The Mayor’s view
My year as Mayor is halfway through. I’m enjoying meeting new people and visiting places I may not otherwise have been invited to, but the photographs are another matter.
A highlight of the past few months was the VJ Celebration in August. VE Day had been celebrated just before I became Mayor and it was important to me that Epping should also celebrate VJ day as the war in the Far East was often called ‘The Forgotten War’. Residents who had relatives who had been involved in the war in the Far East were invited to tea and they brought lots of memorabilia. It was a wonderful display of photographs, documents and medals which showed what servicemen and civilians had experienced during the war. There was also a talk by military historian Paul Hunt. Another highlight was being invited by the Jack Petchey Foundation (JPF) to present their Achievers’ Awards. Before I was invited to do this, I knew JPF only as an organisation which gave grants for projects involving young people, but it’s so much more.
Jack Petchey, who died last year, believed that given opportunity and encouragement, young people could achieve and JPF provides these.
Some of the awards I presented were to young people who had overcome a personal challenge while others were for outstanding sporting achievements. Most local schools and many young people’s organisations are part of the award scheme. For more information go to: www.jackpetchey foundation.org.uk
One of the duties of the Mayor is to chair the monthly Town Council meetings. This is where matters relating to the services provided by the council such as the Monday market and the playgrounds are discussed and finances are monitored. New initiatives are also discussed, such as the community toilets scheme, which I proposed.
Carpino Lounge, Caffé Nero and the District Council offices are taking part. A community toilet scheme enables people to use the premises’ toilets without having to buy anything. However, if you do make use of the facilities, please consider buying your next coffee from one of these community supporting cafés. The Christmas trees which were part of the High Street Christmas decorations have come to the end of their life and town councillors have spent much time discussing what should take their place. Stars have been chosen which we hope will make a good display. Preparation is underway for the Christmas Market on Saturday 6th December and I hope to see many of you there.
Janet W hitehouse
Epping Neighbourhood Plan
Epping Town’s Neighbourhood Plan is currently under consultation and this will end on Monday 3rd November 2025. The Plan has been developed over the last 11 years and was previously consulted on in 2024. Due to the longevity of the Plan’s development and the changes that have already taken place over that time, the Planning Inspector requested an additional 4 week period of consultation so that any further views could be taken into consideration. Once this consultation period has concluded and the comments analysed, the Planning Inspector will advise on the next steps, which will hopefully move Epping’s Neighbourhood Plan towards referendum and conclusion. If made, the Neighbourhood Plan will form one of the key planning documents when planning applications are determined in Epping Parish. We will keep you advised of progress.
FRIDAY 7 NOVEMBER
10.30am
11.00am
Service at the memorial plaques to the Civilian casualties and HMS Sickle in the Memorial Garden outside St John’s Church.
Dedication of the Garden of Remembrance at the War Memorial
11.30am Service of Remembrance at Epping Cemetery (by the Commonwealth War Graves).
Those attending are invited to visit the Hemnall Social Club afterwards.
SUNDAY 9 NOVEMBER
!"##pm The Remembrance Day Parade will assemble at the EFDC Civic Offices car park in the High Street
2.10pm The Parade will move off and proceed to the War Memorial, led by the Epping Forest Pipe Band.
2.20pm Wreath-laying ceremony at the War Memorial.
2.45pm The Parade will march off along the High Street to St John’s Church, paying compliments to the Town Mayor and the Chairman of the District Council on the way.
3.00pm Service of Remembrance at St John’s Church.
4.00pm
Refreshments at the Epping Hall. Those preferring something a little stronger are cordially invited to the Hemnall Social Club.
Poppy Appeal Organiser
John Duffell
Epping has several Remembrance events in the Parish, including the main Sunday afternoon parade, which are organised by the Royal British Legion, Epping & District Branch. Please see the programme above.
Ashlar House: Art in Care Homes event
Barchester Ashlar House Care Home proudly hosted a special “Art in care homes” event, celebrating the transformative power of the arts to uplift, connect and inspire individuals in care settings.
The event featured a stunning exhibition presented by Knightsbridge Fine Art, with the esteemed Phillipa as our guest and was further honoured by the presence of our Town Mayor Cllr Janet Whitehouse. The showcased artwork served as a moving reminder of how deeply art can enrich lives, especially within our care community.
Art has a unique way of resonating across all stages of life. Even individuals with limited cognitive capacity can engage meaningfully through gentle and accessible forms like water-based painting and aqua art offering them both emotional expression and a sense of calm.
This inclusive celebration underscores the universal reach of creativity and we are proud to share the beautiful pieces created by our residents in a community display at our home.
Benefit:
Events like this nurture emotional wellbeing, spark meaningful connections and celebrate the creative spirit that lives within everyone regardless of age or ability.
Blue plaque Church’s Butchers
A new blue plaque was unveiled outside Church’s Butchers on Friday 26th September. The shop was opened on the 17th May 1888 by Stephen John Church and has served Epping High Street and the surrounding areas for over 100 years. Church’s Butchers is also home to the ‘Epping Sausage’, which has continued to be produced since the shop’s opening with very little change to the original recipe.
Thank you to the Epping Society for their help in recommending and securing the blue plaque in conjunction with Epping Town Council. The unveiling was led by Epping Town Mayor Cllr Janet Whitehouse and we were delighted to be joined by members of the Church family. Thank you very much to Yvonne Church for undertaking the unveiling. The plaque forms part of a series which can be found around the town. Each one is hand made for the recipient once the wording has been agreed. Details of these can be found on Epping Town Council’s website at: www.eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk
Epping at the Movies, Epping Hall, St Johns Road, Epping, CM16 5JU Friday 7th November @ 7pm – Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning Friday 5th December – Film to be announced
St Clare Hospice, Hastingwood news
Lions on the Loose Meet the Care Bears™Exciting Free Art Trail
Gears Up for Launch
St Clare Hospice and Cloudco Entertainment are delighted to unveil the first of 30 fantastically decorated lion sculptures that will roam the streets of Harlow and Epping in summer 2026, as part of a free sculpture trail called Lions on the Loose, brought to you by St Clare Hospice in partnership with global art producers Wild in Art.
The first decorated lion, recently revealed, has been transformed into a vibrant Care Bears themed masterpiece, bringing colour, joy and a message of compassion to the community.
Rosie Knowles, Deputy CEO of St Clare Hospice, said, “What a fabulous treat we have in store for local people. Our hero lion has been decorated in the colourful and popular Care Bears style, bringing feelings of care and fun to the 2026 trail.”
Rosie continued: “We are delighted that local art team MurWalls - an internationally renowned mural street art collective - has taken on the challenge of making the leader of the pack something truly special.” Lions on the Loose will be a free public art trail, taking over the streets and green spaces of Harlow and Epping in summer 2026. Each sculpture will be uniquely designed by talented artists later this year, with the Care Bears lion expected to be a standout favourite.
Rosie added: “A Care Bears-themed lion is a well-matched collaboration for our local hospice and we hope collectors from across the world will be keen to bid on him at our auction at the end of the trail next autumn. Once the trail is over, every lion sculpture will be looking for a new forever home after they have spent the summer exploring Epping and Harlow, so make sure you get out on the trail next year and pick your favourite. We are delighted to be working with Marc and the team from MurWalls and we think you’ll agree - the street art mural design is extraordinary. It truly is one of a kind.”
Marc Silver, Founder and CEO of MurWalls, said: “We are proud to support St Clare Hospice by painting a bright and glittery lion sculpture for their upcoming trail. The Care Bears’ message of compassion, kindness and emotional support mirrors the heart of St Clare’s mission - providing comfort and care to those who need it most. Both bring warmth in times of vulnerability. We believe art has the power to heal, connect and inspire. These values perfectly align with the incredible work of St Clare Hospice.” 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, Wild in Art said: “We’re thrilled to be partnering with St Clare Hospice to bring ‘Lions on the Loose’ to life in Harlow and Epping. At Wild in Art, we believe in the power of creativity to unite communities, spark conversations and create unforgettable shared experiences. This Care Bears lion is the perfect start to what promises to be an extraordinary trail. But we can’t do it alone - we’re calling on local businesses and organisations to get involved and sponsor a lion. It’s a fantastic opportunity to support your community, boost your brand and be part of something truly special in 2026.”
To sponsor a lion or learn more, visit: lionsontheloose.co.uk or contact Trail Coordinator Lucy Woodington at lucy.woodington@stclarehospice.org.uk or 01279 773753.
Musical Play Panel Lower Swaines
A musical play panel has been installed in the play area at Lower Swaines recreation ground. The play panel has a variety of materials, sounds and cooperative play options to keep children entertained and participate in creative play, on their own or with friends. The play pipes, as seen in the picture, offer sensory variation, whilst training hand-eye coordination and control of movement. We hope that it will be well used by all.
The play panel has been financed by the remaining monies collected by Epping Playground Association and Epping Town Council.
Epping Town Council host VJ Day tea party
Memories were recounted when relatives of those in the Far East during the Second World War attended a VJ Day tea party organised by Epping Town Council and led by Epping’s Town Mayor, Cllr Janet Whitehouse. Some 40 people attended the event at the Jack Silley Pavilion, Epping, on Friday 15th August 2025 including Deputy Lieutenant of Essex Hugh Pegrum and Epping Forest District Council Chairman Cllr Louise Mead.
Epping Town Mayor Cllr Janet Whitehouse hosted the event which featured displays of medals and other wartime memorabilia which was taken along by relatives and a talk from military historian Paul Hunt.
Councillor Whitehouse said: “When I became Mayor I was keen we should mark VJ Day as well as VE Day as World War Two continued for another three months and is often called the Forgotten War. We had lots of memorabilia that people had brought alongphotographs, documents and medals - which showed what servicemen and civilians had experienced during the war. Residents shared memories and were pleased to commemorate their relatives. It was a wonderful way to celebrate this important event.”
Among the relatives invited to the event were Hazel Gardner and her sister Pauline Moxham; whose father, Warrant Officer Ronald Standen, served with the Royal Air Force in Burma until 1946. Hazel said: “He didn't speak much about it but he did tell us about snakes, leeches, walking through waist-high water with their kit over their heads and the terrible rains that were out there - dysentery and malaria. They were told not to speak when they came back from the war and tell anyone what they had been through.”
Susan Carter, whose father Charles Fitch served with the Royal Artillery, was wounded when he was shot through the arm.
Susan said: “He always showed me the bullet mark where it went in and came out. He was sent out for a little recovery but then he went back into the Army.”
A total of 40 people attended the tea party, of whom 24 were residents who were there to commemorate 15 relatives.
Two granddaughters who attended to commemorate their grandfather said:
“We especially enjoyed the historical talk and seeing all the wonderful memorabilia that everyone had brought in.
It was a moving and memorable afternoon and we felt proud thinking of our grandad and his part in history.”
Safer Epping
Our last meeting was well attended and Inspector Jon Maine spoke about the new Neighbourhood Policing Team and also answered many questions regarding the current situation in Epping and many other things. Our next meeting is planned for 17th November at Epping Hall. We will confirm which room nearer the time. Adam Pipe, the Essex Police lead on road safety will be with us and maybe we can start to make some progress in improving the many areas in Epping which have serious issues. We can try. Future meetings are provisionally planned for 9th March and 8th June 2026 in Epping Hall. All meetings start at 7.15pm. For further information, please contact Cllr Cherry McCredie on: mccrediecherry@gmail.com
The Music Den Epping
The Music Den Epping continued to cement its reputation as one of Essex’s most welcoming and vibrant live music venues over the summer months, hosting a remarkable run of performances from both home-grown talent and international acts. From soulful blues to lively Americana and vintage jazz, each event offered audiences something special — and often a well-deserved standing ovation.
July opened in fine style with James Maddock visiting on a short UK Tour from New York, followed by Chris Lord’s Blues Express. Their heartfelt rendition of Eric Clapton’s ‘Old Love’ stood out as one of the highlights of the season; a slow-burning performance that captivated a near-capacity audience. Later in the month, The Fat Penguins brought their trademark energy to a ‘Fab Friday’ night delivering crowd pleasers, including a rousing ‘Louie, Louie’. The night also featured a surprise guest appearance from Dennis joining in on harmonica for ‘Sweet Home Alabama’, a moment that had everyone on their feet.
Then came Veronica Sbergia and Max De Bernardi later in the month visiting from their native Italy, whose authentic 1920s-30s American songbook brought a vintage charm to The Den. Featuring washboard, kazoo and Max’s fingerpicking guitar work, the duo earned two encores and promises to return.
September began on a high note with the long-awaited return of Debbie Bond alongside ‘Radiator’ Rick and Sam Kelly. The Alabama blues artist soulful vocals and Rick’s harmonica artistry made for an unforgettable evening; a perfect launch for her 2025 UK Tour.
Closing out the quarter, Mississippi Macdonald made his first appearance at The Den performing selections from his acclaimed album Slim Pickin’. His commanding stage presence, heartfelt delivery and the audience’s standing ovation marked one of the strongest debuts yet at the venue.
Throughout the summer, Open Mic Wednesdays also drew in regulars and newcomers alike, offering local musicians the chance to share a stage that has hosted so many acclaimed performers.
As autumn approaches, The Music Den shows no sign of slowing down. With an ever-increasing audience, warm atmosphere and a diverse lineup of talent, it remains the beating heart of Epping’s live music scene. Please continue to support live music.
Forthcoming MUSIC DEN Events:
Tues 18th Nov: PAUL ROSE TRIO. Tues 2nd Dec: THE SPIKEDRIVERS Tues 9th Dec: MOJO PREACHERS
Forthcoming FAB FRIDAYS
Fri 7th Nov: THE REVIVALS Fri 14th Nov: REPLACEMENT HIPSTERS Fri 5th Dec: THE BEATIN’ HEARTS
Fri 12th Dec: BLUES ON FIRE Fri 19th Dec: RUSTY SPOONZ
Forthcoming OPENMIC hosted by Mike Happninboy
Wed 29th Oct, Wed 26th Nov, Wed 17th Dec
Community Toilet Scheme
Epping Town Council would like to thank Carpino Lounge, Caffé Nero and Epping Forest District Council for taking part in the community toilet scheme and allowing people to use their toilets without having to purchase anything. Please support them when you do need to buy something.
Epping Under Siege - the bigger picture Epping Society
The Epping Society has been busy recently trying to make residents aware of impending developments and of new housing projects around the town. We think that people might be interested to see the wider local scene. There are at least 4 developments we are presently facing:
1) The South Epping Master Plan Area, known as SEMPA, between Fluxs Lane, Brook Rd, Ivy Chimneys Rd and the M25. In Epping Forest District Council’s Local Plan Inquiry, objectors including the Epping Society persuaded the Inspector to dramatically slash the number of houses. Approved by Epping Forest District Council, applications for planning permission are expected soon. About 32 hectares (79 acres).
2) Land south of Stonards Hill recreation ground, down to the railway line; known as Old Pastures. This is Green Belt and not part of the Local Plan. Recently fenced off to prevent long-standing informal public use. A public consultation closed recently, so at quite an early stage. We have applied to Essex County Council to register some paths as Public Rights of Way. Around 8 hectares (19 acres).
3) Mill Mounds Fields, between Stonards Hill, Theydon Grove and Kendal Avenue. Not in the Local Plan. There is currently a planning application to keep horses on this Green Belt area, which would exclude the present public access; likely an early tactic for a developer. Residents have applied to Essex County Council to register some paths as Public Rights of Way. Also, with our support, Epping Town Council has applied to register these fields as Assets of Community Value. About 14 hectares (34 acres).
4) Land east of Epping, between the Orchards, Bower Hill and Stewards Green Rd, crossed by the Essex Way. Green Belt. Not in the Local Plan. A public consultation was held, (https://eppingeast.co.uk). Possibly 400 homes, about 26 hectares (64 acres).
5) Also, if 4. is allowed, there are several fields northward towards the tube line, which we reckon could then be classified as “infill”, considered suitable for development. Also Green Belt, not in the Local Plan. Very approximately 30 hectares. (74 acres).
(Areas from developers’ documents or estimated from Google Earth; see sketch map, traced from Google Earth. A hectare is roughly 2 acres, or about one and a half football fields). The proposed total area is 80 hectares (197 acres); for comparison, an estimate of the existing town covers 185 hectares (457 acres). This is an increase of 43%. If you add in site 5. That goes to 60%. In other words, it’s the equivalent of adding nearly half a town (or more!). The key problem we all know about is infrastructure; all local services are already far over capacity. If this is of concern, please support us (www.eppingsociety.org), engage with consultations and make sure that your local councillors are aware of your views.
(The Local Plan has identified sites which are considered accetable for development. These sites are not in there!)
Work at Stonards Hill recreation ground: cables
Users of Stonards Hill recreation ground will notice fencing and work taking place along the main central footpath and the footpath between the main football pitch 1 and St Margaret’s Hospital. As detailed previously, Epping Town Council have allowed the NHS Trust to lay cables under Stonards Hill recreation ground to facilitate the new diagnostic centre at the Hospital. In return, there will be a wider and improved path across these two sections of the recreation ground. Please bear with us while work is undertaken. There will be some disruption to the Jack Silley Pavilion car park, but parking is available in the main Stonards car park. (Same parking rules apply, see signs on site for details.)
Little Free Library at the Market Garden (by the side of Marks & Spencer)
Epping Town Council will be providing a Little Free Library in the Market Garden Terrace community garden beside the side entrance to Marks & Spencer. This area is looked after by the wonderful volunteer gardening group, Epping in Bloom. Books will be available to borrow and instructions on how to use the library will be provided. Please keep an eye on the library and any issues should be reported to Epping Town Council on: info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk
If the library proves to be popular and looked after, there may be more provided at other locations. Please consider donating your unwanted books if they will fit into the unit. Please do not leave anything outside the unit. Anything you wish to donate that does not fit inside, should be donated to one of our charity shops in Epping High Street.
For more information on how to get involved with Epping in Bloom, email: eppinginbloom@gmail.com
“Epping under Siege” – sketch map
Rotary Club of Epping: Unite for Good
The Rotary Club of Epping, under the leadership of President Pravin, a committed small business owner with a hardware shop, is a dynamic organisation dedicated to supporting and promoting local businesses. By becoming a member, individuals embark on a journey that boosts their business prospects and fortifies the local economy. The Rotary Club of Epping provides a platform where business owners can connect, share insights and collaborate on community-benefitting projects. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, joining this vibrant group offers access to valuable resources, mentorship and an opportunity to make a positive societal impact. Become part of the Rotary Club of Epping to engage in an inspiring movement that champions local success and community wellbeing.
A Taste Of Turkiye with the Rotary Club of Epping: 1st October
We are thrilled to announce that our Turkish Flavours Fundraising Evening at Piya Bar and Kitchen in Epping was a tremendous success. The event was brimming with delightful tastes, lively conversations and a wonderful sense of community spirit. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who joined us and generously supported our cause. Thanks to your contributions, we raised significant funds for local charity initiatives that make a real difference in our community. Your participation and generosity are truly appreciated and we look forward to welcoming you at our future events.
Stay informed and get involved with the Rotary Club of Epping
In today’s fast-paced world, staying connected and informed is more important than ever. By following us on social media and subscribing to the Rotary Club of Epping community newsletter, you open the door to a world of exciting opportunities. Through our platform, you can learn about the Rotary Club of Epping events and discover various ways to get involved with our initiatives. Whether you’re drawn to volunteering, interested in becoming a member or a corporate member, or keen on donating or sponsoring events, there are countless avenues to make a meaningful impact. The Rotary Club of Epping offers a unique opportunity to support multiple causes, both locally and globally, allowing you to extend your influence beyond any single charity. Join us in our mission to create positive change in the world through community service and charitable giving. Together, we can make a difference that resonates on a global scale.
We asked President Pravin to tell us more about his business journey: Local businesses spotlight: House 2 Home, Epping High Street
“In 2009, after retiring from our previous business in Loughton, we decided that retirement wasn’t quite the end of the road—it was the beginning of something new. That’s when our hardware store first opened its doors. What started as a new chapter has since grown into a cornerstone of the community. Even today, we’re proud to welcome not only our old customers from Loughton but also their children and grandchildren. Seeing generations of families continue to visit us is a reminder of the strong bonds we’ve built over the years. Many people stop by simply to chat and share stories. We’ve become more than a shop, we’re a community space where friendships continue to grow. Opening the store after retirement gave us a new purpose and every day reminds us why we chose this path”.
A Tribute to Peter Hellmers: A Legacy of Compassion and Commitment
Peter Hellmers was a cherished member of the Rotary Club of Epping; a man whose contributions left an indelible mark on both the Club and the community. As a cornerstone of our organisation, Peter was instrumental in spearheading numerous initiatives that have enriched the lives of many.
Among his most beloved projects was the annual ‘Carols on the Green’, which he initiated and nurtured into an event that brings joy to thousands each Christmas Eve. The event stands as a testament to his vision and dedication, creating a space for community celebration and unity.
Beyond his community service, Peter was a devoted family man whose kindness touched everyone he met. His warmth and generosity were evident in every interaction, making him a beloved figure not just within the club, but throughout the community. In addition to his philanthropic endeavours, Peter ran a successful business, Lathams on Epping High Street, where his dedication and integrity shone brightly. Though Peter is no longer with us, his memory and legacy continue to inspire and guide us. His life reminds us of the profound impact one individual can have through compassion, leadership and unwavering commitment. As we reflect on his contributions, we are encouraged to carry forward his spirit of service and dedication in all that we do.
Stay Connected: Website/sign-up to newsletter: rotaryclubofepping.org Facebook: rotaryclubofepping
Instagram: rotary_club_epping Tiktok: rotaryclubofepping
Asset of Community Value: Mill Mound Fields
Epping Town Council have made an application to Epping Forest District Council to designate Mill Mound Fields in Epping as an Asset of Community Value and we thank those of you who completed and returned an evidence form to us to support our application. The response from residents was excellent.
We are still awaiting a decision from Epping Forest District Council and hope to have this by the end of November 2025.
Epping Forest District Council: Ditch the Vape report
The Epping Forest Youth Council has released its Ditch the Vape report. The report is based on responses from nearly 3,000 secondary school pupils, exposing how easily young people can access vapes and the health, social and environmental harms linked to underage use.
While 94% of young people surveyed do not vape, the 6% who do, include some starting in primary school, with many using multiple vapes per week and taking 20+ puffs a day.
The report calls for stronger education, enforcement and early support. The Youth Council have secured £7,000 to deliver Arc Theatre’s Not So Sweet to Epping Forest Secondary schools. It’s an interactive performance for Year 7 pupils about tackling vaping, peer pressure and addiction.
Download the full report:
https://www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/app/uploads/2025/06/EFYC-Vape-Report1.pdf
For further information contact: Diane Gilson-Butler Young Person’s Officer | Customer and Communities � Email: dbutler@eppingforestdc.gov.uk | � Phone 01992 564365
ProActive: Prostate Cancer Support Group
ProActive is a local self-help Prostate Cancer Support Group serving West Essex and South East Hertfordshire based in St. Margaret’s Hospital, Epping.
In the autumn of 2006, a group of patients from St Margaret’s Hospital, Epping began to meet, initially to exchange experiences and ideas, but then realised that there could be a wider need for such a forum and here we are 19 years later.
ProActive is run by and for its members. It provides a confidential and friendly forum by offering support and encouragement for patients, families and carers and to exchange information and experiences. It also aims to raise awareness of prostate cancer in the community through leaflets, displays and events. Whilst we have the active support of local health professionals, ProActive is independent of West Essex Primary Care Trust and Princess Alexandra and St Margaret’s hospitals. ProActive is a member of Tackle which runs the national network of Prostate Cancer Support Groups. Meetings are held on the first Friday morning of each month and often include a speaker on various aspects of prostate related issues. We have members from across Herts and Essex including Epping, Harlow, Bishop’s Stortford, Loughton, Broxbourne, Waltham Abbey, etc.
Contact can be made via phone (0774 737 4692) or email (proactive.epping@gmail.com).
Further information is available on our website (www.proactive.me.uk). The group also has a Facebook page (Proactive - The Prostate Cancer Self-Help Group for W Essex & SE Herts).
Community information and stories
We would love to hear from anyone who has an Epping-related story they would like to share with fellow readers. Please email: info.eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk
Epping Monday Market
Community stall – use it or lose it.
If you are a charity, community group or non-profit organisation, why not promote yourself and raise awareness by using our Epping Monday Market community stall space. Epping’s Monday Market is open 52 weeks of the year including bank holidays, with trading from 9am till 5pm.
By making use of the community stall you can engage with people visiting the high street, that may be interested in your group, that you can’t reach through social media.
To discuss or book the space, call Epping Town Council’s office on 01992 579444 or email: info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk
Epping Christmas Market
The annual Epping Christmas Market is back again this year on Saturday 6th December 2025. We will be opening at 12 noon and finishing at 7pm.
This year’s festive market will have traders offering all sorts of Christmas arts, crafts, and gifts, from traditional to modern, so something for everyone’s stocking and present. There will also be lots of food and drink to buy and try.
The Christmas tree light ‘switch on’ is still very much an important part of this event and the magic button will be switched on by our Town Mayor Cllr Janet Whitehouse. There will be performances provided by some of our local schools, with added entertainment from featured bands and choirs along with popular Christmas characters and of course there’s always the chance that Santa might pop along to keep an eye on proceedings.
So why not come along with all the family and enjoy the fun. Contact: info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk or 01992 579444
Halls for hire
Epping Town Council look after Epping Hall in St Johns Road and the Jack Silley Pavilion at Stonards Hill recreation ground. There are a variety of exercise classes, children’s bookings and private events at the halls.
These include:
Epping Hall:
Mon – Tai Chi, Perform drama, Rock Choir, Tues – Aerobics
Wed – Postnatal pilates, Karate children and adult classes, Epping Women’s Institute (2nd Wed of each month), Thur – BNI Shakespeare, Art class, Singing Bowls (approx. 10 sessions a year) Fri – Babyballers, Epping at the Movies (approx. 6 screenings a year), Sun – Life Church
Jack Silley Pavilion:
Mon – Babyballet, Art class, Illusions dance, Tues – Basking Babies, Illusions dance Wed – Chair Yoga, Thur – Action for Family Carers, Fri – U3A Art class, Illusions dance
Sat – EF School of Dancing. If you would like further information about the classes or to hire either venue, please contact us at: info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk or on 01992 579444.
Epping’s Town Signs
Epping Town Council’s sign maker has recently varnished our Town Signs to help preserve them for winter. The signs are hand carved and include features which represent our historic market town, such as a stag and the Royal Market Charter.
The signs are on the approaches into Town on the main Town Green and Tower Road Green.
St John’s Church Christmas Tree Festival
Town Mayor Cllr Janet Whitehouse will be opening this year’s Christmas Tree Festival at 1pm on Friday 5th December.
There will be a fantastic display of over 60 beautifully decorated trees in the Church prepared by a range of schools, clubs, businesses, societies and local individuals.
There will also be craft stalls, tombola, lucky dip and refreshments along with entertainment from children’s groups and other community groups throughout the weekend.
So come along and enjoy the spirit of Christmas and see the dazzling display of decorated Christmas trees whilst enjoying a hot drink (including mulled wine) and homemade soup, hot sausage rolls and homemade cake.
What a truly wonderful way to start the Christmas season. We look forward to welcoming you.
Opening Hours:
Friday 5th 1:00pm to 6:00pm
Saturday 6th 10:00am to 5:00pm
Sunday 7th 11.30pm to 4:00pm
Monday 8th 10:00am to 1:00pm
Free entry for young people up to 16 years accompanied by an adult Students (16+) £1 with student ID card
Adults £3.00
You can always be sure of a warm welcome at St John’s Church, St Johns Road, Epping, CM16 5DN.
Townsperson and Young Townsperson
TOWNSPERSON OF THE YEAR 2025
We are now seeking nominations for our Townsperson of the Year 2025. You can nominate anybody, as long as they live in Epping and they have made a real difference to the community life of the town. This could be because of the contribution they have made to a local club or organisation, work they have done for charity or for a longstanding commitment they have made to the interests of the Town and its people.
Nominations should be submitted before the 31st January 2026. The winner will be chosen by Council and be presented their award by the Town Mayor.
If you would like a nomination form, please call 01992 579444 or e-mail info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk
Please submit your nominations to the same e-mail address or by post to Epping Town Council, Epping Hall, St Johns Road, Epping, Essex, CM16 5JU.
YOUNG TOWNSPERSON OF THE YEAR 2025
We are now seeking nominations for our Young Townsperson of the Year 2025. You can nominate a young person up to the age of 25, as long as they live or work in Epping and they have made a real difference to the community life of the town. This could be because of the contribution they have made to a local club or organisation, work they have done for charity or for a longstanding commitment they have made to the interests of the Town and its people. Nominations should be submitted before the 31st January 2026. The winner will be chosen by Council and be presented their award by the Town Mayor.
If you would like a nomination form, please call 01992 579444 or e-mail info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk
Please submit your nominations to the same e-mail address or by post to Epping Town Council, Epping Hall, St Johns Road, Epping, Essex, CM16 5JU.
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://bit.ly/m/EverythingEppingForest
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 m ayor
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 5 January 2026 (Spring issue) and 13 April 2026 (Summer 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.
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