The Sheppertonian (for Shepperton village)

David Packer has started a new outside walking tour around Hampton Court Palace - a relaxed, small-group evening stroll that takes you off the palace lawns and into the streets, bridges and pubs that actually grew up to service the royal place. We chat to David about why these outside stories matter: the bridge as part of the palace’s theatrical entrance, the Mitre pub from 1665, the Royal Mews and the bustling north side that most visitors never notice.

Along the way he peppers the tour with spine-tingling ghost yarns (including his own 2-3am “I don’t want to be here” moment in Fountain Court), juicy human anecdotes (yes, Joan Rivers once rocked up) and clear reminders about the difference between solid history and the fun of legend. The walk is about 90 minutes, best in the evening once traffic calms down, and is deliberately capped at around 10 people so it stays intimate and chatty. If you want to actually meet the place that grew up around the palace rather than just tick a box, drop David a DM via his Instagram.

Takeaways:

• We learn that Hampton Court Palace literally made the area - buildings, pubs and services grew up to cater for palace visitors across centuries, shaping the whole local landscape.
• David explains that many of the palace’s spooky tales are oral traditions or 19th-century inventions, so ghost stories often mix folklore, press snippets, and evolving exaggeration.
• We hear a proper hair-raising account: on a quiet night in Fountain Court David felt an unexplainable dread and scuttled back to the mess room, the only time he changed plans in over twenty years.
• David's outside walking tour focuses on things you miss going straight to the gates: the 1930s bridge, the Mitre pub from 1665, the Royal Mews, and the sadly neglected north side full of human stories.
• David urges visitors to slow down and look up: his favourite view from the far corner of the rose garden gives a practical, Tudor-town panorama of the palace that most people never notice.

• Follow David on Instagram

Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound Boutique

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Mentioned in this episode:

The Ferry Coffee Shop

Purveyors of fine coffee, tea & snacks.

Business Partner: Meon Media

Small business support.

Business Partner: The Sound Boutique

Thoughtful audio for every story.

Martin Pither runs a thriving Thursday-night pub quiz at the Barley Mow on Watersplash Road that routinely fills the room, and it's become proper community glue. I went down to meet Martin and hear how he builds those rounds from scratch, juggles brutal feedback, and even turned the whole year into a book called 'A Year in the Life of a Pub Quiz', complete with 60+ photos so you actually know the people behind the team names. He keeps things inclusive (no bookings, first-come-first-served), varies 14 different rounds so it never gets stale, and splits prizes into picture, music and general-knowledge categories so more folks have a shot at victory. It’s not all laughs though: Martin talks about the lonely nights when one disputed question turns 70 people against you, the careful referencing he uses (and yes, he treads carefully with AI-sourced answers), and the months of feedback from friends, retired teachers and even tax inspectors that sharpen each quiz. What really struck me was how this simple weekly fixture binds families, gives shy regulars a place to belong, and even reaches expats online. People tell him they look forward to Thursday like it’s a small holiday.

Takeaways:

• We learn how a pub quiz can glue a community together, creating weekly rituals and friendships.
• We discover the practical side of running quizzes: question vetting, multiple references, and feedback loops to avoid embarrassing mistakes.
• Themed nights, picture rounds and music clips keep things fresh and fair for everyone.
• Prizes and prize-splitting increase participation, giving more teams a shot at winning and celebrating together at the bar.
• The importance of inclusivity: first-come seating, welcoming new players, and tailoring rounds so different ages and interests feel included.
• Quirky outcomes, like worldwide fans of the picture rounds and a book with answers at the bottom, perfect for campsite or family quizzes.

• Buy Martin's book

Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound Boutique

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Mentioned in this episode:

The Ferry Coffee Shop

Purveyors of fine coffee, tea & snacks.

Business Partner: Meon Media

Small business support.

Business Partner: The Sound Boutique

Thoughtful audio for every story.

Emma Pattinson takes us behind the scenes of the Shepperton Car Boot, a beloved local fixture that’s been running for 24 years and counting. We chat about how she transformed a family land problem into a vibrant community event that’s all about recycling and finding hidden treasures. From the early days of setting up stalls in spirals to attract more buyers to the well-organised system they have now, Emma shares how hard work and a love for the community keep this event thriving. She emphasises that it’s not just about making a quick buck but creating a friendly space where people can find affordable items and connect with one another. Plus, there's a sprinkle of humor as she shares some of the quirky items and experiences that have popped up over the years. So, if you've been thinking about decluttering or hunting for treasures, tune in for some fun tips and a peek into this local gem!

• Shepperton Car Boot Sale website

Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound Boutique

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Business Partner: Meon Media

Small business support.

There's a new ice-cream bicycle in Shepperton!

Donnie's Ice-creams

Business Partner: The Sound Boutique

Thoughtful audio for every story.

We’re diving into the heart of community spirit with the Sheppertonians FC, a small but mighty team from Shepperton that’s got big aspirations. We’re chatting with Chris Nisbet, who’s all about bringing the community together through football, and he’s got some wonderfully ambitious plans that’ll make you think 'why not?' From using local facilities to inspiring the youth and rekindling the love for the game in those who’ve hung up their boots, this club is all about creating a home for football in Shepperton. So grab a cuppa, sit back, and let’s explore how this little village team is aiming to make a big splash in the world of local sports!

Takeaways:

• Sheppertonians FC is a community-driven football club aiming to bring local pride and togetherness through sports.
• The club is focused on using Shepperton-based facilities to foster community involvement and participation in football.
• They aim to reconnect with former players and encourage the younger generation to stay active in sports.
• Despite limited resources, the club has big aspirations, believing that anything is possible when a community comes together.

•  Guildford and Woking Alliance League fixtures
• Sheppertonians FC on Instagram
• Sheppertonians FC on Facebook

Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound Boutique

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Mentioned in this episode:

Business Partner: The Sound Boutique

Thoughtful audio for every story.

There's a new ice-cream bicycle in Shepperton!

Donnie's Ice-creams

Business Partner: Meon Media

Small business support.

Get ready for a delightful dive into the world of music and nostalgia. Today, we chat with Keith Hopwood, a legendary figure from the iconic band Herman's Hermits, who took a wild ride from the swinging sixties to composing beloved children's TV themes. We uncover Keith’s fascinating connection to Shepperton, where his band filmed a movie back in '67 at Shepperton Studios. It's not just a stroll down memory lane; we explore how Keith transitioned from rock ‘n’ roll fame to crafting tunes for classics like 'Bob the Builder' and 'The Wind in the Willows.' So, grab a cuppa and get comfy as we share some laughs, stories, and maybe a few cheeky anecdotes from the film set and beyond.

Takeaways:

• In this episode of The Sheppertonian, we explore the fascinating journey of composer Keith Hopwood, whose career spans from being in Herman's Hermits to composing for beloved children’s shows.
• Gareth shares his personal connection with Keith, revealing how they met at a conference a decade ago.
• Keith recounts the whirlwind of going from a struggling musician to a chart-topping sensation - the path to success often involves seizing unexpected opportunities.
• Learn about the behind-the-scenes stories of Keith's career, including his experience filming in Shepperton and the creative process of composing for iconic shows like The Wind in the Willows.
• Finally, Keith offers wisdom for aspiring artists about the importance of following your passion and looking for opportunities, reminding us that success requires both talent and perseverance.

• Watch this episode on YouTube ▶️
• Trailer for Mrs Brown You've Got A Lovely Daughter (Warner Archive)
• Keith's website

Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound Boutique

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Island Motors: Shepperton-based MOT and Servicing

Mentioned in this episode:

Business Partner: Meon Media

Small business support.

Business Partner: The Sound Boutique

Thoughtful audio for every story.

There's a new ice-cream bicycle in Shepperton!

Donnie's Ice-creams

In this episode of The Sheppertonian, we're celebrating 30 years of Home-Start Spellthorne. This incredible charity has been a beacon of support for families in and around Shepperton, and we're bringing you personal stories from a mum, a volunteer, and a staff member. We’ll explore how the simple act of showing up can transform lives, especially in those overwhelming moments when a little extra help can make all the difference. Whether it’s sharing a laugh or just being there to lend an ear, these stories highlight the importance of community and connection. So, if you’re feeling inspired to give back or seeking support yourself, we have all the info you need to get involved or reach out.

Takeaways:

• Home-Start Spelthorne has been supporting families in Spelthorne for 30 years, providing essential assistance during tough times.
• Isolation is a significant challenge for many families today, making community support more crucial than ever.
• Volunteering with Home-Start Spelthorne requires just a few hours a week, yet can profoundly impact local families.
• The stories shared in this episode emphasise the importance of human connection and empathy in overcoming challenges.
• Listeners are encouraged to consider volunteering, as it enriches both the volunteers’ and families’ lives in meaningful ways.

• Home-Start Spelthorne | The Leading Family Support charity

Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound Boutique

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Island Motors: Shepperton-based MOT and Servicing

Mentioned in this episode:

The Ferry Coffee Shop

Purveyors of fine coffee, tea & snacks.

Business Partner: The Sound Boutique

Thoughtful audio for every story.

Business Partner: Meon Media

Small business support.

The Sheppertonian is your local media platform for Shepperton and the surrounding areas, including Sunbury, Staines and Ashford. Alongside our weekly newsletter and social channels, this podcast is where we sit down with the people, groups and stories that make this place what it is.

New episodes land twice a month. Past guests include Steve the lock keeper reflecting on a lifetime spent on the river, Vivienne the conservationist fighting to protect the character of the village, and local councillors unpacking the biggest shake up to local government in fifty years.

Whether you've lived here for decades or just moved in, this is your way into what's really going on in Shepperton, told by the people living it.

Subscribe for free at thesheppertonian.uk so you never miss an episode.

Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound Boutique

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In this episode we dive into the Thames with John Graham, the man who took the plunge and started the Sunbury Skiff and Punting Club from scratch. With a passion for rowing that runs as deep as the river itself, John shares the ups and downs of establishing a community club in an area that was missing one. We chat about the challenges of finding racing skiffs. Plus, we get the scoop on the club’s epic 24-hour skiffathon fundraiser that keeps the spirit of rowing alive while also helping out a local charity. So grab your oars, or just your cuppa, and join us for a splash of river life.

Takeaways:

• Skiffing is a unique Victorian rowing tradition that's all about wooden boats and teamwork.
• John Graham founded the Sunbury Skiff and Punting Club, starting with zero boats.
• The club now boasts a fleet of ten boats and about forty active members.
• Their annual skiffathon is a 24-hour rowing challenge that raises funds for the community.
• The club's members often come from various backgrounds, looking for a fun alternative to the gym.
• Skiffing not only promotes fitness but also offers a great social experience.

• Cruse Bereavement Support website
• Sunbury Skiff and Punting Club website

Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound Boutique

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Business Members

Luvbiltong: whole food protein with real flavour

Island Motors: Shepperton-based MOT and Servicing

Mentioned in this episode:

The Ferry Coffee Shop

Purveyors of fine coffee, tea & snacks.

Shepperton Matters

Shepperton’s print community magazine.

Business Partner: Meon Media

Small business support.

Business Partner: The Sound Boutique

Thoughtful audio for every story.

This is a heartwarming episode that dives into the incredible work being done at the Swan Sanctuary over on Felix Lane, where the love for these majestic birds flows as freely as the water in their lakes. We meet Mel and Gemma Nelson, a mother-daughter duo carrying on the legacy of Mel's late mother, Dot Beeson, who started this sanctuary over 40 years ago in her back garden. We chat about the ups and downs of rescuing swans, from dealing with fishing tackle emergencies to performing surgeries in what might be the country’s only swan-specific operating theatre. And let me tell you, it takes a village - or in this case, a community - because we also hear about the generous spirit of Shepperton, where people are stepping up to support the sanctuary in big ways, like one lady who spent over a thousand pounds on their Amazon wish list! So grab a coffee, settle in, and get ready for some delightful stories and insights into the world of swan rescue.

Takeaways:

• The Swan Sanctuary is a family-run charity that has been rescuing swans since the 1980s, highlighting the community's dedication to wildlife care.
• Generosity shines bright in Shepperton, as evidenced by a lady who spent over a thousand pounds on the sanctuary's wish list, showing how much people care.
• Swans have a unique anatomy; their bones are hollow, which can complicate injuries, making their rescue and rehabilitation quite a challenge.
• The sanctuary operates a fully equipped veterinary theatre specifically for swans, making it possibly the only one of its kind in the country.
• Volunteers at the sanctuary are driven by passion and a commitment to helping wildlife, focusing solely on the birds without getting caught up in politics.
• If you encounter a swan in distress, the sanctuary encourages you to call them directly to get the best help possible.

• The Swan Sanctuary - Dedicated to the Care of Swans and Waterfowl
• The Swan Sanctuary Amazon Wishlist

Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound Boutique

Subscribe to the Sheppertonian Weekly newsletter

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Business Members

Luvbiltong: whole food protein with real flavour

Island Motors: Shepperton-based MOT and Servicing

Mentioned in this episode:

The Ferry Coffee Shop

Purveyors of fine coffee, tea & snacks.

Shepperton Matters

Shepperton’s print community magazine.

Business Partner: Meon Media

Small business support.

Business Partner: The Sound Boutique

Thoughtful audio for every story.

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

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

Takeaways:

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

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

Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound Boutique

Subscribe to the Sheppertonian Weekly newsletter

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Check the roadworks

Business Members

Luvbiltong: whole food protein with real flavour

Island Motors: Shepperton-based MOT and Servicing

Mentioned in this episode:

The Ferry Coffee Shop

Purveyors of fine coffee, tea & snacks.

Business Partner: The Sound Boutique

Thoughtful audio for every story.

Business Partner: Meon Media

Small business support.

Shepperton Matters

Shepperton’s print community magazine.