Shepperton Your Award Winning Community Magazine Issue 111 March 2021 MattersYour Local view of Shepperton and Laleham

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Shepperton Your Award Winning Community Magazine Issue 111 March 2021 MattersYour Local view of Shepperton and Laleham

Shepperton Fair 2021 is Cancelled

Shepperton FairShepperton 2021 Fair is Cancelled2021 is Cancelled SheppertonShepperton Fair Fair 2021 2021 isis CancelledCancelled

Welcome! March 2021 Thank you for the very many imag- Swap (see p52). es which have been shared with us Finally please do every- for Local Capture. Sorry if we have thing to support our local not managed to publish yours this shops and businesses. month. Fear not! There is the They urgently need our chance for fame and fortune (well a custom. Buy local! moderate amount). The council run Thank you ‘Capture Spelthorne’ is launching this month. Send your photos in (see page 18) for the chance to win £100 and get a cover of the Bulletin. We heard the sad news that Shep- perton Fair has been cancelled again this year. 2022 will be a year to look forward to. If you have an old laptop, local Reader Offers Garolla Garage Doors from £895 inc schools would welcome them to Blue Jade Jewllery 15% off for Mothers Day help students who do not have the Dog Rocks £9.99 for 2 months necessary tech to follow home Quality Fruit Produce Box £24.99 learning. See p21 for details. If you are yearning to get hold of books, check out Shepperton Book

Contents Published by: The Three Horseshoes 4 Village Matters Ltd Laptops Needed for Home Learning 7 In Bloom Poster Competition 8 Advertising / Editorial : Swimming from the Square 10 Monica Chard Life’s a Soap Opera… 13 Telephone: 07979 808991 Shepperton Residents Association 18 Email: [email protected] Traditional Boat Building of Dennetts 21 It’s All About Dogs! 23 www.villagematters.co.uk It’s All About Dogs! 23 Local Capture 24/25 Front Cover: Waterlogged Willow, Laleham, by Capture Spelthorne Competition 26 Andy Ringshaw, Laleham Camera Club. Looking to the Future 29 Please email hi res photos for consideration for covers to Spelthorne Business Hub 30 [email protected] Spelthorne Business Hub 30 [email protected] Recipe of the Month 34 Shepperton Village Conservation 37 Coping with Loss during Pandemic 39 Self Publishing Ideas and Illustration 40/41 Escape Domestic Abuse 43 Keeping our Community Safe 51 Shepperton Beat 53 Charlton Village Residents Association 55 Please ‘like’ us on Facebook. Can a Spring Clean be Green? 56 www.facebook/ Gardening Matters 58 Sunbury&SheppertonMatters Ad Index and Costs 62

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 3 The Three Horseshoes, Shepperton The Three Horseshoes, Shepperton

By Nick Pollard By Nick Pollard

This postcard of the Three Horseshoes pub, at to the right, which up till that date was the the southern end of Shepperton High Street, school playground for the National School in can be accurately dated to 1927. This is the High Street. The school moved away to a because in the background can be seen the new site (now St Nicholas School) and the old newly-built Lordsbridge House, which was building became the scout headquarters. It is completed that year (the date is on a plaque now Thisthe School of Spice restaurant. postcard of the Three Horseshoes pub, at to the right, which up till that date was the over the central doorway). There is a ‘To Let’ The pubthe itself had only just been rebuilt southern end of Shepperton High Street, school playground for the National School in sign visible on the ground floor, where vacant by Ashbycan’s, replacing a much older 18th be accurately dated to 1927. This is the High Street. The school moved away to a shop fronts await an occupier. A row of men centurybecause building, which had been a pub since in the background can be seen the new site (now St Nicholas School) and the old in flat caps sit in the sunshine outside the pub, at least 1788 when William Friend was the and it is tempting to speculate that they are landlord.newly His counterpart at the time of this -built Lordsbridge House, which was building became the scout headquarters. It is workmen from the Lordsbridge House site, postcardcompleted was James Main Munro. that year (the date is on a plaque now the School of Spice restaurant. quenching their thirst after a spell of heavy The nameover ‘Three Horseshoes’ probably refers the central doorway). There is a ‘To Let’ The pub itself had only just been rebuilt work. Nearby stands a ‘Bullnose’ Morris to thesign nearby blacksmith’s forge, further visible on the ground floor, where vacant by Ashby’s, replacing a much older 18th Cowley, so named from the shape of its radia- down School Lane, operated by the Burchett tor, one of the most popular cars of the period. family shop(hence Burchett’s Way). Clearly a fronts await an occupier. A row of men century building, which had been a pub since The pub displays the signage of Ashby’s horse within only 3 shoes needs a replacement!flat caps sit in the sunshine outside the pub, at least 1788 when William Friend was the brewery, which was based in Church Street, Oppositeand the pub, and just out of sight in this it is tempting to speculate that they are landlord. His counterpart at the time of this Staines, and had acquired the pub in the late view, was the village pound, where stray th workmen from the Lordsbridge House site, postcard was James Main Munro. 19 century. ‘Charta Ale’ (as in Magna animalsquenching were kept until their owner could be their thirst after a spell of heavy The name ‘Three Horseshoes’ probably refers Charta) was one of their best-selling beers. It found. would be taken over by H.G. Simonds of Monthlywork. meetings of the Sunbury and Shepperton Nearby stands a ‘Bullnose’ Morris to the nearby blacksmith’s forge, further Reading three years later, with the rest of Local HistoryCowley, Society continue on Zoom while the so named from the shape of its radia- down School Lane, operated by the Burchett Ashby’s business. At about the same time the currenttor, restrictions are in place. If you would like one of the most popular cars of the period. family (hence Burchett’s Way). Clearly a pub acquired the area enclosed by a brick wall to join in with our series of talks on local history, see ourThe website www.sslhs.org.uk for details. pub displays the signage of Ashby’s horse with only 3 shoes needs a replacement! brewery, which was based in Church Street, Opposite the pub, and just out of sight in this Please mention Shepperton Matters when Staines, www.villagematters.co.uk and had acquired the pub in the late view, was the village pound, where stray responding to adverts 4 19th century. ‘Charta Ale’ (as in Magna animals were kept until their owner could be Charta) was one of their best-selling beers. It found. would be taken over by H.G. Simonds of Monthly meetings of the Sunbury and Shepperton Reading three years later, with the rest of Local History Society continue on Zoom while the Ashby’s business. At about the same time the current restrictions are in place. If you would like pub acquired the area enclosed by a brick wall to join in with our series of talks on local history, see our website www.sslhs.org.uk for details.

Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 4 To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 5 To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 6 Laptops Needed for Home Learning Laptops Needed for Home Learning

By Monica Chard and Rebecca Dix By Monica Chard and Rebecca Dix

We are all guilty of having clutter in our cup- boards. How many of us have an old laptop We are all guilty of having clutter in our cup- sitting around gathering dust? Well, now is boards. How many of us have an old laptop the chance to put them to good use. sitting around gathering dust? Well, now is Home schooling and remote learning has un- covered the needs of many families who do the chance to put them to good use. not have access to basic equipment. Home schooling and remote learning has un- Assistant Head at Thamesmead, Miss Camp- covered the needs of many families who do bell explained “Remote learning through not have access to basic equipment. lockdown has brought many challenges for Thamesmead. One of them being to ensure a consistent education can have for children. Assistant Head at Thamesmead, Miss Camp- that all of our learners have access to laptops “I started contacting local schools and it be- bell explained “Remote learning through that will allow them to access MS Teams to came clear how some children without a lap- lockdown has brought many challenges for engage with lessons that are being taught live top are still unable to participate in any online on a daily basis. So far we have issued 93 learning. My aim for this initiative is to en- Thamesmead. One of them being to ensure a consistent education can have for children. laptops out to students who do not have ac- sure all children can reconnect virtually to that all of our learners have access to laptops “I started contacting local schools and it be- cess to a device at home. 42 of these laptops lessons with teachers and peers. Enabling fair that will allow them to access MS Teams to came clear how some children without a lap- came via the government scheme, 43 have access to digital technologies will support the engage with lessons that are being taught live top are still unable to participate in any online come from school funds, and 8 have come provision of a quality education and create from donations. We currently have 14 stu- opportunities for all children to fulfil their on a daily basis. So far we have issued 93 learning. My aim for this initiative is to en- dents who are either working on their phones potential.” laptops out to students who do not have ac- sure all children can reconnect virtually to or are sharing one laptop between two or cess to a device at home. 42 of these laptops lessons with teachers and peers. Enabling fair more siblings”. So, can you help our local schools and stu- Hearing about the problem experienced by so dents access remote learning? Schools are came via the government scheme, 43 have access to digital technologies will support the many schools, Spelthorne resident and former looking for donated devices (laptops/tablets come from school funds, and 8 have come provision of a quality education and create teacher, Rebecca Dix decided to launch ’The with chargers). Collection will be arranged from donations. We currently have 14 stu- opportunities for all children to fulfil their Digital Class’, an initiative to match donated and carried out following guidance and safety dents who are either working on their phones potential.” devices from the community with children measures. Devices will then be matched to a living in the borough. Donated laptops and local school who will allocate it to a family or or are sharing one laptop between two or tablets will be collected and made safe to use, pupil in need. more siblings”. So, can you help our local schools and stu- ready to distribute to local schools and allo- It is advisable that you clear all personal data Hearing about the problem experienced by so dents access remote learning? Schools are cated families in need. from the device prior to collection, but all As school staff continue to go above and be- devices will be wiped clean either by the many schools, Spelthorne resident and former looking for donated devices (laptops/tablets yond to provide learning and support during school, if their IT department has the capaci- teacher, Rebecca Dix decided to launch ’The with chargers). Collection will be arranged the pandemic, children’s access to technology ty, or by a specialist and verified company. Digital Class’, an initiative to match donated and carried out following guidance and safety at home remains a barrier to these incredible devices from the community with children measures. Devices will then be matched to a efforts. If you can help by donating a device please With an overwhelming 1.14 - 1.78 million contact [email protected]. Do living in the borough. Donated laptops and local school who will allocate it to a family or UK school children with no access to a laptop please also spread the word via social media tablets will be collected and made safe to use, pupil in need. or tablet at home (Ofcom, 2020), Rebecca felt @thedgtlclass. ready to distribute to local schools and allo- It is advisable that you clear all personal data moved to develop an idea to help support Thank you! from the device prior to collection, but all home learning in her community. With a cated families in need. background in education, she was aware of As school staff continue to go above and be- devices will be wiped clean either by the the many challenges today’s parents face and yond to provide learning and support during school, if their IT department has the capaci- the positive, sometimes life-changing impact the pandemic, children’s access to technology ty, or by a specialist and verified company. at home remains a barrier to these incredible efforts. If you can help by donating a device please To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 7 Or email [email protected] With an overwhelming 1.14 - 1.78 million contact [email protected]. Do UK school children with no access to a laptop please also spread the word via social media or tablet at home (Ofcom, 2020), Rebecca felt @thedgtlclass. moved to develop an idea to help support Thank you! home learning in her community. With a background in education, she was aware of the many challenges today’s parents face and the positive, sometimes life-changing impact

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 7 Or email [email protected]

In Bloom Poster Competition Laptops Needed for Home Learning By Monica Chard and Rebecca Dix

Every year the Spelthorne in Bloom com- We are all guilty of having clutter in our cup- petition encourages us to tend our gar- dens, big and small. Blooming gardens boards. How many of us have an old laptop embellish our borough and bring us all a sitting around gathering dust? Well, now is sense of well being, whether we are tend- the chance to put them to good use. ing them or just admiring them. Home schooling and remote learning has un- The launch of the competition sees the covered the needs of many families who do crowning of talent of another kind. The not have access to basic equipment. children’s poster competition gives pri- mary school children the chance to show Assistant Head at Thamesmead, Miss Camp- off their own skills, namely painting and bell explained “Remote learning through drawing. It is open to all children up to lockdown has brought many challenges for the age of 11 years who live in Above, the winning entry for 2020 Thamesmead. One of them being to ensure a consistent education can have for children. Spelthorne. The overall winning entry that all of our learners have access to laptops “I started contacting local schools and it be- will be used to promote Spelthorne in In past years Spelthorne’s schools have that will allow them to access MS Teams to came clear how some children without a lap- Bloom and the winning poster will fea- organised this competition and sent the ture on the front cover of the entry form posters back to the Council offices for engage with lessons that are being taught live top are still unable to participate in any online and other publicity materials for the 2021 judging. However, with most schools cur- on a daily basis. So far we have issued 93 learning. My aim for this initiative is to en- competition. rently closed, the committee are asking laptops out to students who do not have ac- sure all children can reconnect virtually to parents (and indeed grandparents) to en- The Spelthorne in Bloom committee is cess to a device at home. 42 of these laptops lessons with teachers and peers. Enabling fair courage their children to take part from pleased to open this years poster competi- came via the government scheme, 43 have access to digital technologies will support the home, for themselves or as a school art tion this month. come from school funds, and 8 have come provision of a quality education and create class project. opportunities for all children to fulfil their This year’s theme is . from donations. We currently have 14 stu- ‘Climate Change’ The committee would like to receive all The judges would like to see posters that dents who are either working on their phones potential.” entries via email, so ask you to photo- are bright and colourful encouraging chil- or are sharing one laptop between two or graph or scan your poster and send it to: dren to use their imagination to interpret [email protected] more siblings”. So, can you help our local schools and stu- how the plants, flowers and vegetables for the attention of Vanessa Surmon. Hearing about the problem experienced by so dents access remote learning? Schools are growing in their own gardens at home or many schools, Spelthorne resident and former looking for donated devices (laptops/tablets at school are being affected by rising tem- Please ensure that the child’s name, age with chargers). Collection will be arranged peratures and changes in local rainfall. and school are included in the email oth- teacher, Rebecca Dix decided to launch ’The They would also like the words erwise the poster will not be judged. The Digital Class’, an initiative to match donated and carried out following guidance and safety Spelthorne in Bloom to be included on closing date for receipt of entries is Fri- devices from the community with children measures. Devices will then be matched to a the poster. day 9th April at 4pm. living in the borough. Donated laptops and local school who will allocate it to a family or Entries can either be hand drawn (or It would be lovely to make this a bumper tablets will be collected and made safe to use, pupil in need. painted) or designed on a computer. The year of bright and inspiring art. We look ready to distribute to local schools and allo- It is advisable that you clear all personal data judges will pick 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place forward to seeing the many entries and cated families in need. from the device prior to collection, but all winners, grouped for children aged 5 -7 sharing the winning poster with you in As school staff continue to go above and be- devices will be wiped clean either by the and 8 – 11. Shepperton Matters in a future issue. yond to provide learning and support during school, if their IT department has the capaci- the pandemic, children’s access to technology ty, or by a specialist and verified company. at home remains a barrier to these incredible Please mention Shepperton Matters when responding to adverts www.villagematters.co.uk efforts. If you can help by donating a device please 8 With an overwhelming 1.14 - 1.78 million contact [email protected]. Do UK school children with no access to a laptop please also spread the word via social media or tablet at home (Ofcom, 2020), Rebecca felt @thedgtlclass. moved to develop an idea to help support Thank you! home learning in her community. With a background in education, she was aware of the many challenges today’s parents face and the positive, sometimes life-changing impact

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 7 Or email [email protected]

Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 9 Swimming from the Square Swimming from the Square

By Sara Ward By Sara Ward It was a cold Saturday morning and I was standing, socially distanced, from a friend It was a cold Saturday morning and I was whilst we hugged thermal mugs of tea and standing, socially distanced, from a friend watched pairs of women in swimsuits, com- plete with woolly hats and neoprene gloves whilst we hugged thermal mugs of tea and and boots, walk down the slipway into the watched pairs of women in swimsuits, com- cold water of the creek. Not long after, a plete with woolly hats and neoprene gloves small group of men arrived by bike, clad themselves in wetsuits and, after their swim, and boots, walk down the slipway into the ran off to warm up; triathletes in training we cold water of the creek. Not long after, a guessed. small group of men arrived by bike, clad As we took in the scene, a woman on her morning walk approached us laughing ‘Look themselves in wetsuits and, after their swim, at you, standing around drinking tea, you In a managed swimming lake with lifeguards, ran off to warm up; triathletes in training we should be swimming as well…’ we can swim alone - taking in the beauty of guessed. We turned and smiled explaining that we’d our surroundings, the long strokes of our arms already been swimming, we were in the water in rhythm with our meditation as we escape As we took in the scene, a woman on her at sunrise and were just warming up after- technology, screens, noise, buildings and ve- morning walk approached us laughing ‘Look wards before heading home. hicles. at you, standing around drinking tea, you In a managed swimming lake with lifeguards, If you’d told me this time last year that I In the river, recognising the dangers of cur- would be swimming in the River Thames rents and tides, we swim with a buddy for should be swimming as well…’ we can swim alone - taking in the beauty of during the coldest months of the year, even safety. For fun, we may ‘swoosh’ entering the We turned and smiled explaining that we’d our surroundings, the long strokes of our arms whilst it was snowing, I wouldn’t have be- river upstream of our exit point and allowing already been swimming, we were in the water in rhythm with our meditation as we escape lieved you. I mean, I’ve always liked swim- the current to carry us along, with our clothes ming, but the blue waters of a Greek swim- and shoes staying dry in a tow float secured to at sunrise and were just warming up after- technology, screens, noise, buildings and ve- ming pool would have been my preference for our waists bobbing behind us. wards before heading home. hicles. a leisurely float. The beauty of Ferry Square in Shepperton is If you’d told me this time last year that I In the river, recognising the dangers of cur- As a child, I swam regularly, both at school that it allows safe access to swim in the creek and on boating holidays, and would happily that’s slightly off the main river flow and has would be swimming in the River Thames rents and tides, we swim with a buddy for wade into the sea from mudflats as well as hardly any current making it a gentle safe during the coldest months of the year, even safety. For fun, we may ‘swoosh’ entering the beaches. I’d scuba dive on holiday if the op- swim. whilst it was snowing, I wouldn’t have be- river upstream of our exit point and allowing portunity presented itself, but 2020 made sure I’m still in my first year of Open Water there was none of that, so when a friend told Swimming, but am already clocking up some lieved you. I mean, I’ve always liked swim- the current to carry us along, with our clothes me, late last summer, that she’d started swim- pretty memorable swims; at dawn swimming ming, but the blue waters of a Greek swim- and shoes staying dry in a tow float secured to ming in Bedfont Lakes I begged her to take towards the sunrise, at dusk with bats flying ming pool would have been my preference for our waists bobbing behind us. me along. overhead, swimming in the snow with flakes There is something about swimming outdoors settling on our hats and feeling the water a leisurely float. The beauty of Ferry Square in Shepperton is in a natural space, rather than a constructed warmer than the air, then my first ‘ice As a child, I swam regularly, both at school that it allows safe access to swim in the creek pool, that allows us to literally float in nature. swim’ (defined by the water temperature be- and on boating holidays, and would happily that’s slightly off the main river flow and has To join the coots and the ducks in the shade ing below 5c), it was 3.6c for me... of a willow tree, to share the space with wade into the sea from mudflats as well as hardly any current making it a gentle safe swans as they sail with their wings held Sara loves living the country life in the city and has transformed beaches. I’d scuba dive on holiday if the op- swim. their west London home into an urban smallholding, complete slightly open, to look out for the kingfisher with 22hens, three colonies of bees, a kitchen garden and a week- portunity presented itself, but 2020 made sure I’m still in my first year of Open Water and to watch the water levels rise with the ly microbakery. She shares her skills with others through her winter rains and drop in the warmer summer series of courses and schools programme. there was none of that, so when a friend told Swimming, but am already clocking up some HenCorner.com months. me, late last summer, that she’d started swim- pretty memorable swims; at dawn swimming Please mention Shepperton Matters when ming in Bedfont Lakes I begged her to take towards the sunrise, at dusk with bats flying www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 10 me along. overhead, swimming in the snow with flakes There is something about swimming outdoors settling on our hats and feeling the water in a natural space, rather than a constructed warmer than the air, then my first ‘ice pool, that allows us to literally float in nature. swim’ (defined by the water temperature be- To join the coots and the ducks in the shade ing below 5c), it was 3.6c for me... of a willow tree, to share the space with swans as they sail with their wings held Sara loves living the country life in the city and has transformed their west London home into an urban smallholding, complete slightly open, to look out for the kingfisher with 22hens, three colonies of bees, a kitchen garden and a week- and to watch the water levels rise with the ly microbakery. She shares her skills with others through her winter rains and drop in the warmer summer series of courses and schools programme. HenCorner.com months. Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 10 To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 11 Or email [email protected]

Cartoons by Helen Turner, Shepperton Artists

Well, things can’t be worse than last year!

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 12 Life’s a Soap Opera... Life’s a Soap Opera...

By Monica Chard By Monica Chard ...So says Shepperton’s Carole Boyd, whose alter ego, Lynda Snell, has provided us with ...So says Shepperton’s Carole Boyd, whose such an entertaining character on air for the alter ego, Lynda Snell, has provided us with past 35 years of The Archers. Lynda Snell is one of the village stalwarts. such an entertaining character on air for the She will always rise to the occasion when a past 35 years of The Archers. cause needs a champion. With her superior Lynda Snell is one of the village stalwarts. attitude and blind determination, she is the character who always manages to cajole vil- She will always rise to the occasion when a lagers into taking part in one of her projects; cause needs a champion. With her superior the Christmas pantomime, the village fair, or attitude and blind determination, she is the the campaign most recently against the character who always manages to cajole vil- change in name of the much loved village Ambridge on Thames! (AKA Shepperton) pub. But she also has a soft and sensitive side lagers into taking part in one of her projects; and will do anything for anyone. Like her or Carole explained patiently that no, the MBE the Christmas pantomime, the village fair, or loathe her, Lynda Snell gets things done, was for her fictitious character, her alter ego. makes her presence felt and the village would But living with such a character for so many the campaign most recently against the be incomplete without her. years, of course must be akin to having a split change in name of the much loved village Ambridge on Thames! (AKA Shepperton) Villages thrive on community spirit, getting personality. Carole is most definitely not pub. But she also has a soft and sensitive side things done, creating events and groups to Lynda. She is nothing like her. But to hear her bring us all together, to fight against plans or transform in an instant from Carole to Lynda and will do anything for anyone. Like her or Carole explained patiently that no, the MBE threats which will spoil the integrity of our is quite something. The slightly nasal whine loathe her, Lynda Snell gets things done, was for her fictitious character, her alter ego. locale. Ambridge has a lot of Shepperton of Lynda Snell is easily recognisable and makes her presence felt and the village would But living with such a character for so many about it, indeed Carole has been known to when Carole was talking to a friend on the refer to Shepperton as Ambridge on Thames! phone on Waterloo station one evening and be incomplete without her. years, of course must be akin to having a split We spoke to Carole recently about art imitat- slipped on her Lynda voice, the effect on fel- Villages thrive on community spirit, getting personality. Carole is most definitely not ing life, or the other way around. She told low commuters was instant and she instantly things done, creating events and groups to Lynda. She is nothing like her. But to hear her Shepperton Matters that she developed the mobbed by fellow passengers! character of Lynda Snell over many years, The Archers is the world’s longest running bring us all together, to fight against plans or transform in an instant from Carole to Lynda based on observations of people she has met soap opera and this year celebrates 75 years threats which will spoil the integrity of our is quite something. The slightly nasal whine along the way throughout her life, often in- on air. Soap operas allow us some comforta- locale. Ambridge has a lot of Shepperton of Lynda Snell is easily recognisable and vesting Lynda with attributes she really ble escapism from the daily treadmill, which doesn't like: “she is a snob, a social climber. explains their popularity. We observe the about it, indeed Carole has been known to when Carole was talking to a friend on the She is bossy and self important. She is devoid lives of others, albeit an exaggeration of what refer to Shepperton as Ambridge on Thames! phone on Waterloo station one evening and of a sense of humour and is totally delusion- is normal (think EastEnders!). Then we go We spoke to Carole recently about art imitat- slipped on her Lynda voice, the effect on fel- al” says Carole. But the character has proved back to our own lives. But start to look to be a much necessary cog in the wheel of around at Shepperton and the characters who ing life, or the other way around. She told low commuters was instant and she instantly Ambridge, the fictional village where The live here, the driving forces of our own vil- Shepperton Matters that she developed the mobbed by fellow passengers! Archers is set. Villages nominated her for an lage. They are alive and well! That is what character of Lynda Snell over many years, The Archers is the world’s longest running MBE, which she was duly awarded in the community is all about. Thank goodness for 2021 New Year’s Honours list. the Lynda Snells of this world. I wonder what based on observations of people she has met soap opera and this year celebrates 75 years So when news of the MBE got out, imagine she would make of the Eco Park! She would along the way throughout her life, often in- on air. Soap operas allow us some comforta- Carole’s surprise at being congratulated her- probably have arranged a sit in on the roof by vesting Lynda with attributes she really ble escapism from the daily treadmill, which self on the honour. “What’s this about an now. MBE. Carole? What did you do to get that?” doesn't like: “she is a snob, a social climber. explains their popularity. We observe the She is bossy and self important. She is devoid lives of others, albeit an exaggeration of what of a sense of humour and is totally delusion- is normal (think EastEnders!). Then we go To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 13 Or email [email protected] al” says Carole. But the character has proved back to our own lives. But start to look to be a much necessary cog in the wheel of around at Shepperton and the characters who Ambridge, the fictional village where The live here, the driving forces of our own vil- Archers is set. Villages nominated her for an lage. They are alive and well! That is what MBE, which she was duly awarded in the community is all about. Thank goodness for 2021 New Year’s Honours list. the Lynda Snells of this world. I wonder what So when news of the MBE got out, imagine she would make of the Eco Park! She would Carole’s surprise at being congratulated her- probably have arranged a sit in on the roof by self on the honour. “What’s this about an now. MBE. Carole? What did you do to get that?”

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 13 Or email [email protected]

Signature Senior Lifestyle stays ahead of the curve with vaccinations and safety procedures

Signature Senior Lifestyle is leading the way communication. It helps provide peace of mind with the roll out of the Covid-19 vaccine, and I’m now looking forward to the future with providing reassurance and reflecting an unwa- optimism. Of course, there are always some vering commitment to creating the safest envi- risks that we can’t control but now I feel as ronment possible. safe as can be.

At Signature’s Parklands Manor, all residents “Generally, the leadership, home and staff and staff have now been vaccinated. By the have been exceptional, responsive and sup- end of January, all residents and staff at the portive throughout all of this. I’ve also been group’s 13 care homes across London and the truly amazed at the ingenuity of the events Home Counties have been vaccinated, well team who are always coming with up fun new ahead of the Government’s national March ideas week in week out. There is no pressure target. to participate at all, it’s all very relaxed.”

This comes in addition to Signa- Signature has adequate PPE stocks, while its ture’s ongoing robust testing pro- health and safety protocols and ongoing test- gramme, with Signature utilising rapid 15- ing regime are proving robust, weekly and minute antigen tests to provide almost immedi- daily testing as required. Each home is act- ate peace of mind at its communities. ing in accordance with Public Health Eng- land guidelines, while additionally all homes Spirits are high at all of Signature’s homes, are fully equipped with technology including with the vaccine roll out providing light at the Microsoft Teams, Zoom and Facebook Portals end of the tunnel during this challenging to help keep people connected. time, while it’s adapted social and activities programmes are also keeping residents happy To find out more about Signature at Parklands and engaged. Manor in Chertsey, please call Sonia or Ju- dy on 01932 282943 or visit www.signature- John Marshall is a resident at Parklands Man- care-homes.co.uk or, Chertsey who has been vaccinated, he comments: “I’m very pleased to have been vaccinated so quickly. The process has been extremely smooth and professional with clear

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 14 To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 15 Or email [email protected]

Shepperton Village Fair 2021 Cancelled

Shepperton Village Fair is a huge event that brings together thousands of people in close proximity to celebrate community life. In 2020, its continuous run of 47 events was interrupted by the Covid19 pandemic, an intrusion that has since caused wide- spread disruption, distress and for some, irreparable loss. While we all continue to wait for the combination of remarkable science and amazing community response to recov- er a position of stability, the pandemic and its effects rumble on.

Shepperton Village Fair must do its bit too. The Committee has concluded that in the interests of public safety the Fair cannot go ahead in 2021, a decision that has been endorsed by Spelthorne Borough Council. The fact is, we cannot risk an event whose very format depends on large numbers of people doing the exact opposite of what we have all been doing for over a year.

Our hugely supportive Council has made it clear that they will work very closely with us to help bring about the best possible relaunch of the Fair on Sat 11 Jun 2022. We very much hope to see you then.

Shepperton Village Fair Committee, February 2021

Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 16 Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 17

Shepperton Residents’ Association Shepperton Residents’ Association

Dear residents, Dear residents, I hope you are keeping safe and well and following all the Government Covid guidelines to protect your family, friends,I hope you are keeping safe and well and following all the NHS staff and other groups such as shop and council staff; at the same time being mindful of the need to seek to reduce theGovernment Covid guidelines to protect your family, friends, level of transmission of the virus. However, with the ongoingNHS staff and other groups such as shop and council staff; at vaccinations programme, we can hopefully look forward tothe same time being mindful of the need to seek to reduce the eventually getting some form of normality back to our lives.level of transmission of the virus. However, with the ongoing Your Association Committee members apologize for the lack of Open Meetings, with two having to be cancelled due to thevaccinations programme, we can hopefully look forward to lockdown restrictions and, whilst our stalwart road stew- eventually getting some form of normality back to our lives. ards delivered the summer and autumn Newsletters, it has Your Association Committee members apologize for the lack been decided that we will not ask them to risk their health anymore, and also to conform to the current government re-of Open Meetings, with two having to be cancelled due to the striction of movement. Depositing newsletters in boxes out-lockdown restrictions and, whilst our stalwart road stew- side shops has been tried but with very little take-up and ards delivered the summer and autumn Newsletters, it has would be against latest guidelines. We continue to monitor planning applications but this has been decided that we will not ask them to risk their health been restricted due to the Council’s staff working from homeanymore, and also to conform to the current government re- and some of them re-allocated to Covid related duties. striction of movement. Depositing newsletters in boxes out- Despite the activities of some Committee members having side shops has been tried but with very little take-up and been restricted due to shielding and lockdowns, rest assured that we are continuing to liaise with our medical practice, thewould be against latest guidelines. business community and our local Councillors. We continue to monitor planning applications but this has For now, keep safe and we look forward to being able to meetbeen restricted due to the Council’s staff working from home again in the future. and some of them re-allocated to Covid related duties. Best wishes Despite the activities of some Committee members having been restricted due to shielding and lockdowns, rest assured Richard Hewitt that we are continuing to liaise with our medical practice, the business community and our local Councillors. (Chairman) For now, keep safe and we look forward to being able to meet again in the future. Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 18 Best wishes

Richard Hewitt (Chairman)

Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 18 Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 19 ROBINSON Myra Sybil (Formerly of Shepperton) Passed peacefully away at Amberwood Nursing Home, Exmouth on 23rd January 2021 aged 93 years.

She will be sadly missed by all her family, friends and all who knew her.

The service has been recorded for those unable to attend. For more information please contact Stockman & Loram.

Donations in memory of Sybil for Thinking of Cinematograph Trade Benevolent Fund can be made online at Selling your Stamp www.stockmanandloram.co.uk/ Collection? donations or sent care of Dominic Loram, Cut out the commissions and sell direct to Stockman & Loram Funeral the dealer! Home visit valuations. Immediate Service, 19 Howell Road, Brixham, payment, however large or small. TQ5 9NE. 01803 552112 Call 01932 785635 www.jcstamps.co.uk

Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 20 The Traditional Boat Building of Dennett’s The Traditional Boat Building of Dennett’s

By Mary Booth By Mary Booth If you have walked along the Thames Ifbe- you have walked along the Thames be- tween Sunbury and Shepperton on the secondtween Sunbury and Shepperton on the second weekend in September in recent years, you may have seen the flotilla of Dunkirk Littleweekend in September in recent years, you Ships. These beautiful historic boats makemay have seen the flotilla of Dunkirk Little this journey every year in an event designedShips. These beautiful historic boats make to bring together veterans and those shipsthis journey every year in an event designed which saved their lives in 1940. In more re- cent years, the veterans Cruise has been toex- bring together veterans and those ships panded to include veterans of more recentwhich saved their lives in 1940. In more re- conflicts. As from 2021 there is a change andcent years, the veterans Cruise has been ex- the cruise will embark from Penton Hook.panded of the back of a van on private jobs having to include veterans of more recent The beauty and craftsmanship of these vessels learned his trade from the age of 15 working is admired by many and we are lucky to haveconflicts. at numerous yards up and down the local As from 2021 there is a change and a traditional boat builder locally who is verythe reaches of the Thames. A notable craft he cruise will embark from Penton Hook. of the back of a van on private jobs having much involved. Dennett Boat BuildersThe worked on was a 72ft MTB’s for the Royal beauty and craftsmanship of these vessels learned his trade from the age of 15 working (www.dennettboatbuilders.co.uk) isNavy. admired by many and we are lucky to have at numerous yards up and down the local specialises in the restoration of traditional Today, it is with great pride that the work wooden and historical vessels, and they havea carried out by Stephen and traditionalhis team is not just boat builder locally who is very reaches of the Thames. A notable craft he indeed restored and maintained many of muchthe noticed locally but nationally and globally involved. Dennett Boat Builders worked on was a 72ft MTB’s for the Royal Dunkirk Little Ships which grace our river.( with clientswww.dennettboatbuilders.co.uk from Europe and the States. The ) Navy. Craftsmanship, quality and beauty is the hall-specialisespublication ‘Classic Boat’ which celebrates in the restoration of traditional Today, it is with great pride that the work mark of a Dennett restored craft. With over 60 the worlds most beautiful classic yachts and years experience, they use time honouredwooden traditionally designed vessels, have ap- and historical vessels, and they have carried out by Stephen and his team is not just techniques, passed from father to son, to indeedre- proached Dennetts regarding their restoration restored and maintained many of the noticed locally but nationally and globally store historic vessels. Dunkirkof Makaira / RFC 113, a Dunkirk Little Ship Little Ships which grace our river. with clients from Europe and the States. The Dennett Boat Builders have been basedCraftsmanship, in found as recently as 2012 in a field, barely quality and beauty is the hall- publication ‘Classic Boat’ which celebrates Laleham Reach since the 1980’s when Ste- recognisable after many modifications. phen Dennett and his father Michael acquiredmark Having been completely rebuilt at Dennetts, of a Dennett restored craft. With over 60 the worlds most beautiful classic yachts and their yard. Prior to this, Michael worked yearsout Makaira is now up for a prestigious Classic experience, they use time honoured traditionally designed vessels, have ap- techniques,Boat Award - Best Restoration of a Power passed from father to son, to re- proached Dennetts regarding their restoration storeBoat. It is a great honour to be recognised historic vessels. of Makaira / RFC 113, a Dunkirk Little Ship regardless if she wins or not. If you would Dennettlike to help Makaira win at the Classic Boat Boat Builders have been based in found as recently as 2012 in a field, barely LalehamAwards 2021 do cast a vote by March 8th at Reach since the 1980’s when Ste- recognisable after many modifications. phen(http://awards.classicboat.co.uk/) Dennett and his father Michael acquired Having been completely rebuilt at Dennetts, theirIt is quite something to have such a long yard. Prior to this, Michael worked out Makaira is now up for a prestigious Classic standing traditional local based business play- ing such a role in maintaining the nations Boat Award - Best Restoration of a Power maritime history. Boat. It is a great honour to be recognised regardless if she wins or not. If you would Follow: Dennetts on Facebook and Instagram like to help Makaira win at the Classic Boat to see their latest project which include a Awards 2021 do cast a vote by March 8th at Jolly Boat used on the Royal Yacht Britan- Stephen in his workshop, using the traditional nia. (http://awards.classicboat.co.uk/) technique of steaming oak ribs It is quite something to have such a long standing traditional local based business play- To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 21 Or email [email protected] ing such a role in maintaining the nations maritime history.

Follow: Dennetts on Facebook and Instagram to see their latest project which include a Jolly Boat used on the Royal Yacht Britan- Stephen in his workshop, using the traditional nia. technique of steaming oak ribs

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 21 Or email [email protected]

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 22 It’s All About Dogs! It’s All About Dogs!

By Monica Chard By Monica Chard It is great to see another new business Itsetting portrait done is great to see another new business setting portrait done up and getting ready for life after lockdown. already, you This time it is Palmer’s Dog Groomingup Salon, can have the and getting ready for life after lockdown. already, you next to Sisu and Glow in the new paradeThis of image on the time it is Palmer’s Dog Grooming Salon, can have the shops at the end of Green Lane. Younext can bag (it to Sisu and Glow in the new parade of image on the drop your dog off at Palmers and spend some measures 8“ x pampering time next door. Or drop inshops for a 10”). If you at the end of Green Lane. You can bag (it close shave on the other side. Pamperingdrop for don’t have a your dog off at Palmers and spend some measures 8“ x the whole family! pamperingportrait, she is time next door. Or drop in for a 10”). If you At the same time we have some great pet able to put a talent in the village. As well as being closeknown photo on a bag. shave on the other side. Pampering for don’t have a for painting local scenes (cards availablethe at These are only whole family! portrait, she is Felicitations) Peggy Pickering has beenAt paint- priced at £3.50. the same time we have some great pet able to put a ing cats and dogs for many years. Hertalent por- New to the pet in the village. As well as being known photo on a bag. traits come framed and a generous 25% of the art scene is proceeds are being donated to Purple forAngels local mum painting local scenes (cards available at These are only Dementia Support. You can see more Felicitations)details Kaya Curtis. Painting pets has been a hobby, Peggy Pickering has been paint- priced at £3.50. below. ingmaking gifts for friends and family. But when cats and dogs for many years. Her por- New to the pet She has also started producing bags for all someone suggested she should try and sell your pooch necessities. So if you havetraits had a them, she thought “why not?”. Her talent is come framed and a generous 25% of the art scene is proceedsvery clear. See below, both photo and paint- are being donated to Purple Angels local mum Dementiaing of it. Contact Kaya at PawPrints for more Support. You can see more details Kaya Curtis. Painting pets has been a hobby, information. Details below. below.So you have a range of possibilities to cele- making gifts for friends and family. But when Shebrate your furry friends. has also started producing bags for all someone suggested she should try and sell your pooch necessities. So if you have had a them, she thought “why not?”. Her talent is Contact info Peggy Pickering: [email protected] very clear. See below, both photo and paint- Kaya Curtis: Instagram @pawprints_kc ing of it. Contact Kaya at PawPrints for more facebook.com/pawprintsKC/ information. Details below. Email [email protected] So you have a range of possibilities to cele- brate your furry friends. PEGGY PICKERING ARTIST Contact info Peggy Pickering: [email protected] Pet Portraits (Cats and Dogs) Kaya Curtis: Instagram @pawprints_kc Framed in white, black or oak facebook.com/pawprintsKC/ Measuring 16” x 12” Email [email protected] £80 with 25% of proceeds donated to Purple Angels Dementia Group

Contact [email protected] PEGGY PICKERING Portraits by @pawprints_kc ARTIST To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 23 Or email [email protected] Pet Portraits (Cats and Dogs)

Framed in white, black or oak Measuring 16” x 12” £80 with 25% of proceeds donated to Purple Angels Dementia Group

Contact [email protected] Portraits by @pawprints_kc

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 23 Or email [email protected]

Shepperton High Street in snow. David Shopland

Stranded narrow boat in Manor Park. By Brian Ward

Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 24 Local Capture Continuing our celebration of local scenes we are pleased to share this months local cap- tures, taken by local residents. Thanks to this months contributors Lucy Hayes, Alex Hardy Photos to [email protected]

Deer in Shepperton. Nick Pollard

Sunset over Mulberry Trees. Sinead McNally

Above and Below. Sunrise Laleham and two hours later! Paul Barber

Staines riverside. Lauren Gray

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 25 Capture Spelthorne Competition 2021 Capture Spelthorne Competition 2021

From Spelthorne Borough Council From Spelthorne Borough Council Capture Spelthorne, Spelthorne Borough ing from Olympic champions from the Queen Council’s photography competition, is start- Mary sailing clubCapture to Staines Football Club. Spelthorne, Spelthorne Borough ing from Olympic champions from the Queen ing in March, we are looking for the best pho- There is a vast Councilaway of sports that take place ’s photography competition, is start- Mary sailing club to Staines Football Club. tographs of the Borough. across Spelthorneing including tennis, basketball, in March, we are looking for the best pho- There is a vast away of sports that take place This is a great opportunity for you to embrace bowls, golf, netball,tographs squash, badminton, the of the Borough. across Spelthorne including tennis, basketball, the outdoors, explore our beautiful Borough list goes on. WeThis are looking for action shots is a great opportunity for you to embrace bowls, golf, netball, squash, badminton, the and showcase your photography skills. The from these and any other sports that take overall winner will see their photo as the cov- place the outdoors, explore our beautiful Borough list goes on. We are looking for action shots er of the Council’s Bulletin Magazine and Categories for andUnder 16’s showcase your photography skills. The from these and any other sports that take across our social media pages. Three finalists foroverall each of the four categories winner will see their photo as the cov- place You don’t need an expensive camera to take and the under 16er section will be invited to a of the Council’s Bulletin Magazine and Categories for Under 16’s part, any camera or smartphone will do, as private screeningacross of their entries at the Pin- our social media pages. Three finalists for each of the four categories long as the photograph was taken in ewood Cinema at Shepperton Studios where st You don’t need an expensive camera to take and the under 16 section will be invited to a Spelthorne since 1 May 2020 and is submit- the winners willpart, be announced. The overall any camera or smartphone will do, as private screening of their entries at the Pin- ted by the closing date. winner will receivelong a trophy and £100 and see as the photograph was taken in ewood Cinema at Shepperton Studios where The opening date for the competition entries their photo as the cover for one of the editions st is 1st March and the closing date for entries is of the councils BulletinSpelthorne Magazine since 1 May 2020 and is submit- the winners will be announced. The overall 31st August 2021. Each category tedwinner will receive a £50 by the closing date. winner will receive a trophy and £100 and see We are looking for pictures that tell a story cheque, a framedThe picture of their winning opening date for the competition entries their photo as the cover for one of the editions about Spelthorne in the following categories: photo and a pairis of tickets to the Pinewood 1st March and the closing date for entries is of the councils Bulletin Magazine Community in Spelthorne Cinema 31st August 2021. Each category winner will receive a £50 There are so many things that happen in the Go to www.spelthorne.gov.uk/captureWe for the are looking for pictures that tell a story cheque, a framed picture of their winning community that deserves to be seen whether it online entry form and the terms and condi- photo and a pair of tickets to the Pinewood be from Scouting to book clubs to charity tions about Spelthorne in the following categories: coffee mornings. This has come to the fore in Community in Spelthorne Cinema the last year due to covid 19 where so many There are so many things that happen in the Go to www.spelthorne.gov.uk/capture for the individuals, communities and organisations community that deserves to be seen whether it online entry form and the terms and condi- have done some amazing things to help and be from Scouting to book clubs to charity tions offer support in these very difficult times. coffee mornings. This has come to the fore in Business in Action the last year due to covid 19 where so many We want to see our various businesses in ac- individuals, communities and organisations tion, this could be images of construction sites, the High Street and shopping parades to have done some amazing things to help and factories, transport and beyond. This catego- offer support in these very difficult times. ry is open to individuals but companies might Business in Action also want to enter as well to show us how We want to see our various businesses in ac- they do business. tion, this could be images of construction Nature in Spelthorne sites, the High Street and shopping parades to Spelthorne in the spring, summer, autumn or factories, transport and beyond. This catego- winter, we are keen to receive photographs that show the various landscapes of the bor- ry is open to individuals but companies might ough in any of the seasons, whether in glori- also want to enter as well to show us how ous sunshine or a covering of snow! they do business. Sporting Spelthorne Nature in Spelthorne Spelthorne has a lot of sporting history rang- Spelthorne in the spring, summer, autumn or winter, we are keen to receive photographs Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.ukthat show the various landscapes of the bor- responding to adverts 26 ough in any of the seasons, whether in glori- ous sunshine or a covering of snow! Sporting Spelthorne Spelthorne has a lot of sporting history rang-

Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 26 To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 27 Or email [email protected]

Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 28

Looking to the Future Looking to the Future Dr David Fluck, Medical Director and Director of Infection Prevention and Control at Ashford & St Peter's Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Dr David Fluck, Medical Director and Director of Infection Prevention and Control at Ashford & St Peter's Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust The COVID19 Vaccination Programme The COVID19 Vaccination The past year has been one of the most diffi- cult many of us have faced, and certainly Programme one of the most challenging in the history of The past year has been one of the most diffi- the NHS. We are currently in the third na- cult many of us have faced, and certainly tional lockdown since the beginning of the one of the most challenging in the history of pandemic and whilst things are still very tough, we have a renewed sense of optimism the NHS. We are currently in the third na- and hope for the future, thanks to the tional lockdown since the beginning of the COVID-19 vaccine. pandemic and whilst things are still very I’m sure you will have seen or read news tough, we have a renewed sense of optimism reports of the vaccination programme being and hope for the future, thanks to the rolled out throughout the UK and it really is an incredible achievement that as of Febru- COVID-19 vaccine. ary 8th, already over 12.5 million people have I’m sure you will have seen or read news received their first dose of the vaccine. Hospital in comingreports weeks. of the vaccination programme being Please be assured that the vaccines that are being When entering throughrolled the digital checkpoint, you out throughout the UK and it really is administered in the UK (currently Pfizer- must ensure thatan you sanitise your hands using the incredible achievement that as of Febru- BioNTech and Oxford/AstraZeneca) have been alcohol gel available and put on a new surgical th approved by the Joint Committee on Vaccination ary 8 , already over 12.5 million people have face mask. You receivedwill then need to stand in front of their first dose of the vaccine. and Immunisation (JCVI) and are safe and effec- the thermal camera so that your temperature can be Hospital in coming weeks. tive. checked and thePlease camera can detect whether you’re be assured that the vaccines that are being When entering through the digital checkpoint, you The reason that the vaccines have been made avail- wearing a mask.administered in the UK (currently Pfizer- able so quickly is due to the global effort providing must ensure that you sanitise your hands using the The camera willBioNTech then either display a green light and Oxford/AstraZeneca) have been alcohol gel available and put on a new surgical resource and funding to fast track them through the which means you have a face mask on and your system without compromising safety or effective- approved by the Joint Committee on Vaccination face mask. You will then need to stand in front of temperature is okayand after which you can then enter Immunisation (JCVI) and are safe and effec- ness. the site, or a red light which means you have not the thermal camera so that your temperature can be I hope that some of you will have already received got a face mask tive.on or you have a temperature. If checked and the camera can detect whether you’re your first dose of the vaccination and would urge after applying theThe face mask the red light still reason that the vaccines have been made avail- everyone reading this to please take up the offer of wearing a mask. flashes this will aindicate you have a temperature.b If le so quickly is due to the global effort providing The camera will then either display a green light the vaccine when you are asked as the vaccine is this is the case, patients should speak to the mem- the best defence against COVID-19 - both for us as resource and funding to fast track them through the which means you have a face mask on and your ber of staff manningsystem the checkpoint or someone on without compromising safety or effective- individuals and for the country as a whole, and will reception. If you have a temperature or any oth- temperature is okay after which you can then enter help us all get back to doing the things we love ness. er Covid-19 symptoms, you should return home the site, or a red light which means you have not more quickly. immediately andI both you and your householdhope that some of you will have already received The government has now extended invitations for got a face mask on or you have a temperature. If should begin to selfyour-isolate and book a Covid-19 first dose of the vaccination and would urge after applying the face mask the red light still the vaccine to the over 70s age group, asking that test as soon as possible. they book their appointments online. everyone reading this to please take up the offer of flashes this will indicate you have a temperature. If The reception teamthe are located near the patient vaccine when you are asked as the vaccine is Whilst the vaccination programme is an exciting checkpoint and will be able to direct you to where this is the case, patients should speak to the mem- development, it is still really important to continue you need to go forthe your appointment. We hope that best defence against COVID-19 - both for us as ber of staff manning the checkpoint or someone on following the government guidance in terms of this new system individualswill make it quicker and easier for and for the country as a whole, and will socialising and travelling and remembering Hands reception. If you have a temperature or any oth- patients and staffhelp to enter the hospital, whilst doing us all get back to doing the things we love er Covid-19 symptoms, you should return home Face Space, at all times to protect each other and so in the safest way possible. the NHS. more quickly. immediately and both you and your household Entering our hospital sites safely The government has now extended invitations for To keep up to date with the latest updates from should begin to self-isolate and book a Covid-19 Last month, we introduced new digital checkpoints the vaccine to the over 70s age group, asking that test as soon as possible. for both patients and staff entering St Peter’s Hos- Ashford and St Peterthey’s, please visit our website book their appointments online. https://www.ashfordstpeters.nhs.uk/ The reception team are located near the patient pital through the main entrance, which we are plan- Whilst the vaccination programme is an exciting ning to extend to the main entrance of Ashford checkpoint and will be able to direct you to where development, it is still really important to continue you need to go for your appointment. We hope that following the government guidance in terms of this new system will make it quicker and easier for socialising and travelling and remembering Hands To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 29 Or email [email protected] patients and staff to enter the hospital, whilst doing Face Space, at all times to protect each other and so in the safest way possible. the NHS. Entering our hospital sites safely Last month, we introduced new digital checkpoints To keep up to date with the latest updates from for both patients and staff entering St Peter’s Hos- Ashford and St Peter’s, please visit our website pital through the main entrance, which we are plan- https://www.ashfordstpeters.nhs.uk/ ning to extend to the main entrance of Ashford

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 29 Or email [email protected] Spelthorne Hub Business Incubator Opening SpelthorneSoon Hub Business Incubator Opening Soon

Do you want to start, develop, and grow your business in a cost effective and vibrant loca- Do you want to start, develop, and grow your tion with fellow entrepreneurs, start-ups and business in a cost effective and vibrant loca- small businesses with the added benefit of tion with fellow entrepreneurs, start-ups and mentoring, training, networking opportunities small businesses with the added benefit of and FREE broadband with speeds up to 1GB? mentoring, training, networking opportunities If the answer is yes then The Spelthorne Hub and FREE broadband with speeds up to 1GB? could be the ideal location for you. If the answer is yes then The Spelthorne Hub This new space is located at 33 Hanworth could be the ideal location for you. Road, Sunbury on Thames which is just off This new space is located at 33 Hanworth J1 of the M3, next to the A316 and opposite Road, Sunbury on Thames which is just off Costco. It is the perfect location with excel- lent transport links into London, the South J1 of the M3, next to the A316 and opposite East and beyond. Costco. It is the perfect location with excel- The Incubator will provide a coworking envi- will then get back to youlent when we have the transport links into London, the South ronment for new start-ups and early stage date of the Open Day andEast also details of the and beyond. businesses. This new facility will offer a various packages available.The Incubator will provide a coworking envi- will then get back to you when we have the choice of hot desks, permanent desks and ronment for new start-ups and early stage date of the Open Day and also details of the serviced office facilities. Various packages businesses. This new facility will offer a various packages available. will be available with prices starting from as choice of hot desks, permanent desks and little as £99 per month. serviced office facilities. Various packages Most of the following benefits will be includ- will be available with prices starting from as ed with all of the packages: little as £99 per month. Free broadband up to 1GB Access to a meeting room and plenty of Most of the following benefits will be includ- room for more informal one to ones ed with all of the packages: Tea and coffee for you, your team and Free broadband up to 1GB guests included Access to a meeting room and plenty of Network with like-minded people room for more informal one to ones Free Start Your Own Business book Tea and coffee for you, your team and Free workshops and seminars guests included Access to mentors Network with like-minded people Free membership to the Spelthorne Busi- Free Start Your Own Business book ness Forum Free parking Free workshops and seminars The Incubator will provide a base for entre- Access to mentors preneurs to develop their ideas and grow their Free membership to the Spelthorne Busi- businesses and to turn an innovative spark ness Forum into a strong commercial enterprise. Free parking An Open Day will be arranged in the near The Incubator will provide a base for entre- future so that you can come and see the facili- preneurs to develop their ideas and grow their ties for yourself. businesses and to turn an innovative spark If you are interested in using the Spelthorne into a strong commercial enterprise. Hub then please email An Open Day will be arranged in the near [email protected] and we future so that you can come and see the facili- ties for yourself. Please mention Shepperton Matters when responding to adverts www.villagematters.co.ukIf you are interested in using the Spelthorne 30 Hub then please email [email protected] and we

Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 30 Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 31 To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 32

Recipe of the Month Recipe of the Month

Serves 4 Serves 4 Preparation time: 20 minutes Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: Filling 3.54 hours (plus cooling time) Pie 45 minutesCooking time: Filling 3.54 hours Serves: 4 (plus cooling time) Pie 45 minutes Ingredients Serves: 4 Pie Filling Ingredients Lard or dripping (you can use Pie Filling sunflower oil at a push) 700g boneless beef shin – cut intoLard or dripping (you can use mouth size chunks sunflower oil at a push) 25g plain flour, seasoned 700g boneless beef shin – cut into 200g smoked bacon (diced) or lardonsmouth size chunks 225g whole baby onions 400ml sweet dark brown ale 25g plain flour, seasoned (Theakston’s Old Peculier works200g well if smoked bacon (diced) or lardons your ale knowledge is not strong!)225g Reduce the heat a littlewhole and add the chopped bacon baby onions 400ml beef stock or lardons and the onions to the pan. Cook until the 1 tsp dried thyme 400mlbacon fat begins to render, and sweetthe onions are dark brown ale 1 bay leaf (Theakstonbrown on all sides, then add into the casserole. ’s Old Peculier works well if your ale knowledge is not strong!) 1 tbsp dark muscovado sugar Pour a small amount of the beer into the pan and Reduce the heat a little and add the chopped bacon 1 tsp red wine vinegar 400mlbring to a simmer, scraping the beefbottom to stock or lardons and the onions to the pan. Cook until the incorporate all the flavoured meat scraps and flour. 1 tsp cocoa or 12 squares of very1 dark (80%+) tsp dried thyme bacon fat begins to render, and the onions are Pour this into the casserole too, then pour in the chocolate 1 bayrest of the ale, and add theleaf stock, herbs, sugar, brown on all sides, then add into the casserole. For the pastry: 1 tbspvinegar, and cocoa (or chocolate dark squares) and bring muscovado sugar Pour a small amount of the beer into the pan and to a simmer. 400g plain flour, plus extra for rolling1 tsp red wine vinegar bring to a simmer, scraping the bottom to 1 tsp baking powder Cover, and place into the oven for about 2 hours, incorporate all the flavoured meat scraps and flour. 1 tsp cocoa or 12 squares of very dark (80%+) 1 tsp mustard powder (optional) then uncover and cook, stirring occasionally, for Pour this into the casserole too, then pour in the chocolateanother 1½ 2 hours (depends on your oven), until ½ tsp salt the meat is tender. Set on one side to cool then rest of the ale, and add the stock, herbs, sugar, 175g suet Fortransfer to a thepie dish. pastry: vinegar, and cocoa (or chocolate squares) and bring Iced water to a simmer. 400gTo make the pastry placeplain the flour, baking powder flour, plus extra for rolling A little milk or egg, to glaze 1 tspand mustard powder baking in a bowl with ½ tsp salt. Stir powder Cover, and place into the oven for about 2 hours, Method in the suet, and then add just enough iced water to 1 tspbring it together intomustard a dough. Wrap in cling film powder (optional) then uncover and cook, stirring occasionally, for Preheat the oven to 170C or 150C fan / gas mark 3. another 1½ 2 hours (depends on your oven), until ½ tspand refrigerate for an hoursalt or so. Place the seasoned flour into a large plastic bag. the meat is tender. Set on one side to cool then 175gPreheat the oven to 190Csuet / 170C (fan) / Gas mark Add the beef in small batches and shake thoroughly 5. Roll out the pastry on a floured surface to about transfer to a pie dish. to coat evenly. Reserve the floured pieces to a Iced1cm thick. Placewater over the filled pie dish, sealing the To make the pastry place the flour, baking powder plate. Heat a generous chunk of lard or dripping a edges tightly. Cut vent slits to allow the steam to large frying pan over a high heat.A Brown the beef little milk or egg, to glaze and mustard powder in a bowl with ½ tsp salt. Stir escape. Brush with beaten egg or milk and then pieces in small batches, transferring them to an Methodbake for 4550 minutes until golden. in the suet, and then add just enough iced water to ovenproof casserole dish as you go. bring it together into a dough. Wrap in cling film Preheat the oven to 170C or 150C fan / gas mark 3. and refrigerate for an hour or so. Please mention Shepperton MattersPlace when the seasoned flour into a large plastic bag. responding to adverts www.villagematters.co.uk Preheat the oven to 190C / 170C (fan) / Gas mark Add34 the beef in small batches and shake thoroughly 5. Roll out the pastry on a floured surface to about to coat evenly. Reserve the floured pieces to a 1cm thick. Place over the filled pie dish, sealing the plate. Heat a generous chunk of lard or dripping a edges tightly. Cut vent slits to allow the steam to large frying pan over a high heat. Brown the beef escape. Brush with beaten egg or milk and then pieces in small batches, transferring them to an ovenproof casserole dish as you go. bake for 4550 minutes until golden.

Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 34 To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 35 To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 36 Shepperton Village Conservation Group Asks for your Help

Shepperton Village Conservation Group Asks for your Help By Monica Chard By Monica Chard

We all know the boat ‘Jeannette’, at the end of There is another project afoot which you can the high street. And you will no doubt have get yourselves involved with. Some years ago noticed the tended beds and boxes outside our the pocket Lord’s Bridge garden at the end of shops. What about the hanging baskets which the high street was created under the lead of embellish our community, bringing us cheer the SVCG and what a difference it has made as we do our shopping in the high street? And to anyone arriving into Shepperton from that the flowering boxes along the street? side. But as you cross the road and head to- So many still assume that this floral cheer is wards old Shepperton, the view is not quite as paid for and maintained by the council. But good. Lord's Bridge pond which is on land that is very far from the truth. owned by Halliford School is at present more The intrepid group of volunteers, Shepperton like a swamp. The idea is to clean it up. So if Village Conservation Group,We undertakes all youall want to make a difference know to the commu- the boat ‘Jeannette’, at the end of There is another project afoot which you can the planting, watering and maintenance. It is nity, make some new friends and get mucky, hard work to keep the beds and troughs look- then SVCG would love to hear from you. ing good so the group needs some recognition. Please email [email protected] The good news is that new signage will be For more information and to see what the going up to remind people that the flowers are SVCG has been up to, visit their website tended by volunteers. the www.sheppertonvcg.ukhigh street. And you will no doubt have get yourselves involved with. Some years ago Then there are also the fabulous hanging bas- kets which line the high street in the summer months. These are paid for by local business and donations from a few faithful residents. Wouldn’t it be nice to brighten the community with some more basketsnoticed this year? Would you the tended beds and boxes outside our the pocket Lord’s Bridge garden at the end of donate a few pounds towards some more col- our? The SVCG feel that additional colour would be help a feel good factor as we hope- fully move away from all the restrictions of the past year. If you can donate, the page is: www,justgiving.com/crowdfunding/svcgshops. What about the hanging baskets which the high street was created under the lead of embellish our community, bringing us cheer the SVCG and what a difference it has made as we do our shopping in the high street? And to anyone arriving into Shepperton from that

Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk respondingthe to adverts 37flowering boxes along the street? side. But as you cross the road and head to- So many still assume that this floral cheer is wards old Shepperton, the view is not quite as paid for and maintained by the council. But good. Lord's Bridge pond which is on land that is very far from the truth. owned by Halliford School is at present more The intrepid group of volunteers, Shepperton like a swamp. The idea is to clean it up. So if Village Conservation Group, undertakes all you want to make a difference to the commu- the planting, watering and maintenance. It is nity, make some new friends and get mucky, hard work to keep the beds and troughs look- then SVCG would love to hear from you. ing good so the group needs some recognition. Please email [email protected] The good news is that new signage will be For more information and to see what the going up to remind people that the flowers are SVCG has been up to, visit their website tended by volunteers. www.sheppertonvcg.uk Then there are also the fabulous hanging bas- kets which line the high street in the summer months. These are paid for by local business and donations from a few faithful residents. Wouldn’t it be nice to brighten the community with some more baskets this year? Would you donate a few pounds towards some more col- our? The SVCG feel that additional colour would be help a feel good factor as we hope- fully move away from all the restrictions of the past year. If you can donate, the page is: www,justgiving.com/crowdfunding/svcg

Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 37 Sudoku 8 8

Solution on p 61

Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 38 Coping with Loss During the Pandemic tions such as CRUSE or Marie Curie. Ironical- Bob Noble, Shepperton Aurora Rotary Club ly we would expect these organisations to have been inundated at this time, but in fact anecdo- Dealing with bereavement has had to take a tally, they have told us that they have had been very different path during the pandemic. receiving less calls during the pandemic period Loved ones have often been unable to be with than normal. the person who is dying or, possibly more im- Some of the Shepperton Aurora Rotary Club portantly, be with other members of the close have been affected by grief during the pan- family who would normally provide strength demic and wish to encourage those dealing and support at such a difficult time. with bereavement to access help through local The amazing care staff in the NHS and Care organisations. The club is keen to let residents Homes have given to support people at their know there is valuable support out there for point of dying has been extremely humbling, those who would like it. but the added emotional trauma caused to fam- Through talking to such organisations that ily members by being kept away from each offer help, they have all identified two things other at this critical time is yet to be under- to us. Firstly, they continue to offer a support stood. over the phone and have trained individuals With the total number of deaths in the UK still who can help those coping with struggling continuing to rise, millions throughout the with bereavement and, secondly, they have country under lockdown must be feeling the spare capacity. immense pain of loss. Many of these deaths Some of them also offer group meetings – un- will undoubtedly have been unexpected, add- fortunately only through Zoom at the moment ing to the feeling of stress. – but soon, hopefully they intend to return to There’s no easy way to get over the death of their other support activities such as café meet- someone close to you, but, pre Covid, individ- ings, ‘walks and talks’ and one-to-one or live uals could at least take work leave to grieve, group sessions. spend time with friends and family and gain There is undoubted concern by both the Gov- comfort from just being in the company of ernment, schools and the medical profession others to talk and work through their feelings that demand for emotional support for whatev- of anger, despair and emptiness. er reasons, but particularly bereavement, will Even having a funeral, an important milestone increase substantially as we slowly come out when dealing with grief, has had to change. of lockdown. This can add to the sadness when we cannot Shepperton Aurora Rotary Club wish to en- properly celebrate a loved ones life with a cer- courage those who might be too frightened emony and wake. For many families who, cautious or lost in their grief to pick up the since March last year, have had restricted fu- phone and make the first step towards getting nerals there was always the hope they could some support from organisations who offer it have a big memorial celebration later with a locally. They will also be providing funds to large gathering – even that hasn’t happened assist the organisations to undertake their valu- and we are now over a year on. able work. When those coping with bereavement cannot get physical support from loved ones, a cuddle, You can contact our local CRUSE on 01932 hold a hand, sit close and talk through their 571177 (cruse.org.uk), Princess Alice Hospice fears and sense of loneliness, the pain of loss on 01372 468811 (pah.org.uk), Marie Curie can be ever the greater. on 0800 090 2309 (mariecurie.org.uk) or visit Most of us are still able to cope with calls from our website sheppertonaurora.co.uk for further family and friends. A minority of people may information or help. need more support from counseling services which they can be referred to via their GP or they can seek help directly through organisa-

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 39 Success of Self Publishing Success of Self Publishing By Mike Bodnar By Mike Bodnar

The impacts of Covid-19 on the mainstream numbers, rave reviews, contracts and film book market are many, withThe closed bookshops, deals. But successimpacts can be a lot more modest of Covid-19 on the mainstream numbers, rave reviews, contracts and film cancelled book launches bookand publishers' plans than that. market are many, with closed bookshops, deals. But success can be a lot more modest in disarray. However, none of this seems to For example, let's say you wish to write your have stopped writers. cancelledfamily history. Your 'market' is likely your book launches and publishers' plans than that. With more time stuck at inhome due to the pan- immediatedisarray. and extended family. So, they get to However, none of this seems to For example, let's say you wish to write your demic, an increasing numberhave of people are own a professionally stopped-published record of the writers. family history. Your 'market' is likely your using the opportunity to writeWith that novel, mem- family history, whilemore you have the satisfaction time stuck at home due to the pan- immediate and extended family. So, they get to oir or history book, and submit it. In a recent of being the originator of the work. There's no report, one publisher saiddemic, that their normal financial reward and no film deal, butan your increasing number of people are own a professionally-published record of the workload of four or five manuscriptsusing a day had market – small and intimatethe as it is – will be opportunity to write that novel, mem- family history, while you have the satisfaction increased since Covid to asoir many as 16 a day. delightedor with what you've historycreated. book, and submit it. In a recent of being the originator of the work. There's no So competition is intense, but you can bypass Or you might write a travel memoir, based on mainstream publishing report,altogether by self- your adventures riding a motorbike onehalf way publisher said that their normal financial reward and no film deal, but your publishing, which an increasingworkload number of round the world. Here you want to entertain of four or five manuscripts a day had market – small and intimate as it is – will be indie authors are doing –increased and not necessarily and inspire others, so your target market is the since Covid to as many as 16 a day. delighted with what you've created. due to a fear of rejection. armchair traveller and would-be adventurer. Self-published books areSo finally breaking Successcompetition therefore might be readers saying they is intense, but you can bypass Or you might write a travel memoir, based on through the decades-old mainstreamstigma they've had, enjoyed your book so much that they're now publishing altogether by self- your adventures riding a motorbike half way namely that if it's self-publishedpublishing, then by defini- planning their own adventure. which an increasing number of round the world. Here you want to entertain tion it's inferior. (And yes, it has to be said that But success could also include that your pub- some books are sadly wanting.)indie On the upside, lishing and promotional authors costs have been cov- are doing – and not necessarily and inspire others, so your target market is the self-publishing has becomedue the method of ered by tosales, to the pointa where the fearbook of rejection. armchair traveller and would-be adventurer. choice for many successfulSelf writers because it doesn't- owe publishedyou anything. Any subsequent books are finally breaking Success therefore might be readers saying they generates a bigger share of sales revenue, sales are a bonus, (maybe enabling you to cre- while offering more controlthrough over the work. ate an audio book version!). the decades-old stigma they've had, enjoyed your book so much that they're now The Martian, Fifty Shadesnamely of Grey, Still Alice, Success in self-publishing is what youthat make it, if it's self-published then by defini- planning their own adventure. and The Shack are all successfultion self-published and not justit's about rave reviews, gettinginferior. on a (And yes, it has to be said that But success could also include that your pub- works, but what 'success' looks like is im- best-seller list, or striking a movie deal. portant, as we'll see. someSo if you've been thinkingbooks of using lockdown are sadly wanting.) On the upside, lishing and promotional costs have been cov- Self-publishing options selfare many, largely to finally- turnpublishing that book idea into reality, go for has become the method of ered by sales, to the point where the book thanks to the internet andchoice digital publishing it. But decide upfront what yourfor success is many successful writers because it doesn't owe you anything. Any subsequent opportunities; on-demand printing, eBooks, going to look like. Now, get on that keyboard! and audio books can be generatesachieved easily, and a bigger share of sales revenue, sales are a bonus, (maybe enabling you to cre- with potentially much greaterwhile profits than tra- Mike Bodnar is a localoffering selfpublished author more control over the work. ate an audio book version!). ditional publishing. Theand blogger, Martian living in Sunbury. He is keen to , Fifty Shades of Grey, Still Alice, Success in self-publishing is what you make it, Then there are self-publishing companies, start a local writers' group once lockdown providing everything fromand proofreading and restrictions The allow. If you're interested, emailShack are all successful self-published and not just about rave reviews, getting on a editing through to cover design,works, printing, mar- Mike on [email protected] but what 'success' looks like is im- best-seller list, or striking a movie deal. keting and sales management.portant, You choose how as we'll see. So if you've been thinking of using lockdown much of a package you want, or can afford. Self-publishing options are many, largely to finally turn that book idea into reality, go for But before you start you needthanks to ask, 'How will to the internet and digital publishing it. But decide upfront what your success is I define success?' In the opportunities;examples of sell-out on-demand printing, eBooks, going to look like. Now, get on that keyboard! self-published books above,and success is in sales audio books can be achieved easily, and with potentially much greater profits than tra- Mike Bodnar is a local selfpublished author Please mention Shepperton Matters when responding to advertsditional www.villagematters.co.uk publishing. and blogger, living in Sunbury. He is keen to Then40 there are self-publishing companies, start a local writers' group once lockdown providing everything from proofreading and restrictions allow. If you're interested, email editing through to cover design, printing, mar- Mike on [email protected] keting and sales management. You choose how much of a package you want, or can afford.

But before you start you need to ask, 'How will I define success?' In the examples of sell-out self-published books above, success is in sales

Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 40 Self Published ‘The Ring of Dark Shadows’ tackles Child Abuse By ChloeMay Cuthill (pictured)

2020 was one of the toughest years ever and it took it’s toll on so many. With problems arising because of the pandemic; people losing their jobs or being furloughed and schools closing, this led to the high- est numbers of children feeling lost, alone and scared. The NSPCC saw their helpline numbers dramatically increase due to children being con- fined to home and subjected to abuse. I know all too well what it’s like to feel alone and scared, I was a victim of child abuse from the age of 9 up until the age of 12. But in 2017 I came for- ward to the police with the help of the NSPCC and after 3 long years of investigations justice was fi- nally served. I had kept what happened to me quiet for 17 years so it was now time to speak up and share my story. At the beginning of 2020 I decided to share what had happened to me on social media and the re- sponse I received was overwhelming. I knew I now wanted to do something positive out of a massive negative. I sat down and started to write a book. I wasn’t sure what direction I was going to go at first but after and the different types of abuse out there and how drafting lots of ideas I knew I wanted to write a to stop it by speaking up then I have succeeded. children’s book. I have also added relevant information for children The main aim of my book ‘The Ring of Dark Shad- to report abuse if they need to at the end of the ows’ is to get more people, young and old, to talk book and 10% goes towards the NSPCC and 10% openly about abuse and to eradicate the stigma goes towards RASASC. around it as well as the shame. I am currently writing my memoirs which I hope to If we can bring the subject into everyday life then it publish sometime this year and I’m hoping my will encourage children and adults to speak up and story will encourage others out there to come for- come forward. I want children to know they always ward and know they are not alone. have a voice and that their voice will always be Child abuse still carries huge stigma and is not heard. talked about enough. People who have suffered ‘The Ring of Dark Shadows’ has six realistic sto- abuse need to know they will be believed. Let’s ries with a powerful message about different types silence the shame not the subject. of child abuse. The stories reflect on friendship, To keep up with my story please head to my Face- bravery and speaking up. book page Let’s Talk About Abuse. On there I dis- My book isn’t scary and it doesn’t ever mention cuss problems and issues that I have overcome with actual abuse. I have written it carefully and safely the hope of helping others speak up and not feel so children will understand. alone or isolated. I realise parents will be scared and wary about dis- cussing topics of abuse with their children, it’s a My book ‘The Ring of Dark Shadows’ is available conversation that’s difficult to address and knowing on Amazon https://www.amazon.co.uk/RING- how or when is sometimes the toughest part and DARK-SHADOWS-Chloe-May-Cuthill/ then normally ignored. This is why I wanted to dp/1912821788 or you can order directly from my write a book that can be a conversation starter be- website www.chloemaycuthill.com tween children and their parents. My main character Avie doesn’t experience abuse, If you have concerns about child abuse, relating to she sees the danger and then helps her friends and yourself or someone you know, support is always family. available online or by telephone from the NSPCC: If my book can educate children recognise danger www.nspcc.org.uk or you can call 0808 800 5000. Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 41 2 4 Clues Across 1 Celebrity, headliner (4) 4 No longer in use (8)

2 8 Teaching period (6) 9 Libretto, dialogue (6) 10 Pockmark, healed wound (4) 4 11 Single spot of precipitation (8) 13 Persistence, tenacity (13) 16 Going to ground (5,3) p 61Solution 19 Belongs to you and me (4)

2 2 22 20 Frail, ailing (6) 22 Joined (6) 23 Long-handled frying pans (8) 2 24 24 Effortless (4)

2 Wilful betrayal (9) 6 Enticed (5) 15 Defeat decisively (7) 3 Set aside, save (7) 7 Apex (3) 17 Prizes awarded for peace, physics, literature etc. (5) 4 Proprietor (5) 12 Without scent (9) 5 Period of sustained 14 Small glamorous white 18 Home of Snowdonia drinking (informal) (7) dog (7) National Park (5) Down 21 Large deer (3)

Chartered Surveyor Building Surveys, Home Buyers Reports and Valuations for all non lending purposes 40 years local experience [email protected] 07876208359 www.nickcobbsurveyor.co.uk

Advertising in Future issues of Sunbury Shepperton Walton Molesey? Print and Digital

Call Monica on 07979 808991 or email [email protected]

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 42 Escape Domestic Abuse Escape Domestic Abuse

North Surrey DomesticNorth Abuse Service impartial service. Telephone 01932Surrey Domestic Abuse Service impartial service. Telephone 01932 (NSDAS) is a registered(NSDAS) Charity, 260690 or email [email protected] is a registered Charity, 260690 or email [email protected] managed by Citizens Advice Elmbridge West that helps men, womenmanaged and children by Citizens Advice Elmbridge who suffer from domesticWest abuse. nsdas.org.uk that helps men, women and children It has been widely publicisedwho that the suffer from domestic abuse. nsdas.org.uk national lockdowns duringIt 2020 have led Ifhas you would like to support Northbeen widely publicised that the to an increase in reportednational domestic abuse. Surrey Domestic Abuse Service lockdowns during 2020 have led If you would like to support North We expect rates to continue to rise during you can donate at http:// to anuk.virginmoneygiving.com/charities/ increase in reported domestic abuse. Surrey Domestic Abuse Service the new lockdown introduced in 2021. http:// NSDAS wish to increaseWe awareness of NorthSurreyDomesticAbuseService expect rates to continue to rise during you can donate at their service. Those beingthe abused can new lockdown introduced in 2021. uk.virginmoneygiving.com/charities/ often be extremely frightenedNSDAS and believe wish to increase awareness of NorthSurreyDomesticAbuseService they do not have the confidencetheir to live service. Those being abused can independently. We have a team of highly trained advisors that can oftenhelp with a wide be extremely frightened and believe variety of problems causedthey by domestic do not have the confidence to live abuse. Clients can beindependently. provided with We have a team of highly practical help, safety planning,trained emotional advisors that can help with a wide support, all helping varietyto rebuild the of problems caused by domestic survivors lives to give them that strength to move on with their livesabuse. and live free Clients can be provided with of abuse. practical help, safety planning, emotional In addition, NSDAS offerssupport, 3 programmes all helping to rebuild the to help children men andsurvivors women, build lives to give them that strength confidence and understandingto of their move on with their lives and live free situation. This is what a client saidof after attending abuse. one course Power to InChange: ‘When addition, NSDAS offers 3 programmes you have been a victimto of abuse it is help children men and women, build hard to know who youconfidence are anymore – and understanding of their this course really helpedsituation. me to realise my goals, and what I want from life. It also gave me the confidenceThis to attend is what a client said after attending job interviews, and returnone to college. course Power to Change: ‘When Thank you so much!’ you have been a victim of abuse it is hard to know who you are anymore – this course really helped me to realise Seeking help my goals, and what I want from life. It North Surrey Domestic Abuse service is a free, confidential, independentalso and gave me the confidence to attend job interviews, and return to college. Please mention SheppertonThank Matters when you so much!’ www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 43 Seeking help North Surrey Domestic Abuse service is a free, confidential, independent and

Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 43 Can you find all of the Greek and Word Search Roman gods hidden in the grid?

Aphrodite Apollo Ares Artemis Athena Ceres Demeter Diana Dionysos Hephaestos Hera Hermes Juno Jupiter Mars Mercury Solution on p57 Minerva Neptune Poseidon Venus Vesta Vulcan Zeus

NOTICE As part of Elmbridge Museum’s ongoing collections review, the Museum would like to contact the following person to organise the return of objects on loan from them: Lister Yallup Notice is hereby given that, following all reasonable inquiry and in the absence of any response to this advertisement, the said items will vest in the Council on 30 August 2021, whereupon a disposal process shall be followed, all in accordance with Section 41(6) Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982 and the Museums Association Code of Ethics. For more information on Elmbridge Museum’s collections review, please contact [email protected]

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 44 Kempton Fire Posts and Spandrels Reclaimed? A reader contacted us in great excitement last month. He was reading the piece on the disastrous fire at Kempton Park in 1932 when the grandstand was destroyed by fire. “I think I have some of the old grandstand as my porch”, he said. So, I went round to have a look. Kempton Avenue is directly opposite Kempton Park. The story goes that the houses, built in the 1960’s did use some reclaimed materials in the construction. Below left you can see a close up from the photo printed last month. To the right, the post and the spandrel up close. There is a remarkable re- semblance. It is possible that the metal posts had been simply put to one side after the old grandstand was demolished, but the gap of 30 years is significant. You can decide for yourself.

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 45 THE ARTS SOCIETY RUNNYMEDE continues to bring its popular monthly lec- tures via Zoom. While lecturers cannot be present in person, their lectures are live and followed by Q and A sessions. Guests are very welcome for a fee of just £5 and help is at hand for those not familiar with Zoom. To experience the next lectures and find out what the Society has to offer please contact [email protected]

THE ROARING 20s: ART,DESIGN & HIGH SOCIETY Wednesday 17th March at 10.30

Like its name, the Roaring Twenties was a loud and boisterous decade, Following the dark days of the Great War, the privileged Bright Young Things were determined to shock and broke all conventions for a life of hedonism and promiscuity, fuelled by an endless round of champagne, cocaine, parties and jazz. Women wore fur coats and cloche hats, donned new boyish fashions and had short, cropped hair. Men drove fast cars, mixed cocktails and smoked American cigarettes. Valentino, Tallulah Bankhead, and Noel Coward emerged as major celebrities. Art and design was also full of vitality. Furniture and decoration showed the influence of Cubism, Vorticism and other styles associated with the avant-garde. The discovery of Tutankhamun’s Tomb ushered in an obsession with all things Egyptian and Oriental. Lecturer Jo Banham explores the energy and originality of the decade and the lives of its leading figures.

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 46 To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 47 Where is Alex on his Walkathon?

Where literally? Probably on a road around Shepperton/ Chertsey/Windsor. (photos opposite are from his walks down the Towpath one snowy morning). But he may be even further afield, knowing him! The walks have got long- er and further. Alex Hardy told Shepperton Matters that he has an idea of wanting to do a 100,000 step day to finish his Walkathon, which he will complete sometime in March. That is around 50 miles!!! Where is he in terms of his fund raising? Well he is so grateful for the help and support he has had from friends, family, the community and complete strangers. It has been heartening to see his total raised increase. As we go to print it stands at over £2600 which will make such a huge differ- ence to mental health support through Mind. But Alex is aiming high. He is trying to reach £5000. So if you can help him, no matter how small a donation, it will all add up. His fund raising page is at: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/thewalkathon

Thank you.

Goose Identification Challenged

In last months Shepperton Matters we brought you news of an unusual visitor to the area. It had been identified as a Tundra Bean goose But we were contacted by local retired biologist and goose specialist, Mariko Parslow, who is challenging the identity of the bird. 'Tundra Bean Goose' is a subspecies of bean goose, a species which regularly winter in Britain in small num- bers. The most common winterer in Britain are of subspecies 'Taiga Bean Geese'. “For ordinary birdwatchers it may be hard to identify the subspecies of bean geese in the field, or from an image. However, I studied and worked on bean geese and their conservation as my life work, since 1970s, as a specialist subject. It was purely coincidence that I live in Laleham and went to see the 'funny geese' I heard of from the neighbour” she says. “The geese which you refer were a family of three, and stayed at Home Farm and Littleton Lake from mid December 2020 till January 2021. They were identified by local birders as 'Tundra Bean Geese' which went on birding websites, gathered many birders from other parts of the countries. But when I saw them on 31 December, I noticed that they were not of typical 'Tundra Bean Geese', but rather an ordinary family of three 'Taiga Bean Geese'. They can be identified by bill patterns and body sizes, and I use other facial parameters which are result of my studies. I told one of local birders that they were misidentified. I have been collecting the images to send to my Swedish colleagues to confirm my diagnosis for their identity. I spotted your pic- ture, but knew immediately that this was a wrong photograph”.

We bow to the judgement of this local expert and thank her for bringing it to our attention. We must also credit the photo we published to David Appleton, which was originally published in Good News in autumn 2017.

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 48

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 49 Or email [email protected]

Keeping our Community Safe Keeping our Community Safe By Tracy Moore, Neighbourhood Watch and Bill Cunningham, Scamwatch

Neighbourhood Watch By Tracy Moore, Neighbourhood Watch I would like to introduce myself as the new Shepperton Watch co-ordinator and Bill Cunningham, Scamwatch having recently taken over from Mr Mick Hussey. It was a while ago now however; my day job has unfortunately kept me extremely busy! I have been told I have big shoes to fill so please join me in thanking Mick for all his very generous years ofNeighbourhood fulfilling this supportive community role so Watch well. A bit about my motivation;I I started awould watch for my own close in 2019 like to introduce myself as the new Shepperton Watch co-ordinator after a number of incidents occurred in the close with my neighbours and then I had an attempt- ed break in at my own house.having I volunteered to become the Shepperton coordinator recently as I wanted taken over from Mr Mick Hussey. It was a while ago now to help the community become more aware of what is happening around them and help signpost tools and resources that canhowever; help and assist you in hopefully becoming less of a target for crimi- my day job has unfortunately kept me extremely busy! I have nals. I plan to start a Neighborhood Watch social media Facebook page and this will be set up shortly. Anyone will be ablebeen to access this across Shepperton and Itold hope to understand more in I have big shoes to fill so please join me in thanking Mick for all the next few days about thehis requirements for running very such a page (there are quite a few require-generous years of fulfilling this supportive community role so ments!). If you are interested in becomingwell. a Neighbourhood Watch coordinator for your road, street or group of houses, please do get in touch, it’s probably not like what you expect! Tracy (Shepperton NHW ACoordinator). Pleasebit email [email protected] about my motivation; I started a watch for my own close in 2019 after a number of incidents occurred in the close with my neighbours and then I had an attempt- Ever thought about buying online? By Bill Cunningham ed break in at my own house. I volunteered to become the Shepperton coordinator as I wanted

You are not alone! Increasinglyto too are more helpfraudsters earning off the online traffic.the So there’s community become more aware of what is happening around them and help signpost a lot we should consider before parting with our card details. The padlock in the addresstools bar means our website purchase has passwordand and card details resources that can help and assist you in hopefully becoming less of a target for crimi- scrambled. But we can still be securely communicating with a crook! Has the website an office nals.contact number, full address and email. IIf not then plando we really want to start a Neighborhood Watch social media Facebook page and this will be set up the product that much to riskshortly. our personal and payment details? Anyone will be able to access this across Shepperton and I hope to understand more in Retailer reviews by such as Trustpilot can have the stars given manipulated. It would be com- forting if all sellers with 100%the 5 star ratings meant prettynext much a guarantee of quality, but fewfake days about the requirements for running such a page (there are quite a few require- reviews happen. If only 5 stars showing andments!). wonderful praise we know real life is not like that. Even if the products actually are outstanding, some will rubbish them. Where many of the reviewsIf are nearly/ exactlyyou the same, gushing, then maybeare from the same interested in becoming a Neighbourhood Watch coordinator for your road, street or hand? Prices dramatically lowergroup than the same product got elsewhere? We know, of don’t we, that if it’shouses, please do get in touch, it’s probably not like what you expect! too good to be true then …. For something that costs moreTracy than £100 we should pay by a credit card. Read(Shepperton info on section NHW Coordinator). Please email [email protected] 75 of the Consumer Credit Act to see why. If spending less or paying by debit card then see Chargeback Scheme on moneysavingex- pert.com. It’s still best to avoid paying by bank transfer unless it’s the only payment method available, and we should be really convinced that we are dealing with a trustworthy retailer. All this checking takes timeEver and we can take shortcuts. Depends reallythought on how much we are about buying online? prepared to risk. By Bill Cunningham

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 51 Or email [email protected] You are not alone! Increasingly too are more fraudsters earning off the online traffic. So there’s a lot we should consider before parting with our card details. The padlock in the address bar means our website purchase has password and card details scrambled. But we can still be securely communicating with a crook! Has the website an office contact number, full address and email. If not then do we really want the product that much to risk our personal and payment details? Retailer reviews by such as Trustpilot can have the stars given manipulated. It would be com- forting if all sellers with 100% 5 star ratings meant pretty much a guarantee of quality, but fake reviews happen. If only 5 stars showing and wonderful praise we know real life is not like that. Even if the products actually are outstanding, some will rubbish them. Where many of the reviews are nearly/ exactly the same, gushing, then maybe from the same hand? Prices dramatically lower than the same product got elsewhere? We know, don’t we, that if it’s too good to be true then …. For something that costs more than £100 we should pay by a credit card. Read info on section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act to see why. If spending less or paying by debit card then see Chargeback Scheme on moneysavingex- pert.com. It’s still best to avoid paying by bank transfer unless it’s the only payment method available, and we should be really convinced that we are dealing with a trustworthy retailer. All this checking takes time and we can take shortcuts. Depends really on how much we are prepared to risk.

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 51 Or email [email protected] Shepperton Book Swap Having been reading voraciously during these lock- down months I was so pleased to see this new group pop up on Facebook.

The Shepperton Book Swap was the brain child of Evelyn Loy, a Co-Op member pioneer, who hit on the idea as part of their Covid relief project. There are currently 70 members. Evelyn ‘displays’ books available by genre on the group page or members post their own books. Then make a selection, list books you have to swap and arrange an exchange in the high street. If you are not on social media please contact Evelyn by email: [email protected] and she will let you know what she has and arrange a swap/collection.

Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 52 Shepperton Beat By Inspector Maxine Cilia By Inspector Maxine Cilia There is a lot partners including Housing Council and goingThere ison a lotin shopspartners to including lead some Housing problem Council solving and Spelthornegoing on at thein work,shops focusedto lead on somethe underpass problem and solving Skate Spelthorne at the work, focused on the underpass and Skate Shepperton Beat moment . park. The schools are also contributing to moment . thepark. local The conversationschools are also about contributing the ongoing to The most reports mattersthe local and conversation we are also about looking the toongoing see if thatThe mostwe receivereports therematters andis weany are alsointerest looking into seethe if arethat weabout receive anti formationthere is of aany residents interest association. in Wethe socialare about behaviour. anti formationwork closely of awith residents neighbourhood association. Watch We By Inspector Maxine Cilia Mostsocial peoplebehaviour. do workwho closelyhave been with growingneighbourhood in numbers Watch notMost even people see thisdo whoduring have the pastbeen year growing and wein cannumbers assist asnot a evencrime. see How- this duringanyone thewho past would year like and to getwe involved can assist by Inspector Cilia ever,as a crime. continued How- anyonesignposting who wouldyou like to getto involved your by Inspector Cilia antiever, social continued behav- localsignposting coordinator. you to your There is a lot partners including Housing Council and iour can create many tensionsanti social in commu- behav- local coordinator. nitiesiour can and create make manypeople tensions desperate in commu-to move We are still seeing a lot of SCAMs being homes,nities and unable make to people live their desperate daily tolives move as Wereported. are still If itseeing is too agood lot of to SCAMsbe true then being it going on in shops to lead some problem solving wellhomes, as anxiousunable toand live mentally their daily unwell. lives It asis reported.is probably If itnot is istoo my good first to advice. be true Do then not it importantwell as anxious that you and report mentally to us unwell. continued It is isbelieve probably anyone not iswho my coldfirst advice.calls you! Do Al-not antiimportant-social thatbehaviour. you report This to will us ensurecontinued we waysbelieve ask anyone for a whohead coldoffice calls number you! andAl- Spelthorne at the work, focused on the underpass and Skate haveanti-social a good behaviour. picture of This where will to ensuretarget ourwe thereways nameask for and a detailshead officeto verify number them and havepatrols a goodwith ourpicture PCSO of ’wheres. to target our thethere company name and and details if toin verifydoubt them do andnot patrols with our PCSO’s. engage.the company Do not and give if away in doubtyour personaldo not moment . park. The schools are also contributing to Currently we are seeing a lot of anti- informationengage. Do noteasily. give away The yourother personal scam socialCurrently behaviour we are inseeing the Walleda lot ofGarden anti- involvinginformation gift easily. vouchers The is otherwhere scam the the local conversation about the ongoing wheresocial youthsbehaviour are congregatingin the Walled and Garden creat- scammerinvolving callsgift voucherspretending is towhere be the ingwhere a youthsdisturbance are congregating and abusing and Council creat- HMRCscammer and calls asks pretendingfor payments to in bevouch- the Colleaguesing a disturbance when they and areabusing trying Councilto lock ers.HMRC This and would asks never for payments happen. Pleasein vouch- do The most reports matters and we are also looking to see if upColleagues the gardens. when If wethey receive are trying reports to fromlock noters. everThis paywould a bill never or personhappen. in Pleasevouchers do ourup the council gardens. workers If we receiveabout publicreports orderfrom overnot ever the telephone.pay a bill orIf theyperson want in voucherspayment offencesour council or assaultsworkers we about will publicensure orderthese letover them the telephone.send it to youIf they in writingwant payment where that we receive there is any interest in the areoffences investigated or assaults and wepersons will ensureare brought these youlet them can verifysend itit. to you in writing where toare justice. investigated It is not and acceptable persons toare abuse brought the you can verify it. are about anti formation of a residents association. We staffto justice. in these It is areas. not acceptable to abuse the staff in these areas. Take care and stay safe If you are in a Housing association prop- Take care and stay safe social behaviour. work closely with neighbourhood Watch ertyIf you in arethe inlocal a Housing area and association are experiencing prop- M axine Cilia antierty- insocial the localbehaviour area and areyou experiencing should Maxine Cilia anti-social behaviour you should Spelthorne Borough Commander report this not only to the police but to the Spelthorne Borough Commander Most people do who have been growing in numbers reportHousing this association not only to as the well. police but to the HousingThere is associationongoing work as well. with our local There is ongoing work with our local not even see this during the past year and we can assist

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 53 Or email [email protected] as a crime. How- anyone who would like to get involved by To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 53 Or email [email protected] Inspector Cilia ever, continued signposting you to your anti social behav- local coordinator. iour can create many tensions in commu- nities and make people desperate to move We are still seeing a lot of SCAMs being homes, unable to live their daily lives as reported. If it is too good to be true then it well as anxious and mentally unwell. It is is probably not is my first advice. Do not important that you report to us continued believe anyone who cold calls you! Al- anti-social behaviour. This will ensure we ways ask for a head office number and have a good picture of where to target our there name and details to verify them and patrols with our PCSO’s. the company and if in doubt do not engage. Do not give away your personal Currently we are seeing a lot of anti- information easily. The other scam social behaviour in the Walled Garden involving gift vouchers is where the where youths are congregating and creat- scammer calls pretending to be the ing a disturbance and abusing Council HMRC and asks for payments in vouch- Colleagues when they are trying to lock ers. This would never happen. Please do up the gardens. If we receive reports from not ever pay a bill or person in vouchers our council workers about public order over the telephone. If they want payment offences or assaults we will ensure these let them send it to you in writing where are investigated and persons are brought you can verify it. to justice. It is not acceptable to abuse the staff in these areas. Take care and stay safe If you are in a Housing association prop- erty in the local area and are experiencing Maxine Cilia anti-social behaviour you should Spelthorne Borough Commander report this not only to the police but to the Housing association as well. There is ongoing work with our local

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 53 Or email [email protected]

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 54 To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 55 By Sarah Davey flush down our drains. Sodium hypochlorite (bleach) is corrosive and an eye, skin, and respiratory irritant. It is especially toxic to people with heart conditions or asthma. D-limonene is a degreasant found in citrus and orange cleaners. It is also a neurotoxin, an irritant and can cause respiratory distress. But as I investigated Eco products I stumbled into a minefield. Many big companies produce eco- brands, but this involves ‘greenwashing’, which is defined as an attempt to make consumers believe a company is doing more to protect the environment than it actually is. They use unregulated words like ‘natural’ and ‘eco-friendly’ while still using potentially harmful chemicals. They don’t list ingredients or information about manufacture and When the spring light catches the surfaces in my supply, and if you check their websites there are no home, I see smears and dust, and I fall victim to ‘the environmental targets published nor information spring-cleaning bug’. Suddenly I want to scrub, dust about progress on their environmental impact. and polish everything in sight. I won’t lie, truly environmentally friendly products A few years ago, I made a big effort to become a are more expensive so the cheapest way to do a ‘greener cleaner’. I worried about the active green spring clean is to make your own and there ingredients in my cleaning products and wondered are some great websites around with detailed how much damage that chemical cocktail was doing instructions on how to do just this. to the planet? I did try to make my own but found that work Most of us have a miniature chemical factory constraints meant I struggled with some of the more stashed under our sinks: detergents, bleaches, and time-consuming concoctions, but I’ve listed a degreasers, all containing potentially hazardous couple of websites in case you feel you’d like to try substances which find their way into groundwater this. I am a huge fan of distilled white vinegar and contaminate the lakes and the oceans. which I use to clean toilets, windows, and mirrors. I Phosphates are some of the main culprits. They are also like Bicarbonate of Soda which is a great common in laundry detergents and some cleaning degreaser, scouring agent, and deodoriser. For ready products. An average consumer uses the equivalent -made cleaning products I’ve suggested a couple of of 14Kg of detergent a year. High phosphate levels UK websites which are certified environmentally in water cause ‘algae blooms’ which contribute to and vegan friendly. the death of fish and other water-dwelling creatures. I’m not perfect. Sometimes I do grab a regular These algae blooms are becoming more common cleaning product for convenience but I’m gradually thanks to a combination of pollutants and global becoming greener and if we all switched even one warming. or two of our products for a greener cleaner, the Cleaning products can have an adverse effect on our planet would thank us. health. Household ammonia is often found in window or general glass cleaners. It is a skin and eye irritant and deadly to fish, even in low concentrations, so it’s not something we should Homemade recipes and lifestyle advice Certified companies https://biod.co.uk/ https://moralfibres.co.uk/ https://greenscents.co.uk/ https://www.madeleineolivia.co.uk

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 56 April Issues will close on March 18th Get in touch to book your advertising [email protected] 07979 808991

Solution March Word Search

Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 57 Gardening Matters Gardening Matters Tools of the Trade The right tools make but very heavy when full gardening easier, and in so if you have arthritis or my opinion you should not much upper body buy the best you can strength choose a smaller afford then look after watering can that you can Tools of the Trade them so they will last handle easily and make a many years. But which few more trips to the tap. tools are essential? A rose allows for a gentle sprinkler effect on tiny Gloves Gardening is Theseeds and seedlings. You right tools make but very heavy when full hard on the hands. Weeds, roots and can use a hose if you digging are brutal on the gardeninggarden a larger area. easier, and in so if you have arthritis or Choose a multitasking skin. Buy a thick, good one with misting and quality multipurpose my opinion you should not much upper body pair to begin with. Make sprinkler attachments sure they fit. My first Spade –You can't dig pair were too large and cumbersome. I was so largebuy areas without one. As with hand tools, I the best you can strength choose a smaller naive I didn't realise they came in different prefer stainless steel. Keep it clean, with a sizes...much like gardens...and gardeners! sharpafford edge for digging, planting, and edging then look after watering can that you can beds. Choose one that feels right for your Secateurs The task of pruning comes around with alarming regularity, so a good pair of height.them so they will last handle easily and make a secateurs is one of the most used items in my Fork A stainlesssteel fork is great for stony garden tool kit. Find a pair that feel good to soil, and for breaking up compacted earth. It's hold, are wellbalanced and easy to operate alsomany good for lifting shrubs without damaging years. But which few more trips to the tap. with one hand. Keep them clean and sharp and the root system too much. they will serve you well for many seasons. Dutchtools Hoe Weeding is a necessary task (and are essential? A rose allows for a gentle Trowel Useful for hand weeding, dividing a somewhat relentless one during the growing smaller plants, planting, potting on, and seed season). The Dutch hoe has a shallow angled sprinkler effect on tiny sowing. blade with a front cutting edge for keeping weedsGloves down between seedlings and Gardening is Hand Fork – A hand fork is essential for seeds and seedlings. You breaking up compacted soil. Sometimes it’s established shrubs and plants. easier to use than a trowel and is less likely to Groundhard rake . Use this for breaking down on the hands. damage roots in more densely planted areas or the soil to that fine tilth gardening books go can use a hose if you when separating smaller plants. onWeeds, about. Use the wide head and teeth to open roots and I like a comfort handle for my hand tools but and level the top surface of the soil, then use garden a larger area. make sure to choose tools where the shaft of thedigging back of the rake to firm it down. It makes are brutal on the the handle and trowel (or fork) are one unit, seedsowing easier and more likely to produce Choose a multitasking not welded or rivetted together, as they are not healthy seedlings. as strong and snap with repeated use. I choose skin. Buy a thick, good

stainlesssteel tools because they are rust one with misting and resistant. quality multipurpose Watering can A large watering can is great, sprinkler attachments pairBy Rachael Leverton to begin with. Make Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 58 sure they fit. My first Spade –You can't dig pair were too large and cumbersome. I was so large areas without one. As with hand tools, I naive I didn't realise they came in different prefer stainless steel. Keep it clean, with a sizes...much like gardens...and gardeners! sharp edge for digging, planting, and edging beds. Choose one that feels right for your Secateurs The task of pruning comes around with alarming regularity, so a good pair of height. secateurs is one of the most used items in my Fork A stainlesssteel fork is great for stony garden tool kit. Find a pair that feel good to soil, and for breaking up compacted earth. It's hold, are wellbalanced and easy to operate also good for lifting shrubs without damaging with one hand. Keep them clean and sharp and the root system too much. they will serve you well for many seasons. Dutch Hoe Weeding is a necessary task (and Trowel Useful for hand weeding, dividing a somewhat relentless one during the growing smaller plants, planting, potting on, and seed season). The Dutch hoe has a shallow angled sowing. blade with a front cutting edge for keeping weeds down between seedlings and Hand Fork – A hand fork is essential for breaking up compacted soil. Sometimes it’s established shrubs and plants. easier to use than a trowel and is less likely to Ground rake . Use this for breaking down damage roots in more densely planted areas or the soil to that fine tilth gardening books go when separating smaller plants. on about. Use the wide head and teeth to open I like a comfort handle for my hand tools but and level the top surface of the soil, then use make sure to choose tools where the shaft of the back of the rake to firm it down. It makes the handle and trowel (or fork) are one unit, seedsowing easier and more likely to produce not welded or rivetted together, as they are not healthy seedlings. as strong and snap with repeated use. I choose

stainlesssteel tools because they are rust resistant. Watering can A large watering can is great, By Rachael Leverton

Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 58 Trees Oasis or Curse?

An obvious answer I hear you say. Trees provide a habitat for wildlife, a gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze and a little oasis of green in any road. They help to muffle noise and break up the grey of any urban setting. The Spelthorne Tree Wardens do a great job planting trees, appreciating that they bring us wellbeing and a better air quality. Many ma- ture majestic trees have tree preservation orders on them to ensure their future. Many smaller trees of course do not. But why would anyone chop them down? It seems the answer is overhanging branches which provide a much needed perch for birds, but also bring the inevitable bird poo. It is sad to hear of people butchering branch- es just to try to keep their cars from being dirtied. Lets appreciate the greenery around us and allow birds their habitat too.

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 59 To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 60 PAIGE ELECTRICS REWIRES COOKER POINTS FAULT FINDING SMOKE DETECTORS CONSUMER BOXES EXTERIOR LIGHTING ALTERATIONS POWER TO GARAGE EXTRA SOCKETS AND ARE YOU RCD LIGHTS PROTECTED?

LOCAL RELIABLE SERVICE FULLY INSURED Office: 01932 711196 Mobile: 07880 715856 [email protected]

6 1 1 6 6 1 1 6 1 6 1 6 1 6 6 1 1 6

Solution to March Quick Crossword Solution to March Sudoku

To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 Or email [email protected] 61 Index of Advertisers Index of Advertisers

Alteration/Tailoring Equity Release Pharmacy/Walk in Shepperton Tailoring 30 Harvest Financial 22 Trio Pharmacy 20 Awnings/Pergola Estate Agents/PropertyAlteration/Tailoring Plumber Equity Release Pharmacy/Walk in MOL Solar 11 Curchods 32/33 Pete Game 60 Bathroom Installation EweMove Shepperton 19 Roofing Tailoring 30 Harvest Financial 22 Trio Pharmacy 20 Luxury Bathrooms 11 Flowers/Fruit/VegAwnings/Pergola Aldridge Roofing 61 Estate Agents/Property Plumber Building Work Quality Fruit 12 5* Roofing 45 Titan Group 49 Funeral Services MOLSchools/Education Solar 11 Curchods 32/33 Pete Game 60 Car Services Alan Greenwood Bathroom 36 Halliford School 2 Installation EweMove 19 Roofing ChipsAway 60 Garage Doors Sell for Cash Care Services Garolla Luxury 52 JC Stamps 20 Bathrooms 11 Flowers/Fruit/Veg Aldridge Roofing 61 Parklands Manor 15 Gardening Trident Coins 20 Rivermede Court 9 Lawnmaster Building 59 Rob’s Records 22 Work Quality Fruit 12 5* Roofing 45 Carpenter Capability Clarke Titan 59 Shutters Group 49 Funeral Services Schools/Education George Scott Woods 60 All Seasons 37 Decorama 42 D Williams 52 Rosewood Car 60 Solicitor Services Alan Greenwood 36 Halliford School 2 Chartered Surveyor Gifts/Jewellery ChipsAwayOwen White & Catlin 27 60 Garage Doors Sell for Cash Nick Cobb 42 Blue Jade 16 Taxi Service Computer Repair Gutters CareVA Cars 57 Services Garolla 52 JC Stamps 20 My PC Helper 43 Starr Guttering Parklands 57 Upholstery Manor 15 Gardening Trident Coins 20 Timeless IT 31 Gutter PRO 35 John Miller 44 Curtains & Blinds Handyman RivermedeWeight Loss Court 9 Lawnmaster 59 Rob’s Records 22 Decorama 42 L&P Maintenance 46 The 11 Diet 17 Decorator Kitchens/BedroomsCarpenter Will Writing Capability Clarke 59 Shutters Chris White 38 Ashford Kitchens George 5 Harvest Wills 57 Scott Woods 60 All Seasons 37 Decorama 42 SJ Harris 57 Office Space Windows Electrician Tennay Property D 31 House of Surrey 63Williams 52 Rosewood 60 Solicitor Paige Electrics 61 Pet Food CharteredNovaglass 64 Surveyor Gifts/Jewellery Owen White & Catlin 27 Podium Pet Supply 22 Nick Cobb 42 Blue Jade 16 Taxi Service Computer Repair Gutters VA Cars 57 My April issue PC Helper 43 Starr Guttering 57 Upholstery Your Local Mags Advertising Rates Deadline Timeless(Ex VAT) IT 31 Gutter PRO 35 John Miller 44 March 18th Sunbury Matters Curtains & Blinds Handyman Weight Loss

Shepperton Matters 1/8th pageDecorama £35 42 L&P Maintenance 46 The 11 Diet 17 Molesey Matters Quarter page £65 [email protected] Half pageDecorator £125 Kitchens/Bedrooms Will Writing Walton Matters Or call Full PageChris £225 White 38 Ashford Kitchens 5 Harvest Wills 57 Call 07979 808991 07979 808991 [email protected] SJ Or nowHarris book online 57 Office Space Windows Discount on block bookings Electricianwww.villagematters.co.uk Tennay Property 31 House of Surrey 63 Paige Electrics 61 Pet Food Novaglass 64 Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure accuracy of the information included in this publication, neither the publisher nor the editorial contributors can accept any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or Podium Pet Supply 22 omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Shepperton Matters does not endorse any advertising material included in this publication. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval systems or transmitted in any form without prior permission of the publisher.

Please mention Shepperton Matters when responding to adverts www.villagematters.co.uk April issue 62 Your Local Mags Advertising Rates Deadline (Ex VAT) March 18th Sunbury Matters

Shepperton Matters 1/8th page £35 Molesey Matters Quarter page £65 [email protected] Half page £125 Walton Matters Full Page £225 Or call Call 07979 808991 07979 808991 [email protected] Or now book online Discount on block bookings www.villagematters.co.uk

Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure accuracy of the information included in this publication, neither the publisher nor the editorial contributors can accept any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Shepperton Matters does not endorse any advertising material included in this publication. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval systems or transmitted in any form without prior permission of the publisher.

Please mention Shepperton Matters when www.villagematters.co.uk responding to adverts 62 Our staff are all observing the government health and safety guidelines to keep customers safe

Our staff are all observing the government health and safety guidelines to keep customers safe