Surrey and Sussex police forces have issued a response following the London terrorist events.  

After Friday’s attack at Parson’s Green tube station, Surrey and Sussex police are continuing to review their policing plans on a daily basis.  

In the light of the increased threat level to ‘Critical’, announced by the Prime Minister on Friday, the forces have bolstered their armed policing capability by extending armed officers’ shifts.  Head of Operations Command Assistant Chief Constable Steve Barry said that more armed officers will be seen at key sites to provide reassurance for local communities. They also continue to review security plans for upcoming public events.

He reminded residents of the national advice, to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious to the National Terror Hotline; 0800 789 321.

A planning application for the development on the gasholder site in Oxted is expected by the end of the month.

If the scheme is approved, work to bring the gasholder down will begin next summer.

The development is likely to include 77 apartments, and a mix of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom homes. There will be 105 parking spaces for the new apartments and the site will be accessed from the entrance opposite Boots on Station Road East.

The plans were drawn up following two rounds of consultation with local residents.

Full results of the consultation will be available to view shortly when the planning application is submitted.

More information on the project is available to view at www.oxtedgasholder.co.uk.

A former vicar indecently touched girls during Sunday school outings, church concerts or while teaching, a court has heard.

Guy Bennett who’s 84 and from East Grinstead is facing 24 historical charges of indecent assault against 11 victims.

It’s alleged he assaulted the young girls while rector of St Mary’s church in Oxted between 1975 and 1991.

He admitted there may have been touching, but says any touching was inadvertent and had no sexual intent.

Bennett added that he was a tactile person and that touching was part of his manner with all of his parishioners both young and old.

The trial continues.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-surrey-41244865