Surrey village split by sinkhole ‘reunited’ by donkey derby

A Surrey community which was effectively split in two by the appearance of a giant sinkhole has been “reunited” by a fete and donkey derby.

Two sections of Godstone High Street caved-in back in February, with one collapse measuring 20m (65ft) in length.

A section of pavement recently reopened around the site of the hole, which led to property evacuations, business closures and significant traffic disruptions for locals.

Tandridge district councillor Louise Case, who organised the bank holiday event, said: “I do feel that people are coming back into the village.”

Now in its 83rd year, the event welcomes thousands of people onto Godstone Green for a number of special activities.

Ms Case said: “We saw a lot of people around during the week and at the weekend, even compared to a month ago.

“This event has really reunited the community.”

Meanwhile, Tandridge District Council said it hoped the affected road could be reopened by Christmas – a wish shared by John Quincey, secretary of the Caterham, Oxted and Godstone Lions Club.

He said: “We will be going around Godstone with our Father Christmas float this December and we hope the sinkhole will be filled in, otherwise it really messes up our route.”

Investigations into what caused the sinkhole have led to a number of findings.

In June, engineers confirmed they had discovered an eight-metre (26ft) deep network of Victorian sand mining tunnels around the site.

Earlier this month, those working to repair the road said the collapse started with a burst water main.

However, they said they were not ready to blame the water leak for the appearance of the hole.