Some distinguished guests joined Surrey Hills Society members at a launch celebration event in The Guildhall, Guildford, in the middle of September. Guests included Mole Valley MP Sir Paul Beresford, who recently joined the Society, and the Mayor of Guildford, Jennifer Jordan.
In the ancient setting of the Guildhall, members and guests had the opportunity to enjoy a drinks reception, a wine tasting with Dorking winemakers Denbies, canapés from Society member Alan Fisher’s Surrey Gourmet company and a short concert by the Godalming Operatic Society, all organised by Guildford town centre manager and Society member Chris Howard.
Chairman of the Surrey Hills Society, Neil Maltby, welcomed the guests and thanked Guildford Mayor Jennifer Jordan for allowing the Society to use the Guildhall.
Members of the Surrey Hills Society at the launch with Mayor of Guildford Jennifer Jordan.
From left, Chairman of the Society Neil Maltby, Surrey Hills AONB Director Rob Fairbanks, The Guildford Magazine Editor, Maggie Walsh and MP Sir Paul Beresford.
Founder members, Handa Bray and Gail Sperrin.
He told guests that the Society had grown fast this year, less than twelve months from the first meeting at which its formation was proposed. It had now been confirmed as a registered charity. And he thanked all those who had contributed to the work of setting up the Society and getting it underway.
He added: “I have been very encouraged by the enthusiasm with which so many people have welcomed the formation of the Society. It has shown that there are many people in and around Surrey who share my enjoyment of the Surrey Hills. Charitable status and our steady expansion also means that there are more opportunities for people to volunteer to help with the running of the Society or in organising and participating in walks and projects or enjoying social events.”
From left, Chairman of the Society Neil Maltby, Christine Howard, Lesley and Keith Childs.
From left; Founder members Mr & Mrs Holmes, Mike Dawson and Graham Butler.
From left, Founder Member David Wright, Chairman Neil Maltby, Mayor of Guildford Jennifer Jordan, and Nigel Davenport.