Two by-elections took place in the Tandridge District last Thursday. 

Alan Schmidt of The Lingfield and Crowhurst Residents was elected as a Tandridge District Councillor for the Lingfield, Crowhurst and Tandridge Ward. 

Martin Redman of The Liberal Democrats was elected as Councillor for Westway in Caterham on the Hill; a gain from the Conservatives.

A man has been identified and charged as part of a police investigation into the theft of luggage from London Gatwick Airport.

The incident had been reported to Sussex Police at about 6pm on Thursday, 30 October.

Luggage was reported stolen from the South Terminal, and a suspect was seen leaving the Zone A area via the Southern Walkway and Ring Road towards the B2036 Balcombe Road.

Police issued an appeal to identify a man they wished to speak with in connection with the offence.

We can confirm officers arrested a man following this appeal.

John Brooks, 52, of Brighton Road, Crawley, has subsequently been charged with theft and criminal damage and will appear before Crawley Magistrates’ Court on November 25 to answer the charges.

Surrey County Council have decided to expand a trial which supports blind or partially sighted residents with independent travel.

The “Aira” app allows people to call a visual interpreter who can guide them between the bus stop and nearby train stations.

An extension to new parts of the county including Dorking, Reigate and Horley has now been introduced.

The council says the app used at the available locations would be free of charge.