Local history collaboration for HWA

Some of Teddington and Hampton Wick’s longest living residents have been telling their fascinating life stories – stretching back almost 100 years – for a new book and exhibition.

‘Life Stories’ will be available free in local libraries, shops and other outlets, and there is also a six-week exhibition n Hampton Wick Library from September 26th, before it moves to Teddington library.

The stories were collected by Phil Wardman, a volunteer with Teddington and Hampton Wick Voluntary Care Group (TedCare), during the summer of 2025. He initially planned to publish the stories through the charity’s website. The HWA heard about the project and offered to help design and publish a booklet containing the stories, plus an exhibition to showcase the highlights. The booklet will be distributed free of charge through local libraries, shops, cafes and pubs to raise awareness for TedCare.

The HWA also hosted a book launch in honour of the charity on 25th September at Bullen Hall. Click here to see photos.

The 50-page ‘Life Stories’ book contains vivid accounts of life in Teddington and Hampton Wick from the 1930s, through the war years and into the 1960s and 70s, by the people who lived through it all.

• Eleanor remembers seeing General Eisenhower at the US Army Camp in Bushy Park in 1944.

• Paddy became a pioneering female scientist who tracked enemy submarines during the Cold War from a Government base in Bushy Park.

• Betty, who was born and has lived in the same Teddington house since 1926, describes how life has changed over those years.

• And Alan – “Mr Teddington” – who was the Teddington railway station manager for thirty years, tells of being awarded an MBE for services to his passengers.

The Teddington & Hampton Wick Voluntary Care Group is celebrating its 50th anniversary. The charity’s volunteers support over 300 local residents who need a helping hand with shopping, collecting prescriptions or getting to medical appointments, as well as providing outings and social activities.

Mark Buckley, who has led the HWA’s involvement with the ‘Life Stories’ project, comments: “TedCare provides much-needed practical help to many people in Hampton Wick and Teddington. The HWA is delighted to have been able to help with the ‘Life Stories’ project, and we encourage everyone to visit the Library to see the exhibition and to pick up a copy of the book. If you can spare an hour to volunteer now and then, or if you know anyone who might benefit from a helping hand, then please do get in touch with TedCare via their website at www.tedcare.org.uk.”