TALK ABOUT EPPING TOWN MAGAZINE
AUTUMN 2026
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Razia Sharif
This year, there are two causes particularly close to my heart, that I’ll be raising awareness of. The first is parental alienation. It’s something I continue to live with personally. It’s an or invisible grief that rarely gets spoken about, t w it h P ur yet affects families across our country every day. Whatever the circumstances, every child deserves to grow up knowing they are loved by both parents whenever it’s safe and possible. If sharing a little of my own journey helps even one family feel less alone, then it’ll have been worthwhile. The second is cancer. Like so many families, mine has been touched by it. My own diagnosis taught me something that perhaps isn’t talked about enough. Cancer doesn’t just affect the body, it changes how you think, how you feel and how you see your circle of friends and the world. As Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales so eloquently said: “the journey through and beyond treatment is complex.” The treatment itself is only part of the story. It’s the quiet days in between, the uncertainty, the loneliness and learning how to live alongside a new normal. Recovery isn’t simply measured by scans and appointments. It’s also measured by hope, kindness, friendship and the support of those around us. If my year as Mayor can encourage more conversations around cancer, mental wellbeing and parental alienation, alongside celebrating everything that makes Epping such a wonderful place to live, then I’ll feel I’ve made a small difference. R ’S O
Sup
better place every day. If there’s one thing I’ve learnt, it’s that the real strength of our town isn’t found in its buildings or its history books. It’s found in its people - the residents. The so many volunteers who never seek recognition. When I was elected The local business Mayor of Epping in supporting a May, the Mayor’s chain community event. felt a little heavier than The neighbour who I’d expected. Not checks in on someone because of the gold, living alone. The young but because of the person giving up their honour and privilege it weekend to help represents. others. They are the This year is also a little threads that hold our piece of Epping’s community together. history. I have the I’d love my Mayoral honour of becoming year to be remembered our town’s first ever as one where we Asian Mayor. Whilst strengthened those I’m incredibly proud of threads. We live in one that milestone, I hope of the most beautiful it says even more market towns in Essex, about Epping than it nestled in the forest, does about me. That rich in history and full ours is a town that of independent continues to evolve businesses and whilst never losing the community groups, warmth, character and Epping has so much community spirit that to be proud of. Yet makes it so special. somewhere along People often ask me the way, perhaps what being Mayor is we’ve become a little really like: wonderfully too busy, a little too unpredictable! divided and a little too One week I’m opening quick to forget that the Epping Town Show, we’re neighbours first. the next I’m dancing Let’s rediscover that with patients at the sense of belonging, Kitwood Ward summer support local, smile at party at St Margaret’s strangers, agree with Hospital. I’ve kindness. Let’s make celebrated 50 years Epping known for the of Forest Radio, warmth that defines it. welcomed our friends As a former broadcast from our twin town of journalist/presenter Eppingen, visited the I spent years telling fantastic volunteers other people’s stories. behind 3Food4U, This year, I’ve had the attended charity galas privilege of hearing and community hundreds more. celebrations, Stories of resilience, volunteered at Epping generosity, humour Foodbank, visited the and quiet acts of Epping Ongar Railway, kindness that rarely watched Ace Activities make the headlines win a charity football but so deserve to. match in a heatwave So if you see me out and had the privilege and about, please do of meeting so many come and say hello. remarkable people who quietly make Epping a
The Mayor’s charitable aims MA Y
The Mayor’s view
Epping Monday Market What better way is there to spend a Monday morning than meandering our town’s historic market? Or perhaps a quick pop out during a lunch break, to peruse the range of items on offer at the stalls. I think we all appreciate the increasing rarity of having a high concentration of independent businesses rather than the large chains which now dominate most high streets. On my last visit, I picked up some chilli plants, a beautiful glass cake stand, a fresh loaf of bread, a punnet of gorgeous strawberries and a fabulous top that has become a new firm favourite. There are a variety of food stalls for a quick lunch, or to complete a full mini grocery shop: fresh produce, baked goods, and fresh fish are all on offer on a weekly basis. Ever since King Henry III gave Charter status to the market in 1253, a market has been held once a week (for many years on a Monday) in Epping. While the stalls have changed in the 700 years since the market’s conception, I’d like to think the merriment of seeing what each vendor has on offer and walking away with perhaps several bags more than initially planned is a shared experience that spans the centuries. 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
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Epping Town Show 2026: A sizzling summer show The annual Epping Town Show at Stonards Hill recreation ground on Sunday 5th July opened with a dry weather forecast this year, making a nice change from the last couple of years. The event was officially opened by our Town Mayor Cllr Razia Sharif. There were a wide range of community, craft traders and food vendor stalls, whilst arena entertainment included performances by Epping Forest Band, Epping Forest Pipe Band, Illusions Dance Academy, Sorelle London Academy, singing performances by Richard Stubbs with local band, Runaway Jukebox, a Te Ashi Do Karate Demo and a welcome return to the arena for the Etcetera Morris Men. Unfortunately, this year’s fun dog show sponsored by North Weald Veterinary Surgery, had to be cancelled by the vet due to the hot weather conditions, for the health and safety of our four legged friends; better luck next year. There were a range of other attractions at the free entry event, including a funfair, a climbing wall, the ever-popular Punch & Judy shows with Bubbles fun, as well as roving characters, Stitch, Buzz Lightyear and Mario, a mini crazy golf course and for the more adventurous, a football simulator ride. Epping Town Council has expressed its grateful thanks to Weald Hall Care Home Epping for sponsoring this year’s show. The Council would also like to thank Tesco for kindly donating water for the volunteers on the day. Look out for next year’s date and information. We start planning early so do make an enquiry if you are interested in taking part whether as a sponsor, stall, entertainment or as a volunteer to help at the event. Email: info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk EPPING TOWN COUNCIL
Epping Neighbourhood Plan REFERENDUM: Why Vote YES in the Referendum on Thursday 18th June 2026? The vote is about whether Epping should use its own local planning rules when deciding future building developments. Voting YES could mean: •! •! •! •!
More protection for Epping’s character and Green Spaces More local say over where and how homes are built, with stronger rules on design Better ability to challenge unsuitable developments Keeping our High Street vitality and protecting the community and market character of the town
We cannot completely stop building because national housing targets still apply.
IF WE DON’T HAVE A NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN FOR EPPING, WE HAVE LESS LOCAL VOICE !
Voting NO could mean: •! •! •!
Fewer local planning protections Developers relying mainly on wider district and national rules Potentially less influence from local residents over future developments
The Plan has been worked on by Epping Town Councillors and Epping residents since 2014. It will go to a public referendum on Thursday 18th June 2026, when residents are invited to vote Yes or No on the Plan.
PLEASE VOTE YES TO SUPPORT YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN ON 18TH JUNE 2026. (Polling cards should have arrived by post.)
info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk
Epping Neighbourhood Plan Thank you to everyone who has played a part in the Epping Neighbourhood Plan. On 18th June 2026, a public referendum took place where residents were asked to vote for the adoption of the Neighbourhood Plan. 92% of those who voted, voted Yes. On 23rd July 2026, Epping Forest District Council formally approved the Plan, so it is now part of the planning documents against which planning applications for Epping Parish are judged. The Plan gives local councillors a voice where their detailed local knowledge can be used to aid the decision making process in planning.
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Rotary – Classic Cars in the Park Sunshine, community spirit and an impressive collection of vehicles made this year’s Classic Cars in the Park a true highlight in Epping’s summer calendar. Hosted by the Rotary Club of Epping, the event brought together car enthusiasts and families alike for a day filled with nostalgia, conversation and community connection. With a fantastic turnout and a wide variety of classic and vintage cars on display, visitors were treated to something special at every turn. One of the most memorable aspects of the day was the opportunity to speak with the car owners themselves. Each vehicle came with its own story and their passion and enthusiasm were clear to see —adding a personal touch that makes this event so unique year after year. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who exhibited their vehicles, whether you are a regular supporter or joined us for the first time. Your involvement is what makes the event possible. Our thanks go to our valued sponsors—Foskett Marr, Stevenette and Brookside Garage—whose support plays a vital role in the success of the event. We were also delighted to welcome special guest singer Shiv Walsh, kindly sponsored by Whiskers Solicitors. Shiv has starred in West End productions including Cats and Grease. The day was further enhanced by a wonderful selection of food vendors and stallholders, including Church’s Butchers and the Theydon Oak Pub, alongside local traders offering everything from books and artisan honey to handmade goods and pet accessories—creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere for all. We are also extremely grateful to Epping Town Council for the continued use of the recreation ground, helping us bring this event to the heart of the community. Behind the scenes, this event takes months of planning and we are incredibly thankful to our dedicated volunteers for their hard work and commitment. Special thanks go to Vince Marsh and Barbara Scruton, along with all those who gave their time both in the lead-up and on the day itself. Most importantly, thank you to everyone who attended, supported and donated. Events like this are about bringing people together—and once again, Epping did just that. Funds raised will go on to support local charities and community initiatives. To view photos and videos from the day, find out how much was raised and learn more about the charities supported, please sign up to our newsletter via our website, and follow us on social media: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rotaryclubofepping Rotary Club of Epping: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rotaryclubofepping Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rotary_club_epping We look forward to welcoming you again next year. Classic Cars in the Park is traditionally held around the same weekend in July and the confirmed date will be announced soon. If you are interested in joining, please contact: keithedwardhibberd@yahoo.co.uk For media enquiries contact: jo.koivisto@hakimgroup.co.uk For general enquiries email: info@rotaryclubofepping.org
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Alexander Morgan Gallery: Goodbye It is with great sadness that we are saying goodbye to another independent Epping store. Alexander Morgan Gallery has been on our high street for almost thirty years, providing us with art and presents for all occasions. However, on the 31st of July 2026, they closed their doors for the last time. Prior to this, Deputy Mayor Councillor Nigel Avey visited the gallery on behalf of Epping Town Council to say our goodbyes and wish owner, Dee Alexander, all the very best in the future. If you were one of the many customers to frequent Alexander Morgan gallery over the years, you will have been met with their great variety of wares, a wide range of art work including prints and originals, in all manner of mediums. Jewellery, sculptural works, ceramics, glass works; all the items that when gifted to another (or to oneself) you are bound to be met with elation. During his visit, Councillor Avey said: “The Alexander Morgan Gallery has been a much loved place to buy original art, crafts and jewellery in the town. Dee has supported many local artists, and it is a great regret that the Gallery is closing. It will be a significant loss to Epping’s High Street.” Cllr Avey thanked Dee for her long service to the Town and wished her well for the future.
Epping Weather Station What is the average Brit’s favourite topic of conversation? How they like their tea? Their supermarket of choice? The triumphs and woes of the latest rounds of football? All firm favourites, but no. Without a doubt the top obsession of the vast majority of us seems to be the weather. In Epping, we are lucky to have the facilities to be well informed about the precise statistics in our personal microclimate. The Epping Weather Station, located in Stonards Hill recreation ground, provides live exact reporting of the conditions in our town 24/7, 365 days a year. With this data, we can see exactly just how much hotter it is this summer than last, how much wetter our springs are, or aren’t and how much warmer our winters have become. Want to know the precise sunshine hours of each day of the previous month? The maximum and minimum temperatures we had, along with the reasons as to why? Roger Emmens reports on this monthly and has been doing so since January 2020. His full reports, along with photos from Epping across this time, are available at: https://eppingweather.org.uk
Young people from 1st Theydon Garnon Scout Group Help Keep Epping Clean In June, Beavers, Cubs and Scouts from 1st Theydon Garnon Scout Group (Fluxs Lane) took part in their annual litter pick in Epping, helping to make a positive difference in the local community. The young people spent time collecting rubbish from around the area, working together to help keep Epping clean and tidy for everyone to enjoy. Their efforts resulted in a large amount of litter being collected, making a visible impact on the local environment. The annual litter pick is an important community activity for the Group and gives members the opportunity to contribute to their local area while learning about responsibility, teamwork and caring for the environment. All the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts thoroughly enjoyed taking part and were proud to support their community through this valuable initiative. Jacqui Mortimer, the Group Manager and Scout Leader for 1st Theydon Garnon Scout Group said: “We are incredibly proud of all our young people for their enthusiasm and hard work. Activities like this help them understand the importance of looking after the environment and giving back to the community.” 1st Theydon Garnon Scout Group continues to encourage young people to develop skills for life through fun, challenge and community-focused activities.
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Lions on the Loose: Free public art trail goes live Something exciting has arrived overnight on the streets and green spaces of Harlow, Epping and Loughton. As of Friday 24 July, St Clare Hospice is delighted to announce the start of its amazing free public art trail, which will raise funds for the local charity and create a sense of community spirit and pride. The trail is brought to you by St Clare Hospice in partnership with global art producers Wild in Art. Rosie Knowles, St Clare Hospice Deputy CEO, said: “This free art trail has been many months in the making and we are incredibly excited to finally share all the lion sculptures with you. Local people will be waking up to a whole pride of lions, after 63 sculptures were installed overnight on 23 July across Harlow, Epping and Loughton. These include a bespoke football-themed lion, signed by football legend Geoff Hurst, celebrating both the England Three Lions and the Lionesses. Each of the 63 sculptures has been beautifully decorated by an artist, school or community group, with the result being a truly breathtaking burst of creativity and colour. “The trail also includes a specially commissioned St Clare Hospice lion with a Care Bears™ design from Cloudco Entertainment. The mix of the strength of a lion and the caring, nurturing nature of the Care Bears was a perfect match for our St Clare Hospice lion sculpture. Do look out for him on the trail. “We hope thousands of people across the area will come along with us on this adventure and visit as many sculptures as they can. To help them on their way, we have launched a Lions on the Loose app where you can log each lion you find, vote for your favourite design and unlock rewards from the trail sponsors. These range from an annual Family Merlin Pass (worth £960) to bee bomb seed packets to an iPad. We also have lots of exciting merchandise on sale in our charity shops to complement the trail, including art items, a soft lion toy and a printed trail map. “You can take home a piece of the trail and buy your own mini lion soft toy, colouring books and painting sets for the kids from any of our charity shops across West Essex and of course our paper trail maps to help you find all the sculptures are available there too.” “This trail will help us raise vital funds for hospice care at a time when St Clare Hospice is under increasing financial pressure to continue providing specialist end-of-life care to all those who need it, at the most difficult of times. This is a fun and active way to support your local hospice, and we hope you enjoy the trail and share your photos on social media. “At the end of the trail, from 19–20 September, all the lions will come together in one place for the only time, at Passmores Academy in Harlow. This will be your chance to unlock any rewards you missed and grab a selfie with your favourite lion. Then, on 24 September, each beautiful sculpture will be auctioned at Saint Nicholas School in Harlow to raise money for the hospice and find its forever home.” “You can find out more about the trail at lionsontheloose.co.uk and by following Lions on the Loose on social media. Please join us in making this trail a roar-some success.” Lions on the Loose is proudly sponsored by Harlow Health Centre Trust, Harlow Council and Epping Forest District Council – working together for the good of our local communities. Charlie Langhorne, Managing Director and Co-founder of Wild in Art, said: “It’s fantastic to see the Lions on the Loose trail come to life across Harlow, Epping and Loughton. The sculptures will bring vibrancy, artistic flair and a real sense of joy to the area and I have no doubt they will capture everyone’s imagination. This trail is a brilliant way for people to explore their local communities, discover inspiring public art and support the vital work of St Clare Hospice at the same time.” “Care Bears was built on the belief that caring has the power to change things and St Clare Hospice lives that every single day. Being part of the Lions on the Loose trail feels like exactly the right way to mark nearly 45 years of that mission,” said Katie Wilkinson, Licensing Lead, UK at Cloudco Entertainment. “This trail is a wonderful example of our characters and brand values being put into action for something that really matters.”
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Our historic milestones Unlike some UK counties, the Epping Forest area has a wealth of remaining milestones from the Epping & Ongar Highway Trust of 1769 – 1870. Milestones were a compulsory feature on the toll-roads from the mid 1700s along with fingerposts as an indicator for direction, distance and as a means of calculating charges for transporting goods and postage. Much later they (the milestones) were also used by Ordnance Survey for benchmark mounting. Our milestone distances to London were surveyed to Stones End, Whitechapel Church, which was destroyed during World War Two. Also during the war, authorities were ordered to either deface or bury the milestones, fearing a possible aid to any German invading force. Thankfully our stones were buried and resurrected after hostilities ended. The map to the right shows half a dozen existing stones in the Epping area. Five on the brown road (B.1393) and the single one on the green road (B.181). The number in brackets next to each orange blob was the original distance engraved on the stone until the Epping New Road was completed in 1833. The black lines indicate the position of the dreaded Tollhouses where carts’ wheel widths were checked (narrow wheels damage the road surface more) or animals counted to establish the price of the toll ticket to be issued. Two of the tollhouses remain today as dwellings, though much altered. See if you can spot all the milestones in the Epping area. As a clue, they all reside on the left of the roads – London bound.
Epping Emergency Plan EPPING TOWN COUNCIL EMERGENCY PLAN
VolunteerS Needed
VOLUNTEER BUSINESSES
NEEDED
Do you have a service which you’d be happy to provide in the event of a town emergency? We are looking for community minded businesses who will aid in the building of our community resilience. WHAT YOU’LL DO
C U R R E N T LY S E E K I N G Do you know what to do in the case of an emergency? Full training provided by Epping Forest District Council. Help your neighbours
Receive full training
Be the first line of action
Be prepared in an emergency Contact:
info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk
• Be on a list of providers who will be contacted in case of an emergency e.g. a large fire. • Provide a service to aid people who have been displaced due to the emergency.
LOCATION Epping Town Council, St Johns Road, Epping, Essex, CM16 5JU
WHY JOIN? Support your neighbours. Build community resilience. Strengthen connections with the local community.
WHO CAN APPLY? Anyone with a service or supplies that would be helpful in the event of people having to leave their homes. E.g. restaurants/shops/retailers
Contact: info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk SIGN UP TODAY AND BE PART OF SOMETHING MEANINGFUL!
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Strengthening community bonds: the Epping Ongar Railway and St Clare Hospice Partnership As the summer holidays begin, the Epping Ongar Railway is looking toward its role at the heart of the west Essex community. Guided by our purpose to enjoy, educate and preserve the history and community of the railway, we are focusing this season on initiatives that bring people together and support the vital services that sustain our area. Central to this effort is our partnership with St Clare Hospice for the ‘Lions on the Loose’ art trail. By sponsoring this initiative, the railway is helping to raise awareness and funds for the hospice’s essential care services. From July 24th through to 11 September, 30 uniquely decorated lions will appear across Harlow, Epping, and Loughton. Our own lion, “Summer,” painted by artist Jodie Silverman, will be stationed in Loughton as a symbol of our shared commitment to this important local cause. To ensure our heritage is accessible to everyone in the community, we have introduced the ‘Ride with Your Pride’ initiative. Families participating in the trail via the ‘Lions on the Loose’ app can access a dedicated £25 ticket for a full day of unlimited travel. This is designed to remove barriers to engagement, allowing more local residents to experience their heritage rail line and vintage buses while exploring the art trail together. The railway is reliant on volunteers to run our trains and stations and undertake essential business and maintenance work. We are running a volunteer recruitment day on Sunday 13 September from 10 am until 1 pm. Anyone looking for a new hobby is very welcome to come along to see what we do and join the gang. We invite all our neighbours to join us during our weekend services and school holiday Wednesdays. To learn more please visit: www.eorailway.co.uk
Epping in Bloom Epping in Bloom are always on the lookout for more volunteers to help them in their mission to make Epping a blooming marvel. The group works together planting various beautiful flowers and greenery around our town to make it an even lovelier place for all residents and visitors. It is a great way to socialise, keep fit and all while further elevating Epping as the gorgeous special place that it is. The group meets every Thursday in the Market Garden, which is just alongside the alley that leads into Marks & Spencer. Why not try your hand with this green fingered group?
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The Palmers Hill milestone: By Hellen Blackwell The attractive restoration of the Bell Common milestone prompted me to think about another important Epping milestone which deserves similar treatment. This one stands on Palmers Hill, towards the traffic lights just beyond the Stonards Hill junction with the High Road. Although it is Grade II listed on the National Heritage List for England, it is sadly neglected. It was erected by the Essex Highway Trust in about 1760 and placed just before the key junction towards Harlow and the right-hand turn of the highway leading ultimately to the Norton Mandeville and Writtle parish boundary via North Weald. Milestones were of huge importance to carts, carriages, riders and pedestrians as lacking speedometers they depended on the regular placing of milestones to gauge their journey. This milestone would originally have stood three feet high after being set two feet into the ground. Inevitably after more than 250 years it does not stand so tall – but it has survived in its original location. Engraved on it is ‘London 16’ and ‘Harlow 6’. All measurements were calibrated from Hyde Park. Original road side markers were of wood but their propensity to rot meant they were systematically replaced by the Road Trusts, who charged at various turnpike and gate points along the route from London through Epping. The Epping markers are made of limestone. The turnpike for Epping was by the traffic lights at Bell Common and Piercing Hill and is now known as Belle Vue Cottage, which has added an additional storey. The gate for access to the road after payment is remembered in the nearby pub’s name The Forest Gate. There was much traffic through Epping and the 26 pubs in the town showed its importance as a main coaching and transportation route to Bishop’s Stortford and on to Cambridge and Bury St Edmunds as well as to the East. A safe arrival at Epping from London - via Woodford and Loughton – was a great relief to travellers as the forest was full of opportunistic foot pads, highway men and rogues. The milestones were used to report these often violent robberies. “On Thursday, about four o’clock in the afternoon, as Samuel Dupont, Esq and his lady were returning to their house in Broad Street, Woodford, they were stopped at the six mile stone, near Snaresbrook by two highwaymen; exceedingly well mounted, with masks over their faces and armed with pistols, who took from them their gold watches, purses and which together contained about 25 guineas and some silver.” Press report 1790. Dick Turpin was the most infamous highway man in the area. To reach Epping safely without incident or robbery was a great relief and one cannot help but feel that some Dutch courage, from one of the many hostelries, must have been a necessary restorative for many an apprehensive traveller. The old road through the forest still exists, the low road which winds through Loughton and Buckhurst Hill. The New Cut Road straight through the forest was engineered in the early 1830s to obviate the steep hill climbs and for safety. To this day, the Corporation of London must maintain a clear margin alongside this road without trees or bushes. The origins for this is to prevent concealment of highwaymen and footpads. The horses would also have been relieved to arrive after the long slog up hill to Epping, which stands on the ridge between the River Roding and the River Lea. It is as high as the cross on the top of St Paul’s Cathedral. Residents will be aware of the town always being slightly cooler than Loughton and Woodford, perhaps to the relief of cyclists labouring up the steady ascent of Epping New Road. The old road was steeper still. Thus an apparently obscure and overlooked stone on the outskirts of Northern Epping has behind it much history of our market town. It is to be hoped that the renovation of this stone, indeed all the seven remaining stones on the Epping to Writtle route, might be more than a dream and Epping will soon have its companion stone to Bell Common suitably restored. The charm of our delightful town, under threat from all sorts of rapid developmental pressures, depends on securing and preserving such details.
Safer Epping At our last meeting in June we were expecting a presentation from a chief inspector for traffic plus two other officers but, unfortunately, they were diverted to a major incident, but we still had interesting and useful conversations. Jimmy and Cherry attended the Police, Fire & Crime Commissioner’s informative conference where we took part in breakout sessions on drug driving, the Violence & Vulnerabilty Unit and cyber crime. A really useful day. We have been planning to deliver a system where we can report damaged/overgrown road/traffic signs, overgrown hedges affecting access to pavements and worn out road markings, but we do need a what3words location and a photo. We have received some reports but without the location and a photo we cannot act. Hopefully, we now have a system in place. Please forward details to: mccrediecherry@gmail.com We shared a stand at the Town Show with Neighbourhood Watch, Speedwatch and the Independent Advisory Group (IAG) (critical friends to the police). Our next meeting is on 14th September, Epping Hall at 7.15pm. If you’re interested in joining the IAG or if you have any issues you would like raised, please email: mccrediecherry@gmail.com
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The Music Den, Epping
The Den has had yet another successful quarter, bringing a selection of live music to Epping and as always, my grateful thanks goes out to all those that attended and supported live music. Long may it continue. The good news is I’ve started booking for 2027. Line up for 2026 forthcoming months. 18th August; The Recliner Blues Band 1st September; Max and Veronica (on a UK tour) 15th September; Dave Ferra Band 13th October; The Mustangs 20th October; Debbie Bond Band 24th November; Hamilton Loomis (on tour from Texas) 8th December; Ben Tyzack & Guy Tortora Please support your local live music venue.
Epping Bowls Club At Epping Bowls Club, a little rain never dampens our spirits. During our annual Ladies vs Gents Day, members embraced the weather with laughter, colourful umbrellas and plenty of community spirit. Our new irrigation system, generously funded by the Grange Farm Trust, helps keep our green healthy and sustainable throughout the season — but on this occasion, it became part of the fun. A wonderful reminder that friendship, fun and a sense of humour are at the heart of our club.
Halls for Hire Epping Town Council has a range of facilities for hire at Epping Hall, St Johns Road and the Jack Silley Pavilion at Stonards Hill recreation ground. Epping Hall can accommodate 150 for seated receptions, with a small dance floor, for an informal buffet, or can be converted into a theatre with rack seating. There is a large stage with curtains, suitable for a range of performances, alongside back stage facilities too. Epping Hall also has a garden lounge with seating for 16 and opens out onto a small patio and garden area. Our conference room is also available for hire and can accommodate meetings for up to 50 people. Facilities include use of the Council’s Wi-fi and TV. We have a further two spaces available at the Jack Silley Pavilion. There is plenty of free parking and it is an ideal venue for children’s parties and clubs. The Essex Room is suitable for around 60 people seated or up to 100 standing. Facilities include a kitchen area, crockery and glasses. The Forest Room accommodates around 40 people seated or a maximum of 60 people standing and has a small kitchen area with tea making facilities. To enquire about bookings, email: info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk
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Epping-Eppingen Twinning Association Cultural Exchange Visit: 9-16 June It was Eppingen’s turn to host the 2026 cultural exchange. There were 13 participants altogether, including two who just came for a long weekend. The main party was welcomed at Karlsruhe/ Baden-Baden airport on the Tuesday afternoon and transferred by bus to Eppingen. After a visit to Café Geier for coffee and the largest slices of cake imaginable, the twinners spent the first evening settling in with their host families. These exchanges always follow the same pattern, with talks and discussions each weekday morning and outings to places of interest during the afternoons and at the weekend. The talks were in German, but with interpreting and explanations to ensure that everyone benefitted fully. The sessions were ably facilitated this year by Eppingen association members Dr Rainer Köthe and Eva Mairhofer. Some of these explored German current affairs and others were geared to the outings that followed. Some of the places we visited also included guided tours by local experts. Many of our German friends accompanied us on the various trips. One visit (on the only rainy day) was to the stonemasonry museum in Mühlbach with its many intricate exhibits spanning several centuries, and to the working sandstone quarry nearby. There was also a trip to the state-of-the-art Pre-Zero Arena, home to the German football team TSG 1899 Hoffenheim. This stadium, near Sinsheim, was financed by local IT entrepreneur and philanthropist Dietmar Hopp. We were shown round by a former player. In Sinsheim itself we visited the Technik Museum, which has the theme of materials, handling and transportation. This might sound boring, but with interactive robotic displays and much more, it was anything but. Following a session devoted to the history of Jewish people in Germany generally and Eppingen in particular, we were given a knowledgeable and respectful tour of the Jewish cemetery just outside the town. Eppingen also has 14 Stolpersteine, which are memorial plaques set in the pavement outside the former homes of victims of Nazi persecution. There was an action-packed weekend spent in Tübingen, which is home to one of the oldest universities in Germany. Many students were out and about on this warm Summer weekend — they constitute about a third of the population of this small city. On the way there, we stopped off at the home of Germany's favourite chocolate — the Ritter factory and visitor centre in Waldenbuch. The Saturday afternoon featured a guided tour of Tübingen, together with a punt trip on the River Neckar. The punts here are different from English ones, being larger and propelled by a professional, so it felt more like being on a gondola. In the evening the group enjoyed a meal together at the Neckarmüller restaurant. Accommodation was at the centrally located Hotel Krone. The Sunday morning was more relaxed, with time spent in the Botanic Garden. In the afternoon there was a visit to Burg Hohenzollern. This stunning hilltop residence, rebuilt in the 19th century, is the ancestral seat of the former imperial Hohenzollern family and is of great importance in German history. On the return journey we stopped off for dinner at a wine estate restaurant. Monday was the last full day. In the evening there was a farewell meal at the Villa Waldeck restaurant with our German friends. The dinner was followed by speeches, an exchange of gifts and presentation of certificates of attendance. We managed to squeeze in another visit on Tuesday morning before the airport transfer. This was to the ‘Baroque city’ of Rastatt, which was planned to create an impression of perfectly proportioned uniformity. In pride of place at the centre is the Residenzschloss, the palace of the Margraves of Baden-Baden, which was modelled on the Palace of Versailles. Our thanks are due to Heike Lachowitzer and her team for the meticulous organisation, to our hosts and to everyone else who helped make this one of our most rewarding exchanges yet. As always, it was an opportunity to renew old friendships and make new ones. We are already looking forward to next summer when it will be our turn to host the cultural exchange.
Epping Town Council information TOWN COUNCILLORS 2023-2027 Members - Hemnall Ward
FORTHCOMING MEETINGS
Cllr N Avey cllrnigelavey@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk Cllr C Burgess cllrchristineburgess@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk Cllr C McCredie 07831 501598 cllrcherrymccredie@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk Cllr R Sharif cllrraziasharif@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk Cllr Janet Whitehouse 01992 560289 cllrjanetwhitehouse@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk Cllr Jon Whitehouse 01992 561875 cllrjonwhitehouse@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk
Please note: meetings are in-person meetings and will be held at Epping Hall unless otherwise stated. August 2026
11 Planning 11 COUNCIL 25 Planning
7.15pm 8.00pm 7.15pm
September 2026
8 Planning 8 COUNCIL 22 Planning
7.15pm 8.00pm 7.15pm
October 2026
13 Planning 13 COUNCIL 27 Planning 27 Corp Gov
7.15pm 8.00pm 7.15pm 8.00pm
Members - St John’s Ward Cllr L Burrows 01992 572003 cllrlesburrows@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk Cllr J Duffell 07847 357493 cllrjohnduffell@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk Cllr H Pegrum 01992 572173 cllrhughpegrum@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk Cllr G Scruton cllrgrahamescruton@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk Cllr H Whitbread 07508 180426 cllrhollywhitbread@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk Cllr M Wright 07926 516097 cllrmichaelwright@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk Cllr R Sharif, Cllr H Whitbread, Cllr Janet Whitehouse and Cllr Jon Whitehouse are also Epping Forest District Councillors. 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 Town Council representative to attend, please email: info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk 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.
November 2026
10 Planning 7.15pm 10 COUNCIL 8.00pm 24 Planning 7.15pm 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.
talk about epping deadlines Articles for the next edition of Talk About Epping must be submitted before 5 October 2026 (Winter issue) and 4 January 2027 (Spring 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:
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