Naomi Myers,

46, Hairdresser

“When news broke that the London Marathon was postponed, I was gutted considering the training I’d put in – but of course, it was the right decision. Whatever happens now, all I know is that running has become so important, in more ways than I thought. Living in a flat with two teenagers, we’ve had our moments, so being able to get out there, either by myself or as a family, has been crucial for all our well-being. I love exploring the tracks around Epsom common. OK, so you might end up in Ashtead but it’s all part of the fun.”

Rosa Howie

48, Mum-of-two

“I’ve lived in Epsom all my life and been a dog owner for 17 years but it’s taken lockdown to discover parts of the common I’ve never seen before – like the burnt trees near The Star pub and parts of the stew pond, plus I love the sign maps dotted along the way so you can look out for local wildlife. Cagney & Lacey are loving the longer walks; they can get bored walking round Court Rec and in the summer the common’s great for
shade too.”

Lizzie Patel

37, BA Crew

“During lockdown, I realised I was not a runner but I did however discover a new-found love for cycling. I’d normally use the gym, so riding my bike became my workout, plus it’s a bit of time for me, to clear my head. I love riding through Horton Country Park through to Epsom and then Ashtead Common. My kids, Amaya, 6 and Zayn, 3 love it, too. The pavement routes to Horton are wide with cycle lanes and once you hit the tracks behind Hobbledown there’s lots of animals to see along the way, including camels. Yes, CAMELS in Epsom!”

Barnabe Jolicoeur

53, RAC Fitness Trainer

“Like many people, COVID-19 put everything into perspective. Before, I was into fitness 24/7; running classes every week from Aqua to Spin and Segafit (Mauritian dance combined with fitness) but when the pandemic hit, I had to reinvent myself. I use stairs for cardio and strength, the garden for HIIT, plus long local runs and cycling, too. It reminds me of my former Olympic days, not over thinking, just getting up and getting it done.” 

Tom Penson

31, Sales

“I’m semi-pro and recently signed to Epsom & Ewell FC, so lockdown, like for many, has been about adapting to a new rhythm. My fiancé and I were supposed to get married abroad this summer too, so there’s been lots of reorganizing, plus we live in a one-bed on the High Street, so being able to get outdoors has been essential. Whether it’s cycling to Southfield Park, a walk-up Chalk Lane to end up on the Downs for a picnic or just doing some HIIT training in Roseberry Park – I’ve got a new appreciation for the open spaces right on my doorstep.”

Brian Ashwood

51, Epsom Firefighter

“I now cycle to work from Carshalton (avoiding public transport) and if I can, I prefer to ride off-road. A route I really like to do is from Epsom Fire Station, up and over the Downs and then it’s cycle routes to Headley and Brockham Village. It is a hilly route on the back roads and lanes. And then for mountain biking, you can’t beat the route from the Downs out to Headley, onto Ranmore and into Dorking. You can then go up the Surrey Hills, via Coldharbour and Leith Hill then back down Box Hill on the way back.”