Welcome to all readers on yet another record-breaking bank holiday. As weather gets hotter (or colder), wetter (or drier) it’s time for us all to act.
Read on to find events, ideas and how to meet lovely, like-minded people.
To start with, please sponsor me!
Gatwick Airport has plans to expand by upgrading the present emergency runway. This will increase annual flights by around 100,000. That’s about 270 flights every day.
I think that’s wrong, which is why I’m walking.
I’m Pat Smith (local resident, campaigner and granny aged 77: founder member of Dorking Climate Emergency) and I’m joining Jonathan Essex, Deputy Chair of GACC (Gatwick Area Conservation Campaign: interactive membership application ) to walk around the threatened area – around 16 miles – on Saturday 6th June.
We’ll cover the whole airport perimeter, taking in rivers, public footpaths, woods and cycleways.
Legal costs are never low and the campaign might have to continue indefinitely as the issues are complex and stakes are high.
GACC needs money for their legal fund so please be generous.
You can donate here:
https://gofund.me/9fbe5f629
Famous campaigner speaks in Dorking
Don’t miss the chance to hear famous climate speaker, writer and activist Jonathon Porritt as he talks about a subject close to his heart: Climate, Democracy and Justice: making the connections’. There will also be a chance to buy his books.
It’s in the beautiful old Baptist Church in central Dorking,
For many years Jonathon has campaigned vigorously on climate issues. He speaks as he writes – clearly and with passion.
Check his blog to see the many issues that concern him: 334 articles at the latest count! My Blog – Jonathon Porritt
There will be lots of time to ask your questions.
We’re expecting a sell-out so buy tickets soon.
Big Green Week is coming up fast.
Circular Dorking has organised a cornucopia of delights… check their webpage for memorable events happening all week.. Great Big Green Week 2026 | Circular Dorking
It kicks off with this unmissable family event: let Wendy know via the website if you’d like to help.
Bee aware: the family-friendly Eco Hub on Sunday 7th June focuses on bees and other small insects which enrich our lives.
People’s Emergency Briefing: FREE film and discussion
After the sell-out first sceening in May, there’s a repeat event on Friday 12 Jun 2026 7:30 – 9:30 pm at the Friends’ Meeting House, RH4 2LE.
Booking is essential as numbers are limited. Get free tickets – People’s Emergency Briefing – Friends Meeting House
This eye-opening film is a must for all concerned about the changing climate and its effects. Nine leading UK scientists and experts speak, with appearances from Chris Packham, Deborah Meaden and voices from across the UK. They explain and comment on the latest evidence and why it matters in areas like:
🌧️ Extreme weather
🍞 Food security
🏥 Health
💷 Cost of living
Tickets are going fast so book now: Get free tickets – People’s Emergency Briefing – Friends Meeting House
One simple action we all can do about matters that concern us:
Write to your MP!
Most take notice – they have to – and it’s easy. My MP has told me that emails show him what constituents are thinking- and he hasn’t received that many letters about climate issues.
1. Sign up to website They Work for You: All MPs – TheyWorkForYou . Put in your p[ostcode and they’ll tell you the name of your MP and how to contact them.
2. They send you regular briefings about your MP’s actions in Parliament – speaking in debates, membership of Committees. written questions.
3. Write to them via WriteToThem – Email your Councillor, MP, MSP, MS, MLA or London Assembly Member for free or just use their email.
4. Thank them for actions they’ve taken that you agree with.
Excellent news of a local heroine
You might have met Sarah Finch, who lived in Redhill for many years. She spear-headed a legal action which led to a ground-breaking environmental change in planning requirements. The photo shows how the news was received by fellow-campaigners from the Weald Action Group.
Recently she was one of 6 campaigners awarded the prestigious international Goldman Environmental prize for 2026 so click the link to find out why: Sarah Finch – 2026 Goldman Environmental Prize Winner
And finally – news of a beautiful, relaxing weekend
at Nicola Peel’s calming woodland lakeside retreat:
However you’re spending the bank holiday week, stay cool and keep in touch.
Contact us on contact@dorking-climate-emergency.net if you’d like to contribute to our next newsletter or have any comments on this one.
Pat