MCG Images

What a difference a few days make

2012-02-01T12:09:00.001Z

What a difference a few days makes with the weather. For weeks now, the weather has been unbelievably mild to such an extent, that some farmers were talking about doing some spraying and last Friday Tony Leech Agri Contractor was out spraying a farmers Oil seed rape, to remove black grass, volunteer cereals and wild oats, with a Chemical called Kerb.

Today however the weather in Surrey is very different, with icy conditions and frost, which can clearly be seen here on the ground around this rape, which was taken on the southern slope of Reigate Hill, this morning

Farming in the winter

2012-01-20T18:45:00.001Z

As a photographer, that when it comes to farming I shoot mainly agriculture, although you will see me this time of year venturing out occasionally to dairy farms, there is not a lot to shoot.
For Agriculture The weather, is either too wet or to cold or too windy

So when I needed to get out and get some fresh air, my contacts all told me they were out hedge cutting. As my stock library was short of hedge cutting pix off I went. These image are shot in two different locations.

They highlight some of the problems on working on public roads doing a very necessary job

Any of these images can be purchased from my stock Library To view the link to these picture click here

Meatballs

2012-01-20T18:30:00.001Z

Title sounds weird, I agree.

This was inspired by The Archers, and Tom's idea of producing cooked chill food.

Anyway this is my first go and I decided to use premium sausages from a well known supermarket's meat counter.
This was my first mistake. The basic idea was great, putting grated apple, with onion and bread crumb.

The sauce was great. Roasted a pepper and a tomato, with some garlic cloves, then whizzed the whole lot together in my mini chopper.

The problem was for my taste the meat balls were too sticky as it was sausage meat over seasoned.
I will do this again but next time with minced pork. I off to buy a hand meat mincer.

Mind you I think they look ok in the pix.

Health and safety

2011-08-23T09:19:00.001+01:00

Health and safety is something we must all take seriously, expecially when using heavy machinery, whether it be in a factory, industrial area or farm.

However whilst out taking pictures on a farm yesterday, and possibly pushing my luck a little bit, it struck me, if something happened, it wouldn't be me that got in trouble, it would be the business owner. In this case the farmer Is this fair?

Years ago when I first started, working you could virtually do anything in order to get the picture, now year by year it seems Health and Safety rules get tighter and tighter. I agree things needed to be tighten up so people who in the past were expolited are not and yes there needs to be a set of guides lines, but surely there should be a diffenttiation between people that come onto a property and choose to take the risk, and someone being asked to do something that may comproisme health and safety.

The time I really started to notice a shift in attitudes was in the last decade. In the latter half I was shooting an agricultural show for the exhibition company who were organising it. It was a two day event and one of the shots I need was a view of the show from the air, with no budget to hire a helicopter, over night I hatched a plan, to ask one of the tractor manufactures if I could go up in the bucket of a Telehandler, that was on display. There was one positioned perfectly in a corner at one end of the show ground.
Next morning I approached a sales people and ask if they could oblige. Well I was surprised by his reaction, however after hearing what he said, I could fully understand.

He said if they did that and got seen by H&S, potentially they could be fined up to 50,000 GBP . Whether I got hurt doing it or not. This is my point, it was my risk, my responsibly, so why should they be sanctioned for it.

Clearly the shot I was after wasn't going to happen.

To make my point about having to take risks, to get the shot here is an image I took some years ago on the cliff's of the Seven sisters, nr Burling Gap, East suxxex. This image was shot with no harness just me a camera and the envireoment I was in.
I took a bit of a risk getting it, but it was a calculated risk and at least no one would have got the blame if I fell. Not been up there for years, but it wouldn't surpise at all it was not fenced off these days.

I have choosen this image purely as an example as to what I mean about taking risks and for no other reason. I have not used a farming image with this blog as I wouldn't want any come back on anyone.

My main point to this, is surely if someone with no connection to a business and not likely to hurt anybody else but themselves, should be allowed to take responsiblity for their own actions, without the risk of someone else being in trouble with the health and safety executive.

These are just purely my own views from the experiences I have found, being a photographer over the last 20 years.

Cows are characters too!

2011-04-11T10:43:00.002+01:00

On Saturday decided to go and shoot some images of a herd of Dairy cows.

Being a bright sunny day the sky was a deep rich blue which made the perfect background.

As I arrived a Black & white Frisian cow came towards me and started to show some interest. I started to shoot some images and the cow lapped up the attention.

Then other cows came over including a guernsey, and I took some shots of her.

However the first cow was having none of this and after realising she was no longer the centre of attention, walked the few paces to where the guernsey was and joined in.

That wasn't enough for her to share the limelight, and the next thing I knew she had head butted the guernsey to try to move her away.

Turns out he Frisian was called Millie and was head of the herd, and clearly enjoyed the statue that brought with it. So to have an upstart take away her moment was clearly too much for her to bear.

Cows clearly have Diva's in their midst too.

To view more of the images from the shoot go to
http://tinyurl.com/6ayqced

Roasted Mackerel and poatoes in Curry spices

2011-03-13T15:07:00.002Z

Found this recipe the other day, when looking on the internet for a different way to cook Mackerel.

I love curry. However as far as I am concerned Curry and fish do not mix, people talk about tandoori salmon, byt for me Salmon just has a too delicate flavour to be be ruined by Curry spices.

Then comes mackerel. I thought ok I will give it a go. Mackerel has a fairly robust flavour and I considered could take the hit. I was right.

The combinations of the oil fish and the fragrant spices of the the curry paste work together beatifully, creating a brilliant healthy dish, that is fairly cheap and relatively quick.to cook.

To view the recipe for this dish , please go to

BBC Good Food

The dish is from BBC good food.co.uk and is well worth a go. I tend to vary the quantities, depending on how many people I am cooking for using around 1 potato per person and the same for the curry paste.

Agriculture finally comes out of winter

2011-03-13T14:45:00.001Z

The last week or two has seen a big improvement in the weather and with that the tractors and sprayers have been out in full force on the North Downs, Surrey and Sussex, from Power harrowing, Ploughing, nitrogen spreading and Spraying.

Spraying Oil seed Rape in West sussex with Herbicide and Growth Regulator

Drilling Tipple Barley on the North Down

Spreading Nitrogen and Sulphur on Winter Wheat

Ploughing the Soil in Nutfield, Surrey

Spreading Granulated Nitrogen on Barley

Power Harrowing in Chipstead, Surrey

Potholes. Patching holes.Is it the answer?

2011-02-27T11:26:00.006Z

They say a picture is worth a Thousand words, in this case it might be true and I think proves my point. sorry words below.

Possibly one of my most successful picture themes last year was Potholes. Sad I know but they are the bain of every ones life, and cause countless damage to all forms of transport, that use the road.

One road near me is particularly bad. It is officially a side road, although used a lot by people travelling between South of Redhill and Reigate.

A year or so ago the council surfaced dressed it, making what was a reasonably good road a nightmare. Now a reasonable proportion of this road is in a very poor state of repair.

This has been particularly brought to light by a large hole that appeared in March 10. The council were quick to act and put cones out and within a few days repaired the hole.

Now comes the crunch. It is February 2011 and low and behold where the previous pothole was, a new hole has appeared, admittedly not as bad as the last, but still there.

Clearly filling holes doesn't work as can be seen by these images, please give us back decent roads, after all we pay Enough Road Fund Licence to drive on them, surely we should be entitled to have roads that are not going to destroy our vehicles.

I realise all the arguments about the money from car tax going to central government, but maybe it is time to look at this again and ring fence some of the money,to give us a decent surface to drive on, after all they take enough from fuel duty for everything else, use car tax for road repairs.

Beef Tataki Salad

2011-02-26T16:55:00.000Z

This has to be be one of the quickest Steak salads to make. Fry your steak to your liking, personally I like my steak still mooing as they say, but that is up to you.

To assemble salad. Finely slice radishes and Red Onions and mix with Rocket.

To Make the dressing mix together 2 tbsp Soy sauce, Juice of 1/2 lemon and 1tsp of sugar. Sesame seeds can be added if you fancy.

Then just eat.

Roast Gammon Shank

2011-02-18T20:30:00.000Z

I mentioned this cut the other day when I did the ham and veg soup and it really is a cheap way of getting ham.

The recipe I use is in the initial recipe I mentioned in the soup and can be viewed here. http://www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes/bakedham_2810

Nearly all the recipes I cook come from using Google and I simply type in the food I have for the night and see what comes up. Yesterday I ended up with curried Mackerel, as I had some mackerel in the freezer and it needed eating. It may sound weird but it was great. Recipe was from goodfood .com. I don't normally like curried fish. I find the flavour of fish is too delicate to adulterate with Curry paste, but because Mackerel has such a robust flour it was brilliant and with Oven baked cubed potatoes and onions also coated in curry paste it was to did for. Will be showing recipe and pictures on here soon.

Anyway back to the Baked Ham. Not much to say really but as they they a picture tells a thousand words. Here it is.

Try it out. It's a great recipe and for the info Morrisons sell Gammon shanks on the meat counter and I am sure all good meat retailers sell at all good Butchers and other supermarkets stock it as well.

Egg and prawn open sandwich

2011-02-03T12:13:00.002Z

This is a recipe inspired from the restaurant at Ikea.

A very quick light lunch which doesn't require much effort. The bread traditionally would be rye bread, but as I didn't have any to hand I just baked a slice of brown bread in the oven until crisp and golden.

At the same time I boiled an egg until hard boiled some where around 7 minutes.

For the seafood sauce, mix some Mayo with Tomato sauce and a splash of Worcester sauce and Tabasco.

Now to assemble the dish, tear or cut the lettuce into strips and lay on the bread. added sliced tomato to his.

Now slice the eggs and lay on top of tomatoes along with a few prawns. Lastly top with the sauce add a few more prawns and sprinkle with paprika.

Vegetable and ham soup

2011-02-03T11:50:00.000Z

This recipe was kind of throw together from what I had in the Cupboard.

Originally I had bought a Gammon shank, which is a very cheap way of getting a small joint of Gammon. I got mine from the butchers counter at Morrison, but I am sure they are available at other outlets.

This was soaked in water over night before adding to a saucepan with around 500 mls of Cider, an onion a few cloves, peppercorns, a carrot, garlic and 2 tbsp Brown sugar along with a bay leaf or two. This was then topped up with water and gently simmered for around an hour until cooked.

Strain off the stock and use as required.

The meat was then covered in melted marmalade and lemon juice , before being baked for around 20 to 30 minutes in an oven at 190C.

This is a cut down version of the gammon recipe, I got this from the BBC Recipes but it can be viewed at http://tinyurl.com/3y8wu5q .

To make the soup.

You need

Leek thinly sliced

Onions sliced

Garlic crushed

potato, cut into 1in cubes

other Vegetables. I used celeriac, but you could use swede, turnips, parsnips or any other firm vegetable.

I gently fried One leek with some onions and Garlic until they were soft. The Potatoes were then added along with the cubed celeriac and any other veg you wish to use. gently continue to fry for a couple of minutes then add the stock and some more cider.

Cook until the the potato and other veg is cooked and serve.

Edwina Curry on The One show speaking about eggs

2011-01-27T20:50:00.001Z

As 'The One show' highlighted tonight, just maybe Edwina was right to point out that eggs back in 1988 may have contained more than we thought.

At the time I was a photographer on a local newspaper in Surrey and had like most people no real knowledge of the Farming industry and was unaware of the problems.

I didn't get into agriculture until 1995, and only because of a contact from my days on the local paper.

The rest is history and I am now a real foodie and believer in Free range food.

Whilst working for the farming press I had the wonderful experience (not) of going into a Battery hen (factory),

The smell was unbelievable and some where no animal, human or otherwise should be in. others may disagree but that is my personal opinion.

I would far sooner have my egg from hens like these than from hens cooped up in what are basically factories. They deserved better and hopefully will now get it. In January 2012 battery cages are suppose to be banned let's hope it happens.

For cheaper eggs we still have barn eggs, but from somebody who has been in a Hen Battery hen shed (factory let's get rid of it now.

Redhill Town FC U11's

2011-01-22T17:48:00.001Z

After all the bad weather we are finally back out on the pitch. Today playing away to Horsley FC U 11's, last time it was a very tightly fought match and ended in a draw.

Today was no exception with Horsley scoring from a lob in the first half, but Redhill fought back to draw.

Then in the dying minutes of the game, Horsley pulled back with a very lucky goal, which required the referee's decision. But the goal shoot. Final score 2-1 to Horsley.

The full match report plus all the other Redhill town match's will be on http://redhilltownfc.blogspot.com/
in the next 48 hours.

Creamy Egg Curry

2011-01-20T14:52:00.003Z

With the New year just starting decided to was time to revamp the blog and get it going again. The Football has now been moved to it's own page at www.Redhilltownfc.blogspot,com and I have decided the vary my entries. Food will probably play a major part in this.

So with this in mind a recipe I tried last week, which I have now cooked a couple of times and tastes great is Egg Curry. Very quick simple and cheap to make, and really easy to vary in size.

To begin fry up some onions, and add the Curry paste, Tikka masala is recommended by the Good Food where I got this recipe from, but any will do depending on taste, you can even make your own if you feel so inclined.

Whilst doing this hard boil your eggs.

Next you need to add a tin of Tomatoes and 200 mls of water or stock. Leave to simmer until you have a thick sauce. Then add some peas and cook for a couple of minutes. Cut eggs in half and add to sauce, until warmed through. Finally you need to add Greek Youghurt. Volume dependant on how creamy or how spicy you like it.

I also lke to add some baby spinach leaves and just stir them through.

Serve with rice and Enjoy.
For full details of this recipe please go to BBC Good food .

Also before I sign off a quick Tip. Do you ever have half eaten packets of pre-made popadums in the cupboard. Yo know, the packet the you opened last time you had a curry and they didn't all get eaten. Trouble is they have now gone a bit soggy.

Well i decided to experiment with this and put them in the oven on a low head about 160c or gas mark 3 I think. Exact temperature doesn't really matter. Anyway don't leave them in their too long or they will burn probably around 5 mins. Take them out and you should have nice crisp popadums again.

I like to serve mine with chopped onion, coriander and lemon juice. but use what ever is your poison.

Redhill town Football club 8-9th Jan 2010

2011-01-16T16:13:00.000Z

With the start of the New Year and the football getting going again with a slightly shakey start, due to the weather after Christmas, thought it was time to relaunch the blog. The reports below are as sent out to the local paper so mainly information from the teams with a few of the weeks, pictures.

Hope you like it.

AFC EWELL B 1 v 1 REDHILL TOWN U9 match report

Redhill Town U9 stay 3rd in the table with a well deserved 1-1 draw against AFC Ewell B.

The first half was a hard fought battle in the midfield, soaking up a lot of early pressure until eventually conceding a goal in the 15th min to go in 1-0 down at half time.

The second half saw the introduction of Haydn Puttick in midfield and Joshua Bayode in defence which gave a more solid shape to the Redhill town team. Luke Stevens and Haydn Puttick won some very important tackles and created some great passing moves down the wings to eventually set up Zach Layne to score his 12th goal of the season.

Redhill Town goalkeeper, Adam Barber, had a superb game, making several important one on one saves, to earn Redhill Town a well- deserved 1-1 draw.

Man of the match: Zachariah Layne

Epsom & Ewell League Division 1 – League Match 08/01/2011

West Byfleet Scorpions U11s 2 Redhill Town U11s 2

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Having not played for 8 weeks it was inevitable that Redhill would be somewhat “match rusty”. Scorpions had the better of the early exchanges but the Redhill defence held firm.

Having soaked up the early Scorpions’ pressure, Redhill managed their first effort on target in the 14^th minute, and 2 minutes later they were ahead when Harry Williams tapped home from close range.

Scorpions got themselves back in the game just before half-time when Redhill failed to clear a free-kick and the ball was bundled over the line following a goalmouth scramble.

Redhill started to get their game together in the second half, and re-took the lead in the 53^rd minute. Joel Sowton’s free-kick from the edge of the box evaded everyone and crept in at the far post.

Scorpions, though, proved they did have a sting in their tail. With just 2 minutes to go, Scorpions broke down the left and the resulting low cross somehow evaded Case-Green and trickled across the face of the Redhill goal before hitting the far post and crossing the line.

On the balance of play, a draw was probably a fair result, but Redhill will be looking to push on during the remainder of the season.

Rosehill AFC 6 V 4 Redhill Town U12’s

Match started with a 10 man Redhill team, rosehill afc scored the first goal, but Redhill fought back with a superb goal from tayla Payne, Rosehill afc went in at half time 2 up. Great second half by Julian Ramsay who scored a hat trick final score 6 to 4 for rosehill afc but a heroic game by Redhill under 12's.

Redhill Town FC U18's vs. Wallington Wanderers.

Final Score after Extra time 4-4.

Final score after penalties 9-8 To Wallington.

On Sunday town's U18's side took on a tough opponent in Tandridge A league side Wallington Wanderers in the 2^nd round of the league cup.

The game set off at a quick pace with chances at either end. The teams seemed equally matched from the start, and it looked like a stroke of luck would be the only thing to separate the two sides. Luckily this went Town's way. About 15 minutes in town were awarded a corner which was scored directly by Nick Harlow on his Redhill debut. After taking the lead Redhill looked on top throughout, and Steve Buxton had many chances after terrorising the Wallington defence all game, however he was unlucky not to have doubled town's lead before the break.

Town went in 1-0 up at the break.

When the teams came out for the second half Town started well and looked determined to keep their lead and progress to the next round. This was helped 5 minutes into the second half when Steve Buxton was played through after some good play in the midfield from Jack Caffyn, Nick Harlow and Ross Mcgovern. Buxton was one on one with the keeper and made no mistake in slotting home to put town 2-0 up.

Town started to tire towards the end of the game, and this showed as Wallington got a goal back to make it 2-1 with 15 minutes to go. Town were rocked by this but tried their best to keep their cool. Wallington were then reduced to 10 men after poor discipline from one of the Wallington defenders. However, Wallington then equalized with only 6 minutes of the 90 to go to send the game into extra time.

After a good talking to by manager Anthony Reynolds, town came out working hard and fighting. Unfortunately after a good break from town, Wallington broke away on a counter attack which lead to a goal. The reds looked defeated but didn't give up and gave 100% throughout. On the stroke of half time in extra time, Wallington doubled their lead to go into the break 4-2 up. Anthony Reynolds and the Club's director of football, Janet Creighton, spoke to the side at half time and it seemed to work. Town came out for the last 15 minutes battling hard and as a team. It seemed as though Town were to lose in extra time, when with only 6 minutes of extra time to go, captain Jack Caffyn picked up a loose ball, drove inside and smashed home into the bottom corner with his left foot to get one back for town. This goal seemed to lift the side and give everybody involved a bit more belief. With 30 seconds left to play, the ball was hit long by Town's keeper and man of the match Billy Brawn. Jack Caffyn leaped the highest to head the ball on target and with a slight deflection and in dramatic style, town were level and the game went to penalties.

Town were unlucky not to win this game after going down 9-8 on penalties. But the whole club is proud of the side after the passion and desire shown by the squad. It was a valiant effort and the boys did the club proud, they will now concentrate on climbing the league table.

Hopefully will give you an update to Jan 15-16th this week though not many matches will be played.

Redhill Town U11's

2010-10-11T19:54:00.003+01:00

Here we are in a new season with a new name. Redhill Town Football Club formally known as Redhill Juniors.

So even though Redhill Albion still exists as a team with a name change of club and a move to a new league Epsom & Ewell Youth League, So we are now the U11's . Keeps everything nice and simple.

Anyway this season has been a bit of a bumpy start for the U11's with two quite bad losses, but at match three things began to improve and against Horsley, much to their amazement we drew 3 all, Things went well from there with a one all draw against Roundshaw With these two draws we had two points, pushing us up to 7th in the table.

Then the Break through happened last weekend. Our first win, beating Anglo Saxon 4-1. We are now 5th

Neil Lewer takes up the story.

Epsom & Ewell League Division 1 – League Match 09/10/2010

Anglo Saxons U11s 1 Redhill Town U11s

Redhill U11s took the spoils in their battle against Anglo Saxons, with a 4-1 victory and a hat-trick for Harry Williams. After a run of LLDD, their first win of the season should help boost confidence as they sit 5^th in the table.

In what was a fairly scrappy game, Redhill did not play to their full potential but never looked in trouble after Williams scored his first on 11 minutes. A well delivered corner from Ryan O’Donovan fell to Williams, who rifled home the rebound from close range after his first shot was parried by the Saxons’ keeper.

Two minutes later Redhill doubled their lead when Saxons failed to clear, and Tom Parker fired home the loose ball, but just before half-time, Saxons somehow managed to get themselves back in the game when a looping header crept in at the near post.

Redhill continued to dominate in the second half, with good work in midfield from O’Donovan and Joel Sowton, and it was O’Donovan’s pass in the 48^th minute which set Williams away to score Redhill’s third.

Two minutes from the end, Williams was harshly judged offside by the referee when the linesman’s flag stayed down. He was not to be denied his hat-trick, however, when he pounced a minute later to slot home Redhill’s fourth.

Some Additional pictures from the matches

Spring into summer

2010-06-22T00:39:00.000+01:00

Not Blogged recently, but after today, decided I had to. Sun was out and the arable guy's and girls were out doing the final spray on the wheat before harvest. So I was shooting pix of spraying. Whilst out shooting, noticed a rare site these days a butterfly, turns out it it is a monarch, which is fairly common, but still an intersting sight, none the less.

Along with a bit of wheat for good measure.

Mercedes C180 CGi Sport

2010-04-30T16:26:00.001+01:00

C 180 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY
ESTATE SPORT

The other week I was kindly lent a C Class Estate. The timing couldn’t have been better, as I was due to take my son to Liverpool to watch the second leg of the Europa cup Quarter final, Liverpool V Benfica at Anfield.

After spending a few minutes acclimatizing, myself to the controls and a few calls to the Mercedes Benz press office when trying to set up the hands free on my mobile phone, we set off.

Driving on the motorway was very easy and even after 4 hours with a few stops I still arrived in the Wirral, not as tired as I had expected.

The trip to Anfield went well, Car left safely at a relative’s house in the Wirral and the new form of transport the train and the bus. Even better, Liverpool won 4-1.

Living with the car.

When designing this car Mercedes clearly set out to produce a car that would be a load lugger as well as a relaxing drive on the Motorway.

With its 485 litre boot with the rear seats up and 1500 litre with them down, there is plenty of space to fit a shopping or larger items.

Performance wise, the car handles well and the acceleration from 1796 CC petrol engine is very good. With the 5 speed automatic gearbox you have three settings, officially called Comfort, Standard and Manual, manual being operated by the paddles on the steering wheel. I should say manual with nanny holding your hand, because if you dare to try to change up or down and the car feels, it’s a step to far. It is simple. You can’t. “As nanny knows best”.

You can also change up or down using the “gear shift”; I use the term loosely as this is the stick as with other autos where a manual shift normally is.

In terms of performance figures the official 0-62 is 9.2 secs and in terms of Fuel consumption I returned an average of 36 miles per gallon, but when driven through the country lanes in the S mode of auto box this dropped down to around 26 mpg.

Mercedes Benz call S standard mode, but quite frankly I think of it as sports mode as the car becomes far more responsive when the accelerator peddle is depressed and holds on to a gear much longer before changing up, which is great when you need to over take.

The Merc comes with all the usual luxury trappings, Cruise control, SatNav, plugs to connect with MP3 player, climate control and of course Bluetooth hands free for the phone.

The SatNav was very interesting to use as this also included a traffic message channel and if there any holdups ahead, it would suddenly reroute you, as happened to us coming up the M5. We heard there was a hold up beyond Junc 1, clearly so did the satnav, as it suddenly told us to get off at Junction 1 and took us through the back streets of Wednesbury, finally joining the M6 at Junc 9.

We also had another run in with the satnav on the way back. It decided I should drive on M6 toll road, I decided otherwise and wanted to go back on M6 and M5 before heading onto the M40.

I spent the next 3 junctions with the Satnav telling me to get off the motorway and go through the Centre of Birmingham. I don’t think so. Finally after junc 3 it decided to go my route and promptly knocked 20 miles off the journey.

Generally I thought the car was a great car to live with and really enjoyed driving it, but in terms of Torque I would be very interested to know how the Diesel version of this car performed, and especially the fuel performance

The Last two Matches of the season

2010-04-28T14:21:00.005+01:00

Sorry. I have been a bit slow putting up the reports this time.

First Match Redhill Albion Vs Junior sport's. A great match played with a lot of spirit. The final result was well deserved to all.

Peter Appleby takes up the story.

Tandridge League Youth Football League B Under 10’s

Redhill Albion vs Junior Sports 18/04/10

Both sides had good possession in the opening minutes and after 5 minutes Junior Sports took the lead when a through ball was picked up inside the box and fired into the net.

It took Redhill 10 minutes to get into the game when an individual effort by Senior almost led to a goal.

Good pressure from Williams created a chance for Stevens on the left.

In the 14^th minute Meldrum and Senior worked the ball to give Stevens another opportunity and 1 minute later Stevens went close again picking up a long ball. The ball came out to Appleby whose shot grazed the post.

In the 16^th minute O’Donovan hit a cross from the right wing which almost floated into the net and 1 minute later O’Donovan headed over the bar after connecting with a cross from Stevens.

In the 18^th minute Senior hit a superb through ball to beat the Junior sports defence but it was just too far ahead of O’Donovan.

Redhill kept the pressure on Junior Sports and just before half-time O’Donovan headed over from a Senior cross but at half-time the score remained 0-1.

Within 30 seconds of the restart Redhill were level when “lad of the match” Senior passed to O’Donovan who played a one two with Smart and drilled the ball into the net.

O’Donovan and Smart were combining well on the right creating problems for the Junior Sports defence but could not add to the Redhill tally.

A break away by Junior Sports in the 4^th minute looked like a certain goal until Senior who was tracking back made a saving tackle and was injured in the process.

2 minutes later Sowton took a ball full in the face and was replaced by Appleby.

Junior Sports were getting back on the offensive and Lewer was working well at the back.

After 10 minutes Senior, O’Donovan and Smart created another opportunity only to see Smart’s powerful shot blocked by a junior Sports defender.

Hickman worked a good position down the left flank to create a chance for Smart who shot wide.

Junior Sports continued to pose a threat on the break but Lewer and Meldrum were solid at the back and making sure Case-Green was not troubled..

After 40 minutes O’Donovan played a great through ball to Williams who was unlucky not to score.

After 43 minutes Hickman made an important tackle to win the ball and passed it to Senior who went close.

Redhill looked the more likely to get a second goal but it was not to be and the game ended a draw

Final Score: Redhill Albion 1 (O’Donovan) Junior Sports 1

Albion vs West Wickham

2010-04-13T13:46:00.000+01:00

This was the last match before Easter, and very exciting it was too.

Peter Appleby takes up the story.

Tandridge League Youth Football League B Under 10’s

Redhill Albion vs West Wickham A 28/03/10

Both sides had attacks in the opening minutes with Smart gaining an early corner and Case-Green pulling off a fine save.

In the 6^th minute O’Donovan set up a chance for Senior which was saved by the goal keeper.

West Wickham were showing why they are second in the league, but Redhill was resolute in defence with Smart, Sowton and Meldrum working hard protecting their goal.

In the 16^th minute, Redhill took the lead when Senior played a ball out to Williams on the wing and Williams used his speed to get to the edge of the box fired an unstoppable shot in the top left hand corner of the net.

2 minutes later Senior laid another ball to Williams who rifled a similar shot but this time the goal keeper made the save.

This goal fired up Wickham who laid siege to the Redhill goal for the remainder of the first half with “lad of the match” Meldrum, outstanding in defence.

Just before half time Redhill made a rare foray into the Wickham half and some neat interplay between Williams, Hickman and Stevens almost led to a second goal for Redhill.

On the stroke of half time Wickham hit the post with a header but when the whistle blew Redhill were still in front.

Within a minute of the restart Wickham were level with a shot from inside the box.

Redhill needed to “steady the ship” as the defence was kept busy. In the 7^th minute the ball was pinging around the box and hit the post but somehow Redhill kept the ball out.

But in the 9^th minute a long ball put the Wickham attacker through and he made no mistake with his shot to put Wickham in front.

Lewer had come on at half time and was giving a solid defensive performance at the back. Stevens was helping out at the back and Case-Green was putting in another great shift in goal.

Having withstood further attacks from Wickham, Redhill started coming back into the game in the last 5 minutes of the match. Appleby floated a cross into the box but it was just too high for Senior who put the header over the bar.

In the 47^th minute Williams played a ball to O’Donovan on the right wing who flighted a superb ball into the box and this time Senior kept his header down to score Redhill’s equaliser. Every Redhill player including the goal keeper rushed to congratulate Senior.

The last 3 minutes were tense but Redhill held on to gain a well deserved draw against one of the best teams in the league.

Final goal scored by Ben Senior for Redhill Albion

Final Score: Redhill Albion 2 (Williams,Senior) West Wickham 2

Spring at Last

2010-03-22T18:25:00.000Z

Finally spring seems to have arrived. With that it has allowed me to get out onto the farm again and shoot some farming activities.

This is mainly spraying and at this time of the year Ploughing. But being spring you have to have a spring lamb.

Albion vs Chiptead A team

2010-03-22T16:57:00.000Z

Unlike the last home game things didn't go as well for Redhill Albion this week.

Peter Appleby takes up the story

Tandridge League Youth Football League B Under 10’s

Redhill Albion vs Chipstead A 21/03/10

Redhill applied the early pressure and took control of the game. Stevens went close in the 6^th minute and a minute later Sowton put Appleby through but his shot was saved by the Chipstead keeper.

Williams was working hard up front and almost scored when Stevens got the ball into the box, but couldn’t force the ball over the line.

In the 9^th minute Sowton’s shot was saved and 3 minutes later “lad of the match” Appleby went close.

Appleby went close again after O’Donovan and Williams combined well to set up the chance.

In the 14^th minute Stevens’s cross into the box was controlled by Williams but his shot was blocked by a Chipstead defender.

Smart had an outstanding game at the back closing down early and distributing out to the right wing so that Redhill could build again. Smart and Sowton made sure that Chipstead did not trouble Case-Green.

In the 16^th and 19^th minute Case-Green was called into action and saved well from a corner and a powerful shot from Chipstead’s number 9.

Just before half time Redhill were awarded two free kicks just outside the box. Sowton went close from the first and O’Donovan placed the ball into the box, for the second, but no-one could convert.

At half time Redhill were the better team and should have been in front but the score remained 0-0.

In the second half Chipstead came out with more determination and started to press Redhill. Case-Green was in action in the first minute and Sowton made a great “last man” tackle.

Meldrum was working hard against what was now a much livelier Chipstead midfield.

In the 30^th minute Hickman played a great through ball to Appleby but the keeper was brave and prevented the goal and was injured as a result.

Hickman was playing a lone striker role up front and getting into good positions but he was unable to get the vital goal.

Chipstead were in the ascendancy and after 14 minutes went in front with a powerful shot from the edge of the box.

Redhill showed great determination to get back into the match and Stevens had a good effort saved in the 41^st minute. One minute later Case-Green made a terrific one on one save to keep Redhill in the match.

The killer blow came in the 43^rd minute when Chipstead made it 2-0 with a great header direct from a corner.

Redhill’s “never say die” attitude kept them going and in the 45^th minute Appleby played a defence splitting through ball to Williams who only had the keeper to beat but the keeper was brave and dived at his feet to prevent the goal. Stevens hit a shot over the bar and O’Donovan went close but it was not be.

Redhill were excellent in the first half playing some of their best football of the season, but were unable to sustain it for the second half and Chipstead won the match 2-0.

Final Score: Redhill Albion 0 Chipstead 2

Albion vs Chistlehurst wanderers

2010-03-19T19:02:00.000Z

Last Sunday Albion was back to Chistlehurst for a second attempt, after the match was called off last time due to a frozen Pitch. Unfortunately by the close of play, defeat was snatched from the jaws of victory.

Peter Appleby takes up the story.

Tandridge League Youth Football League B Under 10’s

Chiselhurst Wanderers FC vs Redhill Albion 14/03/10

Redhill started brightly, with Williams going close in the 2^nd minute following a pass from O’Donovan but fell behind a minute later when a Chiselhurst throw into the box was finished clinically by the attacker.

In the 4^th minute Appleby worked his way into the box and hit a shot which was saved by the goal keeper.

Case-Green pulled off a great save in the 5^th minute when Chiselhurst broke through the Redhill defence.

The next 10 minutes saw the game ebb and flow to each end with neither side getting on top.

O’Donovan and “lad of the match” Appleby combined well in the 12^th minute but Appleby’s shot was saved.

Lewer was playing solidly at the back and made a terrific saving tackle in the 13^th minute and passed the ball to Sowton who hit a long ball to Senior who placed the ball past the goal keeper to make it 1-1.

Chiselhurst responded quickly from the kick-off and hit the bar. Chiselhurst pressure persisted for several minutes and Case-Green was kept busy.

After 20 minutes Redhill broke away down the left with Hickman who passed to Senior, but Senior’s shot was saved.

Chiselehurst continued to push Redhill back and after 22 minutes Chiselhurst took the lead when an attacker collected the ball in the box turned neatly and fired the ball into the net.

A succession of attacks should have increased Chiselhurst’s lead but good defending by Lewer, Smart and Sowton kept Redhill in the game and just before half time Stevens passed the ball to Senior on the edge of the box who rifled the ball into the net to level the score 2-2.

Just before the half time whistle, the Chiselhurst goal keeper picked up a back pass and Redhill were awarded a free kick on the edge of the box but there was confusion over whether or not it was direct free kick and Redhill was unable to capitalise and the half-time score remained 2-2.

In the second minute of the second half a Redhill corner fell to Appleby who took the ball to the line before pulling it back to Sowton who fired the ball into the net to give Redhill the lead.

2 minutes later Chiselhurst were level when the ball was passed to an attacker on the left of the box who chipped over Case-Green into the net.

The game continued end to end with both teams going close. Meldrum was working hard in both defence and attack. Sowton had a powerful shot saved and Senior shot over the bar following some neat interplay with Appleby.

In the 42^nd minute Appleby was fouled in the Chiselhurst box but the referee waved play on and from the break away Chislehurst made it 4-3.

Both Stevens and Senior went close in the final minutesbut there were no further goals and the game finished 4-3.

Final Score: Chiselhurst Wanderers 4 Redhill Albion 3 (Senior(2), Sowton)

Stop Section 43 of the DEB act being passed

2010-03-18T15:26:00.003Z

You'll have heard of the Digital Economy Bill: it introduces powers to cut your Internet connection if you're caught illegally downloading films, music or software. It does more than that. It takes your photographs from you, too.

This diagram below shows you what happens now and what could happen if the law is passed.

We must stop this happening for more information go to to http://www.stop43.org.uk/

This blog was put together with the help of the Stop43.org Site and other photographers contributions

Permaclear Waterless Wash and Wax System

2010-03-12T18:10:00.004Z

Last week I was sent a waterless carwash system in the form of a spray bottle.

The idea behind this is simple, spray on, Wipe with one cloth then polish up with a second cloth to give a showroom finish.

Well to be fair, I put it through a fairly tough test. A white car that hasn't been washed for a few months and those few months were this winter.

Time wise it probably took me around 20 minutes to complete the job and as it waxed as well as washed, did produce an extremely good finish which did protect the paintwork well in the exteme weather of late.

Pictures Below show the results.





With this image the wing was polished but the door was untreated, showing the effect of the dry clean product.

Generally  I was very impressed with the product, it certainly beats using water, although as the car it was tested on, was so dirty maybe only a fire hydrant would be suitable, but for a car that needs a quick wash I would certainly recommend, although I thought it was a bit expensive at nearly Ten pounds.

For more information go to http://www.thewash.biz/

Redhill Albion vs Barnet Wood FC 7/03/10

2010-03-12T17:00:00.000Z

Last week proved a major comeback for Redhill Albion , with Albion having a very convincing and well deserved win against a Barnetwood. Barnetwoods troubles were not helped by only having 6 players.

Peter Appleby takes up the story.

Barnet Wood could only field 6 players for this Tandridge League match and from the whistle Redhill applied the early pressure and Sowton’s shot after 4 minutes was well saved by the Barnet Wood goal keeper.

In the 6^th minute a beautiful cross from Appleby was planted on to Senior’s head to score Redhill’s first goal.

2 minutes later Appleby’s shot was parried and Sowton’s follow-up almost led to Redhill’s second.

In the 12^th minute Stevens intercepted a goal kick and passed to Senior whose shot went wide.

One minute later O’Donovan hit a powerful shot which was turned around the post for a corner.

From the corner Barnet Wood cleared and a break away put Redhill’s reserve goal keeper Williams into a one on one situation but he was equal to the challenge and made a terrific save.

In the 15^th minute Appleby set up Senior whose shot was just wide.

3 minutes later Appleby collected the ball in midfield beat a defender and put Senior through and Senior’s clinical finish made it 2-0.

Redhill got a third in the 20^th minute when the ball fell to “lad of the match” Hickman who placed it into the back of the net from inside the box.

Just before half-time Appleby laid off the ball to Meldrum who chipped it into the top corner to make it 4-0 at half time.

Redhill continued to press in the second half and Stevens hit the bar following a lay-off from Appleby.

Barnet Wood went close with a shot over the bar and Lewer was keeping things tight at the back.

After 32 minutes Stevens’ shot was heading for the net but was touched round the post for a corner.

Appleby’s corner was floating towards the net and as the defence tried to keep the ball out, Case-green was on hand to stab it over the line for Redhill’s fifth.

In the 35^th minute Lewer was on hand to make a great clearing tackle from Barnet Wood breakaway.

Redhill continued to threaten further goals and after 39 minutes Sowton hit the post and 1 minute later Sowton’s shot was parried by the goal-keeper and Senior pounced to complete his hat trick.

Barnet Wood, undaunted by the deficit, kept pressing and Meldrum and Smart made sure that their attacks were snuffed out.

After 43 minutes an O’Donovan cross was headed over the bar by Sowton and a minute later Sowton went close following up a Senior shot.

In the 45^th minute Barnet wood had an amazing let-off when Senior hit the bar, from the rebound Sowton hit the bar and from the second rebound Senior hit the bar again before the ball was cleared.

One minute later Redhill got a seventh when O’Donovan picked up the ball on the edge of the box and blasted a very powerful shot which gave the goal-keeper no chance.

Despite trailing by 7 goals, Barnet Wood did not give up and in the last minute broke away but Williams completed an excellent performance by saving what proved to be the last kick of a comprehensive victory for Redhill.

Final Score: Redhill Albion 7 (Senior(3), O’Donovan, Hickman, Meldrum, Case-Green) Barnet Wood 0

RedhillAlbion Vs West Wickham away

2010-02-22T15:10:00.002Z

To View more pictures, Click the hotlink above

This week Redhill Albion are away to West Wickham. Conditions were rather on the wet side, but playable, and the boys were playing really well.

Peter Appleby takes up the story.

Tandridge League Youth Football League B Under 10’s

West Wickham A vs Redhill Albion 21/02/10

The pitch was heavy from overnight rain for Albion’s match against the league leaders.

From the kick-off Appleby and Senior combined well and almost took an early lead and in the first few minutes the match was evenly balanced with Wickham having chances and O’Donovan going close with a shot from the edge of the box.

In the 7^th minute Wickham were awarded a dubious free kick following a tackle by O’Donovan and from the free kick outside the box the ball took a cruel deflection giving Case-Green no chance and Wickham an early lead.

Three minutes later Wickham were two up when their number 11 hit a powerful shot from the edge of the box.

Albion were not being outplayed and in the 13th minute they were back in the game when Senior picked up a long ball , ran at the defence and placed a beautiful left foot shot wide of the goal-keeper into the net.

Sowton and Lewer were keeping things tight at the back and with Appleby working hard in midfield Albion looked capable of scoring again.

When Wickham did get in shooting positions they either shot wide or Case-Green saved.

Two minutes before half time, Albion drew level when Stevens lashed home the ball from a corner taken by Appleby.

The second half followed the pattern of the first with the match evenly poised.

Williams was working hard down the right flank crossing some useful balls into the box, but 4 minutes into the second half Wickham’s number 5 was given too much space and he worked his way into the box and smashed the ball into the back of the net to make it 3-2.

Senior always looked a threat and after 6 minutes, he powered his way past two defenders to see his shot deflected for a corner.

Lewer was called on to make a headed clearance and Hickman showed some silky skills in the box but couldn’t get into a shooting position.

“Lad of the match” Sowton was everywhere and after 11 minutes he saw an opportunity to lob the goal-keeper from the half way line but the goal-keeper managed to make the save.

Case-Green was looking a match for anything Wickham could throw at him.

After 15 minutes, Senior passed to Smart whose shot was just wide. From the goal kick Wickham broke free and with 2 attackers and only Sowton in defence Wickham looked certain to add to their tally but Sowton timed his tackle to perfection and cleared the danger.

In the last 5 minutes Albion had chances to equalise which would have been a fair result but it was not to be and Wickham took both points to strengthen their position at the top of the league.

Albion should be confident of getting something from their home match with Wickham later in the season.

It was an excellent team performance by the Albion which deserved at least a point .

Final Score: West Wickham A 3 Redhill Albion 2 (Senior,Stevens)

Redhill Albion Vs Tunbridge foresters home match

2010-02-17T22:43:00.005Z

Welcome to the latest edition of the blog. This time it is more football news where unfortunately things didn't go Redhill's way losing 3-1 to Tunbridge foresters.

Here is the full match report from Peter Appleby.

Tandridge League Youth Football League B Under 10’s

Redhill Albion vs Tunbridge wells Foresters B 14/02/10

Tunbridge forced two early corners but good defending by James Smart and Ryan O’Donovan turned defence into attack and a break away down the right almost led to a goal.

After 4 minutes Joel Sowton and Ryan Stevens combined well on the left which led to a shot from Ryan Stevens which flew past the post. This was followed up by a shot from Ben Senior.

Tunbridge were breaking well and threatening Redhill’s goal and after 6 minutes Joel Sowton made an important saving tackle.
To view more pictures of the match click on this link

James Smart continued to press forward and after 9 minutes he beat two defenders to get into a shooting position but the goal-keeper saved his shot.

Tunbridge responded with a break away and Charlie Case-Green was called on to make a save.

After 13 minutes Ryan Stevens picked up the ball on the right but his shot hit the side netting.

In the 16^th minute Tunbridge had another breakaway and looked certain to score but Charlie Case-Green mad a brilliant one on one save to deny Tunbridge. Two minutes later he was on hand to make a second save to keep Redhill in the game.

Jack Meldrum was making his presence felt up front combining well with Harry Williams.

One minute before half-time Redhill broke the deadlock when Guy Appleby’s left foot shot hit the post and Harry Williams was on hand to tap in the rebound.

In the first minute of the second half Miles Hickman beat two defenders but was unable to get into a shooting position. Tunbridge cleared the ball and from the clearance the Tunbridge forward fastened on to the ball and drilled it into the net to equalise.

Miles Hickman and Robin Lewer worked the ball up the left wing but no-one was available to take advantage.

In the 6th minute Ryan O’Donovan pressed forward and played a great through ball to Harry Williams whose shot was saved by the Tunbridge goal-keeper.

After 8 minutes Ryan O’Donovan hit a powerful shot which was well saved by the Tunbridge goal-keeper.

In the 10th minute Tunbridge broke away but “lad of the match” Charlie Case-Green was quick off his line and beat the Tunbridge attacker to the ball.

Redhill gained a corner after 12 minutes which Ryan O’Donovan took and Ben senior headed just wide

Then after 15 minutes Tunbridge took the lead with an unstoppable shot from the edge of the box.

Tunbridge were finishing strongly and seemed to benefit from keeping the same team on the pitch for the whole match and after 18 minutes sealed the match with a volley from a corner.

Redhill played their best football in the last 5 minutes camping in the Tunbridge half and pressing Tunbridge back but the Tunbridge defence held on to gain a deserved 3-1 victory.

Final Score: Redhill Albion 1 (H Williams) Tunbridge Wells Foresters B 3

U10's football is back on

2010-02-11T18:10:00.000Z

Redhill Albion Vs Tunbridge Foresters U10's away

Last Sunday saw Redhill Albion back in action after all this cold weather.

They had an away match that should have put at least 2 points in the bag, however luck was not on their side, managing to hit the cross bar as well as the post on numerous occasions.

They managed to score the first goal of the match, and everyone was sure that would be the first of many. That however was not to be and very soon Tunbridge had equalized.

During the second half things did pick up for them and they started to pass the ball more.

Unfortunately it wasn't enough to avoid a one all draw

Interesting week

2010-02-04T12:26:00.000Z

Been out and about a bit this week,

Early in the week portrait in London. Luckily the rain held off and no one asked what we were upto, as I set up my lights in one of the west end squares. Anyway no explaining to do.

Yesterday was also interesting, a local story that went national. A farmer in Salfords who's house was behind straw bales for 4 years after years of wrangling with Reigate & Banstead Council, the high court ordered him to Pull it down. He vows to fight on even to the court of Human Rights if necessary.

Robert Fidler outside his Disputed House in Salfords, Surrey

Return of the snow

2010-02-01T16:48:00.000Z

Here we go again, more snow. However at the weekend this didn't stop the boys training. A very cold experience.

All good fun and games, just hope it doesn't rain tomorrow. Could get very wet in London.

Albion Vs Three Bridges (Friendly)

2009-09-15T19:39:00.000+01:00

Last Sunday saw Redhill Albion take on the might of Three Bridges and after our great win at the chipstead festival, everyone was firied up to win, unfortunately this wasn't to be.

Report from Peter Appleby

Pre-season Friendly: Three Bridges vs Redhill Albion

Three Bridges play in the Tandridge League A, so Redhill expected a challenging game. They made the perfect start when, with only 2 minutes gone Harry Williams picked up a through ball and rifled the ball into the net to give Redhill an early lead.

Redhill was playing some neat passing football and against the run of play Three Bridges drew level and then got a second goal. Redhill continued to play their passing game and when the ball fell to Guy Appleby he made no mistake to fire home the equaliser from just inside the box.

Despite some valiant defending by Jack Medrum, Joel Sowton, James Smart and goal keeper Charlie Case-Greeen the Three Bridges team was gaining the advantage and by halftime had taken a 4-2 lead.

Redhill started the second half brightly and Ryan Stevens went close. Robin Lewer worked hard up front and forced the Three Bridges defence to give away a corner, but the Three Bridges midfield was in control and looked likely to add to their tally. Ryan O’Donovan put in a good shift as did Miles Hickman but could not prevent Three Bridges adding a further 3 goals.

Redhill continued to play good football and in the last 5 minutes created several good opportunities and when the goalkeeper failed to hold a shot from Harry Williams, Guy Appleby was on hand to pick up the ball and fire it home with his left foot for his second and Redhill’s third goal.

Despite the score-line, Redhill played well against a very good team from the league above and should be pleased with their performance which will give them confidence for the first league match of the season.

Final Score: Three Bridges 7 Redhill 3 (Williams, Appleby(2))

Chipstead Tournement

2009-09-15T01:11:00.000+01:00

With the junior season, just about to kickoff, last Sunday 6th september, Redhill Albion were involved the in Chipstead soocer festival.

Peter Appleby picks up the story.

Chipstead Tournament 6th September 2009

Redhill Albion were drawn in Group 2 of the Under 10’s with Coney Hall, Warren Colts, Monotype and Chipstead B.

Match 1 was against Coney Hall and the first half was close with Charlie Case-Green making some important saves. Joel Sowton was a rock in Defence with Ryan O’Donovan playing a captain’s game in defence and attack. Ryan Stevens went close with two shots.
The deadlock was broken in the 4th minute of the second half when Ben Senior fired home from the edge of the box. In the 8th minute James Smart almost made it two but was prevented by the Coney Hall goalkeeper.
Final Score: Redhill 1(Senior) Coney Hall 0

Match 2 was against Chipstead B and Redhill made a great start when, in the third minute, Redhill took the lead. Ben Senior chased a ball in the box which the keeper should have collected but Ben’s persistence paid dividends when he reached the ball first and placed it into the net. Chipstead threatened but at half time the score remained 1-0 to Redhill.
The second half started well for Redhill with a number of goal chances and Charlie Case-Green making some excellent saves. Guy Appleby came on as substitute in the 4th minute and almost immediately he picked up the ball on the left wing, beat one defender and rifled the ball into the roof of the net.
Harry Williams was doing some great work in defence preventing Chipstead getting any clear chances. With 2 minutes to go Ben Senior crossed the ball from the right into the box and Ryan Stevens volleyed the ball into the back of the net to complete a comprehensive victory.
Final Score: Redhill 3 (Senior, Appleby, Stevens) Chipstead B 0

Match 3 was against Warren Colts. Redhill pressed from the kick-off and made another great start when they gained a corner from which Ben Senior scored. There were a number of chances for Redhill in the first half with Joel Sowton going close but at halftime the score remained 1-0. The second half continued with Redhill applying the pressure and always looking likely to score a second and with 2 minutes to go Robin Lewer took a corner from the left to the near post where Jack Meldrum was on hand to steer the ball past the goal keeper into the net. Just before the final whistle Robin Lewer almost made it three.
Final Score: Redhill 2 (Senior, Meldrum) Warren Colts 0

Match 4 was against Monotype and Redhill made another perfect start when Ryan Stevens won the ball on the edge of the box and with his trusty left foot placed the ball over the goal keeper into the top corner. Harry Williams made a good run down the right and forced a corner from which Ben Senior went close with a header. A minute later Ben Senior hit the bar and Ryan O’Donovan went close.
After 4 minutes Redhill was awarded a penalty when a Monotype defender made a two handed save. Ben Senior smashed the ball into the net for Redhill’s second goal. There were no further goals in the second half.
Final Score: Redhill 2 (Stevens, Senior) Monotype 0

Redhill lifted the Group 2 Tournament winning all 4 games scoring 8 goals and no goals conceded – a fantastic performance from the team.

From then till now

2009-09-14T09:22:00.000+01:00

It's been a busy summer, doing stock shoots in Europe, shooting trucks for Mercedes and the more nundane stuff shooting a feature in a nursery for an in house magazine, but it all helps pay the bills.

Anyway here a couple of the images from the past few months. This was for a Mercedes press release.

This is Brian May from Queen with the conductor of the BSO and the cast of We will rock you at the Open air concert at Mercedes Benz world at the start of August

Albion Vs Glebe Tigers

2009-04-27T12:28:00.000+01:00

This weeks Match ended in a three all draw.

Full report to follow.

So nearly goal, but not this time, as in the picture below, yet again Redhill Albion were denied the goal, this time they were defeated by the goal keeper

JLS At Mercedes Benz World

2009-04-27T11:51:00.000+01:00

Straight over last Sunday's match I had to make a quick dash over to Weybridge to shoot a job for Mercedes Benz World.

The People I was shooting in question was JLS one of the finalists in last years X Factor. They had come over to take a driving experience in AMG cars.

Albion Vs Cobra Boys

2009-04-27T11:26:00.000+01:00

Sorry for delays again but here is the story from last weekend.

Report by Gary Stevens

Redhill Albion 2 v Cobra Boys 1 - Under 9’s

Headline – Cobra Boys Rattled by Albion’s bite!

With the Cobra Boys only needing one more win to secure the league title, Redhill Albion certainly were not going pave a clear path for them. From the very first whistle you could clearly see the will power of Albion take a grip on this crunch match. Cobra boys were never really in it as the Albion put on a fine display of balanced teamwork.

The Albion’s first goal came in the first half from Meldrum – possibly the smallest player on the pitch, but boy does he pack a punch.

In spite of the importance of this match for Cobra Boys, the coaching staff of Albion maintained calmness, with the player rotation system still in operation.

There was marked difference between the styles of coaching staff from each club. Albion applying the calming nature of full support and Cobra Boys electing for a more carrot and stick approach.

Both halves were crammed with shots, saves and passes. A few notable mentions should go to Case Green for his dependable safe hands; O’Donovan for his leadership and Smart for his never say never attitude. I will update this list during next weeks match report as each of the players (this particular week merited a mention).

The second half saw Cobra Boys piece together a reasonable fight back culminating in a scoreline of 1-1 with 11 minutes to go. This fight back was short lived as the Albion’s fortitude shone through with Senior grabbing the winner.

This result places the Albion in 3rd place with 4 games to play. A fine effort all round.

Art or Vandalism

2009-04-13T18:43:00.000+01:00

Spotted this at the Top of Redhill, whilst driving home. Clearly it is a smashed telephone box, but weirdly it has created the shape of an animal.

Hope you like the pic.

U9's Vs U10's Redhill Albion

2009-04-13T18:27:00.000+01:00

Last Saturday Redhill Albion played a Friendly against the U10's of Redhill Juniors, The Score at Full time was 6-1 to the u10's.

Football fixtures from the past few weeks

2009-04-10T16:35:00.000+01:00

Hi there,

Not been posting recently but here now to correct it. Other post will follow shortly.

Anyway the team have had a number of games recently on the 22nd March they were home to Coney hall. This was a Double header, In the first game Albion managed to hold their own and Draw 2-2.

However due to some rough play and dubious refereeing, they lost 1-0

The following week they were away to Doverhouse lions. The team I think were hoping for a victory after the previous week, however things didn't go their way and they lost again. This time 3-1.

The next league match they have is against Cobra Boys, bearing in mind they currently lead the table, this will prove a tough match and hopefully after the recent defeats the team will rise like a Phoenix and win.

Rednose day football

2009-03-21T20:25:00.000Z

The Rednose Day team

Hi there,

It has been a busy week, and so only just had a chance to post this. Anyway for Rednose Day, Redhill Juniors had a sponsered football match and here is the report and pictures. For any petrolheads out there, further down the blog is a few pix of the launch of this years BTCC, firstApril race 4th april at Brands hatch.

Report Declan O'Donovan

On Saturday 14th March a number of the Redhill teams got together to hold a pyjama match to raise money for the Red Nose Charity. Players and parents from the U8’s, U9’s, U12’s, U13’s and U14’s gathered for the event with Martin Brownjohn officiating. Although the game started between the two older teams and a couple of mums, it wasn’t long before a flurry of substitutions saw the younger players enter the fray. The game was pretty even but by half time the greens were ahead by two goals from Bradley O’Connor (U12) and Jack Stevens (U12). With so many players on the pitch the ref had his work cut out so he cut the odds with a regular flash of the red card. Under 14’s Coach Adrian Steventon was sent off at the start of the second half for wearing an unflattering nightie. Ben Senior (U9) and Elliott Steventon (U14) equalled the scores for the reds but it wasn’t long before Charlie Case Green (U9) went on a skilful run beating the two mums, Kaye and Paula (U45), to take the lead once more for the greens. Just Before the final whistle Michael Lawrence (U14) managed to equalise for a well deserved draw. Deirdre Heinrich won best outfit for the day for her jammies and curlers. The event was a great success and Redhill Juniors have managed to collect over £400 for this worthy cause.

Redhill Albion Vs Carshalton

2009-03-21T18:03:00.001Z

Report Gary Stevens
Carshalton 1 - Redhill Albion 3 - Under 9’s

Carshalton were still seeking their first points during this clash, and they put up a fine display in the first half which ended at 1 – 1. Redhill, yet again, coming from a goal down.

This particular away (with full credit to Carshalton) fixture was a lot tougher than anticipated. It was only the determination and skill shown by the Redhill lads that maintained a winning streak.

The first half seemed a tad flat compared the usual approach by Redhill, however this was fully rectified in the second half with shots being fired at the Carshalton goal from all angles; one particular shot actually running along the face of the crossbar from the most acute angle.

The Carshalton woodwork was peppered right from the off and lead to some incredible, possibly ‘outrageous’ skill; Senior’s attempt at a mid-air scissor kick being nothing short of sensational.

The goals this week came from Meldrum, Senior and Sowton with some very strong performances coming from defence and midfield. It must be said, this young side are not afraid to start an attack in their own half.

BTCC test Day at Rockingham

2009-03-21T17:38:00.000Z

I have been having some fun this week, shooting some PR pictures for a well known quick fit retailer who sponser the British Touring car Championships, which kicks off on the 4th April at Brands Hatch.

If you want to see a slide show of some of myimages please click on the link below

http://www.mcgimages.co.uk/ss/?skin=509&ppwd=pr5849ms&Action=S&id=25460650&on_exit=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mcgimages.co.uk%2F

2009-03-13T16:41:00.000Z

Hi again,

Sorry for delay this week, but here is the report in the end.

Report Gary Stevens

Redhill Albion 3 – Chipstead B 1 - Under 9’s

Winning ways were maintained during this weekend, beating a determined Chipstead side. This was a hurdle very well negotiated indeed.

With goals reigning in from all parts last week (with particular reference to Robins Lewer’s first goal for The Albion) the spectators and coaching staff are becoming ever more expectant of success. This particular home fixture (trailing one – nil in the first half) was tougher than anticipated.

The previous week’s hustle and bustle was unfortunately missing this week; one thing ever present however is the lad’s relentless inability to accept defeat. Coming back from one – nil to a convincing win is inconceivable from a troupe of players of this age-group.

This game didn’t flow as usual, and it would be fair to say it was one of those battles that provided little flair. I think the media usually call this type of game “winning ugly”.

Strong and driven performances rather like James Smarts of this week are going to be vital in the run up to the end of the season. A top two position is certainly within the grasp of Redhill Albion.

And I thought that football was a non contact sports

The feminine touch

Albion Vs Hamsey Green

2009-03-02T13:24:00.000Z

Unfortunately I wasn't around last weekend so there are no pix from the match.

But Gary Stevens was around and here is his report.

Redhill Albion 0 – Barnet Wood 1 - Under 9’s

Following recent home win against Otford (3 – 0) Redhill found themselves in second place with Barnet Wood chasing hard in third place. Playing Barnet Wood at home would be a challenging and pivotal encounter.

As expected, these two teams challenged hard but fair, and for the majority of the match there was little or nothing between them. Redhill started brightly with a number of shots on target by Stevens and Senior. Barnet Wood however would not be broken and remained unshakable with the first half ending nil – nil.

This match had a great intensity about it and the supporters had the pleasure of witnessing an incredibly exciting battle. Unfortunately Barnet Wood scrambled a goal with 10 minutes to go and left Redhill with the challenge of getting one back. Redhill responded (as ever) with the determined spirit embedded by the coaching staff, with most shots somehow finding the Barnet keeper! The game ended at 1 – 0.

As always, O’Donovan showed his true captain status by remaining calm and resolute from start to finish. His probing runs down the wing provided many opportunities; sadly they didn’t quite get converted.
Lad of the match the previous week went to Stevens for his continual improvement. This week’s lad of the match was presented to Sowton for his flexible and capable play. His ability to play in almost any position is a credit to him.

This week we played Hamsey Green and again Gary Stevens reporting

Hamsey Rangers 0 – Redhill Albion 6 - Under 9’s

The race to the finish of the Under 9’s league is truly hotting up. Last weeks clash with Barnet Wood has left the second place spot wide open. All the more reason the lads got back into their usual ‘Modus Operandi’.

This week’s team performance proved to be one of the finest of the season, all squad members giving their full attention to the mission in hand, ‘Winning against Hamsey’.

Incredibly, the 6 Redhill goals came from 6 of the lads (Senior, Stevens, Hickman, Smart, O’Donovan, Sowton), a true team effort! The team spirit and common goal being was self evident.

From the very first whistle, Redhill were in complete control and played with a flow that permitted some seriously high quality football. Interplay, is word regularly used when describing the nature of this Redhill team, this match being no exception. Playing the ball from defence through midfield and linking with the forwards was common place, a very commanding performance indeed.

The Redhill squad is growing in size and stature, and I for one am impressed by the coaching staff’s approach to integration of the incoming players. This growth will stand the team in very good stead for the future.
The game was played (as is the norm) in a very fair manner. The Barclays Premiership could learn a thing or two from these impressionable youngsters.
Lad of the match this week was presented to Ryan O’Donovan. Quiet confidence simply oozes from him.

Spring

2009-02-28T18:34:00.000Z

I think spring may have nearly arrived. Although that's what I thought yesterday. This week I finally got back out into the fields for work. After the winter this is a blessed relief.

Anyway on my trip back from Hampshire, I decided to stop off at The Devils punchbowl at Hindhead. Everyone talks about all the great wonders of the world, and they are all truly wonderful, but we have in Surrey one of our very own. The view from the top is amazing.

This doesn't do it true justice, but does give you an idea. Below are some more images shot there.

The week before last took me to Guildford and amazingly the sun came out again, allowing me to get these shots at Woodbridge meadow, which as far as I can see is in the throws of being renovated, however they have installed some interesting Sculptures.

Certainly an interesting place to visit and also right by the river

RedhillAlbion Vs Glebe Tigers

2009-02-18T15:07:00.000Z

Redhill Albion 3- Glebe tigers 1

Now the weather has improved, wethe lads are backing playing again, last weekend saw them up against Glebe tigers.

Goals were scored by Ryan O'donovan, Ryan Stevens and Ben Senior each scoring one.

This puts Redhill in second place, trailing by 5 points, but with two games in hand, so there is still everything to play for.

Technical talk

2009-02-18T14:46:00.000Z

Over the past few months I have been asked on numerous occasions to do some photography at social events, and the comment I alway getis , "Any chance you could take a few shots and then just bung them on a disk". The trouble is when it comes to processing it takes more than just bunging them on a disk. Below is an example of a shot that has been treated in two different ways.

The First image is produced by merely pressing auto exposure on the image proceesor. The Second has been adjusted using the various tools in the progra

mme. As you can see spending more time produces much better results.

First the Snow now the Rain

2009-02-17T19:33:00.000Z

The last few weeks have really thrown up some interesting weather, great for pictures. This week it was the turn of the rain.

Swollen rivers producing flooding. These were the scenes on Wednesday on the river mole at Flanchford Bridge.

On Friday, I worked on an assignment direct related to the floods. A shoot for Mercedes Benz

In the past the Brookland site was prone to flooding, So when the complex was built in 2006, special flood defense measures were put in place to stop the River Wey, causing the flooding damage. This was achieved by creating channels and soak aways in three different locations . The first being the 4x4 track, the second the main centre skid pan and if required the land at the bottom of the site

As you can see these proved extremely successful, and only the places that were suppose to flood did

The skid pan full of water with the building intact, Along with the Brooklands museum and all the houses

The 4X4 track with a lot more water than usual

Snowy days

2009-02-06T19:13:00.000Z

Life has been very cold after the last few days and rather quiet work wise. Anyway with all the snow it presented itself with lots of picture opportunities.

Here are some of them.

This is the brook that runs through Earlswood looking rather cold,

Emlyn road in the 09 snow

St Mary's Church in Reigate, nestling in the snow

This is what the snow is all about. Although some warmer weather would be good now especially for the Football.

Albion Vs Otford FC

2009-02-03T17:18:00.000Z

The team managed to get out this week, just before the snow came down.

Anyway here is the report and pictures.

Otford 0 - Redhill Albion 3 - Under 9’s

3-2-1 back in the room! Redhill juniors conquered Otford for the second time this season and this was no mean feat.

The style and skill of Redhill shone through on a cold and dismal Sunday morning despite having two penalties being awarded against them.

Case-Green spectacularly saved both penalties along with a number of other key stops, merited his lad of the match nomination. The saved penalties were key moments and essentially laid the foundation for this particular win.

The interplay between Senior, Budgen and Stevens was something to behold with Stevens displaying excellent skill throughout the game – It has been a long time coming but worth the wait!!

There was a rake of shots on target with three of them finding the back of the net. The three goals were split between Senior (2) and Stevens (1).

Lad of the match this week was presented to Case-Green for his great hands.
Report Gary Stevens

No Football this week due to bad weather

2009-01-26T17:59:00.000Z

Hello again,

Thanks to God taking a shower, football was called off due to a waterlogged pitch. However when rain stops play at Wimbledon, they show old match's, so seeing as this blog has only just started and we are half way through the season as they say on Blue peter here are some I did earlier.

And Charlie says as a member of the team Thank you for reading this blog.

Hopefully weather permitting normal service will be resumed next week.

2009-01-23T11:14:00.000Z

Part of the MCGImages blog is dedicated to my personal work and stories from jobs covered, the other is Dedicated to unfolding story of Redhill Albion as the season continues. This hopefully over the months and years will grow into a complete story of each season, that the team play in. Only time will tell how it goes.

Anyway a bit about the club.Redhill Albion is part of a larger football club, called Redhill Juniors, which in turn is affliated to Redhill Football club senior team. They play in the Tandridge league and are currently second in the table, although for a time were leading it.

The Blog on the is starting halfway through the season and up until this game, the boys were unbeaten.

Report by Gary Stevens.

Cobra Boys 4 - Redhill Albion 1 - Under 9’s Sunday 17th Jan 2009

The long 4 week break between training and the last competitive game owing to arctic weather and the Christmas break put paid the teams momentum. This culminated in the feisty Redhill Juniors losing their first league game of the season.Cobra Boys kicked off the match in style and displayed greater strength and resolve than Redhill. Cobra Boys made very good use of a coupel of very skilful and agile players which presented Redhill with most of the problems in the first half. The half finished with Redhill trailing three nil.

There was one particular dazzling display of grit, determination and skill from Budgen. His talent and awareness is really shining through, and the team would do well to pick up on this.The first half was clearly one sided but the second half was a more fairly contested event with a goal coming from each side. Redhill’s goal coming from O’Donovan.

Next report hopefully Monday 26th Jan Weather permitting

As a post script to this blog have just added a couple of picture that my 9 year son took whilst waiting on the touch line. Looks like I might have some competition.

Season Watch

2009-01-21T05:00:00.000Z

Greetings everyone,

This is my first posting.
Through this post I hope to give an insight into to a small bit of life in the South of England, especially the changing seasons, as we go through the year.

My main interest as a photographer is in food and farming, and so spend a fair bit of time out in the countryside,

For now though here are some images from the recent cold weather we had in early January.

MCG Images

What a difference a few days make

Farming in the winter

Meatballs

Health and safety

Cows are characters too!

Roasted Mackerel and poatoes in Curry spices

Agriculture finally comes out of winter

Potholes. Patching holes.Is it the answer?

Beef Tataki Salad

Roast Gammon Shank

Egg and prawn open sandwich

Vegetable and ham soup

Edwina Curry on The One show speaking about eggs

Redhill Town FC U11's

Creamy Egg Curry

Redhill town Football club 8-9th Jan 2010

Redhill Town U11's

Spring into summer

Mercedes C180 CGi Sport

The Last two Matches of the season

Albion vs West Wickham

Spring at Last

Albion vs Chiptead A team

Albion vs Chistlehurst wanderers

Stop Section 43 of the DEB act being passed

Permaclear Waterless Wash and Wax System

Redhill Albion vs Barnet Wood FC 7/03/10

RedhillAlbion Vs West Wickham away

Redhill Albion Vs Tunbridge foresters home match

U10's football is back on

More Car recall problems

Interesting week

Return of the snow

Albion Vs Three Bridges (Friendly)

Chipstead Tournement

From then till now

Albion Vs Glebe Tigers

JLS At Mercedes Benz World

Albion Vs Cobra Boys

Art or Vandalism

U9's Vs U10's Redhill Albion

Football fixtures from the past few weeks

Rednose day football

Redhill Albion Vs Carshalton

BTCC test Day at Rockingham

Albion Vs Hamsey Green

Spring

RedhillAlbion Vs Glebe Tigers

Technical talk

First the Snow now the Rain

Snowy days

Albion Vs Otford FC

No Football this week due to bad weather

Season Watch