I was extremely saddened to learn that Ridge Radio manager Andy McEniry passed away recently. He was one of the first people to help me when I took over this newspaper in 2019. He read and proofed articles, picked competition winners and listened to my ideas without judgement before offering his opinion, which was always more practical than my suggestions!
His patience when I began my radio show at Ridge was invaluable: I can still see him mouthing ‘Turn up the volume, we can’t hear you!’ while I happily chatted obliviously into the microphone, and hear his gentle reminder that ‘The news needs to start on the hour, not 10 seconds past!’
My daughter had her own Ridge show for a while, and Andy and Amanda (another member of Ridge’s senior management team) were instrumental in her becoming their youngest presenter at just nine years old. I’d like to send my deepest sympathy to Andy’s wife Sharon and their children, as well as his other friends and family. Andy Mac, I will miss you.
This month’s paper brings you news from across the district, along with our regular columnists. Flower Farm’s Farmer Patrick is back and Chantal Baker is keeping us safe online as we start our Christmas shopping.
Caterham Foodbank celebrates 10 years this month, and our reporter Matilda Gladwell reports on 10-year-old Sebastian from Hurst Green, who is currently performing at The Royal Opera House as part of The Royal Ballet’s staging of Don Quixote.
Don’t forget to enter this month’s fabulous competition with Caterham on the Hill’s Milan Designs. They have donated a £50 gift voucher – perfect as we enter the party season!
Thanks for reading – see you next month!
