Meet the Team
Matt Fielder - Business Owner
Owner operator and Customer Champion
Matt is very clear - without customers, we are nothing. Every customer is so important to us and the whole team are well trained and understand the importance to our business.
Matt believes Pubs are critical to communities as a vital social infrastructure acting as central "third spaces " for informal interaction, combating loneliness and strengthening local identity by bringing people together for conversation, events and activities. In rural areas, such as Newdigate, there are fewer alternatives.
The Surrey Oaks offers a welcoming place for face-to-face connection. pubs provide a stable, regular meeting spot and a sense of familiarity in an increasing digital world.
The Surrey Oaks function is key to the social infrastructure, a "scaffolding" that binds people together and builds civic life.
Everyone is welcome at The Surrey Oaks, however, we have a zero tolerance to anti-social or unacceptable behaviour.
The Surrey Oaks, often runs out of space on busy days, but this year we are going ahead with our new restaurant which will more than double our internal capacity and provide a great place to drink inside the Pub and a lovely place to dine in our new restaurant.
We are very excited to be moving forward with this project and we are looking for 600 local customers to invite on a VIP Guest List to a special "Four night" Opening Event with canapes and fizz.
Thank you - Matt tel : 07841 887 853
Thyra Griffin-Smith - General Manager
Thyra brings over six years of hands-on experience in the pub industry to her role as Pub Manager at The Surrey Oaks. Passionate about hospitality and community, she plays a key part in creating the warm, welcoming atmosphere that keeps guests coming back.
Overseeing the day-to-day running of the pub, Thyra manages staff and rotas, supports both the chefs and front of house team, and ensures service runs smoothly from open to close. She’s often found on the floor serving customers, checking in with guests, and making sure everyone feels right at home.
Thyra also takes pride in the look and feel of The Surrey Oaks — from seasonal decorating to keeping the pub organised and running efficiently behind the scenes. Working closely with Cellar Manager Si, who oversees the buying and cellar operations, she helps ensure everything comes together seamlessly to deliver the best possible experience.
Her dedication, attention to detail, and genuine love for pub life makes Thyra an inspirational leader of The Surrey Oaks team.
Elaine Hawkes - Head Chef
Elaine leads the kitchen at The Surrey Oaks as Head Chef, bringing creativity, organisation, and a true passion for great food to everything she does. With a hands-on approach and high standards, she ensures every dish leaving the kitchen reflects the quality and care the pub is known for.
Responsible for creating and developing the menus, Elaine focuses on delivering delicious, seasonal dishes that combine classic pub favourites with fresh, modern touches. She carefully manages stock ordering and kitchen operations, keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes.
As a dedicated leader, Elaine oversees and supports her team, fostering a positive and hardworking kitchen environment. Whether she’s developing new menu ideas or cooking amazing food day in and day out, her commitment to consistency and flavour is at the heart of the dining experience at The Surrey Oaks.
Her skill, leadership, and love of food make her an integral part of The Surrey Oaks team.
Si Greenough - Cellar Manager
Si is the driving force behind the bar at The Surrey Oaks, serving as Pub Cellar Manager and resident ale enthusiast. With a sharp eye for quality and a genuine passion for great drinks, Si is responsible for sourcing, buying, and tasting all of the pub’s ales, craft beers, and much of the wider drinks selection.
From carefully curating the wine lists to ensuring a rotating selection of exceptional cask ales, Si takes pride in offering something for every palate. He works closely with Thyra to make sure the drinks perfectly complement the atmosphere and experience The Surrey Oaks is known for.
Behind the scenes, Si keeps the heart of the pub running smoothly. He manages the cellar with precision — cleaning lines, racking casks, maintaining stock levels, and ensuring every pint served is in top condition. During weekday daytimes, you’ll often find him running the bar, sharing his knowledge, and helping guests discover their new favourite drink.
His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to quality make him an essential part of The Surrey Oaks team.
Vladamir Zlatkov - Sous Chef
Vlad – Sous Chef at The Surrey Oaks
Vlad joined the team at The Surrey Oaks in May 2025 and has been making his mark in the kitchen ever since. Originally from Bulgaria, he brings with him a wealth of talent, creativity, and a real passion for flavour.
Energetic and full of fresh ideas, Vlad has already added his own dishes to Elaine’s carefully crafted menus, complementing them with bold flavours and beautiful presentation. His inventive approach and attention to detail have quickly made him a valued member of the kitchen team.
Currently serving as Sous Chef, Vlad will step into the role of Head Chef at The Surrey Oaks from 1st April 2026, as Elaine takes a well-earned retirement. While he’s creative and ambitious, he’s also grounded and focused — committed to maintaining the high standards guests know and love, while bringing his own exciting influence to the menu.
Vlad is looking forward to leading the kitchen into its next chapter and continuing to deliver exceptional food to every guest who walks through the doors of The Surrey Oaks.
Gorgia-Louise - Supervisor
Georgia has been a valued member of The Surrey Oaks team for the past six years and is truly part of the pub’s heart and soul. Local to the village of Newdigate, she has grown up alongside many of our regulars and knows the community inside out.
With her welcoming smile and natural warmth, Georgia is always keen to serve customers and ensure everyone feels right at home. Her extensive knowledge of the pub and its history makes her a familiar and trusted face behind the bar. As a supervisor, she confidently manages the team in Thyra’s absence, helping to keep everything running smoothly.
Outside of the pub, Georgia works full-time as a children’s nanny and has also taught at the local school in recent years — further strengthening her ties to the village community. The Surrey Oaks has long been a second full-time job for her and remains a huge part of her life.
Her dedication, loyalty, and genuine love for the pub and its customers make Georgia a true asset to The Surrey Oaks team.
Hollie - Supervisor
Hollie has been a valued member of The Surrey Oaks team for nearly two years and plays an important role as one of our supervisors. Dedicated, approachable, and full of energy, she is passionate about making sure every customer feels well looked after from the moment they walk through the door.
Known for her bubbly personality, Hollie loves chatting with guests and creating a friendly, relaxed atmosphere in the pub. Her positive attitude is infectious — both customers and the team appreciate the warmth and enthusiasm she brings to every shift.
Great with both staff and guests alike, Hollie helps keep service running smoothly and supports the team to maintain the high standards The Surrey Oaks is known for. She is truly a big asset to The Surrey Oaks and a much-loved member of the team.
Harry - Supervisor
Harry is one of the big personalities at The Surrey Oaks and a firm favourite with our customers. Friendly, confident, and quick to make friends, he has a natural charm that keeps guests smiling and coming back for more.
Most often found behind the bar, Harry serves with energy and enthusiasm, but he’s just as capable out on the floor waiting tables and keeping everyone entertained. His versatility and willingness to get stuck in wherever needed make him a key part of the team.
Behind the scenes, Harry also plays his part in keeping standards high — helping to load the cellar, clean lines, and even lending his sharp IT skills when needed. Popular with customers and valued by the team, Harry brings character, reliability, and plenty of personality to The Surrey Oaks.
Ruby - New to the Team
Ruby C is one of the newest members of The Surrey Oaks team, but she has fitted in straight away thanks to her bubbly personality and helpful attitude. From day one, she has brought great energy to the pub and quickly become a valued part of the team.
A hard worker and a pleasure to be around, Ruby is always ready to lend a hand and ensure customers feel welcome and well looked after. Her positive approach and enthusiasm make her a natural fit for the lively atmosphere at The Surrey Oaks.
Ruby joined us following in the footsteps of her sister, Lola, who has been part of the team for some time and is currently focusing on her studies. We’re delighted to have Ruby with us and hope she’ll remain part of The Surrey Oaks family for many years to come.
Molly - Waitress/Bar
Molly is a long-standing member of The Surrey Oaks team and one of our delightful triplets. With a naturally sweet and gentle personality, she brings warmth and kindness to every interaction.
Working primarily on the restaurant floor, Molly ensures our customers feel welcome and looked after, and she has recently taken on running our popular weekend breakfasts. Always hardworking and dedicated, she charms guests in her own unique way, making each visit a little brighter.
Molly’s kindness, commitment, and friendly nature make her a treasured member of The Surrey Oaks family.
Iva - Waitress/Bar
Iva has been a valued member of The Surrey Oaks team for three years, working part-time in the restaurant. Known for her speed, precision, and attention to detail, she ensures that every service runs smoothly and that customers always feel well cared for.
A keen observer, Iva remembers regulars and their favourites, often having things ready for their arrival each week. Her fun, chatty, and vibrant personality makes her a joy to be around, both for the team and for guests.
Iva’s dedication, energy, and warm approach make her a true asset to The Surrey Oaks restaurant.
Julia - Weekend Supervisor
Julia is a valued member of The Surrey Oaks team, working Sundays and bringing her experience, dedication, and warmth to every shift. A talented school teacher, she is well-known in the local community — past and present students often pop in for a meal to surprise her!
With her friendly and approachable nature, Julia works seamlessly with the team and has built a fantastic rapport with customers. Her experience, professionalism, and cheerful personality make her a much-loved part of The Surrey Oaks family.
Freya - Waitress/Bar
Freya has practically grown up at The Surrey Oaks, starting her journey as a kitchen porter before moving to the front of house to run food. Over the years, she has taken on a variety of roles, including leading our team of glass collectors at local beer festivals, before becoming a waitress and now training on the bar as she reaches serving age.
Currently focused on her A-level studies, Freya will be around more during the summer, bringing her energy, enthusiasm, and friendly personality to every shift. A lovely member of the team, she is well-liked by both colleagues and customers alike.
Her dedication, versatility, and positive attitude make Freya a real asset to The Surrey Oaks family.
Ruby - Waitress/KP
Ruby F joined The Surrey Oaks a couple of years ago, starting in the kitchen as a porter, helping with washing up and plating desserts. Known for her incredible work ethic and attention to detail, she quickly became a valued member of the team.
Currently waitressing with us, Ruby brings the same dedication and care to front-of-house service, making her a favourite with both customers and colleagues. Ambitious and passionate, she is training to become a vet, specialising in exotic animals, while balancing her role at the pub.
Ruby’s commitment, friendliness, and precision make her an important part of The Surrey Oaks family.
Julie Fielder - Working hard behind the scenes
Julie is our fabulous Payroll Manager, ensuring that the team is paid accurately and on time. While her main role keeps her busy behind the scenes, she’s always popping up at The Surrey Oaks to help with our bustling beer festivals and to spread cheer during special occasions.
A familiar face at Christmas, Julie delights in visiting the pub with festive food and goodwill, bringing warmth and cheer to both staff and customers. Outside of the pub, she balances family life as a busy mother and dedicates time to her charity work.
Married to Matt, the pub owner, Julie’s visits are always eagerly anticipated — her energy, kindness, and support make her a beloved part of The Surrey Oaks community.
Mark Fielder - We seek him here, we seek him there but we only see him at Beer Festivals!!
Beer festival Head Doorman. Has been known to let people in for a double rum and coke
