Members of the Surrey Hills Society were today treated to a visit to the magnificent garden of The Manor House, Upton Grey – widely regarded as the most accurately restored Gertrude Jekyll garden in the world.

The visit was kindly organised by Mark and Virginia Turner, and we were warmly welcomed by the garden’s owner, Ros Wallinger, whose remarkable work in restoring the garden from scratch began in 1984. Her dedication and passion were evident as she told us about her work in the five-acre garden, sharing insights into Jekyll’s original plans and planting philosophy.

Everyone was enchanted by the herbaceous borders, which are at their peak at this time of year, bursting with colour, texture, and scent. Yet the garden offers so much more – from the wildflower meadow and formal terraces to the charming rose parterre and orchard – all reflecting the breadth of Jekyll’s prodigious talents.

It was a memorable and inspiring visit, and we are most grateful to Ros for her generous hospitality including some delightful tea, coffee and cake.

Gordon

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US Air Attaché and Civic Leaders Commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the Reigate Hill Crash

Yesterday marked the 80th anniversary of the tragic crash of a B-17 Flying Fortress on Reigate Hill during World War Two. To commemorate this occasion, a series of memorial events took place on the date of the crash, in collaboration with the National Trust who now own the site.

The day began with a reception at The Royal Alexandra and Albert School, where we were joined by guests including HM Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey, Michael More-Molyneux. Attendees were given the opportunity to learn more about the history of the crash from military historian Tim Richardson, who spoke about the loss of the nine young Americans on board. The group was also able to view artefacts recovered from the crash site, deepening the connection to this significant moment in history.

The commemoration continued with a public memorial event on Reigate Hill, at the site where the B-17 came down in 1945. A service was held, featuring a wreath-laying ceremony, including a wreath presented by US Air Attaché Lieutenant Colonel Dan Benson, and the Head Boy and Head Girl of The Royal Alexandra and Albert school. This occasion took place next to the Inspiring Views Wing Tips monument, which was unveiled during the 70th anniversary commemorations and now stands as a lasting tribute to those who perished.

HM Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey, Michael More-Molyneux, shared these words:

“We were privileged to be in the presence of US Air Attaché, Lieutenant Colonel Dan Benson, which was a powerful testament to our shared history as we remembered the nine young US crew that were tragically lost. The presence of our cadets and scouts at the ceremony brought a sense of reverence and the passing on of history from one generation to the next.”

The story of the crash is well-known in the local community. On the evening of 19 March 1945, at around 5:40pm, a B-17 Flying Fortress of the 384th Bombardment Group, 8th USAAF, was returning to its base at Grafton Underwood, Northamptonshire, after a mission near the German Czech border. Low clouds covered the southeast of England that evening and as the aircraft flew low over Reigate, eyewitnesses recall seeing it flying over the town. Out of formation, and flying alone, the aircraft carrying tail number 43-39035 struck the side of Reigate Hill with the loss of all nine crew.

B-17 in flight

The Wing Tips memorial is set just west of Reigate Fort along the North Downs Way and is passed by many walkers each day, serving as both a reminder of the past and a symbol of remembrance. Created by sculptor Roger Day, the Wing Tips are made from ancient Surrey oak and replicate the dimensions of the wingspan of a Flying Fortress. Look closely and you’ll see rivets and panels carved into the wood.

Councillor Eddy Humphreys, Mayor of the Borough of Reigate & Banstead said.

“For the people of Reigate, the Wing Tips memorial on the North Downs Way has become a much-loved feature by which to honour those brave young men and to reflect on the importance of preserving our local history. As we approach Surrey Day in May, with its World War II theme, we are reminded of the resilience and sacrifices made by those who came before us.”

This year’s commemoration marks a milestone of 80 years, but the impact of this event and the memories of these young men continue to resonate in the community. With thanks to the Surrey Hills Trust Fund and Community Foundation for Surrey who provided funding for this event.

The Thousand Year Tree is a stunning new picture book, created by the children of Weyfield Primary Academy Guildford to celebrate the ancient yew trees at Newlands Corner, Surrey!

An incredible journey through time, from seed to fragile giant – step inside the fascinating world of ancient trees to discover the wonders these age-old giants have witnessed, and how we can protect them for millennia to come.

This book is now on sale at Waterstones.  Click here to go straight through to their website to purchase your copy.

The Thousand Year Tree has been created through an exciting collaboration led by the Surrey Hills Society, together with the Guildford Book Festival; Weyfield Primary Academy; author, Lucy Reynolds; illustrator, Katie Hickey; Old Dungate Press; Surrey County Council; Surrey Libraries; and Surrey National Landscapes. The project has been funded by the DEFRA Access For All Fund, administered by the Surrey National Landscapes Board.