Editor's hello: Surrey Downs Magazine, June 2016

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Emily's hello – Surrey Downs Magazine, June 2016

June is Epsom’s big month, with the focus on the world-famous Derby, which has been leading the field since 1780. This year, Poldark actress Eleanor Tomlinson – linked to racing by her commentator father Malcolm – is its starlet ambassador. Through her beautiful photoshoot at the course, Eleanor is a visual reminder that the sartorial bar for Investec Derby Day is high. 

Accordingly, we have scoured the county for the best of local milliners for our fashion special on hats (here). Naturally, to complement the obligatory fine headwear, a stylish handbag is required – and who better to consult than the Queen’s own designer, Gerald Bodmer of Warlingham-based Launer? A matching hat and handbag, he insists, are as de rigueur as compatible steak and wine. 

Another date for the diary is MGSO4, the inaugural Epsom and Ewell Arts Festival championing the best of local talent. This year it brings together the likes of eminent playwright Michael Frayn (Ewell-born), our cover star, pianist Nicholas McCarthy (Epsom-born) and Laura Dodsworth (Epsom-based), whose groundbreaking book, Bare Reality takes to the stage. 

So much to celebrate in Epsom’s glorious June. Enjoy!

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Corr blimey

The summer season is off to a galloping start at Epsom Racecourse and this year’s big name offerings do not disappoint. Hot on the heels of glamorous 2016 Investec Derby ambassador, Eleanor Tomlinson, comes Irish sibling band The Corrs, who will be performing in the stands after an evening of racing on June 30. 

Andrea, Sharon, Caroline and Jim have sold over 30 million albums worldwide with their gorgeous, mellifluous mix of Celtic and pop. Known particularly for its catchy hits Runaway and Breathless, the group has returned from a 10-year break with a new album, White Light. Expect a mix of new tracks and old favourites on the night. For more on the pop group, read our Q&A with Sharon here.

To celebrate, we are offering one lucky reader a pair of tickets worth £252 – including ever-essential car parking, a racecard and betting couriers for the equine action, plus three-course meal and coffee. Enter online by June 20. 

2016 Investec Derby at Epsom Racecourse takes place on June 3-4; tickets £5 – £125; (01372) 726311; epsom.thejockeyclub.co.uk

The Corrs play June 30, opens 4pm (first race 6pm). Tickets from £40 (kids £20)

MOO-VE OVER

Look out for painted cows adorning the local landscape this summer, courtesy of Surrey Hills AONB. 

In the world’s largest public art event, individuals and businesses are invited to purchase a cow for charity – £3,500 will get you a life-size standing, grazing or sitting model, which you are then free to decorate with help from an artist. 

Appearing from June 1, the 60 cows will be fitted with a sat-nav code, enabling walkers to undertake a ‘cow hunt’ tour to find them. Look out for local bovines on St Martin’s Walk, Dorking and Box Hill, along with Reigate’s Priory Park.

 Moreover, if you download the Cow Parade app for free and have a go at the quiz, you could be entered for a prize draw to win a trip to Mauritius. 

At the end of their grazing period, on September 3, the cows will be herded to the inaugural Surrey Hills Food, Drink and Music Festival at Ewhurst and auctioned. The proceeds will be split between The Surrey Hills Trust and sponsors’ chosen charities. 

So get in the moood: help a good cause and promote your business. 

cowparadesurreyhills.com; (photos: the gorgeous Lady Liberty Moo cow painted at Birtley House by artist Emma Allen; emmaallen.org)