Britain has a proud heritage spanning thousands of years.  From Roman occupation, to gun powder plots, to The British Empire, as a country we have a lot to be proud of and, unfortunately, ashamed of.  History, and the depth that it brings to our culture, is the foundation that we build upon daily; learning from it and using it to expand our communities is essential. 

In comparison to London, Edinburgh and other historically famed and tourist favourite locations, Surrey may seem to pale in comparison for historical figures and monuments.  Yet our local history is just as powerful and interesting, with widely colourful characters and stories that deserve more recognition.  

Take for example Edward Carpenter, one of the first to fight for homosexual rights, even influencing E.M Foster’s Maurice.  A well-known socialist and activist; he is now buried in Guildford cemetery, after enjoying latter life in the Surrey town.  

Or perhaps Emily Davidson, who famously and heroically jumped in front of the King’s horse at the 1913 Epsom derby; drawing attention to the plight and oppression of women.  She later died at Epsom cottage hospital due to her action.

Even the countless county homes that were converted into hospitals during both world wars, with their own multi-generational history’s lining the walls, lack the recognition they disserve.  These hidden houses, converted into schools, flats and hotels, gave hope and a chance of a new life to the men who selflessly put down their lives for our country.    Brooklands Auxiliary Military Hospital in Heath Road, where Brooklands College in Weybridge now sits, is a prime example of these long forgotten safe havens, and of the hidden historical gems that constantly surround us without our knowledge.

All three examples shaped Britain into the country we know today, influencing our literature, our politicians and rebuilding our communities, yet ignored and nearly forgotten by the present day.

The importance of celebrating our local heritage and history is paramount, as new housing developments, renovation projects and our fast paced lives threaten to forget the people and places that have formed the Britain we know today. 

Looking forward to a future were the country is divided by the taxing phrase “in or out”, remembering where we have come from and the people who fought for us, locally and nationally, is the only way that we can prevent fractures in our society. 

History is there to be learnt from, and by digging a little deeper we can discover heroes and inspirations closer to home than we may expect, and from that, we can learn how to work towards a united Britain, together. 

Georgia Balmer, Heathside School