairman of Epping Town Council, Cllr Janet Whitehouse planted a silver birch tree at Epping Hall to mark the 50th anniversary of Epping Town Council. The Town Council was formed following a reorganisation of the Epping Urban District Council. Cllr Whitehouse’s speech detailed many of the Town Council’s achievements over the last 50 years, such as the protection of Stonards Hill recreation ground for the people of Epping and the work protecting Epping’s historic Charter market.
Cllr Whitehouse said: “It is to commemorate the work and achievements of Epping Town Council that we are here today to mark our important 50 year anniversary. We will watch the next period of local government reorganisation with interest. But in the meantime, I plant this tree to mark our important 50 years of service to our Parish and may it grow strong and healthy with our town for years to come.”
Memory train delivers Christmas joy
Our Christmas memory train event brings Christmas cheer to local residents with dementia.
The festive spirit was in full swing at the 8th annual Christmas memory train event, welcoming residents living with dementia or mild cognitive impairment, along with their family, friends and carers.
Participants were greeted at North Weald Station by friendly volunteers giving out goody bags filled with engaging activities, helpful information and a Christmas selection box generously donated by Epping Tesco in collaboration with Kinder Essex.
The train carriages were transformed into a winter wonderland, adorned with Christmas lights and festive music, setting a festive tone for the journey. During the journey to Ongar, passengers received gifts from Father Christmas, kindly donated by the Epping Ongar Railway (EOR). The celebration continued with a magical journey through the forest while enjoying a light lunch, mince pie and a lively festive sing-along before returning to North Weald.
Attendees included residents from Queens Court Care Home, Buckhurst Hill, Epping Ongar Railway Father Christmas and Activity coordinator Liza, Epping Forest District Council Community Champions and the Chairman of Epping Forest District Council Cllr Louise Mead and her daughter Daisy-Mae. The ride on the Christmas memory train was a magical and festive way to celebrate the season and meet some of our wonderful residents. Events like the memory train are about bringing joy, creating cherished memories and reducing isolation for those living with dementia and their loved ones.
It’s wonderful to see the community and local businesses come together to make these events happen.
Quotes from the day:
It’s good to get out. I don’t see many people apart from my son since my husband died. My son works hard and does takes me out when he can. It’s lovely to speak to other people. I’m having a great time, Santa is amazing. The train trip has brought back memories, as I used to work in the cab office at North Weald station. It’s been a really good day. Thank you. This free event was made possible by Epping Forest District Council Community and Wellbeing Team, the dedication of many volunteers from various organisations, plus generous donations from Hammond and Smith Estate Agents, Sun Vit-D3 and other private individuals, as well as the invaluable support of Epping Ongar Railway.
The Music Den Epping
A grassroots live music hub with a big heart – and an exciting few months ahead. The Music Den has quietly built up a reputation as one of the most dependable grassroots live music venues. Week after week, it delivers what live music lovers want most; quality bands, a welcoming atmosphere, fair prices and a crowd that genuinely listens as much as it dances.
What sets The Music Den apart is its commitment to live performance. This isn’t background music for a bar - it’s a room designed for bands and audiences to connect. The sound is consistently strong, the stage well laid out and the vibe relaxed but attentive. Whether it’s blues, Americana or rhythm and blues, artists are given space to do what they do best.
The calendar ahead continues that strong tradition, with the return of Stompin’ Dave and Earl Jackson on 27th January and The Milkmen returning on 10th February. There then follows the first appearance to The Den of Chris Rand and the Mighty Echo on 24th February. Chris is a great exponent on both keyboard and saxophone. On 24th March the Cadillac Kings enjoy a welcome return.
Also deserving a mention are three SPECIALS lined up for during the year.
Tues 14th April: TRACK DOGS Fri 15th May: BIG MAMA DOORS Tues 24th November: HAMILTON LOOMIS FAB FRIDAYS: 27th February Local group RUNAWAY JUKEBOX, 10th April RUSTY SPOONZ and 1st May
ANNA WELLS Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Lemonrock and of course the Hemnall Social Club website. hemnallsocialclub.com Please support live music in Epping.
Julie’s café: Stonards Hill recreation ground
Julie’s café in Stonards Hill recreation ground is the perfect place to catch up with friends and family, ideally located just a short walk from the town and forest. The new path from the car park in Stonards Hill provides easy access. The car park adjacent to the café is now back open and provides free parking (3 hours free) for people using the park and café.
Whether you are using the facilities in the park, walking your dog or just looking for somewhere to stop to have a bite to eat and a drink, you will always receive a friendly welcome from our staff. We pride ourselves on being family and dog friendly.
If you are in the park between 8.30am and 9.30am with your dog during February and March and buy a hot drink, your dog will get a free doggy chino.
We are open seven days a week from 8.30am to 3pm on weekdays and 9am to 3pm on Saturday and Sunday during February and March, exceptions may apply for poor weather. Opening hours will be extended from April.
All our sandwiches are freshly prepared, hot soup is a must in this cold weather and we have a wide selection of cakes and snacks. Pick up a hot drink, sandwich or cup of soup to take away.
We are grateful to our customers who have continued to support us during the path construction and the recent break in. We had to temporarily reduce our breakfast and lunch menu during this time, but there is still plenty on offer. Epping Town Council have endorsed extra security measures to thwart anyone breaking into the building.
St Clare Hospice
Local charity St Clare Hospice hosted its 2025 Light up a Life remembrance services across West Essex throughout November and December. Each service offered a space for families and friends to honour loved ones, with names recorded in the Book of Remembrance and messages written on paper stars among twinkling lights.
During the ceremonies, candles were lit and music and readings created moments of comfort and reflection for local families.
Leonie Smalling, St Clare Hospice Individual Giving Manager said: “We’re so grateful for the incredible response to our 2025 Light up a Life services. Thanks to the generosity and heartfelt support of our community, we were able to create a truly special space for remembrance and reflection - and raise an amazing £29,500. This could cover 14 days of the hospice’s Patient and Family Support Service, which helps families access financial support and help talk to children about the life-limiting conditions that their mum, dad, nanny or grandad are facing, in language that they understand. Every star dedicated to a loved one and every message shared helped us honour those that have died in a special way. A huge thank you to everyone who donated and those that joined us at any of our services that took place across the community. Your kindness means we can continue providing compassionate care when it’s needed most.
We would also like to thank the venues across West Essex who welcomed us into their churches and halls and the wonderful volunteers and readers who gave their time and voices to make our services so special. Your support helped us reach even more people and create moments of comfort and connection to grieving families across West Essex and the borders of eastern Hertfordshire.”
If you couldn’t join one of St Clare Hospice’s remembrance services, there’s still time to leave a tribute on their virtual Light up a Life tree: stclarehospice.org.uk/light-up-a-life-remembrance-services
St Clare Hospice also offers a free GriefLine for anyone struggling with grief and would like someone to talk to (01279 945089), which is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
Jack Silley Pavilion for hire
The Jack Silley Pavilion is a popular venue for hire and hosts many children’s birthday classes, dance classes, meetings, activities and events. Located in the middle of Stonards Hill recreation ground, the Pavilion has lots of neighbouring facilities and is attached to Julie’s café.
There are two rooms for hire; the larger Essex Room (pictured left) and the smaller Forest Room. Both are popular venues for gatherings. The Pavilion is hirable seven days a week (subject to other bookings) and there is free car parking available during your event after registering your number plate.
Hire charges can be found on Epping Town Council’s website: www.eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk under Services and Hall Hire.
Please call: 01992 579444 or email: info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk should you need any further information.
Safer Epping
At our last meeting on 17th November we welcomed Adam Pipe who leads on road safety for Essex Police. It was a productive meeting, but we are still unsure how much or what we can get done. However Peter Murray and I continue to work on it. Our next meeting is on Monday 9th March at Epping Hall at 7.15 pm.
If you have any issues to raise, please send them to Cllr Cherry McCredie on: mccrediecherry@gmail.com We look forward to seeing you.
Epping Society and Epping Town Council launch Town Trail leaflet
A few questions:
We are delighted to announce the launch of our jointly-developed TOWN TRAIL. After much research and consulting with a number of wise, knowledgeable and (in some cases long-standing residents of the town, a Trail leaflet is now being printed and is to be released early in the Spring.
Basically an A4 sheet of card, it centres on a professionally-produced map showing many features of interest around our town. Some are architectural sights, old and new, some commemorate significant events, some tell stories which bring out the culture of our town, others pick out ‘reputed’ items. The front of the leaflet has broad information and a little history, while the back has much more detail. It is aimed at visitors who want to focus their wanderings, as well as existing residents who want to learn a bit more.
What were our links to Buckingham Palace & the Tsar of Russia? Where could you buy a wife?
How many pubs did we have? Where was our cinema? Why did geese have black feet?
Answers to all these, and many more, will be available to all.
The leaflet will be free and available at several outlets, as well as online, from the websites of both organisations. www.eppingsociety.org and www.eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk
Epping Leisure Centre opens
Residents, partners, councillors and guests attended a special ribbon-cutting to mark the opening of the new Epping Leisure Centre. Guests were then invited to tour the new facility, giving them a chance to see firsthand what the centre has to offer and get a real sense of the scale and quality of the new space.
The new centre includes a 120-station new gym with a mix of strength and cardio machines, a group cycle studio, 2 studios, squash courts and a main swimming pool and learner pool.
One of the highlights was to see the interactive screens in the squash courts, with the games and programmes demonstrated by Epping Primary School pupils.
The new centre replaces the sports centre on Hemnall Street, which closed its doors on Sunday 11th January. While the opening was slightly delayed, due to external highway works, the overall delivery of the centre has been a big success.
The centre has been designed to be the most energy-efficient leisure centre in the district. It features cutting-edge air-sourced heat pumps, advanced digital technologies and the highest levels of insulation to significantly reduce energy consumption and minimise future carbon emissions and operational costs. The project has been delivered by Epping Forest District Council (EFDC) in partnership with Places Leisure, who have designed and built the new facility with their construction partner Pellikaan Construction.
Thank you to David Jackman for any pictures and media input in this issue. Everything Epping Forest local news and information service. Check out all the local news at: https://cutt.ly/bio/EEFNEWS
Rotary at Christmas: spreading holiday cheer
Santa’s Sleigh in Epping
In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Rotary Club of Epping recently concluded its annual ‘Santa’s Sleigh’ event, which brought festive joy to the streets of Epping over a delightful two-week period. With the help of dedicated Rotarians and the generous support of local businesses, including Whiskers Solicitors, Foskett Marr, Stevenette, Church’s Butchers and Hammond & Smith, the event ensured that Santa himself visited neighbourhoods across the area, delighting families and children alike.
The initiative not only spread Christmas cheer but also successfully raised funds for local initiatives, reinforcing the Rotary Club’s commitment to supporting community projects. Each evening, a different team of volunteers from these businesses took to the streets, guiding Santa’s sleigh through the town’s many routes and ensuring that no corner of Epping was left untouched by the holiday magic.
As the Rotary Club reflects on 2025’s success, they are already looking forward to expanding the event in December 2026. They are calling on more businesses to sign up and help Santa visit even more areas, bringing the spirit of giving and togetherness to every corner of the community. The event stands as a testament to what can be achieved when local organisations come together with a common goal and the Rotary Club of Epping extends its heartfelt thanks to all who participated and supported 2025’s Santa’s Sleigh. Here’s to another successful year of festive fun and community camaraderie.
A Memorable Afternoon at Epping’s Carols on the Green Epping’s annual Carols on the Green, organised by the Rotary Club of Epping and Epping Forest Rotary Club, lit up the community spirit on Christmas Eve, drawing a crowd of over 2,000 spirited attendees, despite the chilling temperatures. The event, a cherished tradition, showcased the power of music to unite people from all walks of life. Thanks to the unwavering support of our dedicated sponsor, Stevenette, the afternoon became the highlight of the year, filled with joy and camaraderie. Music was provided by Epping Forest Band and Children from Ivy Chimneys Primary School, Theydon Bois Primary School, St Andrews Primary School North Weald and Epping St Johns formed the Choir. The funds raised during the event will be invaluable in supporting local projects aimed at encouraging children to explore music and singing, fostering the next generation of performers. Our heartfelt gratitude goes to the amazing volunteers whose hard work and commitment ensured the event’s success. We also want to thank the community for their incredible support and generosity, which helped make Carols on the Green more than just a sing-along; it was a testament to the togetherness and community spirit that define Epping, reminding us all of the joy in shared experiences and festive cheer.
Festive Spirit Shines at Epping Rotary Club’s Christmas Collection
The Epping High Street was a sight to behold this festive season, as members of the Rotary Club of Epping donned their most imaginative Christmas costumes for our annual static Christmas collection. The air was filled with joy and laughter as passersby stopped to chat and generously contribute to our cause. This year, our spirited member Shal from Whiskers Solicitors stole the show with her inventive ensemble, earning the title of best costume for her quirky yet endearing getup. The event was a resounding success, marked by the warmth and generosity of the Epping community. Thanks to the contributions of many, we were able to raise a significant amount of money dedicated to supporting local projects that make a tangible difference in our town.
The Rotary Club is immensely grateful to all who donated and engaged with us during this festive period. Your kindness and enthusiasm have not only helped in raising funds but also in spreading the true spirit of Christmas. We look forward to continuing this cherished tradition next year and hope to see even more of you there, as we work together to enhance our community.
Stay connected with our community
Scan the QR code to sign up for the Rotary Club of Epping’s newsletter and keep up with our latest events, projects and initiatives. Discover the perfect way to get involved and make a difference today. Contact us on: info@rotaryclubofepping.org or visit our website: rotaryclubofepping.org
Epping Town Council information
TOWN COUNCILLORS
2023-2027
Members - Hemnall Ward
Cllr N Avey nigel.avey@btinternet.com
Cllr C Burgess christine_burgess@hotmail.com
Cllr C McCredie 07831 501598
Cllr R Sharif razsharif@icloud.com
Cllr Janet Whitehouse 01992 560289 cllrjanetwhitehouse@gmail.com
Cllr Jon Whitehouse 01992 561875 jon@jonwhitehouse.org.uk
Members - St John’s Ward
Cllr L Burrows 01992 572003
Cllr J Duffell 07847 357493 johnduffell@live.co.uk
Cllr H Pegrum 01992 572173
Cllr G Scruton grscruton@gmail.com
Cllr H Whitbread 07508 180426 holly.whitbread@btinternet.com
Cllr M Wright 07926 516097
Cllr L Burrows, Cllr R Sharif, Cllr H Whitbread, Cllr Janet Whitehouse and Cllr Jon Whitehouse are also Epping Forest District Councillors.
Cllr H Whitbread is also an Essex County Councillor.
MP: Dr Neil Hudson neil.hudson.mp@parliament.uk
invitations
for the mayor
If you are organising an event which you would like the Mayor or a representative of the Town Council to attend, please email: info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk marked Invitation for the Mayor or tel: 01992 579444. The Mayor and Deputy Mayor attend many different events over the year to support our local groups, businesses and organisations.
ARTICLES AND PICTURES
We are always looking for Epping-related articles and pictures (high resolution) for Talk About Epping. Please send them to the email address below.
talk about epping deadlines
FORTHCOMING MEETINGS
Please note: meetings are in-person meetings and will be held at Epping Hall unless otherwise stated.
www.eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk/meeting_dates
Epping Town Council responsibilities
Bury Lane Cemetery Halls: Monday Charter Market Epping Hall, St Johns Rd Bakers Lane Toilets Jack Silley Pavilion, Recreation Grounds/ Stonards Hill Playgrounds (not Brook Rd): Stonards Hill Allotments: Ivy Chimneys Lower Bury Lane Lower Swaines Meadow Road Frampton Road Town Show Parklands, Coopersale Christmas Market Brook Road Christmas Lights
Talk About Epping (Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter)
Consultee on Planning Epping Town Council’s Planning Committee consider every planning & TPO (tree protection order) application in Epping and give their views to Epping Forest District Council, who are the local planning authority.
Articles for the next edition of Talk About Epping must be submitted before 13 April 2026 (Summer issue) and 20 July 2026 (Autumn issue). Submissions should be sent to Epping Town Council via email: info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk clearly marked ‘Talk About Epping’. Please send in copy on a word document (200-300 words max). Please attach pictures as separate jpegs (not inserted into the word document). The editor may amend copy appropriately.
For more information, visit our website: www.eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk
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