🎄 From Big Tree Night to Christmas at the Courtyard 🥳
Podcast. Newsletter. Socials.
Welcome to the first edition of The Sheppertonian newsletter, the companion to the podcast, which you can find here.
I’ve been blown away by the lovely response to my plans for The Sheppertonian podcast and newsletter. I’ve had positive and productive conversations with so many Shepperton-based businesses and groups and made to feel welcome everywhere. It’s really underlined my view that Shepperton is a wonderful place.
If you’re part of a Shepperton-based community group or business, do feel free to reach out and say hi. There are a number of free and paid ways to get featured, and if you just want to give a free Sheppertonian Shoutout to an individual, a group or business, head to the website and hit that red button to leave a voice note. I’ll include as many as I can in the next episode.
Have a wonderful December and a restful festive time, and see you around.
Gareth
Featured Community: Big Tree Night
Shepperton Big Tree Night is now in its 12th year and well over 5,000 people attend it. The evening is a celebration of Shepperton, which brings in visitors from far and wide and the organisers invite you to be a part of this fantastic evening.
Attendees can explore diverse market stalls offering delicious foods such as German sausages and crêpes, along with unique crafts. Fairground rides and steam engines further enhance the festive atmosphere, while Santa and his real live reindeer make a magical appearance.
Beyond festivities, Big Tree Night boosts local businesses and supports charities. Partnering with Manor Mead School, the event raises funds for local causes, fostering a sense of community spirit.
Jane and Chantal from the Big Tree Night committee emphasise the importance of volunteers for the event's success in this month’s podcast episode, extending an invitation to join the planning committee or offer help on the day. With planning starting in January and ramping up in August, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in various roles. If you’re interested in helping out, you can visit the event's website to reach out via email. Even an hour of help can make a significant impact. With everyone’s involvement, Big Tree Night not only brings the festive cheer but also strengthens community bonds, making it a true celebration of tradition and giving.
The Sheppertonian podcast and email newsletter is produced by The Sound Boutique, an award-winning audio production company right here in Shepperton. If you’d like help with anything from bespoke music, problem audio, or if you’d like your organisation to produce a podcast, you can contact The Sound Boutique at the email hello@thesoundboutique.com to start a conversation.
Featured Business: Ferry Point
Nestled by the tranquil Shepperton Lock, the Ferry Coffee Shop is a cosy haven cherished by locals and visitors alike. In this month’s podcast episode, coffee shop owner Aidan Hope describes how its transformation has turned the space from primarily selling nautical gifts to accommodating over 90 customers, while still keeping a touch of its historical charm with memorabilia from family and generous donations from friends. The coffee shop offers a delightful blend of community spirit and historical warmth that's hard to find anywhere else.
Beyond its delicious offerings, the Ferry Coffee Shop opens a gateway to a charming courtyard bustling with small businesses. The courtyard, once a rundown container storage area, has been revitalised into a community space: offering everything from modern vintage homewares to ‘Beauty Alley’ for some private pampering. The spirit of community extends further, with sustainable initiatives led by site manager James, and events like the festive Christmas at the Courtyard. As Aidan points out, it’s these elements that make the Ferry Coffee Shop and its surroundings a unique and must-visit spot in Shepperton, not just for its cosy atmosphere but for its vibrant community spirit.
What’s On (sponsored by Shepperton Matters)
Christmas at the Courtyard
Saturday 7th December, 10am-4pm
Ferry Point, Ferry Lane, Shepperton, TWI7 9LQ
Charity Shopping Evening
Tuesday 17th December (evening)
Ferry Point, Ferry Lane, Shepperton, TWI7 9LQ
Big Tree Night
Wednesday 11th December, 5-8:30pm
High Street, Shepperton
Road closure from 2pm.
Christmas Wreath Making evening
Tuesday 7th December, 7pm
Shepperton Pre-School
Charlton Village Christmas Fair
Santa’s Grotto FREE for children.
Ashford Scout Hut, Ashford Road, TW15 1PA
Santa arrives at midday!
Staines Brass & Staines Lammas Band
Various dates over December
All over the place!
Sunbury Christmas Market
Thursday 5th December, 5-8pm
Santa’s Grotto, stalls, gifts and festive music.
The Avenue, Lower Sunbury.
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That's all for this edition of The Sheppertonian. A small request, if you’ve enjoyed this edition, spread the joy and let someone know about it. Thanks for reading!
The Sheppertonian