Lovely People of Lovely Hammersmith and Fulham and Beyond,
I was talking to Winston, the perennially positive Gentleman who the fates have sent to our roads, to help keep them looking ship-shape. I've always admired how thoughtfully Winston sweeps up our street and brings such easy joy and focus to the never-ending task. I've learned a lot from talking to him and witnessing his approach to life.
Winston has been taking impeccable care of our neighbourhood for 10 years. In 2017 he was awarded the Pulse Pride award by Winston Churchill's Grandson, for his "professional and cheery" attitude. Tom Carter, Serco Operations Manager for Hammersmith & Fulham, said: “Winston’s personality is infectious and he puts a smile on the face of everyone he meets. The work he does isn’t glamorous but it makes a huge difference to local residents, so I’m really pleased to see him get the recognition he deserves.”
On a recent chat, he shared the sad news of his Mother's long term illness and recent passing in Jamaica. If you see him I'm sure he'd love any positive vibrations (said or non said). As well (if you are so inclined) I wanted to create a place any of us could contribute to help him get a flight back to Jamaica to be with his family and honour his Mother's life.
Beyond the flight of around £1,000, the funeral expenses are also in the £4,000 range. Over the past 6.5 years Winston has supported his Mother's care in a nursing facility. He has been happy to do this, but he has had to take out loans to make sure she was always supported. Any amount raised over £5,000 would go towards those debts.
I'm sure Winston would find a way without any assistance. I told him how much we appreciate him, and suggested this idea to make sure it was OK with him. He said he'd be appreciative of any help , and smiled and hit his heart with his hand and said, "one love".
I'll make sure 100% of the donations get to Winston and will share all parts of that process.
Update June 23
Flight booked amazing people! July 1st from London to Kingston, August 15 return to London.
Bon Voyage standing ovation for Winston to show our support and appreciation of Winston.
TUESDAY June 30th, 2pm, Eel Brook Common to social distance under the beautiful tree off Favart road, near Campana. Please pop out for 15 minutes and take a bow, and clap for a deserving Gent.
BBC News will be there to share Winston's impact on our community with the World.
Any funds over the flight amount and funeral expenses would go to assist Winston in any way.
Stay Well Everyone!
Kevin #51 Campana Road
07453 810179
One love, one heart
Let's get together and feel all right
As it was in the beginning (one love)
So shall it be in the end (one heart)
Alright, give thanks and praise to the Lord and I will feel all right
Let's get together and feel all right
