![Surrey Police Are Appealing For Information About The Incident [thames Ditton And Esher Golf Club]](https://thej.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Surrey-Police-are-appealing-for-information-about-the-incident-Thames-Ditton-and-Esher-Golf-Club-1068x601.webp "Surrey Police are appealing for information about the incident [Thames Ditton and Esher Golf Club]")
Authorities in Surrey are investigating a disturbing act of vandalism at the Thames Ditton and Esher Golf Club, where a swastika was carved into one of the greens. The incident, which occurred overnight on February 15, is being treated as a hate crime by Surrey Police.
The golf club has been subjected to ongoing vandalism over the past ten months, primarily involving motorcyclists damaging the course. However, the recent defacement with a Nazi symbol marks a significant escalation, leaving the local community both shocked and distressed.
Mark Rodbard, General Manager of the club, expressed his dismay, stating, “Waking up to find our cherished course vandalised has sent shock waves through the club. This mindless vandalism doesn’t just affect our golfers, but the thousands of people who walk their dog, or enjoy the common land every week.”
Surrey Police have increased patrols in the area and are conducting a thorough investigation, which includes reviewing CCTV footage and speaking with neighboring residents. They are appealing to the public for any information that could lead to the identification of the perpetrators, particularly concerning the use of dirt bikes on the premises during previous incidents.
The club has reached out to local MP Monica Harding for urgent assistance, as both the police and Elmbridge Borough Council have been unable to provide resources to help identify those responsible. Given that the golf course is situated on common land, it is accessible to the public, which complicates efforts to secure the area against such acts of vandalism.
Karen Davies, Ladies Captain at the club, emphasized the broader impact of the vandalism, noting, “The club and the team take deep pride in caring for the common land for the enjoyment of all, and it beggars belief why someone would do this.”
The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact Surrey Police, quoting crime reference number PR/45250018945. Anonymous tips can also be provided through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for community solidarity in the face of hate crimes, as well as the importance of preserving shared spaces for the enjoyment of all.