2nd February 2022
Royal Visit
Sheppey Matters, because of their array of fantastic projects including Sheppey FM, were honoured with a visit from HRH Prince Charles and The Duchess of Cornwall and many other dignitaries including; The Lord Lieutenant of Kent, The Lady Colgrain, the High Sheriff of Kent, Mr John Weir and MP Gordon Henderson.

Prince Charles was greeted by Project Manager Julie Nicholls and shown around he was very impressed with our radio station, he had his favourite songs played by presenters Maz Camilleri and Anna Gillingham-Sutton, Anna made him laugh asking him if he had brought his swimming costume and he even made a request for Jools Holland. Leaving the studio, Prince Charles approached Wayne Cordwell and had a lovely conversation about how the behind the scenes of the station is run, before finally meeting some of our youth presenters and giving them the opportunity to explain their Arts Awards and their war on waste project, the young presenters spoke eloquently despite being very nervous, well done to Anya, Lacie, Aimee and Martin.

Overall an amazing experience that we will not forget in a hurry, thank you to all Sheppey Matters and everyone else involved that made the day a success.

5th May 2026

Carl Battic

Ray was joined today by a very unusual, but extremely interesting guest, Carl Battic who shared a few juicy titbits of his journey through life.
Carl said that “this isn’t a glorification of a life of crime; it is the unflinching true story of the consequences of that life and the need to start all over again, at the age of 67”
Carl had specialised in sophisticated financial crimes, bank fraud and real estate scams. His criminal enterprises were carried out in England, Spain, Germany and ending in America.
The FBI launched a special Task Force which finally arrested him at his home in Decatur Georgia on May 8th, 2014. Carl was incarcerated as a criminal mastermind, for Wire Fraud, Money Laundering and Real Estate Crimes. He served just over ten years in some of America’s most notorious prisons.
He was deported back to London, England on June 26, 2024, a country he had not seen in over 25 years, with nothing more than the clothes he was wearing and health issues that almost killed him.
Read his larger-than-life true story of crime spanning more than 30 years, labelled a criminal mastermind by the Federal DA in Dallas Texas, in his newly published book ‘Risk Against Reward’ a truly fascinating read

Carl would like to thank the Sheerness Salvation Army for their support

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15th April 2026

Mark Dixon

INTERVIEW and PLEA for Help.
Marylyn was joined in the studio with Mark Dixon, Mark is a regular face here and does lots in the area with MenTalk and Song Signing, today he was here to talk about his Daughter Luwana. Luwana was diagnosed with stage 4 Sarcoma, this is a rare cancer affecting the bones and nervous system, in Luwanas case it started in her hip and has spread upwards it’s now taken hold and treatment isn’t working. It’s heartbreaking for any parent to know they will have to outlive their child, naturally feeling helpless, Mark spoke about fundraising to help Luwana make memories with her husband and young children (she has 3 eldest is only 7) and left over funds to donate to the Sarcoma charity to help others. On 2nd May Mark is teaming with Rebecca Breiner from Song Signing Academy and doing a sponsored walk from Sheerness Clock Tower to Leysdown Bandstand, they set off at 10am anyone can join in if you want to support them, alternatively you can donate to their fundraiser here https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/rebecca-breiner…
Lucy from The Crafty Cooper and Kerry from Moonchild Crafty Bespoke gifts are helping by putting on a fundraising event on 27th June 12pm-4pm Sheerness Sports and Social Co-operative Club, they are inviting craft stalls to join for £20 per stall, the Sheppey FM roadshow will be there and lots more. We are calling out to anyone that may be able to donate a bouncy castle/inflatable for the day, face painters willing to donate their services or anyone else that supply family entertainment for free for a fantastic cause, or any performers that wish to give a little bit of their time. Please contact us here if you can help and we will pass on your details to the organisers. Thanks in advance. Thank you to Mark for coming in and sharing his touching story and good luck on the fundraising journey. All of us at Sheppey FM are holding Luwana in our thoughts.
Wallace was joined by Sue Gray who spoke about her late son Matthew who passed away from Meningitis at just 21 years old in April 2023. Matthew’s death could have been avoided if the adults with him at the time he was showing severe symptoms raised the alarm, he was obviously unwell but his need for help was ignored. Sue has ever since been campaigning for a change to the law to make it a legal requirement to raise an alarm in a medical emergency, a new Duty of Care Law for everyone, she has petition with now over 79’500 signatures, the target is 100’000 please sign if you can and share it high and wide. Sue also reminded everyone of the symptoms of meningitis, with the current outbreak in Kent it is vitally important that you keep a look out and call for an ambulance if someone you are with experiences any combination of these symptoms, severe headache, high fever, bad sensitivity to bright lights, convulsions, severe joint pain, confusion, extreme drowsiness, a red/purple rash that doesn’t fade when pressed and/or finally the one Sue said is most important and saved her other son’s life a stiff neck that prevents you from putting your chin to your chest. Sue’s message was current and serious look out for one another and be very careful. Thank you Sue, all at Sheppey FM wish you every luck in getting to those 100’000 signatures too.

31st January 2026

MP Kevin McKenna

MP for Sheppey and Sittingbourne, Kevin Mckenna came into the studio today to spend some time with our fantastic youth presenters. He was very impressed with the young people and the work they do, so much so he has invited them to parliament. Whilst at the studio he done an on air interview with the young presenters answering listener questions and some interesting questions from the youngsters too, topics included; support for farmers and the inheritance tax, environmental issues and the look of the streets, disabled transport at the local hospital and social media bans for children. The MP also spoke about how great he feels the Isle of Sheppey is and some of his favourite things about the Island. 

Amanda was joined by Olivia Nagle, the Senior Project Officer for a pilot project taking place in Swale: which started in the summer 2025 and which runs until June 2026 called ‘Strengthening Preparedness Together’. Olivia is employed by Groundwork South and part of their ‘Communities Prepared’ programme, that supports communities across England to prepare for and respond to emergency events and to develop resilience. This exciting project is delivered in partnership by Communities Prepared and the Kent Resilience Team (Kent and Medway Resilience Forum) with support from other local partners, including the Kent Association of Local Councils, Swale Borough Council, and the Environment Agency. The project aims to support community members in Swale to build resilience, improve community cohesion and address important challenges faced, such as flooding, heatwaves, power outages, and improve their community emergency planning, so they can be better prepared for future events, and offers communities in Swale free bespoke training and support to strengthen emergency preparedness and resilience. They are looking for enthusiastic community members and those eager to make a change in their communities, to get involved. It is aimed at everyone regardless of age or experience and volunteers who sign up would be working alongside the emergency services
So if you are interested in benefitting from the free training and resources this project can offer, please get in touch with Olivia (olivia.nagle@groundwork.org.uk), to discuss further or visit www.communitiesprepared.org.uk/events

8th December 2025

Halfway Houses Primary School Choir

Ray had the pleasure of welcoming the young people from Halfway Houses Primary School Choir, with their staff, the children sang songs on live on air which was fantastic. The school choir is quite large and our studio is very tight so they atteneded in 3 separate groups and each group sang 2 songs. Ray thoroughly enjoyed the visit and the youngsters even got to pick some of his playlist. thank you very much for coming and we look forward to the next visit.

9th July 2025

Danny and Dani Dyer

It was a pleasure to welcome Danny Dyer and his daughter Dani into the studios to promote their new Sky TV series called “The Dyers’ Caravan Park,” where they run a caravan park on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent. They are the main characters and partners-in-crime in this project, which sees them investing in and managing the Priory Hill & Nutts Farm Holiday Park. The show, which is inspired by Danny’s childhood holidays, follows their efforts to transform the park and make it a memorable destination. Danny spoke affectionately of his childhood memories at caravan parks and the great British holiday experience that they want all families to have, he is excited to have Dani on board with him. They are inviting talent to audition for a regular spot at their club house, Dani was saying she wants real local talent rather than people from all over, they are particularly short of children’s entertainers. Please email: thedyers@prioryhill.co.uk, to be called in for an interview and you may even be on TV. It was a pleasure to have them in the studio they are both very down to earth and friendly, we wish them every luck with this new venture.

26th June 2025

Hayleeduo (Local Talent)

On the 26th June Berni and Adam were joined in the studio by local performing and recording artists Hayleeduo, who came to have a chat about thier music and even performed a few tracks live on air. They were excited about headlining with other local band Marylbone Jelly at a festival in Rainham and many other new ventures and gigs on the horizon. It was fantastic to hear how well it’s all going and their songs are on our playout system for anyone to request.

30th March 2025

Emily Steel (Dynamite)

17th February 2025

Ellie Cuozzo – Local Author

𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿 𝗘𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗲 𝗖𝘂𝗼𝘇𝘇𝗼: 𝗮𝗻𝗱 ‘𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗲𝗻’

In a recent interview at Sheppey FM, local author Ellie Cuozzo opened up about her latest book, ‘The Emperor of Ten,’ which marks her debut in the literary world. Ellie has been crafting this remarkable tale since the lockdown, showcasing her dedication and passion for storytelling.

Ellie’s journey as a writer began at the tender age of 10, fueled by her love for reading. Over the years, she has nurtured her creative talents, not only as an author but also as an illustrator. She brings her vivid imagination to life through both her words and her illustrations, creating a unique and immersive experience for her readers.

‘The Emperor of Ten’ is now available on Amazon in various formats: hardcover, paperback, and digital. Ellie is especially pleased with the digital version, as it aligns with her commitment to being eco-friendly. This digital offering allows readers to enjoy her work while minimizing their environmental footprint.

During the interview, Ellie shared some exciting insights into her future plans. She is already working on her second book, which will continue the story from ‘The Emperor of Ten.’ Ellie hinted that this narrative might evolve into a trilogy or even a tetralogy, much to the delight of her growing fanbase.

Ellie Cuozzo can be found on various social media platforms under the name E.S. Cuozzo, where she engages with her readers and shares updates about her literary journey. Her presence on social media provides a glimpse into the creative mind behind her captivating stories.

As Ellie continues to write and illustrate, her fans eagerly await the next installment in her series, ready to be transported once again into the enchanting world she has created.

20th January 2025

Seashells Children’s Centre Supporters, various Councilliors, parents and the MP

Seashells Children’s Centre is due to close as KCC have withdrawn funding, this centre, originally opened as part of the ‘Sure Start Scheme’, helps hundredsof families in Sheppey. The centre consists of a nursery, NHS services, a foodbank, support groups and so much more, it is one of the best achieving centres of its kind. Many local councillors including Cllr Dolley Wooster, Cllr Elliot Jayes and Cllr Mike Whiting , some concerned parents, service users and local MP Kevin Mckenna, all gathered at Seashells to show support in trying to keep the centre open. Amanda Cooper represented the Sheppey FM News Team and interviewed as many people as she could.

6th January 2025

Angie Brown

Chris and Luke were thrilled to welcome the legendary voice of Bizarre Inc… Angie Brown, to the studio. The meeting began by playing “I’m Gonna Get You,” one of Angie’s greatest hits from the ’90s. Angie enchanted us with tales from her illustrious career in the music industry, sharing stories about the various groups, bands, and performers she has worked with.
The conversation then shifted to her exciting new single, “I Will Follow You,” which will be released in February. Angie gave us a sneak peek into the influences that have shaped her music career and shared exciting news about a new record label she and her husband (who also doubles as her manager) will launch in spring 2025.
Stay tuned for updates on Angie’s upcoming tours and releases! You can find her music available for download and streaming on all the usual media download platforms.
Angie Brown is a British singer and songwriter best known for her work with the electronic dance music band Bizarre Inc. She rose to fame with hits like “I’m Gonna Get You” and “Playin’ With Knives,” which became anthems of the ’90s dance music scene. Throughout her career, Angie has collaborated with a diverse array of artists, showcasing her versatility and talent across genres.
Beyond her impressive vocal range and powerful performances, Angie is also celebrated for her contributions to charity and community work. Her influence extends beyond music, making her a true icon in the industry.

29th October 2024

Lisa and Lewis O’Bray

It was lovely to welcome into the studio Lisa and Lewis O’Bray. Lisa only lost her son Ryan to suicide 17 weeks ago and wants to raise awareness of Mental Health and encourage men, and women alike, to ask for help before it becomes overwhelming for them. Lisa brought in her middle son, Lewis with her for moral support. Lisa has set up a ‘go fund me’ page in Ryan’s memory to raise money for defibrillators around Sheppey, and they’ve already raised £5,125. To donate to Ryan’s Legacy or share the link go to:- https://www.facebook.com/share/p/asE5aH1ciaBXc94d/?mibextid=WC7FNe
Lisa wanted to say thank you for the wonderful support that her family have had from Chris and Claire Russon, who also lost their son to suicide and have been there for them to listen and understand how they’re feeling and what they’re going through.
Lisa wanted to talk about Ryan’s life and ‘Ryans Legacy’, and to make people aware that there is lots of help out there for people struggling with mental health issues and feel like they can’t talk to a friend or family member. There are many helplines and websites where you can get help and advice and just talk about how you’re feeling or what you’re thinking; Samaritans tel no: 116 123 / CALM (Campaign against living miserably) helpline :- 0800 58 58 58 / Shout text 85258 / PAPYRUS (Prevention of young suicide) Helpine:- 0800 068 4141 / Mid Kent Mind website:- www.midkentmind.org.uk
Helpline:- 01622 692383 / SANE helpline:- 0300 304 7000 / Ripple suicide prevention website:- www.ripplesuicideprevention.com
Lisa said “Ryan was a very caring and selfless human being, who put everyone else’s needs before his own. Ryan was a Paramedic at Sheppey Ambulance station, working shifts and long hours, which effected his sleep patterns and he had suffered from anxiety and depression, but was getting worse, as his mood would go and down without warning and he was working so hard that he was exhausted. Ryan was a private person and struggled to talk about how he was feeling. He was funny, though he hid behind his humour, and he loved music and was a talented musician on piano and guitar, an old soul in such a caring young man. Please look out for these signs in your friends, family or work colleagues. If they don’t seem themselves and you can tell there’s something bothering them, try to reach out to them or pass them the helplines in this post. Men feel like they have to be strong and suffer in silence and be the protector, but we’re living in 2024, asking for help isn’t a weakness, always remember you are not alone”
Ryan’s brother Lewis said how it has changed the family and it has made him realise he can talk to his mum about anything, if he needs help or advice.
Lisa wanted everyone to know how hard it has been losing Ryan and that she is raising awareness about this important subject of suicide prevention today, so another family doesn’t have to go through this. Lisa is such as brave woman, and we are so thankful that she was able to tell the listeners about Ryan and Ryan’s Legacy. We hope this interview encourages other people to seek the help, that they may need.
There is a local group in Sheerness run for men by men :-
‘Men Talk UK’ run by Rowland Smillie and Ryan. Groups are on Mondays and Fridays from 7pm at : Men Talk UK hub , Unit 14, Regis Industrial Estate , Dorset Rd, Sheerness

23rd October 2024

Kelly from Sheppey Matters, Breast Cancer Event

Maz and Sasha were joined by Kelly from Sheppey Matters to speak to everyone about breast cancer and the signs of cancer, alongside how it can be treated. Maz opened up about her own personal experiences battling the illness. They also talked about the free salsa event that happened on the 18th October between 1pm-3pm at the Healthy Living Centre, during which there was a visit from Melissa, from the cancer unit at Medway to give people the opportunity to feel for lumps that may appear and the opportunity to get checked out if anything came up. In the salsa event, everyone had to wear something pink to raise money for cancer with Peter and Vee, from the Sittingbourne Salsa Class teaching everyone how it can be done.

11th October 2024

Tim Bell

Zoe was excited to welcome into the studio Tim Bell, inspirational Kent Sussex and Surrey Air Ambulance volunteer and the ‘Pride of Britain’ Regional Southeast winner 2024 and Nick Turrell, Communications Fundraising Manager for KSS Air Ambulance. Tim was so pleased to tell us all about being a ‘Pride of Britain’ winner and how proud he is to be supported by the community on the Isle of Sheppey. Tim had 174 nominations for the Pride of Britain award and was told when he won over the phone that it was the most nominations anyone had ever had for the award nomination. On the 21st October Tim is travelling up to London to stay in a top notch hotel and walk down the red carpet to the Pride of Britain awards with 17 others to compete for the Pride of Britain National award and he will be sitting with some other amazing people, but hopefully he will be bring that award home to Sheppey “Tim said “Whatever happens on the 21st October after being nominated he feels like he has already won. The people on the Island are amazing and they have hearts of gold, the support I get from the local community is overwhelming. The KSS air ambulance charity does such an amazing job every day and they save so many lives and I couldn’t think of a charity that is so deserving of mine and everyone else’s support”. Nick Turrell, Communications Fundraising Manager for KSS Air Ambulance said ” It costs £50,000, each trip they make, and the air ambulance are called out at least 9 times a day. Maintenance of the helicopters and equipment for the paramedics and doctors on board is very expensive. Where would we be without the heroic efforts of our very own Tim Bell, a valued member of our volunteers and he goes above and beyond for our charity, and I’m not surprised he won the Pride of Britain Award as he is so very deserving of it and has raised over £60,000 for us over the years he has been with us”. Tim designs his own hats for his fundraising days and models and props which he has built around the 2 mobility scooters he uses for events (one is a tank, another is the sheerness town clock and an amazing helicopter complete with led lights and speakers on to blast out his music to the community) Nick was telling about other events which are happening soon where you can get involved or donated to and help support the KSS Air ambulance. Tim Bell is attending Faversham carnival this Saturday the 11th October so please if you can, show him your support, go over and drop some coins in the bucket and enjoy his hats, music and his dance moves. There is ‘Restart a heart week’ online courses from the 16th October where you can learn how to do CPR, how to use a defib machine and many more useful skills and the heli-hike 2 and half mile walk taking place on the 26th October at Mote Park in Maidstone which is an evening event, so if you take part bring your led lights⭐. For more info go to the KSS Air ambulance FB page or go to the website www.kentsussexandsurreyairambulance for more events and to join their weekly lottery. 

19th September 2024

MP for Sittingbourne and Sheppey Kevin McKenna

Our New Elected MP for Sittingbourne and Sheppey Kevin Mckenna was welcomed into the Sheppey FM studio by Neal for a lengthy chat. MP Mckenna introduced himself to the listeners and spoke about his journey into politics and what brought him here, the former NHS nurse also spoke of his personal experiences and what he learned from the field, during this time on air he addressed some concerns that were sent in via email and answered listener questions. He has promised that he will be back on a regular basis to answer more questions and update us on local progress. 

30th July 2024

Kent Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott

Sheerness Beat Officer PC Hewes made a visit to the Sheppey FM studios, inviting along the Kent Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott to chat with Neal about how Mr Scott is planning to tackle crime and ASB in the local area. Mr Scott has urged local residents who have received a survey in the post to fill it in and send it back in the free-post envelope to let him know how YOU think Kent Police are doing. He also stated people can sign up to My Community Voice – a messaging system between the Police and members of the public to find out what is going on in your area and which allows you to contact your local officer directly.

31st July 2024

Nicole Monohan

Maz was joined by Nicole Monahan, the Community Catalysts working with KCC across the county to find small enterprises offering care and support in their local area. Nicole said “if you are already offering a service or have an idea to start one, we can support you through our free development programme. We will make sure you are safe and legal and then help you to get listed on our Small Good Stuff directory. We’ll also help to promote you and share your details far and wide.
If you are looking for care and support or perhaps a local activity to take part in, visit the Kent pages on Small Good Stuff to see what’s available in your area”
To talk to us about your enterprise plans: KentMicros@communitycatalysts.co.uk
We’d love to get more services set up on Sheppey – why not get in touch?
Thank you – Nicole and Katy

29th July 2024

Tim Foreman

Tim Foreman, Chairman of The Sheppey Light Railway ‘Greenway’ came in to promote the group’s progress and the two volunteering opportunities to join its team of bramble-busters this Friday 2nd August at 9.30am and Weds 7th August at 6pm.
Both sessions will last about an hour, beginning at Sheerness East near Sheerness Golf Club, at the end of Power Station Road.
Minster-on-Sea Parish Council recently gave the group £1,338 from its community support fund to create an all-weather path from the golf club to William Rigby Drive.
Group chairman, Tim Foreman said: “We were delighted to get this support from the parish council” Talking of the volunteering sessions, Tim stressed: “This is not a directed exercise. Helpers should simply turn up and litter-pick. They may bring something to cut back any new growth encroaching on the cleared path but at their own risk. Bramble thorns can be hazardous!” He added: “If you arrive after the start time, follow the course of the railway track bed towards Scrapsgate to catch us up.”
Members of the public are welcome to pop along to chat and to get an update on the progress so far. The group is building a safe cycle and walkway from Queenborough to Leysdown via Minster, Brambledown and Eastchurch using the original line of the former Sheppey Light Railway wherever possible.
A volunteer disclaimer form is on the group’s Facebook page The Sheppey Light Railway Greenway Project.

4th June 2024

Ben Ofoedu

Ben (Phats and Small) Interview

by With Sarah Jane

Singer/Songwriter and Actor Ben Ofoedu AKA Big Ben, from Phats and Small joined Sarah Jane to talk about his up and coming appearance at The Rochester Castle Live Event on the weekend of the 5th July to 7th July, with many big acts including Rozalla and Eternal. Sarah discussed his musical past and future as well as his acting and pantomime appearances.

Ben also talked about coming to Sheppey to host the 90s Event by Hub Events on 23rd June at Holm Park Stadium. 

4th June 2024

Rozalla

90s Icon Rozalla joined Neal to discuss her up and coming appearance at The Rochester Castle Live Event on the weekend of the 5th-7th July. Rozalla will be performing as well as many other stars from the era such as Eternal, B*Witched, Kaiser Chiefs, Phats and Small and more… 

Rozalla is best known for her song “Everybody’s Free” but she’s had many others. She also spoke about the new album she released in February “Turn on the Light” and her latest single “Lotta Love”. 

2nd June 2024

Harrison Pettman

Trevor was joined by Britains Got Talent Semi Finalist Harrison Pettman. Harrison is a Kent singer that wowed the judges and had the whole country talking after his audition.

During the interview he spoke about the BGT Semi finals, the process and what his aspirations are for his future. It was clear the now ended BGT journey was just the beginning for this young man and he has a bright future ahead of him. He also introduced his first ever song to be heard on the radio.

19th January 2022
Ray Featherstone MBE
Ray Featherstone MBE joined Anna to talk about the Sheerness County Youth Centre, which has been running for over 60 years. They provide activities such as pool, table tennis, computing and Xbox, food tasting meals from around the world, inhouse Radio & TV production and drama. ‘Allsorts’ after school junior activity club for 9-14yrs runs on a Thursday from 4- 6pm. For further enquiries call 01795 662808 or email: sheernessyouth@live.co.uk. Ray is also seeking volunteers to help support the youth members of the club.
9th December 2021
Elliot Park School
The pupils from Elliot Park School came in this week to sing carols ‘live’ on-air to our listeners. They were very brave and sung their hearts out. Well done girls…you were amazing!!