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Disturbing new details emerge in death of head teacher, husband and daughter

<p><em><strong>Warning: This article contains distressing content that some readers may find confronting. </strong></em></p> <p>A headmistress at a private school in the UK made a distress call to a family member just hours before she was found dead, a report has claimed. </p> <p>School principal Emma Pattison, the head teacher of private school Epsom College in Surrey, England, was <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/news/news/headmistress-husband-and-daughter-found-dead-on-school-grounds" target="_blank" rel="noopener">found dead</a> alongside her 39-year-old husband, George, and seven-year-old daughter Lettie on the school grounds earlier this week. </p> <p>As an investigation into their deaths has commenced, the BBC has reported that Emma made a frantic phone call to a relative with concerns about her partner. </p> <p>By the time the worried relative arrived at the house, which is surrounded by other properties occupied by college staff and is close to the prestigious school’s rifle range, all three were dead.</p> <p>Police have yet to disclose the official cause of their deaths, but are confident no one else was involved in the "isolated" incident. </p> <p>Detectives confirmed a firearm registered to George, of which he had a license for, was found at the scene and they are treating the tragedy as a double murder and suicide.</p> <p>Detectives suspect George killed his wife Emma, 45, and little Lettie before taking his own life.</p> <p>Detective Chief Inspector Kimball Edey, senior investigating officer on the case, said, “This is an incredibly traumatic incident and we are working around the clock to investigate and understand the exact circumstances which led to this point."</p> <p>“We understand the public concern and upset, and we will clarify what we can, when we can, while respecting the right to a level of privacy for the families of those who have lost their lives."</p> <p>The community is reeling from the tragedy, as devastated neighbours who knew the "lovely" family shared how "heartbroken" they are. </p> <p>One person said, “It is just shocking and unimaginable.”</p> <p>Chloe Rathbone, a nursery worker who looked after Lettie, told The Times, “I am utterly so heartbroken over this awful news."</p> <p>“They were such a lovely family and Lettie was perfect in every way, everything you could have wished for in a little girl.”</p> <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';"><strong><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Don't go it alone. Please reach out for help.</em></strong></p> <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';"><strong><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Lifeline: 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au</em></strong></p> <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';"><strong><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue.org.au</em></strong></p> <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';"><strong><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Headspace: 1800 650 890 or headspace.org.au</em></strong></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images / </em><em style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">epsomcollege.org.uk</em></p>

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Headmistress, husband and daughter found dead on school grounds

<p>School principal Emma Pattison, the head teacher of private school Epsom College in Surrey, UK, has been found dead alongside her 39-year-old husband, George, and seven-year-old daughter Lettie on the school grounds.</p> <p>At just 45 years of age, Mrs Pattison was a very recent addition to the school, having joined the award-winning school in September 2022. </p> <p>While an investigation is underway, Surrey police have released a statement saying that they believe this to be an isolated incident with no third-party involvement. </p> <p>Epsom College has also released a statement following the discovery. </p> <p>“It is with the deepest sadness and regret that we have to announce the news of the deaths of Emma Pattison, Head of Epsom College, her daughter Lettie, and her husband George,” the statement reads. </p> <p>“Our thoughts, condolences and sympathies are with their families at this tragic time. The College is working with the Police in what remains an ongoing investigation. </p> <p>“We must now focus on the welfare and wellbeing of our pupils and staff, and work to ensure that they receive all the comfort, warmth and support required from the Epsom College community. </p> <p>“We ask that the public and the media respect the privacy of Emma’s family, and help us to prioritise the needs of our pupils. </p> <p>The news is heartbreaking and we need time and space to come together and process this loss. No further statement will be issued at this time.”</p> <p>Dr Alastair Wells, chair of the board of governors at Epsom College, said, “On behalf of everyone at Epsom College, I want to convey our utter shock and disbelief at this tragic news.</p> <p>“Our immediate thoughts and condolences are with Emma’s family, friends and loved ones, and to the many pupils and colleagues whose lives she enriched throughout her distinguished career.</p> <p>“Emma was a wonderful teacher, but most of all she was a delightful person. In time we will commemorate Emma and her family, in the appropriate way, and in line with the wishes of her family.</p> <p>“But for now, we ask that we are all given the time, space and respect we need to come to terms with this tragic loss."</p> <p>Pattison’s husband, George, was a chartered accountant who was director of a management consultancy firm called Tanglewood 2016, according to Companies House.</p> <p>Surrey Police’s Detective Chief Inspector Kimball Edey also said: “I want to give my assurance that we will conduct a thorough investigation into what took place last night and hope to be able to bring some peace in these traumatic circumstances.”</p> <p>Inspector Jon Vale, Epsom and Ewell’s borough commander, also said: “We’re aware that this tragic incident will have caused concern and upset in the local community.</p> <p>“While this is believed to be an isolated incident, in the coming days, our local officers will remain in the area to offer reassurance to students, parents, teachers, and the local community. I would like to thank the school and the community for their understanding and patience while the investigation continues.”</p> <p><em><strong>Don't go it alone. Please reach out for help.</strong></em></p> <p><em><strong>Lifeline: 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au</strong></em></p> <p><em><strong>Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue.org.au</strong></em></p> <p><em><strong>Headspace: 1800 650 890 or headspace.org.au</strong></em></p> <p><em>Image: epsomcollege.org.uk</em></p>

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Queen suffers major setback ahead of Jubilee

<p dir="ltr">The Queen’s three horses have been removed from the Epsom Derby which renders Her Majesty’s position redundant from the race.</p> <p dir="ltr">With the Platinum Jubilee set to be held in June, the removal of the Queen’s horses causes a setback for the monarch.</p> <p dir="ltr">Queen Elizabeth has yet to win the Epsom Derby - with the closest she’s ever come to win as a horse owner was in 1953 when she came second.</p> <p dir="ltr">Her horse Reach for the Moon had 7-1 odds on winning the race but was pulled out due to not being fit enough following an injury.</p> <p dir="ltr">"In the best interests of the horse, we have decided that this race is coming too soon for him," trainer John Gosden told the Racing Post.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Consequently, he will not run in the Derby and will be pointed towards Royal Ascot."</p> <p dir="ltr">Her two other horses Educator and General Idea were also removed.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Queen might attend Trooping the Colour on Thursday June 2 and a service of thanksgiving at St Paul's Cathedral on Friday June 3.</p> <p dir="ltr">Platinum Jubilee will be a four bank holiday for the UK from Thursday 2nd to Sunday 5th June. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

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Country Women’s Association enter demolition derby

<p>The Kyogle Evening Branch of the Country Women's Association in northern New South Wales is proving to the community they do "more than just tea and scones” by entering the local demolition derby.</p> <p>President Odette Nettleton told <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-10-10/cwa-demolition-derby-nsw-north-coast/7917292">ABC North Coast</a> she had always thought the derby was the most entertaining part of the show.</p> <p>"I don't think there's many opportunities to get in and do this stuff generally for women and why not create some more," she said.</p> <p>"I'm sure we'll be baking as well, but there's no reason why we can't bake and smash cars."</p> <p>The CWA, which traditionally has a conservative image, has in recent years surprised some by voting in favour of gay marriage and medicinal cannabis in some branches.</p> <p>"The CWA is Australia's largest women's lobbying group and has a really powerful voice in parliament and to the government," Ms Nettleton said.</p> <p>"And the government does take notice."</p> <p><img width="500" height="334" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/28634/7916652-3x2-700x467_500x334.jpg" alt="7916652-3x 2-700x 467" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></p> <p>The CWA car wasn’t your standard demolition derby car though, decorated by members using decoupage, crochet and doilies. The tagline “more than just tea and scones” was painted on the ar.</p> <p>Derby organiser Pete Graham said the car was a hit with fans on the showground on Saturday night.</p> <p>"I've been in every race from the start to the finish here and haven't seen something like this before."</p> <p>The CWA team didn’t win, but driver Adel Wynd said she’d love to do it again.</p> <p>"I'd love to do it for longer because it was so much fun."</p> <p><em>Photos: Samantha Turnbull</em></p> <p><strong>Related links: </strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/retirement-life/2016/08/common-myths-about-retirement/"><em>6 myths about life after retirement</em></a></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/retirement-life/2016/08/perks-of-getting-older/">8 perks of getting older you might not know about</a></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/retirement-life/2016/07/yazemeenah-rossi-60-year-old-model/"><em>Meet the 60-year-old model disrupting ageing</em></a></strong></span></p>

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8 great uses for Epsom salt in the garden

<p>Comprised of hydrated magnesium sulphate, a naturally occurring mineral, Epsom salts are good old-fashioned home remedy to give your garden an extra boost. Both cost effective and gentle on your greenery, here are eight uses for Epsom salt in your garden.</p> <p>Note: It’s always advisable to do a soil test in your garden before apply nutrients to soil.</p> <p><strong>1. Improve seed germination</strong></p> <p>Give your garden a boost right from the start! Magnesium helps seed germination and strengthens cell walls. Incorporate one cup of salt per 100 square feet of soil or mix a tablespoon or two into soil at the bottom of each hole before dropping in seeds.</p> <p><strong>2. Help nutrient absorption</strong></p> <p>Commercial fertilisers often add magnesium to help roots absorb nutrients so go straight to the source. Add Epsom salt to soil to improve absorption naturally.</p> <p><strong>3. Turn yellow foliage green</strong></p> <p>Yellowing leaves are often caused by a magnesium deficiency, as magnesium is an essential component in the production of chlorophyll. Try sprinkling one-tablespoon of Epsom salt around the soil of your plants once a month. You could also mix one tablespoon of salt into three litres of water and spray directly on leaves.</p> <p><strong>4. Prevent leaf curling</strong></p> <p>Leaf curling may also be caused by a lack of magnesium so add Epsom salt to the soil around the base of the plant or spray with the above mix of Epsom salt and water.</p> <p><strong>5. Weed killer</strong></p> <p>This natural weed killer works a treat. Mix two cups of Epsom salt with four litres of vinegar. Add four tablespoons of liquid dishwasher and put mixture into spray bottle.</p> <p><strong>6. Beautiful roses</strong></p> <p>It seems the secret to beautiful roses might just be Epsom salts. Not only do they help roses produce larger blossoms in greater numbers, it makes colour richer, foliage darker and stronger plants. When planting, soak roots in half a cup of Epsom salt diluted in three litres of water. Sprinkle Epsom salt in the hole prior to planting. Once per month during growing, sprinkle one tablespoon of Epsom salt per feet of plant height around the base of plant.</p> <p><strong>7. Tasty tomatoes</strong></p> <p>Tomatoes are prone to magnesium deficiency later in the growing seasons. Regular applications of Epsom salt will result in more blooms, less blossom rot and sweeter, tastier and more bountiful tomatoes.  When planting, add one tablespoon of salt per hole before planting seeds or transplanting. Every two weeks mix one tablespoon in a three litres of water and spray plants with solution.</p> <p><strong>8. Plentiful peppers and chillies</strong></p> <p>Like tomatoes, peppers are traditionally magnesium deficient too, so follow the Epsom salt tomato recommendations for greater yields and stronger peppers.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://plantsplus.com.au/resource-centre/catalogues/" target="_blank"><strong>Check out the latest catalogue from Plants Plus here</strong></a></span> <em>for some great prices on some of these plants as well as more tips and inspiration for your garden.</em></p> <p><strong>Related links:  </strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/lifestyle/gardening/2015/03/tips-for-growing-tomatoes/">Top tips for growing tomatoes</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/lifestyle/gardening/2015/03/recycled-gardening-tools/">Recycle household items into gardening tools</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/lifestyle/gardening/2015/01/how-to-grow-chillies/">How to grow your own chillies</a></strong></em></span></p>

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Derby the dog gets 3D printed legs

<p>Derby, an adopted rescue dog was born with deformed front legs, which kept him from running and playing with other dogs. In this inspiring story, Derby gets a second chance via 3D printed front legs, which now have the lucky dog running, playing and living his life to the fullest.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="/lifestyle/pets/2015/09/why-greyhound-make-good-pets/">8 excellent reasons to adopt a greyhound</a></strong></span></em></p> <p><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="/lifestyle/pets/2015/08/pets-sleeping-in-bed/">Should you let pets sleep in your bed?</a></strong></span></em></p> <p><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="/lifestyle/pets/2015/08/pets-allergic-to-humans/">Is your pet allergic to you?</a></strong></span></em></p>

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