Surrey Fire and Rescue Service is calling on the public to help make this Christmas a little brighter for children who will be spending time in hospital over the festive period.

From now until 19th December, Reigate Fire Station will serve as a drop-off point for new toy donations, which will be distributed to children at East Surrey Hospital and other local children’s services.

To ensure fairness and meet hospital guidelines. Gifts must be new, not wrapped and money, food or perishables are not accepted.

A family in South Nutfield has been told their children’s free bus passes have been cancelled as there is a three-mile “safe route” to school across fields and over an unguarded railway line.

Joe Massey said the decision by Surrey County Council had left his family feeling “let down” because the route, which he described as “plain dangerous”, was found by officials.

Clare Curran, SCC’s cabinet member for children, families and lifelong learning, said: “Amidst a set of challenging financial circumstances, the council is not in the position to continue to pay for transport for families”.

The councillor said the family was able to appeal the decision.

Crawley Borough Council is offering drop-in services to help people who are applying for Pension Credit.

Sessions at the Town Hall, every Tuesday and Wednesday throughout November between 9:30am and 3:30pm.

Residents can also contact Access Crawley on 01293 438101 at the Town Hall, or their local Citizens Advice or Age UK for help .

Eligible residents have until 21 December 2024 to apply for the benefit.

London Gatwick has recently contributed nearly fourteen thousand pounds to support families in financial hardship through its partnership with the charity FreeShop Crawley.

FreeShop helps to provide essential services to over 600 people every week by offering food, mental health support, professional services and more.

During the recent October half-term, London Gatwick welcomed 13 families who use FreeShop to its Science Technology Engineering and Maths centre, where colleagues led STEM-related activities for children and engaged with parents about the career opportunities available at the airport.

People across Surrey and Sussex gathered yesterday to remember those who had fallen through conflict in the annual Remembrance Day services.

Thousands of veterans and civilians laid wreaths at local war memorials by organisations including Tandridge District Council and 1^st Godstone Scouts.

At 11am as Big Ben struck, the traditional two-minute silence was then observed.