This episode features a live recording from the Bishop Duppas Bowls Club on 3rd June 2026.

We’re diving deep into the heart of Shepperton this time, chatting with Farrah Charles and Dan Burton from Shepperton Studios. They’re on a mission to bridge the gap between the iconic studios and the vibrant local community. From the rich history of the studios - celebrating a whopping 95 years - to the exciting community outreach initiatives they’re rolling out, it’s all about making Shepperton a more connected place. We’ll explore how they’re connecting with local residents and creating opportunities for everyone to get involved in the magic of film and television. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and let’s uncover the treasures hidden behind those studio walls together!

Takeaways:

• Farrah Charles and Dan Burton from Shepperton Studios discuss their roles in bridging the gap between the studios and the local community.
• Shepperton Studios has a rich 95-year history, producing iconic films and TV shows loved worldwide.
• Community engagement is a top priority for Shepperton Studios, as they work to involve local residents through events and outreach programmes.
• Farrah and Dan emphasise the need for new talent in the film industry, aiming to integrate local residents into creative opportunities.

• Relive the Shepperton Village Fair Procession 2026
• Relive Shepperton Village Fair
• Shepperton Studios ⋆ Pinewood Studios

Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound Boutique

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Luvbiltong: whole food protein with real flavour

Island Motors: Shepperton-based MOT and Servicing

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The Ferry Coffee Shop

Purveyors of fine coffee, tea & snacks.

The Sound Boutique

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Meon Media: Business Support

Meon Media: Business Support

Shepperton Matters

Shepperton Matters

Shepperton has a heartbeat, and that pulse is the Shepperton Village Fair, a beloved summer event that brings together the community in celebration year after year. In this live podcast episode, we dive into the rich history of the fair with Dik Gregory, who has been at the helm for the past 25 years. We reminisce about the fair's humble beginnings, where the community spirit and charity focus were the main attractions, and how it has evolved into a vibrant affair that draws in local businesses and sponsors. Dik shares anecdotes about the fair's past, including some hilarious mishaps, like the infamous 'absent falcon' incident, as they watched a falcon decide not to return home. We also discuss the challenges of organising such a large event, including safety measures and the ever-increasing budget, which has skyrocketed from a mere £6,000 to over £40,000 in recent years. It’s a behind-the-scenes look that’s as entertaining as it is enlightening, showcasing the dedication of the volunteers and community that make this event possible every year. As we gear up for this year’s fair, scheduled for June 13th, we explore what’s new on the agenda, from a brand new live music marquee to the return of popular attractions like the BMX shows and the always-adored alpacas! The fair isn’t just about fun; it’s about fostering community ties and giving back to local charities. Dik emphasises the importance of feeling that sense of renewal in community spirit as families and friends gather to enjoy the festivities. So, grab your calendar and mark the date! This episode is a heartwarming reminder of the power of community and the joy of coming together to celebrate what makes Shepperton special.

Takeaways:

• The Shepparton Village Fair has evolved dramatically over 25 years, demonstrating community spirit and growth.
• Dik emphasised the importance of local businesses in supporting the fair financially and logistically.
• The fair committee has streamlined processes and embraced technology to better manage the event and ensure safety.
• The upcoming fair promises new attractions, including a live music marquee and even more local vendors than ever before!
• The dedication of the committee members and volunteers has been crucial to the fair's success, showcasing the power of teamwork.

• Shepperton Village Fair | The biggest event of it's kind in Spelthorne Borough

Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound Boutique

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Luvbiltong

Island Motors

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The Great Nauticalia Raft Race

Enter The Great Nauticalia Raft Race

Shepperton Matters

Shepperton Matters

Meon Media: Business Support

Meon Media: Business Support

The Sound Boutique

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Today, we're diving into the heart and soul of Shepperton with Vivienne Leighton from the Shepperton Village Conservation Group. This episode is all about community spirit and making our village shine. Vivienne shares how their mission is not just about pretty flowers, it's about keeping Shepperton vibrant and supporting our local shops, which really is the lifeblood of the community. We chat about their projects, like the new Hügel Kultur bed, and how a small group of dedicated volunteers has transformed neglected corners into beautiful spaces that everyone can enjoy. Plus, we get the scoop on their exciting plans for a big community work day on July 4th, where you can roll up your sleeves and help out! So, if you’ve ever strolled through our village and thought it looked lovely, listen in to find out how you can join the fun and make a difference.

• The Shepperton Village Conservation Group website
• The Sheppertonian Live! Get your free tickets.
• LuvBiltong:  proper South African biltong made locally.
• Island Motors:  Shepperton-based, family-run MOT servicing and repairs.

Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound Boutique

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Mentioned in this episode:

The Great Nauticalia Raft Race

Enter The Great Nauticalia Raft Race

The Sound Boutique

Want to start your own podcast?

Shepperton Matters

Shepperton Matters

Join us for our live recording on the 3rd June

The Sheppertonian Live!

Middlesex is more than just a name on a map; it’s a vibrant part of our identity and history that deserves to be cherished! In this chat, we dive into the heart of what it means to be from Middlesex, especially as changes loom on the horizon for local governance. Our guest, Russell Grant, shares his lifelong connection to the area and argues passionately for the preservation of our county's heritage. With Surrey’s upcoming council shake-up, the discussion takes a deeper turn, exploring how these shifts affect our sense of belonging and community. So, whether you’re a fan of genealogy or just love a good story about where we come from, this episode is packed with insights and a sprinkle of humor to keep things lively!

Takeaways:

• Middlesex is not just a name on a map; it's a rich tapestry of identity and history.
• The recent changes in local governance highlight the importance of maintaining our historical boundaries.
• Russell Grant's lifelong campaign showcases the significance of community identity in local politics.
• Understanding the difference between a county council and the actual county is crucial for preserving local heritage.

• The Sheppertonian Live! Get your free tickets.
• Island Motors
• LuvBiltong (try the Chakalaka flavour!)
• Join the Middlesex Facebook Group

Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound Boutique

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Mentioned in this episode:

The Sound Boutique

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The Great Nauticalia Raft Race

Enter The Great Nauticalia Raft Race

Join us for our live recording on the 3rd June

The Sheppertonian Live!

Shepperton Matters

Shepperton Matters

Beverage of the Wise, a local rock band, is shaking things up with their debut single 'Empty,' and we’re diving deep into their story. These young musicians didn’t just fall into their roles; they crafted their band from the ground up, starting with a simple school project and a bit of parental encouragement. They share how they went from jamming at school to winning the Basement Doors Battle of the Bands Juniors. In this episode, we chat about their unique songwriting process, which involves everyone pitching in with their ideas and influences, resulting in a sound that’s as diverse as their musical tastes. Plus, we get a peek at their exhilarating journey so far and the support from their families that keeps them rocking forward. So grab your headphones, and let’s get into the beat of Beverage of the Wise!

• Grab tickets to the Sheppertonian Live event
• Beverage of the Wise website
• Beverage of the Wise Instagram

Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound Boutique

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Shepperton Matters

Shepperton Matters

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The Sheppertonian Live!

The Sound Boutique

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The Shepperton to Weybridge Ferry is back with an April offer!

Purveyors of fine coffee, tea & snacks.

We're diving into the heart of the Spelthorne Business Awards this time around. This year marks the eighth and final round of these awards, and they’re all about celebrating our local business heroes - especially the micro businesses that really pack a punch! Julia Owen, our guest and Senior Economic Development Officer at Spelthorne Borough Council, spills the beans on how these awards spotlight the incredible stories behind local businesses and why they matter. We chat about the importance of recognition, the diverse categories you can enter (seriously, there's a Rising Star award, how cool is that?), and why even if you don’t win, the whole application process can be a game changer for your business. So, if you’re a local business owner, or just curious about what makes the Spelthorne community tick, stick around, because this episode is packed with insights.

Takeaways:

• Micro businesses are often the stars of the show, proving that size doesn’t always matter in business success.
• The Spelthorne Business Awards are not just about winning; they offer invaluable networking opportunities for local businesses.
• This year marks the final Spelthorne Business Awards under its current format, making it extra special for the community.
• Categories like Rising Star and Breaking Down Barriers highlight the diversity and inclusivity of the local business scene.
• The awards process encourages reflection and growth, making it a beneficial exercise even for non-finalists.
• The gala night is all about celebrating achievements with good vibes, great food, and local entertainment, so dress to impress!

• Spelthorne Business Awards website

Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound Boutique

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Mentioned in this episode:

The Sound Boutique

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The Shepperton to Weybridge Ferry is back with an April offer!

Purveyors of fine coffee, tea & snacks.

Danielle Davies: Celebrant

Every story deserves a ceremony as unique as the people at its heart.

Shepperton Matters

Shepperton Matters

Today, we're diving into a topic that’s shaking things up in our neck of the woods: Surrey's local government is about to undergo its biggest makeover in half a century! Yes, you heard it right - two shiny new unitary authorities are stepping in to replace the old county council and a whopping eleven district and borough councils. To help us decipher this big change, The Sheppertonian met with local councillors who shared the scoop on what this means for us folks living in Shepperton and the surrounding areas. They broke it down like a simple recipe: one council means fewer headaches, a streamlined service, and hopefully quicker decisions - because who doesn’t want their bins collected on time? So grab your headphones and let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what’s changing, why it matters, and how you can make your voice heard come election day on May 7th.

Takeaways:

• The local government in Surrey is undergoing a massive overhaul, creating two new unitary authorities, simplifying governance for residents.
• Residents will soon only deal with one council, the West Surrey Unitary Authority, making services more streamlined and efficient.
• Key dates for residents to remember include the election on May 7th and the transition to the new authority on April 1st 2027.
• The transition aims to reduce confusion and duplication between current councils, improving service delivery and accountability for locals.
• Many residents may not notice immediate changes, but the hope is for a more seamless service after the transition.
• Councillors emphasise the importance of community engagement and staying informed about the changes happening in local governance.

• Future Surrey – Surrey LGR Hub
• 2026 West Surrey Elections | Spelthorne Borough Council

Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound Boutique

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Island Motors: MOT & Servicing / Repairs.

Walfinch Hampton, Twickenham & Virginia Water Home Care

Mentioned in this episode:

Danielle Davies: Celebrant

Every story deserves a ceremony as unique as the people at its heart.

Shepperton Matters

Shepperton Matters

The Sound Boutique

Want to start your own podcast?

The Ferry Coffee Shop

Purveyors of fine coffee, tea & snacks.

Meet Andy, a man who turned a stage four lymphoma diagnosis into a beacon of hope for our community. After facing his own battles, he created the Patient Cancer Support Group, a warm and welcoming space where people can share their stories and find camaraderie in their struggles. This isn't your typical support group; it's all about real talk, empathy, and the kind of laughter that makes the tough times a little lighter. Andy's journey from patient to community leader is a testament to resilience, proving that even in the darkest tunnels, there’s always a glimmer of light. So grab your coffee, kick back, and join us as we dive into Andy's inspiring story and learn how this group is making waves in Shepperton, one heartfelt conversation at a time!

• Patient Cancer Support Group Facebook group
• Patient Cancer Support Group website

Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound Boutique

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Sheppertonian Business Club Supporters

Island Motors: MOT & Servicing / Repairs.

Walfinch Hampton, Twickenham & Virginia Water Home Care

Mentioned in this episode:

The Sound Boutique

Want to start your own podcast?

The Ferry Coffee Shop

Purveyors of fine coffee, tea & snacks.

Danielle Davies: Celebrant

Every story deserves a ceremony as unique as the people at its heart.

Shepperton Matters

Shepperton Matters