Welcome to the LOSRA Website
Like any local community, the policies and decisions shaping the character and future of Lower Sunbury are influenced by a combination of local and national government initiatives, alongside market forces and vested interests operating within these frameworks. As with many areas, Lower Sunbury faces challenges stemming from an aging infrastructure, rapid urban development, increasing traffic congestion, and other pressures that impact both quality of life and the distinctive character of the neighbourhood.
In collaboration with local authorities, other residents’ associations and amenity groups, LOSRA plays a vital role in addressing fundamental issues that affect its members' lives. This organisation not only engages with broader strategic concerns but also focuses on the everyday matters that shape community well-being.
To stay informed, we encourage you to subscribe to our regular e-bulletins via the link at the top left of this page. Your continued support is essential to our efforts, and we urge you to join or renew your membership. Subscriptions for 2026 are now payable at £5 per household. Donations are also welcome.
Bikers' Reunion
Surrey Police are taking over an empty retail unit next Saturday and Sunday the 19th & 20th January to try and reunite owners with bicycles that are believed to have been stolen in north Surrey and borders. If your bike has been lost or stolen you are invited to come along and see if your bike is among the 50 on display. The retail unit is situated in at the bus station end of the Elmsleigh Centre in Staines-Upon-Thames and will be manned by the police from 10am to 4pm each day.
Detective Constable Paul Rennison said: "We have reviewed crimes in north Surrey and just over the border in the Thames Valley and Metropolitan Police areas but have been unable to link these bicycles to any burglaries or thefts. I would urge anyone whose bike has been lost or stolen to come along and check whether theirs is among those on display.
Anyone coming along on the day is asked to bring any documentation they have about their bicycle and any police crime reference numbers they have if it has been reported as stolen property.
If you are unable to attend on either of these days but have had a bike stolen which you have not reported to the police, then please call 101 to report the theft with a detailed description of the bicycle, including a serial number if possible."
Richard III Comes to the Riverside Arts Centre 30th Jan - 2nd Feb
Modern, with a hint of medieval - that is the promise made by Gill Lambourn, the director of the Shakespearean classic. Gill has been researching other performances of the Play and taking inspiration from their costumes, staging and production to put on a dynamic and modern performance of the 16th century drama.
Ms Lambourn said: "I have tried to make a modern and dynamic production, and easy for people to follow. Without cutting it would have been over three hours long, so I have shortened it a bit."
Costumes for the 21 strong cast include full-length coats and there are several fight scenes in the play, to be staged at the Riverside Arts Centre, Thames Street. The Play will run from Wednesday 30th January at 7pm until Saturday 2nd February. Tickets cost £10 and may be purchased from the box office on 07505 206757.
Council Calls on High Court over Eco Park permit
As an active campaigner against the installation of an incinerator in Charlton Lane, LOSRA is encouraged to report that Spelthorne Council this week applied to the High Court to have a Judicial Review of the Environment Agency decision to grant a permit for the Eco Park in Charlton Lane, Shepperton.
This was because the Council has concerns about pollution and safety issues and the deadline to request a review was imminent.The Council took legal advice following the announcement of the Environment Agency on 8 October 2012 that it had issued a permit to the planned Eco Park.
The Council sought advice on various matters concerning the process by which the permit was issued and the matters which were taken into account by the Environment Agency. On 14 December 2012 the Council wrote to the Environment Agency asking for answers on the following issues:
- The legality of the conditions imposed.
- Whether the permit satisfies the requirements of EU law.
- Whether the Environment Agency’s approach to the adoption of this novel technology is permissible given experience elsewhere and the requirements of EU law.
On the basis of the answers the Council may receive, it will then consider whether it should continue with the Judicial Review of the Environment Agency’s decision to issue a permit.
Council Leader Frank Ayers said: “Issues of safety are high among the Council’s priorities.This move is obviously not something which we wish to take on lightly, but when the Council received legal advice that the permit appeared to allow pollution from vents at three times the level permitted under EU law – we had to take action to protect our residents.“The decision to act was made after consultation with the Cabinet Members for Environment and Planning – Cllrs Watts and Forsbrey. We look forward to the response of the EA and we hope that our concerns for residents’ safety can be satisfied without the need for expensive drawn-out litigation in the High Court”.
Further information and documents relating to the Eco Park can be found on our website at http://www.spelthorne.gov.uk/article/2760/Eco-Park-proposal
By way of further explanation it may be helpful to explain that on Monday this week, 7 January 2013, the Council issued High Court proceedings for a Judicial Review of the Environment Agency decision to grant a permit to the Eco Park in Charlton Lane Shepperton.The formal “letter before action” delivered to the High Court is a required part of the process to make an application for a Judicial Review under the rules of the High Court.
The Environment Agency has not responded to these points yet but has indicated that it will be able to do so by 18 January 2013. In order to protect its position the Council was forced to issue papers with the High Court in London yesterday as the deadline for the Judicial review ran out on 8 January 2013.
SITA (Surrey) Ltd and Surrey County Council are interested parties to the Judicial Review and have been sent formal copies of the letter before action.
To see the BBC News story, "Shepperton Eco Park may face judicial review", click here.
Good Old Boys Return to Sunbury Cricket Club 18th January
A Happy New Year is extended to all and Sunbury Cricket Club brings a fun night of music to ward to ward off the January depression. The first one of the New Year is on Friday 18th January when SCC welcomes back The Good Old Boys, who made their Club debut just about a year ago and gave us a great evening.
They feature a formidable array of experienced performers from a variety of big name bands, led by Nick Simper (bass/vocals) who first played professionally with Johnny Kidd & The Pirates, going on to play with The Flowerpot Men before becoming a founder member of Deep Purple.
After he left Purple, he played with Marsha Hunt, that band morphing into Warhorse, who made albums for Vertigo. After Warhorse, he went on to form Flying Fox and then Fandango.
Peter Parks (guitar/vocals) was also in Warhorse,and then stayed with through the Fandango era in the ‘80s. Simon Bishop (guitar/vocals) toured with Renaissance, High Society, and The Monks (of “Nice Legs, Shame About The Face” fame), while Richard Hudson (drums/vocals) had been a long-time member of the south-west London scene as percussionist with high profile hit-makers The Strawbs and then Hudson Ford. He was also with Elmer Gantry's Velvet Opera, High Society and The Monks; Alan Barratt (lead singer) was with the British band Jo Jo Gunne and has worked alongside the likes of Chip Hawkes (Tremelos) and Cliff Bennett and the Rebel Rousers.
It goes without saying that they are a top class outfit and we know from their last gig that the contrasting lead guitar styles of Peter and Simon makes for a really entertaining range of rock, blues, R&B and country material and we very much look forward to seeing them again. Doors open at 8.30, entrance £7.50.
There’s more info athttp://www.myspace.com/thegoodoldboysofficialmyspace, http://www.strawbsweb.co.uk/related/gob/gob.asp and www.nicksimper.com
Volunteers Wanted for Vegetation and Litter Clean-up on Sunbury Lock Island
As our regular readers will be aware, Thames 21 extended its remit to include the non-tidal reaches of the Thames and will again be coming to Sunbury Lock Island on Sunday 27th January from 10am - 1pm. This location is a charming part of the Lower Sunbury riverscape and we are being asked to join a team to give it a clean-up.
Volunteers are needed to help with removing litter and managing the vegetation. It will also be a great opportunity to learn about the environment, spot wildlife and meet new people. Volunteers are asked to report to the footbridge ahead of the lock at 10am. Old clothes recommended but all necessary equipment will be provided.
Details of the public events are also on the Thame21 website www.thames21.org.uk/events/
Luke Damerum of Thames 21 adds "Additional events may be added as we develop the winter programme so watch this space and please feel free to offer up any ideas and new contacts. I very much look forward to meeting you and your friends at these events."
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Trading Standards Christmas Alerts and Safety Tips
The latest Trading Standards Bulletin may be viewed below. LOSRA joins Trading Standards in wishing all our readers a merry Christmas and a happy New Year.
Give cold callers the cold shoulder this Christmas!
We have received Intelligence reports of cold callers selling the following products and services:
- Mattresses (beware - these may not comply with flammability standards)
- Massage equipment for the elderly
- More reports about offers of advertising space for businesses in emergency services magazines.
Remember - don't feel pressured into buying goods or services as a result of a cold call. Take your time, do your research and if you want to stop cold callers from knocking at your home them please contact us to obtain a "No Cold Calling Super Sticker"
Recalls
Check your Christmas Cheese Board!
Asda, The Co-operative and Morrisons have withdrawn certain batches of mild cheddar and red Leicester cheese because small pieces of metal may be present in the following products:
- ASDA Smart Price Mild White Cheddar, 385g
- ASDA Smart Price Red Leicester, 385g
- The Co-operative British Mild White Cheddar 250g
- The Co-operative Value Red Leicester
- Morrisons M Savers Mild White Cheddar, 350g
- Morrisons M Savers Mild White Cheddar, 700g
- Morrisons M Savers Grated Mild White Cheddar, 500g
- Morrisons M Savers 10 Mild White Cheddar Cheese Slices, 240g
If you have bought any of the products listed above, please go to the following link for further instructions: http://www.food.gov.uk/news-updates/recalls-news/2012/dec/cheese-metal-withdrawal
Pushchair recall from Bugaboo
Bugaboo is recalling some of their Cameleons and Donkeys pushchairs because the white button on the carry handle may pop out when the bassinet/pram body is resting on the ground or is placed on an unstable surface. If the white button pops out, the carry handle may detach on one side.
If you have one of the affected Bugaboo Cameleons or Donkeys you should remove the current carry handle from the pushchair until a new carry handle has been fitted.
The Bugaboo Cameleons affected by this recall have serial numbers in the ranges:
- S/N 04011090900001 to S/N 04031101009999
- S/N 08011090900001 to S/N 08021100800386
- S/N 140100093600531 to S/N 140103123350418
The Bugaboo Donkeys affected by this recall have serial numbers in the range:
- S/N 170101105300001 to S/N 170104130900500
Affected customers should immediately contact Bugaboo customer services on 0800 587 8265.
Stay safe in your home at Christmas
Christmas is a time when your home is likely to be full of people and it is in the excitement of the season that accidents can easily happen. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has issued 12 safety tips to help prevent your festivities being cut short by a trip to casualty:
http://www.rospa.com/homesafety/adviceandinformation/christmassafety/safety-tips.aspx
New year’s resolutions support
Did you know that you are up to four times more likely to be able to quit smoking if you get some support, rather than going "cold turkey" or attempting to do it alone? Contact your local Stop Smoking Service at www.surreyquit.net for free support to help you kick the habit. You can visit a weekly clinic near you or get support over the telephone. There is no fuss and no cost, just friendly and effective help! Call them now on 0845 602 3608
If you are looking to reduce your alcohol intake then why not try having an alcohol-free January? Feel better, save money and make a difference. http://www.dryjanuary.org.uk/
If you are concerned about someone else’s drinking or your own, local help is available through www.surreydrugcare.org.uk/alcohol/ and for more information go to www.alcoholconcern.org.uk
How green will your Christmas be?
With so many presents being packaged, bought, wrapped and unwrapped at this time of year, what can you do to minimise your impact on the environment? Remembering to reduce, reuse and recycle will help to make your habits greener. For example, cut only as much wrapping paper as you need to cover a gift and separate your recyclable waste as you generate it.
Find out what the Surrey Councils are doing to help secure a greener future for Surrey and what you can do to help:www.surreywastepartnership.org.uk/index.php
Cut food waste and save money this Christmas
As food prices continue to rise around the world, it’s a sobering thought to know that many families waste up to £50 a month throwing away uneaten food. We also know that cutting down on food waste can be a challenge, especially when pushed for time and children don’t always want to eat what has been cooked for them.
To help reduce food waste, take a look at www.lovefoodsurrey.com/component/content/article/231 where Love Food Surrey chef Carmela Tomkins gives her top festive tips to help you plan the perfect waste-free Christmas.
Taking just one small step to reduce food waste can have a big positive effect on the environment and save you money too. Will these tips inspire you to take that step?
For some festive fun you can take a look at our Twitter and Facebook accounts (you don't need to sign up to see these!)
@surreyts facebook.com/surreytradingstandards
Wishing you all a merry Christmas and a happy new year from the team at Trading Standards!
Local Tabby Cat in Urgent Need of New Home
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Bandit, a beautiful five year-old tabby cat is urgently seeking a new home as his owners are returning to South Africa this week. He is chipped and neutered, and very affectionate and child-friendly. He has slightly wonky back legs, which means he’s not quite as agile as most cats.
If you are interested in giving Bandit a good home, please contact Desiree, as soon as possible, on 07545 853 521.
Carols in the Meadow and Christmas Market
Lower Sunbury celebrates Advent with its annual community carols event, Carols in the Meadow, which takes place this year on Thursday 13th December at 6.30 in Orchard Meadow on Thames Street. This is always a popular and well-attended start to the Christmas season, with music led by the Salvation Army Band, and Father Christmas putting in an appearance for the children. Mulled wine will also be on offer for a donation and buckets will be passed around to help defray the costs of putting on the event.
This year, once again, the event coincides with the Christmas Market (5pm – 9pm) outside the shops in Avenue Parade which is organised by the Lower Sunbury Business Community. There will be 20 stalls offering arts and crafts, food sampling, presents, jewellery and accessories; so all are welcome to join in the fun and get into the festive spirit.
Don’t let food poisoning ruin your Christmas
The following email from Spelthorne Council has been received by LOSRA and we are happy to reproduce it here:
If there’s one thing guaranteed to ruin your meal with friends, family or colleagues this Christmas, it’s a nasty bout of food poisoning.
But if you’re eating out, how do you know whether the restaurant owner takes food hygiene seriously?
The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme rates the hygiene standards of restaurants and other places that sell food, based on inspections carried out by Spelthorne Council’s Environmental Health staff.
This national scheme, developed by the Food Standards Agency in partnership with local authorities, rates food outlets on a scale ranging from zero at the bottom (urgent improvement necessary) to a top rating of five (very good).
So if you’re organising a Christmas gathering at a local restaurant, pub or hotel, make sure you check the venue’s hygiene rating before you book by visiting http://ratings.food.gov.uk/authority-search/spelthorne
You can also download a free phone app from the Council’s website or look out for the distinctive green and black rating sticker which food businesses are encouraged to display.
Councillor Jean Pinkerton, Spelthorne Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Independent Living said: “When choosing a restaurant you’ll automatically think about the type of food and service offered but I would also encourage you to check their food hygiene rating too. It only takes a minute and you can be reassured that the venue you choose takes food safety seriously and isn’t taking risks which could ruin your Christmas.”
The Beat Legends Come to Sunbury Cricket Club, Friday 14th December
The last Music Night of the year at Sunbury Cricket Club is on Friday 14th December when the Club welcomes The Beat Legends for an evening of wall-to wall Mersey Era classics with the intention of having a real party night to round off 2012's programme of Music Nights.
Yanni, the group's leader, is a veteran of The Cavern in Liverpool, having started his career there in the thick of the '60s Beat Boom, and he played there when club re-opened in 1967.
The music of that era goes down well at the Club, as they've had two cracking nights when the 60s All Stars have played, so it's hoped they will get a good crowd there for a proper festive atmosphere, and maybe even some dancing!
If your Christmas party season hasn't started by then, put a gang of friends together and come down to kick it all off. It will be a fun night. Visit www.thebeatlegends.co.uk for more information.
Trading Standards @lert! PPI, Solar Panels, Rogue Traders & Recalls
With the festive season upon us we can expect an increase in scams and other criminal devices designed to relieve residents of their hard earned cash or savings.
Hydropower Public Consultation Event, Thursday 6th December
A proposed hydropower project at Sunbury Weir has already caused great consternation within the community and especially among riverside residents.
The Company will be consulting residents this side of the river at 3pm on Saturday, 15th December at the Riverside Arts Centre, Thames Street but, in the meantime, have arranged a public consultation event at the Elmbridge Excel Leisure Complex in Waterside Drive, Walton, on 6th December.
Have Your Say on the Proposed Development at the Environment Agency Site on Fordbridge Road
Following the exhibition held last Saturday 24 November the steering group for the development would like to give those who didn’t have the chance to come along to have their say on the latest plans. There are the two options for the development that were presented at the exhibition, along with some indications from the architect on the proposed look and feel for the site.
A draft plan for a pedestrian crossing on Fordbridge Road as well as some improved signage signalling entry to the village are also included. To view plans, click on the links below:
- Highways Treatment (PDF)
- Precedents and Concept (PDF)
- Site Plan Options (PDF)
- Street Elevations and Perspectives (PDF)
If you would like to have your say on the latest plans, there is an online survey you can complete - https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/8NBYWDL
If you have any questions or queries on the plans, you may forward these by email to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
