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Issue Issue Issue April 2021 April 2021 Your Local view of SheppertonApril and Laleham 2021 Your and Laleham Laleham YourLocal Local view view of of Shepperton Shepperton and
Shepperton
Matters
Your Award Winning Community Magazine
Issue
112
April 2021
Your Local view of Shepperton and Laleham
Spelthorne - Happiest inPlace Surrey SpelthornePlace - Happiest in Surrey Spelthorne Happiest Place in Surrey (orbe should that be Middlesex?!) (or should that Middlesex?!) Spelthorne - Happiest Place in Surrey (or (orshould shouldthat that be be Middlesex?!) Middlesex?!)
Welcome!
This is a joyous time for many! Slowly we are emerging from restrictions. Shops and restaurants will start to open and we can start reconnecting with the old way of life. Spring is here and there is much to be positive about. Spelthorne has just come out as the happiest place to live in Surrey. That is wonderful news too (even if Spelthorne is in fact really in Middlesex!) Some more interesting local history which will get you reminiscing in this issue - British Thermostat! I wonder how many of our readers worked there? On May 6th we have county elections. We were asked to carry party political advertising on behalf of several parties in this magazine. The choice is yours, but make sure you
April 2021 exercise your democratic right. Finally, do look out for the great new 24/7 prescription pick up service from Trio Pharmacy. Coming soon! Stay safe and see you next month.
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Contents
British Thermostat c 1931 4 Spelthorne –Happiest in Surrey 7 Message from the Mayor 8 Use Your Vote! 11 Look out for Hedgehogs 12 Surrey Council in Eco Park Challenge 17 Litter Picking - Get Involved! 18 Reflecting on the past 12 Months 21 Pooch Perfect comes to Shepperton 25 Local Capture 26/27 Shepperton PPG 29 Happy 100th Birthday! 30 Recipe of the Month 34 Family Cooking Resource 37 Super Surplus Suppers 43 Purple Angels during Pandemic 44 Laleham Residents News 46/47 Keeping our Community Safe 51 Shepperton Beat 53 The Joy of Sweet Peas 54 Charlton Village Residents Association 55 Declutter this Spring 56 Gardening Matters 58 Ad Index and Costs 62
Published by:
Village Matters Ltd Advertising / Editorial : Monica Chard Telephone: 07979 808991 Email: monica@villagematters.co.uk www.villagematters.co.uk Front Cover: Misty Morning Walk, by Stephen Morris.
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British Thermostat c1931 By Nick Pollard
No doubt many readers will remember the British Thermostat factory in Windmill Road, Sunbury, which provided employment to generations of local people. Some of you may well have worked there yourselves. The company was founded in Teddington in 1928 with a staff of only 4, to produce refrigeration controls and automatic thermostats. Expansion of the business led to a move to Sunbury in 1931, to the building shown in the photo. By this timeNo the workforce had increased to 60. In 1934 the company collaborated with Rolls-Royce to produce a thermostat for their cars. In turn Sun this led to the development of a thermostat for the famous Merlin aero engine, which eventually powered many significant Royal Air Force aircraft of hav the Second World War, including the T he Spitfire, Hurricane, Lancaster and Mosquito. A considerable expansion of both the factory and the workforce was required, so much so that the local area was unable to provide enough suitation ble staff, and many were recruited from the London area. Naturally most needed to travel by 193 train, but there was no station near to the factory, so in 1944 Upper Halliford Halt was constructed for their use. A platform was only built on193 the ‘down’ side, as the ‘up’ side was this used to stock war-damaged rolling stock (a second platform was added after the war). w After the war, the aircraft business moved to a factory inpo Merthyr and became Teddington Aircraft Controls, whilst Sunbury reverted to commercial Spit refrigeration equipment as Teddington Controls. In the 1960s a new factory was built at St. Austell in Cornwall to take advantage of the government development grants. A series of takeovers and renaming of companies followed, ble and eventually the Sunbury site was closed. The company still operates in St. Austell as train Teddington Group. The Sunbury & Shepperton Local History Society continues to hold meetings via Zoom. If you con would like to join us, please see our website www.sslhs.org.uk for details. used Please mention Shepperton Matters when responding to adverts
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Spelthorne – the happiest Borough in Surrey It’s official! According to a survey by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) Spelthorne is the happiest place to live in Surrey. (It is in Middlesex of course, but that is a different story!) The ONS broke down the average ratings of four factors, which included life satisfaction, the feeling that the things done in life are worthwhile, happiness and anxiety, in order to measure personal well-being across the UK. The survey covers the period between April 2019 and March 2020, which includes the run -up to the first lockdown period. Using these measures, Spelthorne came out top. The borough averaged 7.9 in terms of happiness and did well in life satisfaction, ‘worthwhileness’ and low in anxiety. We love where we live. It may not be perfect, but where is? The fact is, we get more right than wrong, but much of the happiness factor comes from the one most important thing; the people themselves. YOU! Remember some years back Shepperton was named the most polite place in the UK. There you are! Spelthorne Council published some of the many reasons why we can be thankful and proud to live in the borough. We have selected the best and elaborated on them. This list is of course not exhaustive but let’s have a look: Caring communities: Most definitely! Under normal circumstances there is an evident community spirit. But the pandemic has brought out the best of our caring side. Neighbours looking out for each other, many of us getting involved and doing our bit to help and to brighten the lives of strangers, children creating rainbows to thank the NHS. Volunteers: There are too many groups to mention, but think of the Jubilee food banks, the Rotary collection bins, volunteer drivers collecting and delivering shopping and prescriptions. And of course Purple Angels! Civic Pride: As well as the Shepperton Village Conservation Group, caring for the To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991
flowers and planters on the high street, there are the Tree Wardens and of course the local litter pickers who are taking pride in the area, keeping it nice for everyone to enjoy. Green Spaces: We are blessed with beautiful green spaces to enjoy; Manor Park, recreation grounds, Shepperton Lock, pathways, the lakes and of course the river with all the wildlife and beauty it brings with it. Independent Shops and Restaurants: We have a growing array of small businesses, many owner run, which provide essentials, as well as some great eateries. Long may the independent businesses thrive. We must support them. Events and Arts: Sadly we have lost our many cherished events for now, but we love the community feel engendered by the Shepperton Fair, Laleham Fair and the much loved Big Tree Night. Lets not forget the Sunbury & Shepperton Arts Festival and the many performances and music you can enjoy as part if it, and of course the Laleham Panto! Further information on the survey can found: https://www.ons.gov.uk/ peoplepopulationandcommunity/wellbeing/ bulletins/measuringnationalwellbeing/ april2019tomarch2020
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From your Mayor
The Mayoress Barbara and I, wish to thank the many residents we have met during our year as Deputy Mayor last year and as Mayor this year, for the friendliness and goodwill extended to us. Our tenure comes to an end in May, at the Annual General meeting of Spelthorne Council. It has been a great honour to serve as mayor and Mayoress, but we would have embraced the chance to spend more time with residents and support those charities that are so important to the wellbeing of our community. We wish you all good health and a free and happy future when it's possible. We, like you all have been locked down for the most part, so of course this has badly affected fund raising for the Mayors charities. A resident in Shepperton, Michelle, has kindly offered to undertake to run a Marathon through the Borough on May 1st, and will donate any funds raised to the Mayors Charity. This is indeed a very kind and generous offer, and I ask you to support her effort and donate as follows: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/michelle-b-262 or. Send to, the Mayor's secretary, Council office, Knowle Green, Staines upon Thames. Middx. TW18 1XB.
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Use Your Vote!!
County Elections May 6th 2021 County elections are taking place this May and it is important to use your vote. Thankfully the successful vaccination roll out means elections can take place once more and you can have your say. Voting in elections is a really important way to make your voice heard on the issues that concern you. Decisions are made on your behalf by local government every day, ranging from what building work is approved in your area and what recreational facilities you have, to national issues like roads, transport and education. These decisions are made by people elected to represent you. Everyone is happy to voice their concerns about local issues on social media, but when it comes to voting, there seems to be a certain amount of lethargy. Turn out at borough elections is usually around 30% and for county elections even less. Some reasons why you should vote • It gives you the power to create change: By voting you choose a candidate who best suits your views. • Support your demographic group: 71% of over 65s voted in 2017, compared to only 54% of 18-24 year olds (IPSOS Mori). The higher the turnout for a particular demographic group the more likely more benefits will accrue to that group. • What’s the point in voting if you think your candidate can’t win: If everyone just ‘gives up’ change will never happen. Reducing a majority is a first step to gaining a majority! By voting for a “loosing” candidate you morally help them to keep fighting on. • Your right to vote has been hard won: People have given their lives to win the right to vote. Some say it is disrespectful to them to waste your vote. • Your successful candidate represents your ward at the borough council: It’s their To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991
job to raise local issues and support you as much as they can. • Spoiling your ballot: By going to the polling station and not selecting any candidate before submitting to the ballot box, you become a voice for the disengaged. If there are huge numbers of spoiled ballots at election time, political parties will start to think more about what they need to do to reconnect with these voters. Make your vote count - use the link below which will allow you to register to vote online: https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
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Please Look out for Hedgehogs
We had a call from a local resident who had found an injured hedgehog on the back lawn. It was daytime which was unusual, and the animal was not moving. So she called the RSPCA who came and had a look. It turned out that the poor little thing had sustained a serious injury to its head and neck, likely from a strimmer. Sadly Photo British Hedgehog Preservation Society there was no choice but the put it to sleep. It must have been in a good deal of distress and pain. Every year there are thousands of hedgehogs killed or maimed by cutting machines in the garden, either strimmers or lawn mowers. As spring is coming and we are getting out there enjoying our gardens, please spare a thought for these charming little creatures who are waking up from hibernation. Please check grass, piles of leaves and hedges thoroughly before using mowers, strimmers or hedge cutters. If you find a hedgehog that looks distressed, do call the Shepperton Hedgehog Sanctuary on 01932 889182. If the animal is seriously injured please contact a local vet or better still, contact Wildlife Aid Leatherhead, which is the only wildlife hospital in Surrey: Wildlife Aid, Randalls Farm, Randalls Road, Leatherhead, KT22 0AL Open 09:00 to 20:30 seven days a week https://www.wildlifeaid.org.uk/
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Surrey County Council Mounts Legal Challenge to Eco Park
There has been an interesting development regarding the Eco Park which may raise some hope to local residents who have unhappily been living in its shadow. At a meeting on March 16th, Natalie Bramhall, portfolio holder of Environment and Climate Change at Surrey County Council stated “After exhausting other options available, we have now entered legal proceedings with Suez to resolve our issues. We hope to bring this to a swift conclusion to allow us to move forward with the Eco park and resolve the matter”. Spelthorne Against the Eco Park (SATEP) spokesman Adrian Corti said “The EA have stated that this is the most complained about site in the country. SATEP had highlighted these concerns to local councillor Maureen Attewell and have been working hard to raise these concerns to Surrey County Council, and with the help of Staines county councillor Sinead Mooney also, they have finally listened to us. The incinerator has thankfully stopped testing for nearly 4 months and Surrey CC has now announced they have commenced a legal process against the waste contractor Suez due to contractual differences. This is great news for local residents and we are hopeful and confident will lead to the demise of the hated incinerator that has been affecting local air quality and causing concerning smells”. A spokesperson for SUEZ recycling and recovery UK said: “We were surprised to see the comments made regarding the Eco Park in the recent Cabinet Member Update to Surrey County Council. Contract confidentiality prevents us from commenting further. We remain committed to providing a safe, sustainable treatment solution for all of Surrey’s household waste and continuing to deliver an effective, high standard service through the network of twenty integrated waste management sites across Surrey, as we have done for over twenty years”. We will be watching developments closely and will bring you more news as we have it.
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Litter Picking - Get Involved Last summer, a broadcast by David Sedaris on his obsession with litter picking caught the imagination of Shirley Lunn. A keen walker herself, she had noticed the growing amount of litter which was spoiling our community. She put a post out on Facebook asking if anyone fancied getting involved, thinking she might get a dozen or so interested. Kelly McKenna was one of those who answered and together with Jem Jones, the third founder, the Spelthorne Litter Pickers group was born. Fast forward to March 2021 and the group now has 750 members. We spoke to Shirley about the group and about what it is like to be the instigator of such a successful community enterprise. Her passion, enthusiasm and warmth comes across in bundles. There are many reasons to get involved and much to be gained from being part of this group. As well as civic pride, members talk of the sense of achievement picking litter gives them. Cleaning their local areas and taking pride in their surroundings is one thing, but it is the feeling of contributing to the greater good, being a part of a group of like minded enthusiastic people, which carries such a sense of achievement and feel good factor. Picking litter is good for mental health! It is well understood that one of the foundations of happiness is altruism. So an activity like picking litter ticks that box. When I asked Shirley if there was any feeling of resentment to the litter louts who don’t share this civic pride she answered “We focus instead on the positives, the love of nature and community and respect for our local area”. Litter picking appeals to all ages. It respects social distancing and participants are out in the fresh air. It has been a perfect activity during the lockdown restrictions. New friendships have been forged and the Facebook group is a little community in itself. Youngsters have got involved, proud to be seen Please mention Shepperton Matters when responding to adverts
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La on th w am m in in K an The founders L to R Kelly McKenna, Shirley Lunn and Jem Jones th gr with a litter picker and hi vis vest on. There is a roll of honour for all youngsters and so Fa far there are 91 names onno it. The children also receive a personalised certificate signed by the mayor. These are theab little litter picker heroes. th The group is well supported by Spelthorne en Council who provide green bin bags, litter H pickers and hi vis vests emblazoned with Spelthorne Litter Pickers. They also provide ac crates to the 13 area representatives, so ge the ever growing numbers of NOS cylinders be can be collected, before being taken to be sold as scrap. Money raised goes back into pr improving awareness of m the dangers of inhaling nitrous oxide (NOS). lo Having this number of eagle eyed litter scouts out there has also helped the council in keep on top of fly tipping, which has become tri more than just a menace. gr If you fancy getting involved then please join the Facebook group; Spelthorne Litter Pickw ers or you can email spelthornelitterpickan ers@spelthorne.gov.uk. m So come on everyone….keeeeeep picking!! of So bo fe do www.villagematters.co.uk “W
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Reflecting on the past 12 months Suzanne Rankin, Chief Executive at Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Over one year on from the very first lockdown of this pandemic, there is some goodOve news. As the number of daily infections in thedo w UK continues to decline, we have started tone w take the first steps out of the third lockdownUK of the Covid-19 pandemic. On March 23rd 2020, we were told we musttake stay at home to reduce transmission of Covid-of t 19 as the cases of both in the community andOn the hospitals continued to rise. In response to this, like many, we had to change our ways ofsta y working and the ways we delivered care in19 order to keep our patients, local communitythe and staff safe. this In the past year, we have utilised technology in new ways to enable us to provide video andwor telephone appointments, in addition to face-toord -face where necessary, so that we could con-and tinue to offer treatment to those in need. t We’ve also recently introduced digital check-In in n points for both patients and staff entering our ASPH New Year’s Honours List to recognise some of our colleagues internally who have Ashford and St Peter’s sites which are able totele detect the use of face masks and check the truly gone above and beyond in their selfless support for patients and colleagues, with a temperature of those entering the hospitals, to-fac socially distanced ceremony. allow staff who previously manned these totinu I’d like to extend a huge thank toe our local be able to return to providing care forW community for the tremendous amount suppatients. poin We worked closely with and received a great port we have received throughout the past 12 months, through donations from the public deal of support from our local independentAsh and groups such as Nourish Our Nurses and partners, BMI Runnymede and Nuffielddete Help Your NHS, and also Clap for Carers Health Hospital Woking, which has allowedte m us to continue providing elective procedures early on in the pandemic. Some of you may allo remember that very special evening at the for patients at their sites. start of April where we were joined by some Although this has been a challenging time,be of our local emergency services partners for a there are a number of achievements to cele-pati brate at the Trust, such as treating and dis- very special #ClapforCarers in the A&E car We charging over 1,600 patients with Covid-19 park at St Peter’s, who simultaneously flashed their blue lights in a coordinated display to and giving over 10,000 vaccinations to healthdea demonstrate the country’s unified approach to and social care workers across Surrey. part tackling the covid-19 pandemic. The efforts of members of our team have beenHea recognised also nationally with numerous As we progress through the roadmap outlined awards, including the Queen’s New Year’sus by the Prime Minister over the coming and Birthday Honours Lists for their servicesfor months, please continue to follow the necesto the NHS, as well as in the ParliamentaryAlt sary restrictions in order to reduce transmis- h Awards. We were also held our very first sion of Covid-19 and to keep each other safe. ther To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991
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And FINALLY …. Life After Lockdown beckons!
At last, it seems the end of the tunnel is in sight. Little by little, we will be heading back to what will be normality again. Hurrah! Time to ensure we support all our traders and hospitality venues. They really need our support now. It's been really tough for so many of them - particularly the pubs, cafes and restaurants. We all need to give them a much-needed boost as soon as we are able to do so. I guess we all want to, for our own sanity too! The pubs, restaurants and cafes have all tried to keep afloat by offering their takeaway and home delivery services over the last months, but they will all welcome you back for a "meal out" as soon as bookings can be made, if not already now, in advance of the magic opening date for INDOORS trading which is Monday MAY 17th . The High Street cafes are looking forward to seeing you all for that morning coffee with friends and relatives, much missed for so many months now. We still need to be vigilant and careful in our approach, of course and stick to the government advice. But we can embrace that and still get back to having a good and happy time again. Remember, Pubs can serve you OUTSIDE from Monday April 12th! You know where your local is … Also - on APRIL 12th - Don't forget - those shops that had to close their doors since Christmas, such as Blue, Shepperton Sports, Felicitations, Shepperton Carpets and the charity shops will be once again OPEN FOR BUSINESS. They will be SO happy to see you again. At least on APRIL 12th you can get your Hair (and Nails) done again. Are so many of us not waiting for that day?! Ecstasy! The SUMMER is coming. Let's enjoy Shepperton and all it has to offer. Cheers Everyone !! Carl Phillips. Shepperton Residents' Association
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April Fool!
By Tom Hancock
The origins of April Fools’ Day are lost way back in time but like many traditions it probably has a number of historical roots. There was certainly a Roman festival called Hilaria which took place around the time of the spring equinox. There was also a Medieval ‘Feast of Fools’ although that took place at the beginning of the year. Throughout history there seems to be a tradition of transgressing boundaries during such celebrations: whether male and female, low class and high class, religious piety and impiety, people have enjoyed straddling society’s boundaries. The most popular theory about the ‘modern’ April Fools’ Day is that it began to take shape in late 16th century France. At that time, there was a switch to the Gregorian Calendar under Charles IX. Prior to this there had been a New Year’s week (March 25th-April1st), and under the Gregorian system, New Year’s Day fell on January 1st. As with any change (shhh no-one mention Brexit) there was some resistance, and many people stubbornly refused to accept the new
system, continuing to celebrate New Year on April 1st. These people were ridiculed and labelled ‘fools’ by the general populace and were often the butt of jokes and pranks. They were known as poisson d’avril, or April fish, possibly because a naïve young fish is easily caught. Over the years the custom of prank-playing spread to the general population and eventually to Britain, where schoolboy pranks are still the order of the day, so watch out!
Who’s reading Shepperton Matters?
Thanks to Alison Johnson for this photo of her dog Beano who looks very excited at receiving Shepperton Matters! Beano also bears a striking resemblance to the Mojo, the Village Matters dog you can see on p3!
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Pooch Perfect Comes to Shepperton
By Monica Chard
The doors have finally opened to the much anticipated Palmers Dog Grooming in the parade at the bottom of Green Lane and it’s time to get your 4 legged friends some serious pampering! Sisters Jess and Danielle are offering your pooch a luxurious spa experience where the focus is on canine well being. In the state of the art salon, your dog can be groomed, have their teeth cleaned with the latest ultrasonic equipment and shop for treats, toys and accessories. Products are all with natural ingredients and each groom is tailored to your dog. Jess and Danielle are both Shepperton girls through and through. They have always lived here and went to school at Thamesmead. Jess started her grooming business as a mobile offering in 2014 and it went from strength to strength. As it grew, the need for a bespoke premises became apparent and with sister Danielle, they have now achieved that dream. Jess is a fully qualified groomer, holding diplomas in grooming, animal management and canine first aid. She was also runner up in the English Groomers challenge. So your pooch is in good hands. Danielle has also gained her level 3 national diploma in dog grooming. Jess says “We’re very much into educating owners to help them understand their dogs coats and maintain them correctly”. It is fantastic to see new businesses open in Shepperton, particularly in this difficult period. Good luck girls.
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Local Capture
Thanks to this months contributors. Do email photos to monica@villagematters.co.uk And consider entering the Capture Spelthorne competition 2021 run by the council: www.spelthorne.gov.uk/capture It’s free to enter and closes August 31st.
Cloud scape at Ash Link. Peter Sainsbury Below Heron at Penton Island Jen Chisnall
The Thames at Cowey Sale - Norman Sammé
Snow crocodile by Lisa Hutchins
The Thames from Dockett Eddy Lane by Michael Wallace To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991
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Shepperton Lock - above by Kathleen Tyson and below left by Geoff Fleet.
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Help your doctor to help yo u Once you have booked an appointment with your doctor, whether by telephone or face to face, it can be helpful to prepare a brief summary of your medical history. Although the doctor will have this information, it saves time if you are able to answer any questions, to help diagnose your current problem.
symptoms, how long you have had them, and anything that seems to make them better or worse. Before ending your appointment – make sure you understand what has been recommended, what will happen next and do ask questions if you need more information.
SHEPPERTON MEDICAL PRACTICE
This information would also be useful should you ever need an emergency admission.
Patient Participation Group
The heading should include your full name, date of birth and NHS number Record: Dates of any adult illnesses, symptoms, investigations, diagnosis, treatments/ operations; Include vaccinations received with dates; List your current medications and any allergies; Keep all letters received following hospital referrals; Recent travels abroad; Any difficult life events such as bereavement, work problems, relationship issues. The first thing your doctor will probably ask is ‘How can I help you today?’ so make a note of your current Please mention Shepperton Matters when responding to adverts
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Happy 100th Birthday to Barbara! One of the residents of Lords Bridge Court, and long term Shepperton resident, celebrated her 100th birthday some months back.
there gave them a 60th wedding anniversary lunch which theyO both enjoyed. Philip died in an 2019 and Barbara carried on playing bridge he and driving around in her car which she only gave up a couple of years ago. She joined in with the coffee mornings, afternoon teas and bingo where she was the caller for many years and only gave up playing bridge when the pandemic closed the venues. She still takes part in the virtual suppers and the coffee and cake mornings delivered to residents doors on Thursdays or Fridays. She remains a cheerful and happy lady loved and respected by all at Lords Bridge Court. Belated happy birthday Barbara.
Barbara Joan Blake was born in Portsmouth on November 23rd 1920. Later the family moved to Wallington, then Sanderstead where she went to Croydon High School. She played good quality tennis, becoming club champion and playing at junior Wimbledon. When war broke out she joined the A.T.S. at Northampton then went on to Welwyn in Hertfordshire, where she became a sergeant. After the war she returned home to work at the Mercantile Bank India. She played tennis at Sanderstead and Purley tennis club where she met her husband Philip Ellis. They married in August 1950 and in 1951 they moved to Sweden then on to Belgium where her twins David and Michael were born. The family returned to England in 1967 and bought a house on Gaston Bridge Road, Shepperton. They continued playing tennis and bridge for many years and their children presented them with five much loved grandchildren and six great grandchildren. In 2009 they moved into Lords Bridge Court but sadly Philip had to move to Ashton Lodge Nursing Home due to ill health. The staff Please mention Shepperton Matters when responding to adverts
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Ba on m sh pl ch W N H A th Sh te El 19 Be we Th bo Sh an pr www.villagematters.co.uk ch In
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Recipe of the Month Spanish Baked Eggs
An Easter breakfast with a continental twist
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Preheat the oven to 200°C, gas mark 6. Use a frying pan with an ovenproof handle. Heat the Cooking time: 25 minutes olive oil, then add the onion and chopped Serves: 2 chorizo. Soften for 5 minutes. Add the peppers and cook for a further 2-3 minutes until they soften too. Stir in the crushed garlic and sweet Preparati Ingredients smoked paprika, cook for another 1 minute. Cooking Pour in the tomatoes and add the capers, lower t 2 tbsp olive oil the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, until the Serves: 2 1 onion, finely sliced tomatoes reduce and thicken a little. 120g Chorizo, sliced Make two or four wells in the thick sauce and 1 yellow pepper, finely sliced gently crack an egg into each. Ingredien 1 orange or red pepper, finely sliced Place the pan into the preheated oven for 10 2 cloves garlic, crushed 2 tbsp minutes, or until the whitesoliv are set but the yolks are still runny. ½ tsp sweet smoked paprika 1 onion, fi 400g can chopped tomatoes Towards the end of the cooking time, toast the 120g Chor bread. 1 tbsp capers (optional)
1 w 2 large eggs (4 if you’re really hungry!)yello Removes the eggs from the oven, scatter with p the parsley and serve with the toasted bread, o 1 2 tbsp fresh chopped flat-leaf parsley orange drizzled with a little olive oil. 2 thick slices of bread 2 cloves g Please mention Shepperton ½ Matters when responding to adverts
tsp swee www.villagematters.co.uk 34 400g can c
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Practical Cooking Website for Families Local mum Sinead Ferguson and her husband, Mark (pictured) are both qualified chefs. Sinead was keen on all things food related from the age of 15 and won a county cookery competition, going on to study professionally. Mark has worked as a senior chef in a number of places over the years. But Mark was furloughed during the first lockdown and like many the family ended up working from home and home schooling their son. With so many of us combining working from home with home schooling it’s difficult to find the Spiced Carrot and Lentil Soup with Coriander and time to properly plan healthy, family Garlic Flatbreads friendly meals whilst ensuring nobody is spending unnecessary amounts of time in the www.thymetocook.co.uk. Here you will find kitchen. Like many of us, the couple saw the initial practical tips, money saving ideas and innopanic buying in supermarkets so set out to vative recipes for the whole family. Whether create a range of recipes using up all the odds it is overnight oats, Soda bread or smoothies, and ends in our cupboard and freezer. At the to easy to make tray bakes, casseroles and same time, Mark’s mum had an extended stay pies to easy and tasty soup (see photo above) in hospital and so the family helped to man- to sticky toffee pudding or brownies. There is age her allotment plots. From this experi- something for everyone, most of the recipes ence, the couple’s motto soon became ‘Grow using ingredients you will have already in the cupboard or freezer. It, Cook It, Eat It’. Sinead and Mark wanted to share their exper- Get inspiration on recycling and store cuptise with other families, providing hints and board essentials and make life easier for yourtips on how you can get ahead with meal self. planning by loving your freezer and batch They also have an Instagram page thymetocooking. So they launched a website; cook2021 and there is a Facebook page under the name Sinead Ferguson. The couple invites you to share any tips or recipes with them too, so this is very much a community affair.
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Cruse Bereavement Care Surrey North Branch We are based in Chertsey but cover the Boroughs of Spelthorne, Runnymede, Elmbridge and Woking. Cruse is a national charity that provides advice, information and support to adults, children and young people who have been bereaved, whenever or however the death occurred. The service is provided by fully trained, experienced volunteers and is confidential and free. During pandemic restrictions we offer support to adults by telephone or zoom sessions and also Group support by zoom with a maximum of 6 people attending plus two group facilitators. We offer support to Children and Young People by telephone or zoom, as discussed and agreed with the parent or carer. If you need support or would like information please call our local support line and leave your name and contact details, speaking clearly or email us, details below. You will receive a call back within 24 hours but please note our volunteer numbers will show as withheld. For more information you could also visit www.cruse.org.uk/publications
Local support line 01932 571177 Or email a few details and a phone number to surreynorth@cruse.org.uk
BISHOP DUPPAS BOWLS CLUB Walton Bridge Road, Shepperton TW17 8NR
BOWLS TASTER SESSIONS Sat 15th and Sun 16th May from 10.00am-12 Or Tues 18th May 4.00pm-6.00pm Any enquiries: Andy 07557 477558 or Fran 07939 036341 Every day from June until Sept, also tours abroad. Club nights Tuesday 6.00pm. Bowls and social activities. All ages welcome, just bring a pair of flat soled shoes and we will provide the bowls and coaching if required. To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991
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Community Community event event grants grants
There much loved loved Thereisissome somegood goodnews newsfor forlocal local community community fund fund groups groups who who have have had had to to cancel cancel much and total of of andanticipated anticipatedevents eventsdue dueto tothe the pandemic. pandemic. Spelthorne Spelthorne Borough Borough Council Council has has awarded awarded aa total £20,000 to support a number of community events. Grants of £2,000 have been given to the £20,000 to support a number of community events. Grants of £2,000 have been given to the organising the ShepSheporganisingcommittees committeesresponsible responsible for, for, amongst amongst others, others, the the Shepperton Shepperton Village Village Fair, Fair, the perton cancellapertonBig BigTree TreeNight Nightand andthe the Laleham Laleham Village Village Fair. Fair. Some Some events events may may have have incurred incurred cancellation are still still tioncosts. costs.Most Mosthave havelost lostthe the opportunity opportunity to to raise raise funds. funds. And And there there are are others others which which are going Covidgoingahead aheadbut butwill willinevitably inevitablyneed need to to spend spend additional additional money money to to make make their their event event Covidsecure. secure. Dik year ShepShepDikGregory, Gregory,chair chairof ofthe theShepperton Shepperton Fair Fair was was thrilled thrilled with with the the support support “In “In aa normal normal year perton hit pertonVillage VillageFair’s Fair’srunning runningexpenses expenses are are no no problem, problem, but but the the Fair Fair took took aa bit bit of of aa financial financial hit inin2020 another 2020when whenititwas wascancelled, cancelled,and and just just when when we we were were wondering wondering how how to to get get through through another year that yearofofnil nilrevenues, revenues,the theCouncil Council came came through through with with aa crucial crucial grant. grant. We’ve We’ve just just heard heard that Spelthorne which to to Spelthornehas hasagain againbeen beenjudged judged by by the the county's county's residents residents as as the the happiest happiest borough borough in in which live. Community events like the Fair are both a cause and effect of the positive outlook we have live. Community events like the Fair are both a cause and effect of the positive outlook we have ininour its heart heart to to ourcommunity. community.It’s It’swonderful wonderful to to see see Spelthorne Spelthorne Borough Borough Council Council put put its its hand hand on on its help helpininthis thisway.” way.”Dik DikGregory Gregory InInaddition. addition.The Thefollowing followingall all received received grants: grants: Ashford Ashford Christmas Christmas market, market, Lower Lower Sunbury Sunbury Christmas StanChristmasmarket. market.Staines-upon-Thames Staines-upon-Thames Day, Day, Staines Staines Regatta, Regatta, Stanwell Stanwell Lantern Lantern Parade, Parade, Stanwell wellVillage VillageFair Fairand andthe theSunbury Sunbury Regatta. Regatta. Thousands to Thousandsof ofresidents residentsenjoy enjoyattending attending these these events events each each year year itit has has been been very very disappointing disappointing to both of their their boththose thoseattending attendingand andthe thestall stall holders, holders, many many of of which which rely rely on on the the events events for for the the bulk bulk of annual annualfund fundraising. raising.ItItwill willbe be good good to to get get back back to to normal. normal.
Thinking of Selling your Stamp Collection? Cut to Cut out out the the commissions commissions and and sell sell direct direct to the dealer! Home visit valuations. Immediate the dealer! Home visit valuations. Immediate payment, payment, however however large large or or small. small. Call Call 01932 01932 785635 785635 www.jcstamps.co.uk www.jcstamps.co.uk Please Pleasemention mentionShepperton SheppertonMatters Matterswhen when responding respondingto toadverts adverts
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Council Tax Freeze….or not? Earlier this year we published the joyous news, announced by Leader Cllr. Boughtflower, that Spelthorne was freezing any council tax increase. When bills popped through the door recently, you have looked at it and thought that our piece of happy news was erroneous. In fact, Spelthorne Borough Council did not increase charges, although Surrey County Council and Surrey Police did! I am as disappointed as you are, but as the saying goes “every little helps”.
Building Surveys, Home Buyers Reports and Valuations for all non lending purposes 40 years local experience Nickcobbmrics@gmail.com
07876208359
www.nickcobbsurveyor.co.uk Advertising in Future issues of Sunbury Shepperton Walton Molesey?
Print and Digital
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Super Surplus Suppers By Monica Chard
By now, many of you By will know about the no w, fabulous surplus food stall, which is run out of fabulo us s Sunbury Cricket Club at weekends (12-2). Sunbury Maybe you have come away from a visit there Maybe yo with a big bag of bread and pastries or a bag of with a big veg, or if you are lucky, or some cheese. There is a great variety available and of course it veg, or if y changes every week, depending on donations is a great by the supermarkets. changes e But some of you may be reluctant to visit, by the sup maybe feeling ‘guilty’, that you don’t need to so me avail yourselves of surplusBut food and that surely there are many more needy out there. Well, maybe fee then frozen and delivered lets put the story straightavail so you get to know produce. Meals are your the scale of the Surplus to Supper operation, to front line charities to distribute to their there are and you realise that there is plenty for every- clients. Around 2000 meals are currently prelets put th pared every week to satisfy local demand. In one, including you! the scale the team prepared and distributed A team of volunteers collects surplus food December meals during the month. Eachr from supermarkets everyand day. In an average over 12,000 yo u labelled and allergens are month, they will collect one, 40 tons of food! The meal is individually includ food is brought by refrigerated van to the noted. A team o central hub at Sunbury Cricket Club where Surplus to Supper currently delivers to frontfro there is storage and refrigerators to house the m line charities in 4 supe boroughs; Spelthorne,. nth, stock before processing itmoHounslow, Richmond and the RunnyThe aim of Surplus to Supper is to bridge the mede. Recipients range food is from children in fami-b gap between food wastecentral and food poverty. lies identified by schools, to vulnerablehu people/ Surplus to Supper is not a foodbank. We families using food banks, to old/isolated there is st support front line charities. adults who are clientsbefo of Age Concern. stock The volume of food which is disposed of by In addition, during the pandemic the team has The aim supermarkets, simply because of incorrect also put together care packages to support key o labelling, over supply or gap because it is nearing workers. This betwe includes NHS staff, schools, sell by date, is scandalous.Surplus So one of the objec- vets, dentists, registrars of birth, deaths andt tives of Surplus to Supper is to take that food marriages and funeral directors.to namefr a few support and put it to use, rather than allowing it to go So you can see that the surplus food goes a The volu to waste. What you see in the surplus shop is long way! Can you help? If you have a fewk super mar only a tiny part of the operation. hours a week to spare, Surplus to Supper Putting that food to good use, getting it to labelling, would love to hear from you. They need those who need it, is thesell principle activity of b y dat drivers and driver buddies. To drive, you will the charity. They want to tives support the front line o f licenceSu need to have a clean driving and charities help people who are in need by and put it be over 30. To be a buddy you need to be hapreason of their age, ill-health, disability, finanpy to load/unload crates and boxes. toThat iswaste. cial hardship or social circumstances. info@surplustosupper.org. where the team of kitchenonly volunteers comes in. Please contact a tiny Managed by Tina, the team devises menus and . Putting th prepares nutritious meals using the surplus those who
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Purple Angel Support During Pandemic
We all know Covid changed our lives. Purple Angels had to stop all their many activities supporting those living with Dementia and their families. Like any other organisations they had to adapt and find alternative ways to support members. This is a flavour of what they have been up to: Weekly mini concerts – A weekly email contains a link to videos of performers singing or dancing, or both! They have really helped lift the spirits. Weekly phone calls - Volunteers call every week to see how those living with Dementia and their families, are doing. They have a chat and offer help if they need it: food shopping or a trip to the pharmacy, etc. It has been so much appreciated by members. From time to time, to show everyone that we are still thinking of them, Purple Angels have send out little treats; afternoon teas, roast boxes, vintage vanity bags with toiletries, flowers, chocolates, birthday cakes, etc. They have created “Beat the boredom” bags with puzzles and colouring books, games, etc to keep people occupied and also to avoid boredom and depression. They even sourced pets (dogs and cats) that look real, breathe, purr, snore, etc but are battery operated. They are incredible for pet therapy and have a calming effect on people living with Dementia. All the members who received one loved them. They are really cute! And they purchased photo albums that make a comment when you press an icon on a page. They are great for remembrance, i.e. “this is me with my mother, father”, etc. Some members have lost loved ones during the crisis so will be sent a remembrance rose plant that they can have in their gardens to remember their loved ones. Purple Angels can’t wait for social contact to be back to normal so they can resume activities but for now they are supporting members the best way they can to help them stay safe.
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Home from Home
Yes, another charity shop in the high street, but this one is different. Home from Home Reuse Service is a registered charity (Registration No. 1179824) which aims to reduce waste by reusing unwanted goods. They have taken the unit which was Top Tune and you may have noticed an ever increasing range of furniture on show. HfH has the vision that nothing goes to waste. In this day and age that is a welcome one. Many of us don’t have the money for new any longer. Many of us want to do our bit to keep perfectly serviceable goods out of landfill. And that is what the charity aims to do. They want to help the environment; at the same time as supporting local people by creating jobs, volunteer opportunities and access to affordable goods. All proceeds go towards collection unwanted goods and helping those in need in the community. In 2019, our last year of full operation before covid, HfH collected over 40 tonnes of unwanted goods from the waste stream and from their shop in Frimley passed these on, at low cost, to be reused by local people. Now, once Covid restrictions are lifted, HfH are excited to be opening their brand new shop on Shepperton High Street. The new site will enable them to increase the volume of unwanted furniture and other goods that they can collect for reuse across the borough of Spelthorne. Kim Crowter, HfH Manager, said ‘Do have a look through the window of the new Shepperton shop and if you spy something you like the look of do get in touch. More importantly we can arrange a collect of any items you no longer need during lockdown so please do get in touch and we will see how we can help. We’re also looking for volunteers for the new shop so do get in touch if you want to help.’ T. 07742 290 998 E. bookings@hfhsurrey.co.uk Facebook: @HomefromHomeSurrey www.hfhsurrey.co.uk
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Keeping our Community Safe By Tracy Moore, Neighbourhood Watch and Bill Cunningham, Scamwatch
Shepperton Neighbourhood Watch update
By Tracy Moore I thought I would start this month with explaining what Neighbourhood Watch (NhW) is. Local Neighbourhood Watch schemes work in a variety of ways that reflect the needs of the local community, examples being sharing crime prevention advice and information; running awareness campaigns; leading community projects, such as litter picks or flood defence response. Neighbourhood watch is a voluntary group of residents with a local Coordinator with the goal of making their community better and safer place to live. This is via two platforms. Street watches - residents from your street joining together with one coordinator being on hand to advise and provide updates to the other street residents. Please email sheppertonnhw@gmail.com for details of your local street watch or if this is something you feel like you can assist with, please also get in touch. The Cover watch, which is an on-line Facebook group platform for the village and anyone can join, ran by the village coordinator. Thank you to all that have joined so far and for those of you that want to join, please search for ‘shepperton nhw’ within Facebook ‘groups’. Main aims of the Shepperton street and cover watch (es); Reduce / prevent local crime and disorder Reduce fear of crime Address issues relating to anti social behaviour Create safer neighbourhoods Assist in the detection and apprehension of criminals through members providing information to the police Improve quality of life and the local environment
Shepper
By Tracy M I thought I (NhW) is. Local Neig of the local mation; run picks or flo Neighbourh their comm Street wat pro Onand social media it’s best we understand clearly Pass the Password! that a lot of people can find out a lot about us. That By Bill Cunningham is of a LOT. Same with allyour other social media. Just Our most important accounts are our email, social type our name and see where it leads to. With our media and especially our online banking accounts, touch. name and town of residence it’s easy peasy to build or any account with bank details attached to. up a picture. Scary really. And for sure we don’t want anyone ... The Cover Anyway - back to passwords - We should NEVER Accessing our bank account ever use: Purchasing items online with our money by the v Current partner’s name Impersonating us on social networking and Child’s name join, ple dating sites Other family members’ name Sending emails in our name Pet’s name aims Main Accessing the private information held on our Place of birth computer Reduce Favourite holiday So it’s important we have strong and separate Our favourite sports team passwords for each account. Reduce Especially NOT PASSWORD, 1066, With access to our email, hackers can take control abc123, QUERTY. of all our online accounts. Simply by asking for the Let’sAddres pick something memorable to just us and password to be reset, to use then that information. then sprinkle with a number and also maybe ::: , Our email contents can easily be pieced together to Create say. create a profile of our identity. Met Assist our nearest and dearest at Brighton way back ? We should never use any word which is related to i If so could use 83briGhtoN££ for it’s maybe meanourselves and which may be easy to guess - for ingful! inform Or B83::mAny££s example by looking at our social media pages and finding our dog’s name say!! Improv To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991
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Shepperton Shepperton Beat Beat By Inspector Maxine Cilia By Inspector Maxine Cilia
Slowly things are Slowly things are changing and we will changing be comingand outwe ofwill the be coming of the Lock Downout period in Lock Downofperiod in a number stages. a number of astages. This has been diffiThis time has been difficult for aeverycult timewe forapprecieveryone and one all andthat we our appreciate local ate all that our local communities have communities done to protect have each done to other andprotect look each after other look after their and neighbours. It theirbeen neighbours. It has really lovehas to been Inspector Cilia ly seereally howlovethe Inspector Cilia ly to see how have the communities communities pulled together to support each other and to have also pulled support each other and to also see the together growth oftoNeighbourhood Watch. see theofgrowth of Neighbourhood Many you will still continue to Watch. work from home Many of you still to work home but others maywill start to continue slowly return backfrom to offices but may start to slowly return back to offices and others work environments. andwe work environments. As come out of Lockdown measures we know As we of Lockdown we know we willcome see anout increase in crimemeasures activity. Take this we see an increase in crime activity. Takevisitthis timewill to review you home security. Consider time Surrey to review you Website home security. Consider visiting Police www.surrey.police.uk ing Surrey Website www.surrey.police.uk where there Police is a section on crime prevention. We where is a section on crime prevention. We ask all there our residents to consider really basic securiasksuch all our ty as; residents to consider really basic security suchalley as; gates- renew padlocks and remove *Side renew padlocks and over. remove *Side alley anything that gatescan assist someone climbing anything that outbuildingscan assist someone climbing over.need * Sheds and look to see if they *new Sheds and outbuildingslookbasic to see if they need padlocks or locks or even shed alarms new padlocks or locks or even basic shed *Bikes – if they are stored in garages or alarms sheds are *Bikes – iflocked they are in garages sheds are they also andstored secured so theyorcannot be they also locked they cannotwith be removed easily? and Getsecured them so registered removed easily? Get them registered with www.bikeregister.com www.bikeregister.com * Consider registering you property on immobilise registering you property on immobilise * Consider Take pictures of items that are expensive or rare **Consider Take pictures of your itemslocal that are expensive or watch rare joining Neighbourhood *Consider joining your local Neighbourhood watch to get the latest updates and information. to getarethealso latest updates andainformation. We experiencing high number of CataWe also experiencing high number Catalyticare converter crimes. Thisa crime is oftenofa crime lytic you converter crimes. This crimethat is often a crime that may not even be aware is happening. that you mayisnot even be aware that happening. The offence usually conducted byistwo persons The offence usually Usually conducted two persons and can takeisminutes. thebyoffenders will and can take minutes. the offenders approach a vehicle withUsually a hydraulic jack andwill lift approach a You vehicle hydraulic jack and lifta the vehicle. maywith thinka they are just changing the vehicle. Youit may thinksuspicious they are just changingis.a tyre. However if looks it probably tyre. However if looks suspicious it probably is. Please do not itapproach the offenders, consider Please do notand approach the offenders, consider taking details calling police to relay as much taking detailsasand calling to can relay as much information possible sopolice that we respond as information as possible so that we can respond as To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991 To advertise call Monica on 07979 808991
soon as possible. We know that the top vehicles to soon as possible. the top Prius, vehicles to be targeted in this We localknow area that are Toyota Honbe in this local area Prius, da targeted Jazz an Toyota Auris. If are youToyota have one of Honthese da Jazzofanvehicles Toyota you Auris. If wish you have one of some these makes may to consider makes of vehicles youstop maythe wish to consider some defensive parking to vehicle being easily defensive stopor the easily jacked i.e. parking next to atowall highvehicle kerb, orbeing put locked jackedtoi.e. nextdrive, to a wall or high kerb, or put gates your We also need to find outlocked more gates your drive, We catalytic also needconverters to find outgo. more about towhere all these If aboutknow, where these catalytic converters go. If you youallcan contact us direct on the website you ifknow, can contact direct on the website or you you would rather us stay anonymous call or if you would rather stay anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Crimestoppers 555 111. As the weatheron is 0800 changing more people are about As thelocal weather is and changing more people are in the parks gardens. Although thereabout is a in theoflocal parks tolerance and gardens. Although there iswea level expected to noise and playing level well of expected and Anti-social playing we are awaretolerance of theto noise damage are well has aware of the Anti-social damage Anti-social behaviour on people. behaviours behaviour people. behaviours are actions has that on harm and is Anti-social a lack of consideration are actions that harm and a lack ofItconsideration for the well-being of is others. has been for theas well-being of others.thatItis considered has been defined any type of behaviour defined as any type of behaviour that is considered to be disruptive to others in society. to be disruptive others in society. There are many to ways Police and partners can tackThere are manyBehaviour ways Police partners tackle Anti-Social andand most of thecan powers le Anti-Social andBehaviour most of the powers come from theBehaviour Anti-Social Crime and Behaviour come from Anti-Social Policing Actthe 2014. In the next edition Crime one of and the Policing ActBehaviour 2014. In the next edition one ofwill the Anti-Social Officers Bev Gosden Anti-Social Bev Gosden will be writing anBehaviour article allOfficers about Anti-Social behavbe writing an articleInall Anti-Social behaviour and Remedies. theabout meantime please continiourtoand Remedies. In on the 101 meantime continue reporting to us and onplease line via the ue to reporting to us on 101 and on line via the website www.Surrey.Police.uk website www.Surrey.Police.uk or Facebook DM’s on Spelthorne Beat Pages. or Facebook DM’s Beat Pages. Lastly we have seenonaSpelthorne massive increase in neighLastly we disputes. have seenWe a massive increase in bourhood are all spending so neighmuch bourhood Wehomes are alland spending so much more time disputes. in our own sometimes these more timecan in our own big homes and sometimes thesea disputes become problems. If you are disputesof can become big association problems. Ifplease you make are a tenant a local Housing tenant of report a localtoHousing association pleaseasmake sure you your Housing association well sure youpolice. report The to your Housing association as well as the local Council may be able to as thewith police. The relating local Council mayrubbish be ableand to help matters to noise, help withdisputes. matters relating to noise, rubbish and planning planning disputes. Consider whether Mediation could help. MediaMediation couldlocally help. MediaConsider tion Surreywhether services provided https:// tion Surrey services provided locally https:// mediationsurrey.org/community-mediation where mediationsurrey.org/community-mediation you can complete a referral on line. They canwhere help you can complete referral They can help with Noise, ASB, aabuse andon or line. threatening behavwith abuse or threatening iour, Noise, rubbish,ASB, parking andand so much more. behaviour, rubbish, parking and so much more. Take care and stay safe Take careCilia and stay safe Maxine Maxine Cilia Spelthorne Borough Commander Spelthorne Borough Commander
Inspector Cilia
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The Joy of Sweet Peas by Laurie Burrell
One of the great pleasures mice cannot reach you in early summer is the not have any probOne of theshouldgreat arrival of the Sweet Pea lems. If you do not have in early summe flowers and their beautiful a greenhouse a window sent which arrival gives great ledge in the kitchen orS of the pleasure to everyone who conservatory that faces flowers and their you share your bountiful the morning sun is suitabunches with. They origible. When your plants sent which giv nally came from Sicily in reach about 5 cm tall or the late seventeenth centuare strong enough to hanpleasure to every ry and have since redle transplant them into you share singleyour mained a popular flower pots of growing plant to growbunches by gardeners compost that you can with. Th in the United Kingdom. store in trays or toilet roll nally came from We are fortunate living in tubes filled with compost Southern England that we are also an alternative you the late seventeen can enjoy sweet pea flowcan use. Handle the and have s ers towards ry the end of May whereas our young plants very carefully and try not to friends who grow them further North and in disturb their roots too much, I use a pencil as mained a popula Scotland must wait up to three or four weeks a dibber and try to lower the root down the later to cut their flowers. hole carefully and just lightly firm them in. plant to grow by Sweet pea seeds which are easily available in We now come to the knotty question of pickincentres are the K your local gardening of a good ing the United tops of the plants out when they have quality and the choices they stock are mainly grown four leaves, one expert recommends We are fortunate popular varieties and colours their customers this, and another well-known sweet pea exSouthern England tend to purchase. One word of caution in pert does not. The reason for picking out is to growing yourcan own plants from seeds is that encourage side shoots to form, and the other enjoy sweet you might lose ten percent of the seeds sown view is that they will form naturally if left ers towards the in the seed tray or soil. An alternative and alone. The theory being when side shoots guaranteed way to start is to buy the seeds form and you are ready to plant them out you friends who grow already raised as a collection of plants in a allow the strongest shoots to grow initially on pot from any Scotland good local garden centre. the plant, andmust once they have gained strength wa Seeds are best grown in Root Trainers which and are growing well you can then remove to their are filled withlater a quantity of good quality seed the cut weakest shoot allowing the other to devel- f compost andSweet planted following the sowing pea op on its own. seeds guidance detailed by the supplier on their A good way for the the plants to gain height local packets. Theyyour do not require any heat to propis to allow them climb upgarde a wigwam of bamagate the seeds which should start to show boo canes and trying them in loosely with quality and the ch shoots in about three weeks, do not over wa- plastic coated wire ties or garden string. As popular varieties ter the soil just moisten it with a fine water the plants get to about four feet, they will spray after planting the seeds. If the compost start to develop flower shoots, and soon you tend to purchase is to wet, it can cause the seeds to rot before will have beautiful flowers for the house. The germinating. growing Mice and birds will appreciate more you cutyour the flowers the longer the sweet ow the seeds if you leave the seed trays on the pea plants will last. lose te ground or in you the open uncovered. Anmight unheated green house with a level raised surface that in the seed tray
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Live with less If you can’t lay your hands-on items quickly because they’re buried under piles of junk; if you’re constantly ‘stuff-shifting’ moving things from one pile to a new ‘temporary’ pile; if you find yourself thinking, “I can’t throw this away, it might come in useful one day,” you’re probably a clutter victim.
Deal with one room at a time The task will seem less daunting. Stick with that room until it’s finished. Choose a nice day Take the room contents outside. Psychologically it’s easier to sort and let go if you’re one step removed. It’s also less likely that the clutter will make it back inside.
One of the side-effects of the events of 2020 was that many of us had more time and less money. We embraced a simpler, slower, less covetous lifestyle and many of us feel we’d like to keep something of that as we move towards a post-pandemic world. There was a collective realisation that possessions are less important than the people we missed.
Sort everything into three piles Label them dump, donate, and keep. Be realistic: if the item in question hasn’t been used for over a year it is unlikely you will ever use it.
A decade ago, Californian blogger Dave Bruno set himself the year-long experimental task of reducing his belongings to just 100 items. When his experiment concluded he found he wanted to keep living by his new rules, preferring simplicity to consumerism. His book is worth seeking out.
Deal with the dump and donate piles Do this before anything comes back into the house. It’s much harder to mess up your good work if the stuff is physically gone. Sort and label Place the remaining items in clearly labelled boxes. Make sure there is one temporary box to house items which really belong in another room. As each room is sorted those items can be replaced, and other misplaced items can be housed there while the de-cluttering process continues.
Since then, whole movement has developed around the aim of a simpler, more minimalistic lifestyle. There are some great blogs and podcasts available: The Practical Minimalists, and The Minimalists are two worth listening to. Listen to them for inspiration while you declutter. I’m not recommending a sparse monastic lifestyle, but most of us put far too much time, effort, and money into acquiring, keeping, and storing possessions. Sometimes it’s good to let go.
Replace everything that remains The maxim ‘A place for everything and everything in its place’ is a good one. House small items in clear plastic boxes and store them in cupboards or wardrobes. Now you’re done instigate a one thing in: one thing out rule. It will make you think twice about acquiring something if you know something else has to go.
If you’re ready to de-clutter, then we have a few simple tips. If you feel you need help, there are experts in de-cluttering who will guide you through the process of letting go.
Finally, once a week, take two bags and go through your home. One bag is for rubbish, the other for items in the wrong place. When you’ve finished throw the rubbish away and replace the misplaced items.
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Gardening Matters Hoe Hoe Hoe! Following on from last month’s list of essential garden tools for beginners I thought I’d explain about the humble hoe. When I first started gardening, I didn’t really understand how to use one. There are a couple of varieties of hoe and they are used in different ways, and they really are your friend at this time of year. The hoe is actually one of the most ancient garden tools and came before the plough. It’s mentioned in Egyptian art, the Code of Hammurabi and in the Bible.
Foll last esse for b thou abou Whe gard real to u coup hoe in d they frien www.villagematters.co.uk year
The reason spring is a great time to put your hoe to good use is because right now is when the annual weeds (the ones that self-seed freely and pop up all over the place every year) have started to germinate.
The aim when hoeing, aim to sever the top growth from the roots, just below the soil surface, then leave it in the sun to dry out and die. Hoeing is best done when the soil is dry as this creates a ‘dust mulch’ which inhibits the germination of new weeds.
I prefer a hoe with a long handle because it’s better for preventing back pain. I also have a short-handled hoe known as an ‘onion hoe’ for closely planted areas. A shorted handle gives more control, so you don’t damage your prized plants. It’s important to note that hoeing only kills the annual weeds, not the deep-rooted perennial weeds, those need to be dug up by hand.
There is also a tool called a Dutch hoe. This is Please mention Shepperton Matters when responding to adverts
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used by sweeping it smoothly over the soil so that the surface is just ‘brushed’. If used correctly it slices the tops from the weeds. It’s actually simple to use but you do need to practice your technique. Slice the tops of weeds by bringing the hoe towards you, altering the angle to accommodate slopes. When you turn over a Dutch hoe you can use it to make a shallow trench called a seed drill to sow larger seeds, like peas into. Larger seeds are better because they need to be covered well.
Your hoes need to be kept sharp and well maintained for maximum effectiveness. I use a metal file to both clean and sharpen, but you can buy sharpening stones reasonably cheaply and they are easy to use. Happy gardening
Rachael Leverton
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Index of Advertisers Adult Learning 50 Alteration/Tailoring Shepperton Tailoring 31 Beauty/Aesthetics Facial Body Sculpt 45 Building Work Titan Group 49 Café The Ferry Café 8 Car Services ChipsAway 60 Retro & Vintage 61 Care Services Parklands Manor 31 The Burlington 10 Carpenter George Scott Woods 60 D Williams 52 Chartered Surveyor Nick Cobb 42 Chiropodist Rod Littlewood 23 Computer Repair My PC Helper 40 Curtains & Blinds Decorama 17 Decorator Chris White 38 SJ Harris 57 SDS 17
Dog Grooming Kitchens/Bedrooms Weight Loss Parlmers 25 Ashford Kitchens 5 The 1-1 Diet 15 Adul Electrician Mobility Services Will Writing Paige Electrics Alter 61 Shep. Mobility 23 Harvest Wills 57 Equity Release Office Space Windows Harvest Financial Shep 24 Tennay Property 16 House of Surrey 63 Estate Agents/Property Osteopath B eau Curchods 32/33 Align Osteopathy 17 Facia Churchill 9 Pharmacy/Walk in 23 EweMove 64 Trio Pharmacy uild Plumber Floor RestorationB 60 Pro Floor Restore Titan 44 Pete Game Roofing Flowers/Fruit/Veg Café 61 Quality Fruit 22 Aldridge Roofing Funeral Services The 5 Star Roofing 48 F Alan Greenwood 36 Tilly Roofing Serv. 41 Car S Garage Doors Schools/Education Garolla 52 Halliford School 2 Chips Gardening Sell for Cash Lawnmaster 59 JC Stamps 40 Retro Capability Clarke 59 Trident Coins 40 Care All Seasons 52 Shutters 17 Go On Gardening P 57 Decoramaarkl Rosewood 60 Solicitor B Surrey Arborist The 59 Owen White & Catlin 28 Taxi Service Gifts/Jewellery Carp 57 Blue Jade 29 VA Cars Geor Upholstery Gutters 44 Starr Guttering 57 John Miller D Wi Gutter PRO 35 Volunteering The Brigitte Trust 12 Char
Nick May issue Chir Advertising Rates Your Local Mags Deadline Rod L (Ex VAT) April 16th Com Sunbury Matters 1/8th page £35 My P Shepperton Matters monica@villagematters.co.uk Quarter page £65 Molesey Matters Curt Half page £125 Or call Walton Matters Full Page £225 Deco 07979 808991 Call 07979 808991 Deco monica@villagematters.co.uk Or now book online Discount on block bookings www.villagematters.co.uk Chris SJ Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure accuracy of the information included in Ha this publication, neither the publisher nor the editorial contributors can accept any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or SDS 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.
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