Water is the lifeblood of Shepperton, and it has shaped its history and community in ways that are both fascinating and vital. In our latest chat, we dive deep into the waterways that define our village - from the mighty Thames, which has served as a crucial trade route since Saxon times, to the Queen Mary Reservoir, which dramatically altered the landscape and lives of locals when it was built in the 1920s. Our guest, local historian Nick Pollard, shares stories that add color to these historical facts, like how the original village was strategically placed to avoid floods, and how the river once served as the main transportation route before the railways came along. Nick doesn't just throw out dates and events; he brings to life the connection people had with these bodies of water, including the lost traditions of fishing for eels and the community's evolving relationship with the River Ash, a lesser-known but equally significant stream. It’s a walk through time, and every bend of the river tells a story, inviting listeners to reflect on the importance of these waterways in shaping Shepperton’s identity today.

But wait, there's more! We also connect with Ricky Wallace, the volunteer chair of the Patient Participation Group (PPG) at Upper Halliford Medical Centre, who gives us the lowdown on how this group is bridging the gap between patients and healthcare providers. Ricky's passion for volunteering shines through as he explains how the PPG has been instrumental in improving communication and services within the surgery. From informal meet and greets where patients can voice their concerns to innovative collaborations with local pharmacies, the PPG is making waves in the community. Ricky shares personal anecdotes about the group's achievements, including securing COVID vaccination access for local pharmacies and even hosting their local MP to showcase their progress. It's clear that grassroots efforts can lead to significant changes in healthcare delivery, and Ricky’s enthusiasm is contagious!

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Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound Boutique

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Shepperton Matters

Shepperton Matters

Danielle Davies: Celebrant

The Sound Boutique

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We’re diving into the heart of Shepperton this time, where community spirit is kicking off in style with the Sheppertonesses - a women’s walking football club that’s all about friendship, fitness, and some good ol' footie fun! Founded by the enthusiastic Denise Johnson, this club is not just about scoring goals; it’s about finding a supportive space for all women, regardless of fitness level or football experience.

Later, we’ll paddle over to D'Oyly Carte Island, where Andy Hill and his wife Sheila are transforming a once-derelict property into a vibrant community hub, blending history with creativity. It’s a tale of restoration that’s as inspiring as it is delightful, proving that a little vision can breathe new life into our cherished spots. So, grab your headphones and let’s explore how Shepperton is coming together, one kick and one concert at a time!

Takeaways:

• Denise Johnson started the Sheppertonesses to create a supportive community for women who want to play football, regardless of their experience level or age.
• The first session of the Sheppertonesses had a surprisingly good turnout, with ten women showing up, indicating a real community need for such activities.
• There are plans for the Sheppertonesses to expand their activities, including potential matches with other clubs, emphasizing the growth of women’s football locally.
• D'Oyly Carte Island has transformed from a derelict property into a vibrant community space, showcasing the spirit of collaboration and creativity.
• The podcast highlights the importance of local initiatives in enhancing mental health and community bonding through activities like walking football.
• Andy Hill's vision for D'Oyly Carte Island includes creating a red squirrel sanctuary, blending environmental goals with community engagement in a unique way.

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The Sound Boutique

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Shepperton Matters

Shepperton Matters

This podcast dives into the heart of Shepperton's community spirit, spotlighting the upcoming Shepperton Village Fair as it gears up for its 51st edition! We chat with Dik Gregory, the chair of the fair committee, who takes us on a nostalgic journey from its humble beginnings after a football match in 1972 to the vibrant celebration it is today. You'll hear all about what makes the fair a cherished annual event for locals, featuring everything from thrilling raffles to a delightful procession of over 500 children! Plus, I hit the streets to chat with local vendors at a pop-up shopping event, where they share their stories and the importance of community ties. So whether you’re a long-time resident or just passing through, there’s a slice of Shepperton waiting for you in this episode!

Takeaways:

• The Shepperton Village Fair has a rich history, starting from a local football match in 1972.
• Local businesses thrive at community events, showcasing their products and connecting with residents.
• Volunteers play a crucial role in organising the annual fair, emphasising community spirit and collaboration.
• The fair is an important fundraising event for local charities, making it vital for community support.
• Attending local events fosters a sense of belonging and pride within the Shepperton community.
• The Shepperton Village Fair continues its tradition of fun and engagement with exciting performances and local stalls.

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The Sound Boutique

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Fusion Services Ltd

Fusion Services Ltd

Shepperton Matters

Shepperton Matters

• In this episode, we celebrate 80 years since VE Day with heartfelt stories and reflections on wartime life, showcasing the resilience and spirit of the Shepperton community.
• Shepperton resident Dallas Barnes-Hughes shares her vivid memories of wartime celebrations, including the excitement of jelly as a rare treat and the joy of street parties that brought people together.
• Shepperton Now! admin Tony discusses the growth of the Facebook group, emphasising the importance of community connection and how it has become a vital resource for locals.

• Shepperton Now! Facebook group

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Shepperton Matters

Shepperton Matters

The Sound Boutique

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Fusion Services Ltd

Fusion Services Ltd

Orchard Meadow Therapies

Orchard Meadow Therapies

Playing an instrument is the best thing you could do for your brain, and we're diving deep into that idea in this episode! We chat with David Bruce, the conductor of the Spelthorne Orchestra, who shares his journey and the joy of making classical music accessible to everyone. Plus, we’ve got Steve Oakes from CAST Youth Theatre joining us, highlighting the transformative power of performing arts for young people. It’s all about giving kids a space where they can express themselves and let their creativity shine without fear. So whether you’re a seasoned musician or just curious about the arts, grab a comfy seat and tune in as we explore the vibrant cultural scene in Shepperton together!

Takeaways:

• Playing an instrument is not just fun; it actually gives your brain a serious workout, making it sharper and more agile, like a ninja with a violin!
• Music education is crucial for kids; it provides them a safe space to express themselves without judgment, letting them flourish in a supportive community.
• Community orchestras are essential for keeping classical music alive and accessible, bringing together passionate musicians from all walks of life, and creating music magic!
• CAST Youth Theatre is all about empowering young people, helping them discover their talents and gain confidence in a fun, supportive environment, like a trampoline for creativity!

What’s On (sponsored by Shepperton Matters)

• CAST Youth Theatre
• The Spelthorne Orchestra on Facebook

What’s On (sponsored by Shepperton Matters)

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Orchard Meadow Therapies

Orchard Meadow Therapies

This podcast episode is all about the powerful impact of community through music and support networks. We kick things off with Kelly Stewart, the founder of the Stewart Academy, who shares heartwarming stories from the Spelthorne Dementia Choir. Imagine a moment where someone living with dementia hears "Dancing Queen" and suddenly transforms into a young dancer again! That’s the magic of music - it connects us to joy and memories. Then, we chat with Mary Soane, who has been an incredible support for new parents through her groups, Bumps & Babes and the Breastfeeding Café. She emphasises how these gatherings help parents connect and build friendships, reminding us that even in our busy lives, we can find our village right around the corner. So grab your favourite beverage, settle in, and let’s celebrate the spirit of Shepperton together!

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we dive deep into the heartwarming stories of community support, showcasing how music and camaraderie can uplift those living with dementia and their caregivers.
• Kelly Stewart shares her journey from the performing arts to founding the Stewart Academy, emphasising the therapeutic power of music for dementia patients.
• Mary Soane discusses the vital role of Bumps and Babes, a support group for new parents, highlighting the importance of local community connections in parenting.

What’s On (sponsored by Shepperton Matters)

• Mayor of Spelthorne presents an Afternoon Tea party to support his charities
• The Stewart Academy Singing Event Tickets, Fri, Mar 28, 2025 at 6:15 PM | Eventbrite
• The Mum Club Spelthorne & Runnymede
• The Red Lion Shepperton Rendezvous
• Thinking of entering the Spelthorne Business Awards 2025?
• The Games Room - Board Game Night at The Red Lion, Shepperton

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Orchard Meadow Therapies

We're diving into an exciting vision for the future of Shepperton with the Laleham Park Hub, a community space that aims to breathe new life into our beloved park! Michelle Eden, the mastermind behind this initiative, is on a mission to create a welcoming spot for everyone -think dog-friendly café, workshops, and a cosy place to grab a cuppa and connect. She’s all about building a community that not only supports each other but also embraces green spaces. Plus, we get to chat about the importance of volunteers and how they’re the heart of this project. And let’s not forget about Cruse Bereavement Support, a charity doing incredible work for those navigating loss - definitely a heartfelt discussion that sheds light on the support available in our community. So, grab your headphones and settle in, because this episode is packed with inspiration, laughter, and a few thought-provoking moments!

Takeaways:

• The Laleham Park Hub aims to create a community space that fosters connection and well-being for all ages, focusing on mental health benefits through social interaction.
• Creating spaces that are dog-friendly can enhance community engagement, making parks and hubs more inviting for everyone, including our furry friends.
• The Laleham Park Hub seeks to be a model of eco-friendly building practices, ensuring that future generations can enjoy green spaces sustainably.
• Cruse Bereavement Support offers tailored one-on-one support for individuals grieving, recognising that each person's journey through loss is unique and requires specialised care.
• Volunteers are the backbone of community charities like Cruse Bereavement Support, and their training is crucial to ensure they provide effective support to those in need.

What's on

• Coffee Concert with Stephen Robbings Piano Quartet
• Kelly’s Dance Studio Valentines Dance
• Minding Her Own Business Presents: Reframing Self Care
• Macbeth: David Tennant & Cush Jumbo at Shepperton Studios
• Charity Fashion Show for Valentine’s Day
• Brooklands Museum :: Fly the Concorde Simulator: Silver

All the usual links

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Join us as we explore the vibrant world of local photography and floristry in Shepperton. We delve into the Laleham Camera Club, a welcoming community of photographers who encourage creativity and skill development among members of all experience levels. Steve Lawrence, the club's chairman, shares insights on their unique approach to learning through collaboration and hands-on challenges, highlighting the diverse subjects they capture, from wildlife to events. Then, we meet Rhiannon Beacham, the passionate owner of Tulip Treasures Florists, who discusses her journey from a background in special effects makeup to running her own floral business. Rhiannon emphasises the importance of personal connections with customers and her commitment to providing fresh, high-quality flowers, all while aiming to make floristry accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Takeaways:

• The Laleham Camera Club fosters a welcoming environment for photographers of all skill levels.
• Steve from the Laleham Camera Club highlights the challenges of professional photography today.
• Rhiannon Beacham's Tulip Treasures aims to modernise floristry while maintaining a personal touch.
• The importance of fresh flowers is emphasised as a key to customer satisfaction.
• Rhiannon's journey into floristry reflects a passion ignited by her creative background.

What's on

• Thames Arcadia (Sunbury & Shepperton Local History Society)
• 1001 Arabian Nights...and a matinee
• The Patient Cancer Support Group
• Tulip Treasures Florist
• Laleham Camera Club

All the usual links

What’s On (sponsored by Shepperton Matters)

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Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound Boutique

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Mentioned in this episode:

Lindon Lewis Marine

Lindon Lewis Marine