Monday 20th June saw the start of building work of the new opera house at West Horsley Place; the Theatre in the Woods. The woods in question have colonised the ancient Home Pittles, originally a paddock located close to the main house, just north of the orchard. The first task for the builder was to clear the trees and undergrowth occupying the footprint of the new building. This followed an archaeological survey in May resulting in no discoveries, not even Sir Walter Raleigh's head which some say is hidden somewhere on the estate, and ecological surveys assessing the possible presence of badgers - scrapings but no sets - crested newts - none - and bats - no roosts in the trees since they mainly choose the comfort of the estate outbuildings and the attics of the main house.