🏞️ The Sunbury & Shepperton History Society and Upper Halliford Medical Centre PPG 🩺

Water is the lifeblood of Shepperton, and it has shaped its history and community in ways that are both fascinating and vital. In our latest chat, we dive deep into the waterways that define our village - from the mighty Thames, which has served as a crucial trade route since Saxon times, to the Queen Mary Reservoir, which dramatically altered the landscape and lives of locals when it was built in the 1920s. Our guest, local historian Nick Pollard, shares stories that add color to these historical facts, like how the original village was strategically placed to avoid floods, and how the river once served as the main transportation route before the railways came along. Nick doesn't just throw out dates and events; he brings to life the connection people had with these bodies of water, including the lost traditions of fishing for eels and the community's evolving relationship with the River Ash, a lesser-known but equally significant stream. It’s a walk through time, and every bend of the river tells a story, inviting listeners to reflect on the importance of these waterways in shaping Shepperton’s identity today.But wait, there's more! We also connect with Ricky Wallace, the volunteer chair of the Patient Participation Group (PPG) at Upper Halliford Medical Centre, who gives us the lowdown on how this group is bridging the gap between patients and healthcare providers. Ricky's passion for volunteering shines through as he explains how the PPG has been instrumental in improving communication and services within the surgery. From informal meet and greets where patients can voice their concerns to innovative collaborations with local pharmacies, the PPG is making waves in the community. Ricky shares personal anecdotes about the group's achievements, including securing COVID vaccination access for local pharmacies and even hosting their local MP to showcase their progress. It's clear that grassroots efforts can lead to significant changes in healthcare delivery, and Ricky’s enthusiasm is contagious!Produced by Gareth Davies at The Sound BoutiqueJoin the Business ClubSubscribe to the newsletterFollow on InstagramFollow on FacebookCheck the roadworksMentioned in this episode:Shepperton MattersShepperton MattersEvery story deserves a ceremony as unique as the people at its heart.The Sound BoutiqueWant to start your own podcast?