Good morning, Surrey. Simon here! This is Inspired Surrey, where we promise to follow Grandma’s rule - no politics at the dinner table . . . or in the Newsletter.

In today’s Inspired Surrey:

• Massive rock n’ gem show at Kempton 💎

• If you haven’t seen fireworks yet, there’s more.. 🎆

• Christmas craft & flea market this weekend ✨

• What’s on this week 📅

Let’s get to it.

Rock, Gem 'n' Bead Show at Kempton Park Racecourse! ✨💎

Got a thing for sparkly crystals, unique beads, or handmade jewellery? Swing by Kempton Park Racecourse this weekend for the Rock, Gem 'n' Bead Show! 🔮

Whether you're a seasoned collector, a budding jewellery maker, or just have a curious eye for gemstones, this two-day event has something dazzling for everyone.

This isn’t just any gem show—it’s one of the leading crystal and bead extravaganzas in the UK, run by the friendly Robinson family (shoutout to Sam, Pete, and Angela!).

Expect a treasure trove of crystals, minerals, fossils, and lapidary goods. Retail and wholesale shoppers are both welcome, so whether you’re on a solo mission to find that one perfect piece or looking to buy in bulk, you’re covered.

Plus, with experts on hand, you can get the lowdown on everything from crystal properties to jewellery-making tips.

Need-to-Know Details:

👉 Location: Kempton Park Racecourse
⏰ Time: Saturday: 10am - 5pm - Sunday: 10am - 4pm (Last entry 1 hour before close)

Tickets? £6 for adults, £4 for seniors, and free for under-16s with a paying adult

Refreshments are available on-site to fuel your shopping spree

Gem lovers and curious minds alike - don’t miss out! Grab your ticket at the door and get ready to shine.

Click here for more information!

Another Fireworks Extravaganza! (In Woking This Time!) 🎆🎇

Woking’s biggest firework night is this Saturday, 9th November.

This year, the fireworks display will be set to a soundtrack of rock anthems spanning the last 60 years, fittingly themed "Rock through the Ages."

A lively funfair and a variety of food and drink stalls will keep everyone entertained and well-fed.

The event is carefully organized with family-friendly timings, so little ones can enjoy the fun without a late night.

All proceeds support local charities, thanks to the Woking District Rotary Club. 🎇

Event Details:

👉 Location: Woking Park, viewing area around the cricket pitch
⏰ Timings:

• 5:30pm: Gates and Funfair open

• 7:30pm: Fireworks display with rock-themed soundtrack

• 7:55pm: Fireworks end (approx)

• 9:30pm: Funfair closes

• 10:00pm: Event closes

Helpful information to note:

• Getting There: Woking Park’s car park will fill up fast, so consider parking at Heathside Crescent or the Woking station car parks.

• Accessibility: Accessible viewing and parking are available, along with a dedicated area near the White Rose Lane entrance. One carer is admitted free with each disabled attendee.

• Important Rules: No alcohol, sparklers, or personal fireworks allowed, and bags will be checked at entry.

If you’d like some more information, this is the link for you.

Where Are We Wednesday! 📸

Here we are again! Another where are we Wednesday! We’ll take a photo of somewhere in Surrey, and you tell us where!

Guess away and good luck!

Tag @InspiredSurrey to get your photos included!

Guildford's Christmas Craft & Flea 🎄✨

If you’re ready to make this holiday season a little more indie and a lot more local, Guildford's Christmas Craft & Flea is where you need to be! 🎅

Set against the stunning backdrop of Guildford Cathedral, this isn’t your average Christmas market.

Expect an eclectic mix of handmade goodies, vintage finds, sustainable treats, and unique gift ideas—all crafted and curated by local makers and crafters.

From one-of-a-kind illustrations and cosy ceramics to retro bric-a-brac and delicious festive foods, there’s something for everyone here (including gifts just for you).

Pre-booked tickets get you priority entry and a chance to win a £20 shopping voucher to use at the market!

Event Details:

👉 Location: Guildford Cathedral, Stag Hill University Campus GU2 7UP
⏰ Time: Saturday, 9th November, doors open throughout the day (no time limit inside)
🎟️ Tickets: £3 for adults; Under 12s free (no ticket needed)

Get your ticket here.

Good to Know:

• Pre-Book Perks: Pre-booking gets you faster entry and entry into the “Book to Win” competition!

• Cash or Card? Bring both, just in case some vendors are cash-only.

• Accessibility: The event is accessible, but check the Craft & Flea Facebook page for specific details.

This is your chance to shop small, support local creators, and find truly unique gifts. Get ready for a festive day full of holiday inspiration!

We Are Now On Instagram 📸 

If you are on Instagram, please follow @inspiredsurrey if you can. It would be much appreciated. The account was only started recently, so we still barely have any friends/followers, I’d very much appreciate a follow!

Thank you so much to everyone who followed us! You’re the best! 😊

The Digest 🗞️😀

After a deep dive into Woking Borough Council’s financial chaos, a new report from auditors Grant Thornton reveals how poor accounting practices and unchecked leadership led the council into a staggering £2 billion debt: The investigation points to former CEO Ray Morgan as the mastermind behind the high-stakes investment strategy that drove the council's borrowing spree, which included the ambitious Victoria Square development. Morgan, along with two senior officers, is criticized for operating in a close-knit circle that reportedly didn’t invite challenges or fresh ideas. Council leader Ann-Marie Barker, who took charge in 2022, calls this report a “pivotal moment” as the council prepares to address the findings in a special meeting on 20 November. 💼📉

After eight long years, Daisy, a cocker spaniel stolen from her family in Mole Valley back in 2016, is finally home: Surrey Police got the heartwarming call when someone tried to update Daisy’s microchip, leading to an emotional reunion with her original family. PC Laura Rowley, who witnessed the reunion, said, “there wasn’t a dry eye in the house” as Daisy, recognizing her owners immediately, clung to them like glue. Sadly, Daisy’s story still has missing pieces—her two fellow stolen dogs, Tilly and Storm, remain unaccounted for, and officers are appealing for any leads on their whereabouts. 🐾💔

Surrey locals looking for a fiery way to support a good cause can now join St Raphael’s Hospice for a fundraising firewalk on 5 November: Set right in the hospice grounds, this unique event lets participants brave hot coals to raise money for hospice services. Friends, family, and spectators can cheer them on while enjoying an epic Bonfire Night with food, music, and all the cosy vibes. Before the big walk, all participants will attend a training workshop led by firewalk instructor Cliff Mann, ensuring everyone’s ready to take on the challenge. St Raphael's provides vital support to those with life-limiting conditions, making this a truly worthwhile night to get your adrenaline going! Learn more about it here! 🔥🎉

What’s On This Week 📅

❄️ Curated by Dapper & Suave Winter Pop-Up Market
Denbies Wine Estate, Dorking, Sunday 10th, 11:00am | More info

⚽ An Audience With Chelsea Legends
Epsom Playhouse, Epsom, Friday 8th, 7:00pm | More info

💎 Desire Jewellery & Silversmithing Fair
RHS Wisley, Woking, Wednesday 6th, 10:00am | More info

🔨 Toolfair at Sandown Park
Sandown Park Racecourse, Esher, Thursday 7th, 4:00pm | More info

🌽 Ripley Farmers’ Market
Ripley Village Green, Ripley, Saturday 9th, 9:00am | More info

🎤 Neil Diamond It’s a Beautiful Noise Tribute
G Live, Guildford, Friday 8th, 7:30pm | More info

🖼️ Fine Art & Frames Auction
Hawthorn House, Farnham, Thursday 7th, 11:00am | More info

🚶‍♀️ Women’s Wellness Walk
Holmbury St Mary, Dorking, Friday 8th, 11:00am | More info

❔ Reigate Business Guild Quiz Night
Reigate Manor, Reigate, Thursday 7th, 7:30pm | More info

Weather

Wednesday

15° 🌡️ 11° | ☁️ | Very similar weather to Tuesday, but the fog is extended deep into the morning. No rain due, and the light winds from earlier in the week are expected to drop off.

Thursday

15° 🌡️ 8° | ⛅ | It should be a nice day, sunny intervals throughout the day and not much find, no rain due, a crisp November day!

Friday

15° 🌡️ 9° | ☁️ | Light cloud and light winds on Friday, a distinct lack of sunshine, but it is Friday, the weekend to look forward to, so it’s not the end of the world.

Thank you! 👍

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