Issuu

The Mayor’s view

My year as Mayor ends on May 12. It’s been a wonderful experience with the opportunity to meet new people, go to new places and do things I wouldn’t otherwise have done. Thank you to everyone who has invited me to their event.

The Annual Town Meeting took place on 17 March with reports on planning, finance and the playgrounds.

Cllr Nigel Avey gave an important update on the Neighbourhood Plan which hopefully will soon be in place and a talk by Charlie Geddes from the Epping Society, about changes to planning regulations which increase the threats to the green fields around Epping, was informative and concerning.

On 10 April I unveiled a blue plaque to Ernest Wythes of Copped Hall who was a generous benefactor to the people of Epping. He provided the tower at St John’s Church, the bells, electricity in the church, the Women’s Institute Hall in St Johns Road which became Epping Hall, home of Epping Town Council and also what became the Hemnall Social Club which is where the plaque is situated.

My project during my year as Mayor has been to raise awareness and understanding of dementia. I hope that the street stalls,

Dementia Awareness sessions and the Dementia Fair have enabled many people to get information which is helpful to them. I have enjoyed going to activities for people with dementia and their carers, most recently the Dementia Friendly Bowls at North Weald. The North Weald club is keen to share their experience so that other Dementia Friendly Bowls clubs can be formed.

I’m sure we all want to see Epping as a thriving town with a busy High Street. Community organisations, shops, businesses, faith groups and individuals are invited to a meeting on 20 May to consider setting up a new Epping Town Partnership. £5000 is available for its first project. Please contact me for more information or look out for the leaflets. My last big Epping Town Council event is the Civic Reception on 24 April when the Townsperson, Young Townsperson and the Community Organisation of the Year will be made known. Representatives of a wide range of organisations have been invited but unfortunately it wasn’t possible to invite all. Another big event to come is the opening of the new NHS Community Diagnostic Centre at St Margaret’s Hospital which I have been invited to do. Hopefully this Centre will enable faster investigations and treatment for people in Epping and the surrounding area.

Janet Whitehouse

Epping Monday Market

Epping Monday Market is open all year round, in all weathers (wind sometimes affects this), including bank holidays. There are so many different items for sale in the market and so many great traders who make the market such a welcoming place to be. Please support our traders and businesses by shopping local. We have a lovely historic High Street and we want it to stay that way.

We welcome casual traders and a single pitch is £35. We are quite busy at the moment, but do contact us for up-to-date availability. Please email: info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk

Epping playgrounds

Epping Town Council look after 5 playgrounds in our Parish. Safety surfacing is a vital part of a playground, but very expensive. We have recently replaced large sections of wetpour at Stonards Hill recreation ground and at Parklands, Coopersale. If you have any suggestions for play equipment, do email us so councillors can take these into account when future planning.

Epping Neighbourhood Plan progress update

Epping Town’s Neighbourhood Plan has been formally approved by Epping Forest District Council’s Cabinet to go to referendum. The referendum will take place at Epping Hall on Thursday 18th June 2026. We need your support for the Neighbourhood Plan to be ‘made’. There will be some public consultation opportunities before the referendum so people can ask questions about the Plan and learn more about how it is designed to protect the Town and Parish. Please look out for the consultation dates and do take part and show your support by voting in favour of the Plan, which will form one of the key planning documents against which Epping planning applications are judged in the future. Please email: info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk for more information.

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

Eve’s 100th birthday party at Ashlar House

10th February 2026 dawned with a very special kind of magic, as the home was lovingly prepared to celebrate an extraordinary milestone: Eve’s 100th birthday.

The air buzzed with excitement and anticipation as members of Home Instead made their very first visit of the day, popping in before their shifts to shower the birthday girl with warm wishes, smiles and heartfelt joy.

We had been waiting patiently for a truly royal moment. Thanks to the kindness and dedication of Salim Kasab at the Royal Mail Delivery Office in Epping, the birthday card from His Majesty King Charles III was carefully watched over and safely delivered to the home.

It waited there, full of meaning, until Eve’s son Barry could present it to his mum — a once-in-a-lifetime moment filled with pride and emotion. Thank you, Salim, for your support and for the honour of seeing Eve in person on such a remarkable day.

Adding to the celebration, we were delighted to welcome our Guest of Honour, Town Mayor Cllr Janet Whitehouse, who arrived with a beautiful bouquet of flowers, bringing grace and warmth to the occasion. Our little friends from Bright Horizons also joined the festivities, proudly presenting Eve with a lovingly handcrafted birthday card that melted hearts all around. Glasses were raised in celebration of a century well lived, laughter filled the room and sweet treats Pix n Mix for the little ones added the perfect finishing touch.

A day wrapped in love, community and magic… and a birthday that will be treasured forever.

Town Supervisor marks 40 years with Epping Town Council

Epping Town Council have marked Town Supervisor Bill Towers’ 40 years’ service with the Council. Town Mayor Cllr Janet Whitehouse visited Bill and his team to thank him for his years of loyalty.

Bill looks after Epping Town Council’s outdoor services such as Stonards Hill recreation ground, Bury Lane cemetery, Meadow Road and Lower Bury Lane allotments, the football pitches and five playgrounds, to name but a few. He was also Epping’s Monday Market manager for 22 years until 2016.

Bill has worked alongside 7 Town Clerks and with 37 different Town Mayors since his appointment on 1st April 1986. He was also an on-call fireman at that time and so has served the town and Parish in so many important ways, maintaining a close relationship with the fire service team.

Bill is supported by an excellent grounds team who look after so many of the green spaces we take for granted in Epping Parish. Bill was formally thanked at the Mayor’s Civic Reception in April 2026 and this will feature in the next issue. On behalf of Epping Town Council, congratulations and well done to Bill.

Please let us have any stories and pictures of your community event. Email: info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk

Blue plaque for local benefactor Ernest Wythes

A blue plaque marking the one-time owner of the Copped Hall Estate, Ernest Wythes, and the role he played in the establishment of what is now Hemnall Social Club in Epping has been unveiled by Epping Town Council.

The club was formed in 1894 as the Epping Literary & Mechanics Institute. It was first based in a hut in the William Cottis & Sons Foundry, which is now the site of Epping Leisure Centre. As membership increased, a larger building was required and in 1905, secretary Herbert Gatward wrote to Mr J Carson, a City of London wool merchant who lived in Theydon Bois. Mr Carson owned a piece of land on the corner of Hemnall Street and Clarks Lane, formerly the site of the Epping & Theydon Garnon School. It had fallen into disuse in 1861 when the new National School was built in St Johns Road.

In his letter he explained the reasons for moving. In June 1906, Mr Gatward wrote to Institute president E A Ball with details of the proposed Hemnall Street site, including a rough floor plan, showing the minimum accommodation required in a new building.

The site could be purchased for £500 and the cost of erecting a building would be £1,400. The Institute would be able to pay for the site with subscriptions from members, but not the cost of the building.

Eventually, it was decided to ask local philanthropist Ernest Wythes, the owner of the Copped Hall Estate, to loan the money to the Institute at a low rate of interest. To their delight Mr Wythes offered to pay for the building himself, leaving the committee with just £500 to find for the land.

In November 1907, a tender from Epping builder James Whiffin & Sons was accepted and work on the new building began. The architect was local man F G Hart. The bricks were manufactured at the Cottis brickworks next to Epping railway station.

The new building was officially opened on Wednesday 22nd July 1908. According to newspaper reports of the time, “a large gathering of all classes” witnessed the ceremony which took place in the large reading room. Today this is part of the main lounge, the area in which the stage is situated. The chair was occupied by Institute President E A Ball, flanked by Ernest and Aline Wythes. Also on the platform were Vice-Presidents Colonel Lockwood MP, Sir Thomas Fowell Buxton, F Dent and Revd Allwork, Treasurer Hugh Sworder and the building’s architect, Mr F G Hart. A plaque commemorating the opening can be seen in the club today.

The blue plaque - on the front of the building - was unveiled by Epping Town Mayor councillor Janet Whitehouse and Alan Cox, architect with the Copped Hall Trust. Groups who had benefitted from his generosity joined Epping Town Councillors to mark the occasion.

Epping-Eppingen Twinning Association 2026

It’s never too late to try something new. If you would like to make new friends then why not think about joining the Epping-Eppingen Twinning Association which has at its core friendship, not only here in England, but also with people in our twin town of Eppingen. Here we have a regular Stammtisch (a German word meaning a regular get together in a pub) as well as regular events throughout the year. The local community is also important to us, so we participate in the Epping Town Show and the yearly Christmas tree event. As a member, you will also have the opportunity to visit our twin town Eppingen set in one of the most beautiful areas of Germany Baden Wurtemberg. Eppingen is a modern, progressive town but remembers its past and carefully preserves its medieval centre with its many timber framed buildings. The regional garden show in 2022 gave the town the opportunity to improve the open spaces and so has an attractive lake area at its centre and a green walkway through the town.

Each year our German friends enthusiastically welcome our members, resulting in many long-term friendships. Alternate years there is a culture week which can include the opportunity to learn a little German and also visits to interesting places which are very varied, plus a weekend visit when we are again taken out and about by our friends. Here in Epping, we reciprocate in a similar way.

Eppingen is surrounded by gentle slopes covered with grape vines and fertile farm land. One sees heaps of dung ready to be spread on the fields very often with large black crows sitting on top. Consequently, we have adopted the crow above as our mascot; a Mistrab or Dung crow. A few members have been working very hard updating our website (QR code right). It will give you lots of information. Alternatively, please phone Joy on 07944 570917

Epping Forest Band strikes silver and heads to National Finals

Epping Forest Brass Band is celebrating a major achievement after securing second place at the recent Area Contest held in Stevenage. The result not only reflects the band’s dedication and musical excellence but also guarantees promotion to a higher section next year.

Even more excitingly, the band has now qualified for the National Brass Band Finals, which will take place in York this September.

This prestigious event marks a significant milestone in the band’s long-standing history and offers a chance to represent the Epping community on a national stage. However, reaching the finals comes with considerable costs, including travel, accommodation and competition fees.

To ensure that every member has the opportunity to take part in this special occasion, the band is actively seeking sponsorship from local businesses and support from the wider community.

A fundraising campaign has been launched to help cover these expenses, with donations welcomed via their GoFundMe page: https://gofund.me/dbb13d486

Supporters can also catch the band performing locally in the coming months, including appearances at the Saffron Walden Bandstand on 4 July and the Epping Town Show on 5 July.

As a proud community ensemble, Epping Forest Brass Band has brought music to local audiences for over 90 years. Now, as

their sound to the national stage, they invite the community to rally behind them and be

Epping Street Food Market

Epping Town Council are delighted to have delivered two street food markets on Friday 13th March and Friday 10th April 2026, to taste test their popularity in our Town.

A variety of different flavours were on offer, including Indian, Thai, Noodles and sweet treats and the aroma was mouthwatering.

The street food market is scheduled for the second Friday of each month from 3pm to 9pm, in Epping High Street on a trial basis. Please give us your feedback on: info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk

they prepare to take

part of this exciting journey.

Local scouts brave the elements at Annual Brass Monkey competition

Scouts and Explorer Scouts from across the Royal Forest Scout District took part in the annual 24-hour survival challenge, the Brass Monkey Competition, over the weekend of 7th February.

Young people from areas stretching from Buckhurst Hill to Moreton & Fyfield gathered at Thriftwood Scout Camp Site for the highly anticipated event. The competition tested their resilience, teamwork, and outdoor skills as they built their own shelters and cooked meals over open fires, without the use of pots or pans. Participants also demonstrated their pioneering abilities by constructing camp gadgets using only natural materials found on site.

1st Theydon Garnon Scout Group, based in Fluxs Lane, Epping, entered two teams of Scouts. Competing against 31 teams, they achieved an impressive 3rd and 7th place overall.

Scout Leader Jacqui Mortimer praised the young people for their dedication and spirit:

“The Scouts all love this event, even though the night-time temperatures can plunge to below zero. Although this year it was mild, the site was incredibly muddy after all the rain we’ve had. Every year they put their all into the weeks of training prior to this event, with the older Scouts helping to train the younger ones and it really pays off. I’m very proud of all our Scouts who took part and, as always, they were a joy to be with. Thanks also to Scout Assistant Leader Tom Wells and Young Leader Ed Kinsey for the time and effort they put into helping to train the Scouts.”

The Brass Monkey Competition continues to be a highlight of the Scouting calendar, encouraging young people to develop confidence, leadership and practical survival skills while forming lasting friendships and memories.

3 Food 4 U new community hub

The opening of 3Food4U’s new Community Hub in Epping marks an important moment for our town — a space built not just to support people, but to bring our community closer together.

Launched on 27th April at Bower Hill Industrial Estate CM16 7BN (former Epping Forest ReUse building), the hub is already making a difference. 3Food4U is an award-winning charity, recently honoured with the prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS) — the highest recognition for volunteer-led organisations in the UK. This reflects the scale of impact being delivered and the dedication of the incredible volunteer team behind it.

At a time when many families are feeling the pressure of rising costs, this new centre provides practical help in a way that is welcoming, respectful and accessible to all. There is no referral, no assessment and no judgement — just support when it’s needed. The hub brings together a range of services under one roof, including a traditional charity shop, a community supermarket offering significantly discounted food and essentials and free health and wellbeing activities. A key feature is the weekly Surplus Hub, running every Friday from 1-2pm, where anyone can drop in and access free food and essentials — open to everyone, no questions asked.

But this is more than a place to receive support — it’s a place to get involved. As demand continues to grow, 3Food4U is calling on the community to help sustain and expand these vital services. Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do and we are always looking for people who can spare a few hours to make a real difference.

We are also seeking donations of very good quality clothing and household goods to stock our charity shop and support families in need. If you would like to contribute financially, you can help us continue this work by texting 3FOOD4U and the amount you wish to donate to 70450. This hub belongs to the community — and with continued support, it will remain a place of dignity, hope and connection for everyone. Contact us by email at: info@3food4u.org Or by WhatsApp: 07973 166940

St Clare Hospice news

St Clare Hospice’s January Christmas Tree Collection Raises Over £26,000

St Clare Hospice’s Christmas Tree Collection has taken root as a valued community service. Once again, the collection was a huge success – raising thousands to support the charity’s specialist palliative care in 2026. From 8th to 10th January, a dedicated team of volunteers gathered just under 1,500 trees from homes across the St Clare catchment area of West Essex and the borders of eastern Hertfordshire. From 8th to 10th January, a dedicated team of volunteers gathered. Ellie Gale, St Clare’s Relationship Fundraising Manager, praised the local community for their support of the service: “We would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who booked a tree collection this January. Every donation plays a vital role; your support has given our 2026 fundraising activities a fantastic start, helping to ensure that people living with life-limiting conditions continue to receive the specialist care, compassion and support they need. We managed to raise over an incredible £26,500 and recycled 1,420 trees! This could help cover the cost of running our 24-Hour Advice Line for 53 days and nights, where nursing staff are on hand 24 hours to relieve worries and give expert advice. We are also very grateful for our dedicated volunteers, whose time and hard work made the collections possible.”

The initiative was supported by a number of local waste management companies and corporate supporters. The hospice would like to thank the following: • Arbtec Tree Services, • B&Q Wincanton • Bents Plant Hire Ltd

• BSRFC • British Offsite Ltd, • Concrete Flooring Company • DOC Cleaning • Dunmow Group

• Epping Forest District Council • Exertis • FR Barton & Son • Goodnus • Hollyoake Solutions Ltd

• Loughton Self Drive • Qualis • Rotary Club of Saffron Walden • Saffron Walden Recycling Centre

• Terra Verde Services • The Secure Storage Co • Thornwood Design & Build • Uttlesford District Council

‘Happy, Tired and Traumatised in the Best Way’: British Offsite’s Shaun Weston Reaches South Pole and Raises Over £100,000 for St Clare Hospice

At the start of this January, Shaun Weston, Managing Director of British Offsite Ltd, embarked on The Last Degree Challenge - a seven-day, 100km ski expedition across one of the most extreme environments on the planet. His mission: to reach the Geographic South Pole in support of St Clare Hospice.

After Shaun and his team reached the starting point of the Last Degree - the final 60 nautical miles (roughly 111 km) separating 89° South from the very bottom of the Earth - his toughest stretch began. From there, Shaun skied the entire distance, towing a supply-laden sled through -20°C conditions and pushing himself harder than ever before, ultimately completing the challenge with a triumphant arrival at the South Pole. Speaking about the experience, Shaun Weston said: “I’m feeling happy, tired and traumatised in the best way after completing The Last Degree Challenge. It’s been the culmination of nearly two years of planning and prep work. I’ve directed a huge amount of time and energy into the project and I’m tremendously happy to have supported St Clare Hospice this way.

The South Pole is exactly what you would imagine: a vast, wide, barren wilderness – and cold! Temperatures were between –25°C and –35°C. But I felt a great sense of elation when I finally reached the pole and raised St Clare Hospice’s flag. They do such great work and the care they provide is something people naturally don’t tend to think about until they or their families and loved ones need it.

My association with the hospice goes back many years. My father and his business has worked with St Clare for around 25 years and a very close friend of his was a patient there. Because of that connection, I’ve worked with the hospice for probably 12 to 15 years myself. Over time, you realise how many people you know end up being cared for or supported by them. Having worked with the team, it’s the people who operate the hospice that I’ve also built up a connection with over the years.

They’re fantastic individuals who show up night and day. The Hospice at Home nurses are up at all hours providing support and comfort – it’s a phenomenal service.”

Shaun’s commitment to St Clare extends far beyond this challenge. Throughout 2025, he took on a remarkable lineup of fundraising events - from a family fun walk and charity golf day to a boxing spar-a-thon, a gala dinner and even taking on the Yorkshire Three Peaks. So far, his efforts have raised an astounding £113,000 for the hospice. This could go towards covering the cost of 518 nights of specialist care for families caring for a loved one at home at the end of their life.

You can still continue to support Shaun and the hospice by donating to his Just Giving page: Shaun Weston is fundraising for St Clare Hospice (Hastingwood).

The Music Den Epping

The Music Den continues to go from strength to strength thanks to the continued support of a regular and appreciative audience. The first four events included the return to The Den of Stompin’ Dave and Earl Jackson, The Milkmen and The Cadillac Kings, all playing to near capacity audiences. Also, February saw the first appearance at The Den of Chris Rand & The Heavy Echo blending some soulful grooves with rock improvisations. The Den and The Milk Men were also included in a review in the February issue of Blues in Britain magazine helping to raise the profile of the club even more. Line up for forthcoming months:

26th May; Sam Kelly Station House 2nd June; The Heaters 16th June; JAMES MADDOCK – an MD SPECIAL 30th June; Paul Rose Trio 14th July; The Fat Penguins 28th July; Nigel Bagge Band 1st Sept; Max and Veronica FAB FRIDAY EVENTS:

1st May; Anna Wells 15th May; BIG MAMA’S DOOR – an MD SPECIAL 12th June; Sahara 3rd July; Razz Duo Please support your local live music venue.

Milestone at Bell Common

Local milestone restorer Jimmy Waters has been trying to get the Epping milestones restored to the condition of some of the others in the District for many years. The London 15 milestone at Bell Common had been shattered into many pieces and it was touch and go as to whether it could be restored and returned to its position. Jimmy worked tirelessly with the support of his stonemason Stan Reynolds to get the milestone back in place. Stonemason Stan prepared the site for the ground anchor that will keep the stone stable. The Team at the City of London Corporation had installed a pilot hole for the fast-setting concrete to go in. With the Portland stone base secure, Stan drilled the two main halves to insert steel dowels to help hold them together. This was extremely difficult due to the angle of the break. Stan’s photo here shows a good day’s work. Due to the damage sustained, it was not possible to use the ‘6’ on the WOODFORD side that is also missing the ‘D’ and the ‘5’ on the LONDON 15 face along with the ‘DON’. There are preferred practices in milestone work and normal milestone practice is not to paint in what isn’t there. The pictures show Jimmy whiting down over Stan’s sealer that he applied on finishing the job. And the part Jimmy enjoys the most — detailing the inscriptions. This project has been a long, arduous journey. With the help, both financially and operationally of Epping Town Council and the City of London Corporation, the milestone is now proudly fulfulling its intended purpose. Well done and thank you to Jimmy and Stan.

Julie’s café at Stonards turns 7: The journey so far

On 19th April 2019, Julie opened the doors of the café at Stonards Hill recreation ground. At the age of 19 she was thinking about her future and looking for an opportunity to develop new skills. Epping Town Council had extended the Pavilion to accommodate a café and Julie saw the advert for tenders. Fuelled by a desire to run her own business, she put in a tender and to her surprise was offered the opportunity to open the café. Julie was delighted and honoured when she received the Young Person of the Year award in 2021. She also feels it is important to support other community activities such as the Epping in Bloom scarecrow event and the Christmas tree festival which she has won twice. Together with family support and a loyal team of employees she has overcome business obstacles such as covid, two break-ins, poor weather and most recently surfacing work within the park.

A Milestone Worth Celebrating: She said, reaching our 7th year milestone isn’t just about me; it is about my staff and the community that support us. We’ve grown from a small dream into a local community facility, thanks to our dog walkers, regular customers and all those who come to the park for breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea, or just a quick coffee or takeaway drink, ice cream or snack. We celebrated our birthday by inviting everyone to join us for a piece of cake.

Looking forward: The café has recently been redecorated and the main feature is a mural painted by a staff member. Our wish is simple, to continue to provide the friendly service and good food we are known for. We will be introducing new dishes on our summer menu and we hope customers will see us as a destination for lunch and be attracted by our free car park. Cream teas and High teas are very popular and can be pre-booked.

Two summer events are very important to us, the Epping Town Show and the Rotary Classic Car Show when we provide hospitality, cold drinks, ice cream and sweets. Our Summer opening hours are 9am to 4.30pm (hours are weather dependant).

Dr Neil Hudson MP

Protecting our local environment is one of my key priorities as the MP for Epping Forest. We are fortunate to live alongside one of the nation’s most treasured green spaces and I know many constituents feel strongly about proposals threatening our Green Belt. I have been closely engaged, objecting strongly to the proposed development on the Green Belt near Theydon Bois tube station, meeting with the Parish Council, local councillors and residents and speaking at a packed public meeting in the Village Hall. I have formally raised my concerns with the Council. I also remain deeply concerned about additional applications on the Green Belt, including those at Old Pastures and near Stewards Green Road. In addition, I am hugely concerned regarding solar plants being inappropriately proposed for farmland between Thornwood and Epping Upland. It is vital that any decisions fully consider the long-term impact on biodiversity, local infrastructure, food security and the character of our communities.

Improving access to healthcare locally is another key focus. I am delighted that our new Community Diagnostic Centre at St Margaret’s Hospital here in Epping is open for appointments, helping to improve access to vital tests and reduce waiting times. I am delighted that this project initiated and committed to by the previous Government is now here and that under concerted pressure from me, the new Government agreed to continue this much-needed Centre. However, continued delays to rebuilding both Princess Alexandra and Whipps Cross hospitals are deeply concerning. I have visited both hospitals to hear directly from staff and patients and I will continue pressing the Government for urgent progress. I was also delighted to welcome the new Epping Leisure Centre, a valuable investment supporting both physical and mental wellbeing locally.

As an MP who is a vet by background, it was lovely to visit Redwings Ada Cole Horse Sanctuary in Nazeing, where I met staff and the lovely horses and heard more about their vital work caring for rescued horses. It has also been a pleasure to visit many local schools, including The Tower School, Epping Primary, Epping St John’s and Ivy Chimneys Primary, meeting pupils and staff and hearing directly from young people about the issues that matter to them. As ever, I and my small team are here to help. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch at: neil.hudson.mp@parliament.uk if I can be of assistance, or follow my work at: www.neilhudson.org.uk

Rotary Club of Epping news

Rotary Club of Epping’s Literacy Trail Festival: A Celebration of StoriesSponsored by Aves Opticians

Epping High Street came alive this March as the Rotary Club of Epping unveiled its inaugural Literacy Trail Festival, held in conjunction with World Book Day. Participants explored local businesses, each revealing a fragment of a mystery story. As the narrative unfolded, readers of all ages were challenged to piece together clues and uncover the book’s title.

A standout highlight was the launch of the “Take One, Leave One” Street Library outside Church’s Butchers. Unveiled by Barbara Scruton—delightfully dressed as Gangster Granny—the initiative reflects the club’s commitment to encouraging reading while promoting sharing and accessibility. The festival also celebrated local literary talent, with Town Mayor Cllr Janet Whitehouse announcing Maddie Schumann as the winner of the Rotary Club of Epping’s Short Story Competition. With its blend of creativity, collaboration and community spirit, the Literacy Trail Festival has established itself as a welcome addition to Epping’s cultural calendar.

Rotary Club of Epping’s Easter Fun on the High Street

The Rotary Club of Epping brought Easter cheer to Epping High Street with a lively community stall. Visitors enjoyed festive treats and took part in the popular “Name the Bunny” competition, making it a fun-filled day for all ages. We’re delighted to share that all donations will go towards our President’s Charity, funding a new pony for Chigwell Riding Trust, helping people with disabilities. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated, joined in and stopped by; your support means a great deal.

Our next fundraiser for this cause is our upcoming Gala Dinner on 8th May at the King’s Oak Hotel, Paul’s Nursery Rd, High Beech, IG10 4AE. Tickets are still available. Please reserve your place to help us reach our goal by emailing: info@rotaryclubofepping.org

Exciting Growth at the Rotary Club of Epping

We are pleased to announce that the Rotary Club of Epping continues to grow and flourish. In February, we welcomed new corporate members—Stevenette Estate Agents and 39D - IT Support into our club. Their addition marks an important step forward in bringing together local businesses and individuals committed to making a positive impact.

Aves Opticians: Brightening Futures with the Rotary “I Can See” Project

We are proud to spotlight our valued corporate members, Aves Opticians, for their inspiring work supporting the Rotary “I Can See” Project which provides the gift of sight to people in Zambia. Their team carefully sorts, cleans and measures donated glasses using a focimeter before labelling and preparing them for shipment. This initiative not only promotes recycling but also transforms lives by improving vision and opportunity.

Quizingo Evening at Wildwood

Our Quizingo Evening at Wildwood was a fantastic night of fun, food and fellowship. Guests enjoyed great conversation, a delicious meal and an engaging mix of Trivia and Bingo. The raffle added to the excitement, with lucky winners claiming their prizes. A big thank you to Agata Rumbelow and Lauren from Foskett Marr for organising such a successful event.

Rotary Club of Epping Proudly Supports Epping Forest FC Ladies

The Rotary Club of Epping is delighted to support Epping Forest FC Ladies through the sponsorship of their new track jackets, reflecting our commitment to promoting local sport and empowering community teams. The team plays a vital role in encouraging participation, teamwork and confidence and we look forward to watching them play this season.

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.

Epping in Bloom are always looking for new volunteers to help with the community garden opposite the side entrance to Marks & Spencer. Our fun and friendly gardening group meet on Fridays in the garden. A great way to have fun and enjoy some fresh air. Please email: eppinginbloom@gmail.com for more information.

Friends of St Margaret’s Hospital

In April, the Friends of St Margaret’s Hospital welcomed visitors to their Spring Fayre at Theydon Bois Village Hall. A steady flow of visitors came to browse a variety of stalls, from plants to a prize-rich tombola, fashion to food, bags to bric-a-brac and more.

A light lunch menu was enjoyed by shoppers and guests in the Hall or outside on a sunny day.

A large display board in the Hall showed photos and information about the charity and how the Friends support wards and departments on the St Margaret’s site in Epping, providing finance for vital items which are needed in the Mental Health Unit and Epping Forest Unit, but which the NHS budget can’t supply. Two guests to the lunch signed up to be Friends immediately and many more expressed interest in the charity’s work.

The day was a great success financially, especially because the star feature of the event was a very special raffle with great prizes, which ranged from lunch or afternoon tea at smart venues… to fabulous hampers, from a sky-diving session… to a week’s holiday in a Devon resort, complete with hot tub. These amazing prizes were much sought after; the raffle raised over £1500 towards the total for the event of just under £3000 for the local hospital charity.

Epping

Society

Maybe not gone, but certainly not forgotten?

Readers will likely be very familiar with the two red public telephone boxes in Epping High Street, by the junction with Buttercross Lane. They have not been in use for many years and have been in a variety of states of repair. Peeling paint, broken glass, graffiti and general, often unsavoury uses have been accompanied by a range of stickers – for events and services.

The Epping Society has tried to keep track of their ownership and encouraged good maintenance and suggested possible uses. Ideas have included a “free” bookstall (although Rotary, the Community Garden and Tesco have had such functions at various times). The possibility of a defibrillator sounded good, but questions of power supply, security and upkeep were problems and Epping already has in the order of 25 such machines. Then a community information centre was suggested – like a mini Tourist Information Centre, with leaflets, notices, etc about heritage, events and organisations.

Both Town and District Councils have expressed support for preservation, but lack the funding to acquire and then maintain them. The Epping Society has briefly considered a purchase, but again - funding. This design was by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, the architect responsible for famous sites like Liverpool Cathedral and Battersea Power Station, an expert might like to confirm they are the K6 model. They are registered with English Heritage as Grade 2 Listed Buildings, so strict rules about uses and changes should apply, that should include a ban on removal. One was advertised for sale last year at £5,000 but then withdrawn and now many of you have noticed that the current owners have put them up for Auction with Strettons, at a guide price of £13,000. By the time this has reached you the auction will have happened and we may know more about the plight of these iconic features.

Safer Epping

At our last meeting on 9th March, we reminded attendees of general safety items such as Faraday pouches, crook locks, locking garden sheds and more. Information on IMEI codes for mobile phones, drink spiking and smoke alarms was shared.

Road safety continues to be something that needs to be addressed and we will continue to work on areas already raised and maybe finally get a result.

We were fortunate to have members of our Neighbourhood Policing Team in attendance who could advise on issues such as scramble bikes being ridden in public spaces.

We are collating a list of damaged street signs which will be forwarded to the relevant authority. Our next meetings are on 8th June and 14th September in the Conference Room at Epping Hall at 7.15pm.

All are welcome to attend.

Reminders will be posted on Everything Epping Forest and on our Facebook page which you are welcome to join. Please send any questions to me, Cllr Cherry Mccredie, by email on: mccrediecherry@gmail.com We look forward to seeing you.

Epping Town Council information

TOWN COUNCILLORS

2023-2027

Members - Hemnall Ward

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

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 L Burrows, 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.

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 20 July 2026 (Autumn issue) and 5 October 2026 (Winter 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